21 Secluded Beach Spots Perfect for a Private Ceremony

Picture this: you, your partner, and a stretch of untouched sand where the only witnesses to your vows are the waves and maybe a curious seagull or two. No crowds, no distractions—just pure, unfiltered romance. If that sounds like your dream wedding (or vow renewal, or even just a killer elopement), you’re in the right place. I’ve scoured the globe—yes, actually lost sleep over this—to bring you 21 of the most secluded beach spots perfect for a private ceremony. Because let’s be real, Aunt Karen doesn’t *need* to photobomb your first kiss.

Whether you’re after a hidden cove in Greece, a deserted stretch of Caribbean paradise, or a secret spot in Southeast Asia that even Instagram hasn’t ruined yet, I’ve got you covered. And because I’m extra, I’ll even throw in tips on how to make each location work for your big moment. Ready to ditch the traditional venue and say “I do” with your toes in the sand? Let’s dive in.

1. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles

If you’ve ever Googled “most beautiful beach on Earth,” chances are you’ve seen Anse Source d’Argent. Those iconic pink sands and granite boulders make it look like a Photoshop job, but trust me, it’s 100% real. The best part? Because it’s tucked away on La Digue Island, you won’t have to fight off hordes of tourists if you time your ceremony for early morning or sunset.

Pro tip: Rent a bike to get here—it’s the main mode of transport on the island, and it adds to the whole “we’re escaping reality” vibe. Just watch out for the occasional giant tortoise crossing the path. No, really.

A couple standing barefoot on the pink-tinged sand of Anse Source d’Argent, framed by towering granite boulders and turquoise water. The sun is low, casting a golden glow over the scene, with a few stray palm leaves swaying in the breeze.

2. Hidden Beach, Marieta Islands, Mexico

Okay, the name isn’t exactly subtle, but Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor) earns its title. This beach is literally inside a crater, accessible only by swimming or kayaking through a narrow tunnel. Talk about exclusivity! It’s like Mother Nature’s version of a VIP section.

You’ll need to plan this one carefully—tides dictate when you can enter, and you’ll want a local guide to navigate the tunnel safely. But imagine exchanging vows in that sun-dappled, perfectly round cove, with the ocean’s echo as your soundtrack. Worth the effort, right?

Aerial view of Hidden Beach, a circular oasis of sand surrounded by rocky walls, with a couple wading in the shallow turquoise water. Sunlight filters through the crater’s opening, creating a dramatic spotlight effect.

3. Navagio Beach, Zakynthos, Greece

Navagio (aka Shipwreck Beach) is that postcard-perfect Greek cove with the rusted ship carcass on the sand. While it’s not exactly a *secret*, most tourists only visit for a quick photo op. Want the place to yourself? Book a private boat to take you at sunrise before the crowds arrive.

Fun fact: That shipwreck? It was allegedly smuggling cigarettes in the ’80s when it ran aground. So yeah, your wedding venue has a built-in conversation starter.

A couple standing near the iconic shipwreck at Navagio Beach, the white cliffs towering behind them. The early morning light turns the water a surreal shade of blue, with not another soul in sight.

4. Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas

Another pink sand stunner, but this one’s got a more laid-back, old-school Caribbean vibe. The beach stretches for miles, so even if there are a few other visitors, you can easily stake out your own private stretch. Plus, the water is so calm you could probably get married *in* it without worrying about your dress floating away.

FYI: The island’s main town, Dunmore Town, is full of pastel-colored cottages that’ll make your wedding photos look like they’re straight out of a storybook.

Close-up of bare feet walking on the blush-colored sand, with a champagne flute and simple floral bouquet resting nearby. The ocean is a gradient of blues, merging with the horizon.

5. Railay Beach, Thailand

No roads, no cars—just sheer limestone cliffs cutting off this Thai paradise from the mainland. Railay feels like a secret even though it’s technically accessible by boat from Krabi. The west side has the sunset views, while the east side’s mangrove forests add a moody, adventurous vibe.

Personal anecdote: I once watched a couple exchange vows here as rock climbers scaled the cliffs behind them. If you want a ceremony that screams “we’re not basic,” this is it.

A couple silhouetted against a fiery Thai sunset on Railay Beach, with towering limestone karsts in the background. The sand is near-empty, save for a few longtail boats anchored offshore.

6. Playa Rincon, Dominican Republic

This one’s for the “no frills, just vibes” couples. Playa Rincon is a mile-long stretch of golden sand backed by lush jungle, with zero resorts in sight. You’ll need a 4×4 or a boat to get here, but that keeps the crowds thin. Pro tip: Pack a picnic from the local fishermen’s grills—best lobster of your life, IMO.

Wide shot of Playa Rincon’s empty shoreline, with a simple arch of driftwood and tropical flowers set up for a ceremony. The jungle meets the sand abruptly, creating a dramatic contrast.

7. Matira Beach, Bora Bora

Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows get all the attention, but Matira Beach is where you go when you want sand between your toes without the resort price tag. It’s technically public, but visit midweek and you might have it to yourself. The water’s so clear you could skip the aisle and just wade in from the shallows.

Bonus: The nearby food trucks serve fresh poisson cru (Tahitian ceviche). Wedding catering solved.

A couple holding hands as they walk into the shallow, crystal-clear water at Matira Beach, their reflections perfectly mirrored on the surface. The iconic Bora Bora peak is visible in the distance.

8. Lover’s Beach, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Accessible only by water taxi (or a very adventurous swim), Lover’s Beach is tucked between the famous Cabo arches. Time your ceremony for low tide when the sandbar widens, and you’ll have a natural aisle leading straight to the Sea of Cortez.

Warning: The Pacific side of the arches is called “Divorce Beach” for its rough waves. Maybe avoid that for symbolism’s sake.

A couple standing between the towering rock formations of Lover’s Beach, with the golden sandbar stretching behind them. The water is calm and glassy, reflecting the desert cliffs.

9. Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Islands, Australia

This Australian gem has sand so pure it squeaks underfoot (seriously, try it). The silica particles mean the sand stays cool even in blazing heat—no burnt feet during your vows. Most visitors stick to the main stretch, but hike to Hill Inlet for a secluded spot with swirling turquoise vistas.

Fun fact: The sand’s 98% pure silica, which means it’s technically illegal to take any home. Sorry, souvenir hunters.

Aerial view of Hill Inlet’s swirling sands and aqua waters, with a tiny couple barely visible on a secluded patch of shore. The contrast between the white sand and blue water looks almost surreal.

10. Secret Lagoon, Fulhadhoo, Maldives

Most Maldives resorts have private beaches, but Fulhadhoo’s Secret Lagoon takes it up a notch. This local island (no resorts allowed) has a shallow, heart-shaped lagoon only accessible at low tide. It’s like the universe designed it for proposals—or in your case, a killer “I do.”

Budget win: Staying on local islands is way cheaper than resorts, and you’ll get authentic Maldivian culture alongside your Insta-worthy backdrop.

A heart-shaped lagoon of shallow turquoise water, surrounded by white sand and palm trees. A couple stands in the center, their reflection perfectly mirrored in the still water.

11. Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur, California

Purple sand. Need I say more? Okay, fine—Pfeiffer Beach also has that iconic keyhole rock where the sunset lights up like a flame during winter. It’s moody, it’s dramatic, and it’s way less crowded than other Big Sur spots because the road down is… let’s call it “adventurous.”

Pro tip: The purple hue comes from manganese garnet in the cliffs. Science + romance = winning combo.

A couple standing near Pfeiffer Beach’s keyhole rock at golden hour, with streaks of purple visible in the sand beneath their feet. The ocean sprays dramatically through the rock formation.

12. Anse Lazio, Praslin, Seychelles

Another Seychelles entry because, well, have you *seen* this place? Anse Lazio is all boulders, palm trees, and water so clear you’ll question if it’s even real. Early mornings are magic here—just you, the occasional fruit bat, and maybe a lucky sea turtle or two.

Local secret: The takamaka trees lean over the sand, creating natural arches. Free décor!

A couple exchanging rings under the curved branches of a takamaka tree at Anse Lazio, with early morning mist still clinging to the granite boulders. The water is so still it looks like glass.

13. Playa Escondida, Sayulita, Mexico

True to its name (“hidden beach”), this one requires a 20-minute jungle hike or a paddleboard ride to reach. The payoff? A crescent of golden sand framed by emerald cliffs, with zero vendors or beach clubs. Pack light, bring water, and maybe hire a local to carry your dress (those jungle paths are no joke).

A couple emerging from the jungle path onto Playa Escondida’s empty shore, with the woman’s dress trailing slightly in the sand. The cliffs curve protectively around the cove, creating a sense of seclusion.

14. Tunnels Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai’s north shore is littered with stunning beaches, but Tunnels (Makua Beach) has that perfect combo of golden sand, palm trees, and the rugged Napali Coast in the distance. The reef keeps the water calm, and the name comes from the underwater lava tubes—cool for snorkeling, cooler for metaphorical “journey together” wedding references.

Watch out for: The occasional monk seal napping on shore. They’re protected, so you might have to adjust your ceremony spot if one claims your chosen area.

A Hawaiian wedding ceremony on Tunnels Beach, with a lei-bedecked couple standing under a simple palm-frond arch. The Napali Coast’s green cliffs rise dramatically in the background.

15. Furore Beach, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Most Amalfi Coast beaches are packed, but Furore’s “fjord” (really a narrow cove) feels like a secret. The pastel houses clinging to the cliffs make a killer backdrop, and the pebble beach means no sand in awkward places. Bonus: Italian wedding cake is just… regular cake, but saying it sounds fancier.

Logistics note: There’s a steep staircase down. Maybe skip the 5-inch heels.

A couple standing on Furore’s pebble beach, surrounded by towering cliffs covered in pastel buildings. A single rowboat floats in the emerald-green water nearby.

16. Plage de l’Almanarre, Hyères, France

France’s answer to the Caribbean, minus the crowds. This 4-mile stretch near St. Tropez has fine white sand and shallow water that stays warm well into fall. The Mistral wind keeps kite surfers busy, but they stick to one end—plenty of space for a quiet ceremony.

Cultural perk: Post-vows, pop into Hyères for proper Provençal rosé. You’ve earned it.

A minimalist wedding setup on Plage de l’Almanarre—just a white linen runner and two chairs facing the water. The endless stretch of empty sand meets the horizon.

17. Long Beach, Koh Rong, Cambodia

Koh Rong’s main beach is party central, but hike 20 minutes through the jungle to Long Beach and you’ll find silence (and bioluminescent plankton at night). The sand is powder-soft, and the lack of development means zero light pollution for stargazing post-ceremony.

Reality check: It’s rustic. Think barefoot chic, not ballgowns.

A couple sitting on Long Beach at dusk, their silhouettes against the orange sky. The first bioluminescent sparks are visible in the wet sand where waves just retreated.

18. Praia do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Voted “world’s best beach” so many times it’s almost boring, Sancho is only accessible by ladder or boat. The reef teems with sea life (dolphins! turtles!), and the cliffs block wind for perfect hair photos. Just know: The island limits visitors to 500 per day, so book flights early.

Wildcard: The ladder descent is… thrilling. Maybe practice in your wedding shoes first.

A couple descending the famous ladder to Praia do Sancho, the woman’s veil fluttering in the ocean breeze. Below them, the beach curves around turquoise water dotted with snorkelers.

19. Playa Ventanas, Costa Rica

Named for the “windows” (ventanas) carved into the cliffs by the sea, this beach is all drama. Time your ceremony for low tide when caves open up, creating natural cathedrals. Howler monkeys provide the soundtrack, and the sunsets are next-level.

Eco-perk: Costa Rica makes green weddings easy. Compostable décor? Check.

A couple standing inside one of Playa Ventanas’ caves, backlit by golden light streaming through the cliff openings. The ocean surges gently around their feet.

20. Mnemba Island, Zanzibar

This private island (yes, the whole thing) has a beach so exclusive even the sand seems to sparkle more. Mnemba’s atoll is a marine sanctuary, so expect dolphins to photobomb your first kiss. The lodge only hosts 24 guests max, so good luck finding a more private venue.

Splurge alert: It’s pricey. But hey, it’s your *wedding*.

A couple walking along Mnemba’s shoreline at sunrise, their shadows stretching long on the wet sand. A dolphin’s fin breaks the surface of the water nearby.

21. Shell Beach, Guernsey

Not a grain of sand in sight—this beach is made entirely of tiny, polished shells. It’s eerily quiet, with the cliffs blocking wind and the tide creating natural pools. Channel your inner Brontë sister with a moody, windswept ceremony (minus the tragic ending, hopefully).

History nerd fact: The shells are from a single species that’s thrived here for millennia. Talk about commitment goals.

A close-up of bare feet on Shell Beach’s unique surface, with a simple bouquet of wildflowers resting atop the shells. The tide pools reflect the cloudy sky like mirrors.

And there you have it—21 beaches where you can ditch the guest list drama and focus on what really matters: you, your partner, and a seriously epic backdrop. Whether you’re after tropical perfection, rugged drama, or something straight out of a fairy tale, one of these spots is bound to make your ceremony unforgettable. Just remember: secluded doesn’t always mean easy to reach. Some of these require boats, hikes, or even ladders (looking at you, Brazil). But hey, nothing says “our love is adventurous” like a little logistical chaos, right?

Now, go forth and start planning. And when Aunt Karen asks why she wasn’t invited, just send her a sunset photo from your private slice of paradise. Mic drop.