The 10 Most Breathtaking Oceanfront Wedding Venues in Rhode Island—#5 Will Leave You Speechless!
Rhode Island—affectionately known as the Ocean State—is home to some of New England’s most breathtaking oceanfront wedding venues. With its rich history, coastal charm, and refined elegance, it's no wonder so many couples choose to say "I do" along its shores. As a Rhode Island wedding photographer who specializes in timeless, documentary-style storytelling, I've had the honor of capturing love stories at some of the most picturesque spots this state has to offer.
If you’re a couple dreaming of a romantic, ocean-view ceremony—whether you're a busy nurse, attorney, doctor, or corporate professional—these venues offer the perfect blend of natural beauty and sophisticated ambiance to match your vision. Here are my top ten favorite oceanfront wedding venues in Rhode Island:
1. Glen Manor House (Portsmouth, RI)
Why It’s Stunning: Nestled along the banks of the Sakonnet River, Glen Manor House exudes French chateau elegance. Its secluded location provides couples with a private retreat, surrounded by manicured gardens and serene water views.
Ceremony Backdrop: Imagine exchanging vows on a lush lawn overlooking the tranquil river, with the mansion's grand architecture as your backdrop.
Photography Highlights:
Golden Hour Magic: The property offers exquisite lighting as the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the water—a dream for any photographer.
Architectural Details: The mansion's stone archways and ornate details provide a timeless setting for portraits.
Best For: Couples seeking a private, historic estate with waterfront charm.
2. Rosecliff mansion (newport, ri)
Why It’s Stunning: Rosecliff is the definition of Gilded Age romance. From its grand white facade and intricate architecture to sweeping Atlantic views, it feels like a European palace perched on the Rhode Island coast.
Ceremony Backdrop: Exchange vows on the oceanside on the oceanside lawn with the sea behind you and the mansion standing tall in elegance. Indoors, the iconic ballroom - with soaring ceilings and arched windows - is ideal for a black-tie ceremony or reception.
Photography highlights;
Dramatic Staircase: A dream location for a first look or romantic portraits.
Ballroom Elegance: The light-filled ballroom creates an ethereal glow, perfect for capturing elegant candids and dreamy wide shots.
Cliffside Lawn: With it's manicured lawn and sweeping ocean panorama, the outdoor space is ideal for golden-hour portraits and editorial-style couple shots.
Best For: Couples planning a timeless, high-end celebration with a formal flair.
3. Aldrich Mansion (Warwick, RI)
Why It’s Stunning: Overlooking Narragansett Bay, Aldrich Mansion combines Gilded Age grandeur with coastal beauty. The estate's elevated position provides panoramic water views of the bay.
Ceremony Backdrop: Say “I do” on the grand terrace with expansive water views - or opt for the onsite chapel, a stunning option for couples who want a traditional ceremony without leaving the property.
Photography Highlights:
Elegant Interiors: Richly decorated rooms provide elegant indoor photo opportunities.
Terrace Moments: The terrace's vantage point is perfect for capturing the couple with the bay's vastness behind them.
Best For: Couples who want a mix of historic charm and waterfront slendor.
4. Castle Hill Inn (Newport, RI)
Why It’s Stunning: Situated on a 40-acre peninsula, Castle Hill Inn is the epitome of classic New England coastal elegance. The property includes rolling lawns, a historic lighthouse, and unobstructed water views.
Ceremony Backdrop: A stunning lawn with the Castle Hill Lighthouse in view and Narragansett Bay beyond.
Photography Highlights:
Lighthouse Legacy: The lighthouse provides a unique and recognizable feature for memorable photos.
Cliffside Drama: Perfect for adventurous couples looking for bold, romantic imagery.
Best For: Couples seeking understate elegance with nautical touches.
5. Ocean house (watch hill, ri) - The one that will leave you speechless!
Why It’s Stunning: Perched on a bluff in Watch Hill, Ocean House is the gold standard for luxury weddings. With it's signature yellow facade, five-star service, and breathtaking ocean views, it feels like a private coastal resort straight out of a romance novel.
Ceremony Backdrop: Choose from the lush South Lawn or a toes in the sand beach ceremony just below the bluff. Indoors, the ballroom’s floor to ceiling windows keep the ocean in view year-round.
Photography Highlights:
Dramatic Clifftop: The panoramic coastal vistas are dramatic and awe-inspiring, especially during golden hour.
Classic New England Architecture: The property’s historic details, like grand staircases, wide porches, and columned facades, add elegance and depth to portraits.
Beachside romance: Windswept veil shots, barefoot walks, and quiet moments by the dunes.
Timeless interiors: From cozy fireplaces to classic coastal decor, it’s editorial heaven.
Best For: Couples looking for a luxurious yet welcoming wedding experience.
6. Belle Mer (Newport, RI)
Why It’s Stunning: Belle Mer's sleek, modern venue sits directly on the waterfront and offers an open, airy aesthetic that lets the ocean take center stage.
Ceremony Backdrop: A seamless horizon where the sky meets the sea, offering a serene and infinite feel to your ceremony.
Photography Highlights:
Open-Air Ambiance: The venue's open spaces allow for creative compositions with the ocean as a constant backdrop.
Modern Aesthetics: The sleek architecture complements the natural beauty, perfect for contemporary wedding themes.
Best For: Stylish couples planning a fresh, contemporary coastal wedding.
7. Bristol Harbor Inn (Bristol, RI)
Why It’s Stunning: Located in the heart of historic Bristol, this venue blends maritime charm with relaxed elegance.
Ceremony Backdrop: A dockside setting with sailboats gently swaying.
Photography Highlights:
Harbor Views: Capture candid moments with the bustling harbor as your backdrop.
Quaint Town Charm: Bristol’s cobblestone streets and waterfront boardwalk are perfect for portraits.
Best For: Couples planning an intimate, laid-back wedding with coastal character.
8. The Bohlin (Newport, RI)
Why It’s Stunning: Set in the heart of Newport’s Yachting Center, The Bohlin offers nautical flair with luxury tented spaces and sweeping harbor views.
Ceremony Backdrop: Exchange vows at the edge of Newport Harbor, with a front row seat to passing sailboats.
Photography Highlights:
Dockside Details: The presence of boats and docks adds a distinctive nautical touch to photos.
Sunset Over the Harbor: Evening ceremonies benefit from the sun setting over the water, casting a golden hue.
Best For: Couples who love sailing culture and Newport’s vibrant coastal energy.
9. The Chanler at Cliff Walk (Newport, RI)
Why It’s Stunning: This boutique hotel offers exclusivity, elegance, and sweeping ocean views—all from Newport’s famous Cliff Walk. It’s intimate, refined, and breathtaking.
Ceremony Backdrop: Exchange vows in the gardens with the Atlantic just beyond the cliffs.
Photography Highlights:
Cliffside Intimacy: Perfect for soft, romantic moments.
Historic Mansion Charm: The mansion's period architecture adds a touch of timeless sophistication.
Best For: Couples seeking a private, luxurious wedding with unforgettable views.
10. Newport Beach House (Middletown, RI)
Why It’s Stunning: One of the few beachfront venues in the state, Newport Beach House brings together modern design and relaxed, oceanside vibes.
Ceremony Backdrop: Say your vows with your feet in the sand or on the elevated terrace that overlooks the beach, offering breathtaking views without the mess of beach shoes.
Photography Highlights:
Beach Bliss: Capture barefoot moments on the sand, with the ocean providing a serene backdrop.
Contemporary Interiors: Crisp and clean with stylish touches that contrast beautifully with the beach.
Best For: Couples dreaming of a breezy, beachy wedding with elevated flair.
Ready to Plan Your Coastal Rhode Island Wedding?
Choosing the perfect oceanfront venue is one of the most exciting steps in planning your wedding. Whether you’re envisioning a candlelit ballroom celebration at Ocean House or a laid-back ceremony with your toes in the sand, Rhode Island has something magical to offer.
As a coastal Rhode Island wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing romantic, genuine moments set against the most stunning backdrops. If your dream wedding includes golden-hour portraits, ocean views, and a celebration that’s as meaningful as it is beautiful, I’d love to hear your story.
Let’s create timeless images that tell your love story for generations to come.
Reach out today to chat about your vision—I can’t wait to help you bring it to life.
