The Ultimate Cape Cod Wedding Venue Guide (From a Cape Cod Wedding Photographer)
Cape Cod weddings just feel good. Something about the ocean air, the slower pace, and the fact that no one’s in a rush makes the whole day settle in. Couples are more present, things feel easier, and the focus naturally shifts to being together instead of keeping up appearances. That’s always my favorite kind of wedding day. If you’re drawn to that laid-back, coastal energy, you’re probably starting to look at Cape Cod wedding venues and wondering which ones actually make planning easier, and which ones just look pretty online. I’ve photographed weddings all over the Cape, and I’ve seen how much the right venue can shape how your day feels. So I’m breaking it all down for you in a way that’s simple, honest, and actually helpful.
5 Cape Cod Wedding Venues You Won’t Want to Miss
Eastward Ho!
Eastward Ho! is the kind of place where you don’t feel like you’re managing the day, you’re just in it. There’s space to linger, to breathe, to actually talk with your people instead of rushing to the next thing. That calm shows up everywhere, from getting ready through the last song of the night.
I recommend this venue to couples who care more about how the day feels than how it photographs on Pinterest, because it naturally supports connection without needing over-planning.
Maximum guest capacity: 160
Indoor and outdoor options: Yes, and they’re all stunning
Available year-round?: Yes, and summer here is amazing
On-site accommodations?: No, but luckily, there are plenty of hotels close by
Getting-ready rooms on-site?: No, but again, the hotels nearby are great, and transportation is easy
Private beach access for photos?: Yes, which, as a Cape Cod wedding photographer, I love every time
Everything to Know About Planning an Eastward Ho! Wedding
Eastward Ho! is perfect for the couple who wants a day that feels elegant (but not ritzy), with its wide-open spaces and classy reception area. If that’s you, I’ve got you covered with my top tips for planning a wedding here:
One thing to know upfront (and I always like to flag this early so there are no surprises): Eastward Ho! does have a guest dress code. Sharing this on your wedding website or invitations keeps things smooth and avoids any awkward moments day-of.
In my opinion, the best time of year to get married here is in the summer. Summer nights on the coast always feel beautiful, and there’s something about a golf course setting that thrives in these months.
They do have all-inclusive packages, which I love for you, because they handle everything from catering to bar services, which takes a lot off your plate.
Shining Tides
Shining Tides is perfect for those who want weddings to feel intimate and relaxed while still having the elegant charm of a coastal cottage. The venue is an old summer inn that was renovated into a wedding venue, so it’s cozy and welcoming, and trust me: weddings here feel like a dream.
Maximum guest capacity: 200
Indoor and outdoor options: Just outdoor, but there is a covered porch for receptions
Available year-round?: No, only mid-May through October to ensure you get the best weather for your big day
On-site accommodations?: No, but there are lots of stunning hotels near
Getting-ready rooms on-site?: Yes, the cottage on the property has getting-ready rooms perfect for your prepping
Private beach access for photos?: Yes, perfect for oceanfront vibes
Everything to Know About Planning a Shining Tides Wedding
Shining Tides truly makes everything simple for planning a wedding here, so if you’re dreaming of a laid-back day, you’ll love it as much as I do. I’ve captured several weddings here, and these are the top tips I’ve learned to help you plan yours:
This is one of those venues where a lot of decisions are already handled for you, which I love, especially for couples who want to stay excited about planning instead of being overwhelmed by it. Catering, coordination, the dance floor… It’s all built in, so you can focus on the parts that actually matter to you.
Since they’re only available for weddings for a few months out of the year, you’ll want to book ASAP to reserve your date!
The Dennis Inn
The Dennis Inn is one of those places where the day doesn’t feel rushed from the second you wake up. And honestly? That matters more than people realize.
I’ve watched couples here sip coffee together in the morning instead of staring at a timeline. I’ve seen parents wander in and out of rooms, kids running around barefoot, friends sitting on the porch chatting before anyone’s even dressed. There’s no “okay, what’s next?” energy; it’s just… calm.
Getting ready here feels like getting ready at home, not backstage somewhere. You’re not hiding from guests or being shuffled around. You’re present. You’re laughing. You’re actually with the people you love instead of waiting for the ceremony to start. That’s why I love Dennis Inn for couples who care more about how the day feels than how much they can fit into it.
Maximum guest capacity: 100-230
Indoor and outdoor options: Yes, and both are so gorgeous
Available year-round?: Only May through October are available again, so that the weather is perfect for your big day
On-site accommodations?: Yes, for up to 8 guests
Getting-ready rooms on-site?: Yes, the inn has separate rooms to get ready before the ceremony
Private beach access for photos?: No, but the property gives us so many quiet, beautiful pockets (I always end up sneaking couples away for a few minutes just to breathe)
Everything to Know About Planning a Dennis Inn Wedding
There are a few tips I’ve learned from capturing days here that will help you throughout the planning process (and decision-making):
Wedding weekends here change everything. Instead of cramming all the meaning into one day, you get space to settle in. Rehearsal dinners feel intentional. Mornings are slower.
You can choose to have a tented ceremony on the lawn here for an additional cost. This is perfect for warm summer days or for rainy days.
Catering is handled on-site, which means fewer decisions, fewer emails, and way less mental load while planning.
Wequassett Resort
Wequassett Resort is often chosen by couples who want things to feel taken care of; not because they want something flashy, but because they don’t want to spend their wedding day managing logistics.
And here’s the thing people don’t always expect: when it’s planned thoughtfully, Wequassett doesn’t feel big. It feels supported. I’ve photographed quiet, emotional ceremonies here where the only thing couples are focused on is each other. I’ve watched them take a moment alone by the water before joining cocktail hour. I’ve seen parents exhale knowing everything is handled, which lets everyone relax just a little more.
When everything lives in one place, the day flows differently. There’s less rushing, fewer transitions, and more space to stay present.
Maximum guest capacity: 350
Indoor and outdoor options: Yes, with everything from ballroom to beachfront
Available year-round?: Yes, and spring weddings here are literally a dream
On-site accommodations?: Yes, and it’s something that makes planning so smooth
Getting-ready rooms on-site?: Yes
Private beach access for photos?: Yes, and the views are incredible
Everything to Know About Planning a Wequassett Resort Wedding
If you’re considering a wedding at this Cape Cod wedding venue, here’s more info you should know:
Whether it’s an intimate wedding or a grand party, Wequassett Resort has a spot for you.
They offer all-inclusive packages that cover everything from catering and bar services to rehearsal time to tables and chairs.
Late spring here is something special. The light is soft, the property feels alive again, and the pace of the day just… works. If you want a wedding that feels elevated without feeling overwhelming, Wequassett does that beautifully.
The Wychemere Beach Club
Wychemere Beach Club is one of those venues where you can feel the shift happen as the day goes on. Mornings are calm. Afternoons feel light and easy. And by the time the sun starts to dip, everyone’s relaxed enough to fully let go and celebrate.
What I love most here is the space; not just physically, but emotionally. You’re not stuck in one room all night. You can step outside, take a breath, watch the sunset, sneak a quiet moment together before jumping back into the party. That flexibility changes how the day feels. You’re not being pulled in a million directions. You’re choosing where to be.
Maximum guest capacity: 320
Indoor and outdoor options: Yes, with a large variety of options
Available year-round?: Weddings are available from April to December, and every season is just as beautiful
On-site accommodations?: Yes, the resort here is huge
Getting-ready rooms on-site?: Yep, which eases transportation stress a lot
Private beach access for photos?: Yes, the venue has 4 miles of private beach access, perfect for sunset beach photos
Everything to Know About Planning a Wychemere Beach Club Wedding
Is Wychemere Beach Club your dream wedding venue now? If so, I get it. Here are a few more things to know about the venue:
Late spring and early summer tend to feel the most natural, with comfortable weather, beautiful light, and a really smooth rhythm to the day. Their all-inclusive options also take a lot off your plate, which leaves more energy for the parts that actually matter.
This is another Cape Cod wedding venue that offers all-inclusive packages that cover catering and bar services for you, so that you just get to kick back and relax.
You can opt for a wedding on the beach here, which is something really special.
How to Choose the Perfect Cape Cod Wedding Venue
I’ve watched so many couples stress over making the “right” choice, and the truth is: the right venue is the one that lets you relax into your day. The one where you don’t feel like you have to perform or micromanage.
If you’re torn between a few options, that’s normal. And if you want to talk it through with someone who’s seen how these days really unfold, I’m always happy to help, even if it’s just to calm your nerves and remind you that you’re doing great.
Common Questions About Cape Cod Weddings
Cape Cod weddings are special, which means that they require a little bit of extra thinking. Don’t worry, though, I’m here to cover everything for you so that every decision you make feels confident and true to you.
What’s the Best Time of Year for a Cape Cod Wedding?
Overall, summer will always be a fantastic time to get married on Cape Cod. Gorgeous sunsets, late nights, and mild weather make these months downright dreamy, and it works every time, no matter the venue.
Should I Choose a Beach Wedding or a Venue Wedding on Cape Cod?
Honestly, I love a beach wedding, but that’s why I suggested so many venues that have private beach access! It’s the best of both worlds, with the bonus of a rain plan and going through a venue that can help through every step of the way.
Why Should I Choose a Cape Cod Wedding?
There are so many reasons to choose a Cape Cod wedding. The gorgeous beach views are just a small part of it. The charming coastal atmosphere, the mild temperatures, the destination feel, and the fantastic venues make it that much better! If you’re someone dreaming about a day that’s easy-going and effortlessly lovely, a Cape Cod wedding is for you.
Ashley Olafsson | Cape Cod Wedding Photographer
If you’re planning your Cape Cod wedding, I’d be honored to be there to capture it for you in a way that feels natural and calm, so that you can fully live your day. You can inquire about booking me here, and we’ll start going over the details to create the perfect day, together!
While you’re here, find more wedding inspiration!
Planning a Wedding at Willowdale Estate: A Massachusetts Wedding Photographer’s Guide
Choosing Your Destination Wedding Location Based on Your Personality
An Intentional California Destination Wedding Told Through Documentary Style Wedding Photography
Xoxo,
Ashley
Client love: “Choosing the right photographer for my wedding was a decision I did not take lightly. I did tons of research and spoke to a handful of people, as I was particular about the style of images I wanted from the day. When I found Ashley, I fell in love with her ability to capture a moment, and when I met her on Zoom, her confident yet laid-back, bubbly vibe instantly put me at ease. We met her at our engagement session a year prior to the big day, which was great to get to know each other and prepare us for being in front of the camera. On the wedding day, she brought a very positive and easy going attitude, which I really appreciated. Above all else, I completely trusted her to get the shot. She and Kassia absolutely nailed it!!! We had sneak peeks in a matter of days and the (huge!) final delivery in a few months. I am so happy with our photos and couldn't recommend Ashley enough. Thank you!!”
“Could not recommend Ashley enough! We are obsessed with our sneak peek photos (that we
received 2 days after our wedding!) and can't wait to see the full gallery. We received so many
compliments from our bridal party and family on how comfortable they felt around Ashley. Thank you for perfectly capturing our wedding day!”
