Is a Destination Wedding in Antigua the Right Caribbean Island Choice for You?

Okay, real talk—when couples come to me asking where to have their destination wedding, Antigua is one of the first places I mention. And not just because it’s gorgeous (which it absolutely is), but because planning a wedding there is surprisingly stress-free. With no residency requirement and local vendors who know how to pull off dreamy Caribbean weddings, Antigua is that rare combo of simple and spectacular.

Getting Married in Antigua: Here's Why Antigua is a GREAT Choice!

As someone who lives and breathes destination weddings, I have a soft spot for Antigua—and honestly, so do my clients. From the moment you step off the plane, you’re greeted with warm breezes, friendly faces, and a stress-free vibe that immediately sets the tone. But beyond the beauty, it’s the ease of getting married in Antigua that truly sets it apart.

Legal Requirements Are Incredibly Simple (But Here's What You Should Know)

Let’s talk logistics—because when you’re planning a destination wedding, you want clarity and confidence from day one. Antigua makes that easy with one of the most straightforward legal marriage processes in the Caribbean.

Here’s what you’ll need:

● Valid passports

● Proof of citizenship (your passport usually covers this)

● Proof of marital status (divorce decree or death certificate if applicable)

● Completed marriage application

● Payment of required government fees

Official Marriage Fees in Antigua (USD):

● Registration Fee: $40

● Marriage License Fee: $150

● Marriage Officer’s Fee: $250

Total: $440 USD

Some resorts will cover part or all of these fees as part of their wedding packages—so always check before budgeting out-of-pocket.

The best part?

There’s no waiting period and no residency requirement for a legal wedding in Antigua. You can arrive, apply, and tie the knot all on the same day if you want to.

This is much nicer than many other destinations, such as Jamaica, which has a 2-day residency, and Mexico, which has a 4-day residency. BUT—here’s my professional advice:

While you are legally allowed to marry immediately, many resorts require a 24-hour stay before the ceremony so their wedding team can meet with you, finalize logistics, and walk you through the day-of plan. I personally recommend arriving at least two days before your wedding, just in case of travel delays. That buffer gives you time to relax, settle in, and soak up those “we’re really doing this!”

feelings.

365 Beaches Means Unlimited Venue Options

There’s a reason people say Antigua has a beach for every day of the year. Whether you want a toes-in-the-sand ceremony, a cliffside view, or a luxe resort gazebo setup, this island delivers.

Some favorites?

● Shirley Heights for dramatic sunset views

● Mermaid Gardens for hidden fairytale vibes

● Carlisle Bay for barefoot luxury

● Runaway Bay Beach for white sand perfection

● Ffryes Beach for another white sand paradise

The variety is what I love—there’s truly something for every kind of couple, whether you’re eloping or hosting 50 guests.

Don’t Skip Barbuda: Pink Sand & Seclusion

Barbuda is Antigua’s quieter sister island—and it’s just a 15-minute flight or a 90-minute ferry ride away. Many couples are choosing to honeymoon in Barbuda or even sneak over for dreamy wedding photos on its famous pink sand beaches.

Highlights include:

● Barbuda Belle – a luxury eco-resort that feels exclusive and intimate

● Frigate Bird Sanctuary – nature lovers, this is your spot

● Spectacular caves – like Darby’s Sinkhole and Indian Cave, ideal for unique

elopement or engagement shots

Barbuda feels untouched in the best possible way. It’s the kind of place where you

can walk for miles and not see another soul.

Wellness, Romance & Relaxation

Your destination wedding shouldn’t just be about the ceremony—it should be a full experience. Antigua gets that.

Couples (and guests) love:

● Couples’ massages and yoga retreats

● Sunset yacht cruises

● Rum tasting and local cooking classes

● Helicopter tours over the coastline

● Swimming with stingrays

Additionally, Antigua now hosts a Culinary Month in May, making it the perfect destination for foodie couples looking to pair their wedding with unforgettable cuisine.

Where to Stay: From All-Inclusive to Boutique Chic

Antigua is a blend of boutique charm and luxury convenience. Top resort picks I often recommend for honeymoons and destination weddings in Antigua include:

● Sandals Grande Antigua (couples-only all-inclusive paradise)

● Hammock Cove (private plunge pools + spa)

● Coco Bay Resort (boho beach vibes)

● Galley Bay (luxury adults-only escape)

Many of these resorts offer wedding packages that bundle everything—ceremony setup, flowers, officiant, dinner, photography—into one smooth process.

Easy to Get There, Easy to Fall in Love

Flights arrive regularly from the U.S. (think Miami, JFK, Newark, and Atlanta), and airport services, such as fast-track immigration and departure lounges with sun decks, make even the travel days feel elevated.

From the airport, no transfer takes more than 45 minutes. So you’re off the plane and into paradise in no time. Final Thoughts

If you’ve been going in circles trying to pick the perfect Caribbean wedding destination, this could be your sign: Antigua has it all.

You get:

✅ Legal ease

✅ Diverse venues

✅ Gorgeous backdrops

✅ Seamless travel

✅ Incredible experiences

Whether you're dreaming of a barefoot ceremony on a white sand beach or a sleek, all-inclusive affair, Antigua rises to the occasion—and then some.

Want a destination wedding that doesn’t feel like work? Antigua is my favorite recommendation for couples who want it all: ease, beauty, and romance. Let me show you how easy it can be. Ready to turn your dream destination wedding into reality?

Schedule a complimentary consultation now, and let’s make it happen.

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