We’ve found the best resort for a beach wedding weekend–in FL!
“Deep breath”, your maid of honor reminds you as she adjusts your train one last time. You step outside and, as if on cue, the ocean breeze lifts your veil off the ground and it dances in the wind. With the sun just starting to set beyond the horizon, the light hits the surface of the ocean and you realize, this truly is paradise. You make your way down the pathway to the beach, shaded by majestic palms, and there, waiting for you at the end of the aisle, is the love of your life, framed by the people you both love most in the world. This is your wedding day…well, it could be if you get married at The Pelican Grand Beach Resort. And before you freak out about the cost of a destination wedding–it’s in Fort Lauderdale, as in Florida, as in no passport required!
If you’ve never been, Fort Lauderdale is like Miami’s elegant, more chill twin sister. It’s got everything you love about Miami but gives off a much more laid-back vibe. And the best part? Everything in Fort Lauderdale costs a fraction of what it would in Miami. Yes, including the plane tickets. And no need to rent a car, Fort Lauderdale has its very own airport to make travel easy for you and your guests.
Now that it’s settled, and you’ve realized you can have the wedding of your dreams in a tropical paradise and will still have money left over for a downpayment on your first house…let’s break down why we’re so obsessed with The Pelican Grand Beach Resort.
it’s on the beach
Yes, it’s in the name, but we feel the need to express what they mean by “Beach Resort”. It’s literally ON the beach. Like, you step out of the hotel and into the sand. No crossing a thoroughfare, no toting your beach essentials through a parking lot, you’re already on the beach! And because it’s a private beach, you and your guests will find everything you need right there from lounge chairs and towels to the occasional frozen cocktail.
so many venue options
In addition to the beach, The Pelican Grand Beach Resort has so many great venue options to choose from. If you love the idea of a beach view without the sand, then their beachside terrace is for you. And, it doesn’t get any more elegant than a romantic reception in their grand ballroom!
stay and play on-site
With over 150 rooms and suites, there’s more than enough room for everyone on your guest list to book their stay at The Pelican Grand Beach Resort. The coastal vibes and unrivaled views will set the stage for a weekend that you and your guests will never forget. And while you are ironing out the last-minute details, your guests can enjoy the countless amenities the resort has to offer. From the oceanfront zero-entry pool and lazy river to water sports and the spa, there will be plenty to keep them occupied on their tropical vacation without you having to lift a finger!
on-site planner
In addition to keeping your guests entertained, we should also mention that The Pelican Grand Beach Resort will plan every detail of your wedding and take care of any day-of setup, take down, etc. Yep, all you need to do is show up. Here’s everything that’s included in their wedding services:
Planning and coordination with vendors
Personalized menu tasting and selection with our Executive Chef
Guest room accommodations
Engagement Party, Rehearsal Dinner, and Wedding Shower coordination
Wedding Party Activities, including our favorite Mixology Class
Wedding packages
Event catering menus
Grand Weddings Experience Video
They’ll even coordinate wedding hair and makeup services for you and your bridal party at the stunning rooftop PURE Spa. We also recommend sneaking in a massage and pre-wedding facial–you can thank us later 😉.
how to save big
You’re already saving a ton by opting for a domestic wedding destination, but The Pelican Grand Beach Resort likes to pamper their couples, so here is a list of perks that they are offering to couples getting married in 2025 and 2026. Couples getting married in July and August of 2025 can select 3 from the list below, couples getting married any other month in 2025 can select 2, and couples getting married in 2026 can select one.*
Complimentary one-night stay for your anniversary date. Reservation will be based on availability and blackout dates may apply.
Couple’s Massage – redeemable for up to one year from your booking
Dinner for Two at OCEAN2000 – redeemable for up to one year from your booking
5% off your rehearsal dinner or farewell breakfast menu, prior to banquet fee and taxes
Complimentary glass of sparkling wine for each guest upon arrival to ceremony
$75 resort credit for 2nd paid night stay
*To redeem this offer, must book by March 31, 2025. There is a $6,500 food and beverage minimum required prior to banquet fees and taxes. Valid for new bookings only, and must mention promotion at the time of booking.
Follow @pelicanbeachweddings on IG to see even more of this stunning venue and soak up all the beach vibes.
We partnered with The Pelican Grand Beach Resort to bring you this hot tip on a gorgeous and affordable South Florida venue. As always, thanks for supporting our sponsors!
- Venues: The Pelican Grand Beach Resort