10 Great Locations for Destination Weddings in the Southeastern U.S

The unmistakable charm, graciousness, and ideal weather of the Southeastern United States make this a very desirable area to have a destination wedding. There are hundreds of beautiful locations to consider for your event-destinations with islands, beautiful beaches, as well as breathtaking mountain views. No matter which location you choose, you will be sure to have an exquisite, unforgettable day.

Here are ten top locations in the Southeast:

Charleston, South Carolina

A city rich in history, tradition, and Southern Culture, Charleston is a premier choice for destination weddings. The city is renowned for outstanding accommodations, entertainment, and not to mention, its magnificent cuisine. Downtown Charleston offers many great facilities to accommodate your event. However, surrounding islands such as James Island, Kiawah Island, and Daniel Island also offer luxurious resorts and other facilities to make your wedding site a true destination.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Although the island of Hilton Head may only be 12 miles long by 5 miles wide, the swaying palms, gentle tides and cool breezes provide a beautiful, natural setting for a destination wedding. From romantic beach ceremonies to grand ballroom receptions, Hilton Head Island caters to weddings of all sizes, budgets and styles.

The Outer Banks of North Carolina

Consisting of the Northern Beaches, Hatteras Island, and Roanoke Island, the Outer Banks offer wonderful settings for weddings. The Outer Banks are known to many for their natural beauty and southern charm, but there's more to the area than just miles of pristine beaches. From man's first flight to settlers discovering a New World, the attractions found along the Outer Banks will capture your imagination.

Pinehurst, North Carolina

Situated among the Sandhills of North Carolina, Pinehurst is an ideal location to experience southern hospitality, elegant accommodations, luxury spa facilities, and of course, any one of their eight pristine world-class golf courses. With more than 2,000 beautifully landscaped acres at this site, you won't lack for the perfect spot for your special day.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia's first city, sits on the banks of the Savannah River. Hip and historic, robust and refined, Savannah is where you'll find amazing architecture and rich history-along with sophistication, funky nightlife and fabulous food.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

A six-mile trip across a marsh hemmed causeway leads you away from the hectic pace of Interstate 95 to Jekyll Island, Georgia. This remarkable island retreat quietly nestles 12 miles of wide, barrier island beaches and dunes edging unbothered woodlands. Jekyll Island offers a variety of wedding sites ranging from the 1904 Faith Chapel with a Tiffany-signed, stained-glass window to barefoot ceremonies on the beach. Guests can enjoy luxury spa treatments, 63 holes of golf, 13 clay tennis courts, Dolphin tours, 20 miles of bike trails, pristine beaches, or horseback riding on the beach.

Destin, Florida

Experience the natural beauty of Florida's Emerald Coast by walking down the white, sandy beaches of Destin. This beautiful stretch of Northwest Florida's beaches has become one of America's premier action destinations. After the wedding, experience the beautiful Gulf of Mexico by doing something adventurous such as scuba diving or deep sea fishing.

Amelia Island, Florida

Amelia Island (Fernandina Beach), located on Florida's northeastern shore, can be described as Southern Charm mixed with exotic flair. It is one of the most popular beach destinations on the East Coast. Once a vibrant, Victorian seaport village, charming downtown Fernandina Beach boasts a beautiful 50-block historic district with many original structures dating back to the late 19th century, including many Victorian-style mansions and Victorian cottages. The historic district downtown also boasts many charming bed and breakfast inns.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach, located in the South Hampton Roads area, is one of the largest cities in Virginia and listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as having the longest pleasure beach in the world. The city is located on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, and provides a variety of venues to host your spectacular event. From beachfront pavilions to botanical gardens, Virginia Beach weddings are set on some of the most beautiful stages.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg has transformed into a great mountain resort destination-packed with Smoky Mountain cabins, lodging of every sort, and attractions galore. Amid the splendor of the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg embodies the simple goodness of small town life-where couples can stand in awe of nature's glory. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also a wonderful place to exchange those lifelong nuptials.