The Destination Mix the magic of a 16th-century city with a romantic coastline, and you'll understand why St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches hosts hundreds of destination weddings every year. This distinctive Florida destination is rich with historical sites, scenic locales and offbeat businesses that impress with out-of-the-ordinary ceremonies and receptions. Honeymoon in an elegant seaside resort, a secluded bed-and-breakfast or accommodations somewhere between the two.
Things to Do Take a ghost tour through St. Augustine's haunted streets. Play golf on any of 12 championship courses. Body surf in the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy the outdoors birding, hiking or visiting the Alligator Farm. Indulge in massages at luxury spas. Visit a historic site. Dine in gourmet restaurants. Wherever you go, you'll find romance around every corner.
Where to Wed St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra are filled with churches and hotels eager to host wedding ceremonies and receptions. Some couples may opt instead for more unique venues. Arrive in a horse-drawn carriage to dine and dance with up to 1,000 at Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archeological Park, a lush 15 acres. Sail with up to 45 guests on the 42-foot schooner Freedom, a replica of a 19th-century blockade runner; say your vows on board, then share the love with a catered party. Sip Florida vintages with up to 200 while enjoying a buffet or plated dinner at the San Sebastian Winery, located in a historic St. Augustine railroad building. Golf fans can tie the knot in the World Golf Hall of Fame Tower, ideal for progressive dinners that allow up to 800 to meander through the museum.
Wedding Requirements Any American citizen can marry in Florida after obtaining a Florida license. To do so, go to the St. Johns County Judicial & Administration Center at 4010 Lewis Speedway in St. Augustine (904-819-3640, clk.co.st-johns.fl.us) or any of four branch offices. Present photo ID such as drivers licenses plus Social Security numbers, or passports. Couples from abroad must present passports. You must read the Family Law Handbook, provide the date of any past divorce, and pay $93.50, or $61 if you're Florida residents and have taken an approved marriage class. (Residents who haven't take the class must wait three days before receiving their license.) If you wish to be married at the courthouse, bring your marriage license back within 60 days and pay $30.
Contact Farrah Marriott, sales assistant, 800-OLD-CITY (653-2489), fmarriott@getaway4florida.com, getaway4florida.com
