When and Where to Get Married in the Florida Keys

One of the first questions couples ask us is, "Where in the Florida Keys should we get married?" Closely followed by, "When's the best time of year?"

The truth is, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. But there is one right answer for you.

The best Florida Keys wedding isn't determined by a specific island or season. It's determined by how you want the weekend to feel and the experience you want to create for the people you'll be celebrating with.

That's where we always begin.

Stacia Morgan Photography

Start with Your Why

Most couples don't choose the Florida Keys by random. There's usually a story behind it.
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Maybe your family vacationed here every summer. Maybe you've always felt connected to the ocean. Maybe you simply want to gather the people you love in a place that feels peaceful, beautiful, and a little removed from everyday life.

Before you compare venues or wedding dates, ask yourselves: Why the Florida Keys?

That answer becomes the foundation for every decision that follows.

La Vie Studios

Choosing the Right Island

Although there are dozens of islands throughout the Florida Keys, most couples find themselves deciding between Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West. Each offers something a little different.

As the first Key, Key Largo offers both ease and intimacy. Guests can enjoy coral reefs, state parks, fresh seafood, and time on the water, while boutique resorts and private buyouts make it easy to create a connected, family-style wedding experience.

Islamorada has a vibrant yet laid-back energy. Colorful restaurants, galleries, boutiques, and waterfront dining make it easy for guests to explore between celebrations while still feeling connected to the wedding weekend.

Marathon offers a little more room to spread out. It's a great fit for couples who love the Middle Keys and want easy access to family-friendly attractions, boating, and beautiful waterfront venues.

Key West has a personality all its own. Rich in history, nightlife, and culture, it's ideal for couples who want a lively destination where guests can create their own adventures beyond the hosted events.
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No matter which island speaks to you, you'll find everything from private estates and full-service resorts to waterfront venues and beautiful churches throughout the Keys.
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Michelle Lawson Photography

Choosing the Right Season

The Florida Keys are beautiful year-round, but every season offers a slightly different experience.

January through March tend to be cooler, drier, and sometimes windy. It's one of the busiest times of year (snow bird & spring break season), but also a beautiful season for outdoor celebrations. 

April through June is one of our favorite times for weddings. The weather is warm, the water is inviting, and guests can fully enjoy everything the islands have to offer.

July through September brings warmer temperatures and a slower pace. If you're planning a summer celebration, thoughtful guest comfort becomes especially important. We often recommend outdoor ceremonies followed by indoor dining, along with simple touches like parasols, linen attire, and hydration stations.

October through December offers another wonderful window for weddings. October remains one of the most popular months in the Keys, while late fall often brings beautiful weather and a quieter atmosphere between the holidays.

No matter the season, we always prepare for the unexpected. Weather is one thing no one can control, which is why every wedding should include a thoughtful backup plan, appropriate insurance, and a planner who is already thinking several steps ahead.
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Jannette De Llanos Photography

Let the Season Shape the Venue Experience

One of the biggest factors in choosing both your island and your wedding date is your guests. Think about:

• Where they'll be traveling from.
• Whether they'll fly or drive.
• How much free time you'd like them to have.
• Whether you envision an entirely outdoor celebration or a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces.

The best decisions balance your vision with your guests' experience.

After all, you've invited them here to share something extraordinary—not to worry about logistics.
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La Vie Studios

The Value of Seeing It in Person

If you're choosing between two islands or a couple of different venues, there's no substitute for experiencing them in person.

One of our favorite parts of the planning process is hosting venue tour weekends with our couples. Before you arrive, we'll narrow the options based on your priorities, arrange each appointment, and intentionally leave time between tours to talk through what you're seeing.

You're not simply hearing a venue presentation.

You're walking each property with someone who understands how a wedding actually unfolds there—where your cocktail hour might flow best, how your dinner could be arranged, where guests naturally gather, and the little details that transform a beautiful venue into an unforgettable experience.

Sometimes the right choice isn't obvious until you're standing there. And when it is, you'll know.
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Explore More Planning Resources

What is the Cost of a Florida Keys Wedding?

How to Plan a Florida Keys Wedding Weekend

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There's Value in Local Perspective

A beautiful venue is only one piece of the story. Knowing how each island feels, how your guests will experience the weekend, and how your celebration will naturally unfold—that's where thoughtful planning begins.
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We'd love to help you discover the setting that's right for you.

Explore Your Options with Wendy