A beach wedding or elopement at Wategos
A guide and pro tips from a local celebrant
Getting married at Wategos or Little Wategos Beach isn’t just a ceremony — it’s a full-on, barefoot-in-the-sand experience. If you’re dreaming of a Wategos Beach wedding or Little Wategos elopement, you’re in exactly the right place. I have interspersed some wedding photos at Wategos and Little Wategos so you can get an idea of how your day might look.
Why Wategos and Little Wategos Are The Dream Wedding Spots
- Epic ocean views? Tick!
- Intimate, tucked-away beach vibes? Tick!
- Stunning sunsets? Double tick!
- Absolutely stunning photography opportunities? Tick, tick, tick, tick.
- Dolphins and whales? Maybe!
Everything You Need to Know Before You Say I Do on Wategos or Little Wategos
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Permits + Paperwork: You may need a permit. (Don’t worry, it’s not scary – just apply here
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Best Times to Get Married: Hint – late afternoon golden hour is straight-up movie magic.
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Guest Numbers: Smaller = better here. Wategos suits a little crowd; Little Wategos is super intimate.
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Accessibility: Flat walk to Wategos. Little Wategos is a mini adventure (and SO worth it).
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Tide Times + Weather: A little planning goes a long way. I use this website to see what the tides are going to be doing.
- Parking: Everywhere in the Byron Shire has paid parking so be aware of this and come prepared 15 minutes early to find a park and pay the fee.
Top Tips for Planning Your Dreamy Beach Wedding
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Local legends only: When you book me you get access to my vendor list. This includes the best of the best florists, photographers, make-up and hair stylists, and every other vendor you can think of. Many couples who elope here just get a photographer and pick up a bouquet of flowers and TA-DA! Done. It can be as easy as that.
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Dress smart: Flowy dresses, shorts and a shirt and barefoot vows = chef’s kiss.
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Backup plans: Just in case Mother Nature throws a curveball (hello, tropical downpour). I recommend asking your accommodation if you can use their venue as your back up plan if you are just having an elopement or super small wedding. OR, embrace the elements and take a chance!
How I Make Beach Ceremonies Stress Free and Extra Special
You bring the love; I’ll bring the relaxed vibes, personalised ceremony, and a playlist if you need one. 🎶
As a Northern Rivers wedding celebrant who knows these beaches like the back of my hand (and occasionally my sandy feet), I make sure everything feels easy, natural, and so you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wategos and Little Wategos Beach
Do I need a permit to have a wedding at Wategos or Little Wategos Beach?
Probably. Get in touch with me and confirm. Because these beaches fall within Cape Byron State Conservation Area, you may need permission from NSW National Parks to hold your ceremony here. It’s a simple process, and you can apply directly through this link to National Parks Weddings.
Hot tip: Email me your permit – I’ll print out a copy to have on the day just in case.
What’s the parking situation at Wategos Beach?
Parking at Wategos is limited and paid, so definitely plan ahead! You’ll want to arrive 15- 30 minutes earlier than you think (especially on weekends or in summer) to snag a spot and have time to pay the parking fee.
Is Little Wategos Beach easy to get to?
Little Wategos is a short (and beautiful) walk from Wategos Beach — about 300 metres over and around the headland. It does have reasonably steep stairs for the first bit. The beach is more secluded (perfect for elopements!) but keep in mind it’s a walk-in spot — no direct car access.
How many guests can I have at my Wategos Beach wedding?
Because it’s a public beach, smaller ceremonies are ideal. Think elopements or intimate gatherings of up to 20–30 guests max, although the National Parks website will permit up to 100 people.
What if it rains on the day?
Mother Nature can be a little unpredictable! I always recommend having a wet weather backup option (think local Airbnbs, private homes.) There are a few pandanus trees on Wategos beach that will give a bit of protection to a very small group. There is only a small undercover BBQ area that is next to the toilet block so probably not ideal as your dream back up plan!
Some couples stay at Raes on Wategos and even have their ceremony there instead of on the beach.
Are there toilets or facilities nearby?
Yep! Wategos Beach has public toilets and outdoor showers.
Whether you’re dreaming of a simple elopement or a small beach wedding, Wategos and Little Wategos offer the perfect backdrop for unforgettable vows.
Ready to Get Married in Barefoot Bliss?
Let’s create your dream ceremony at one of Byron Bay’s most iconic beaches. Contact me here– I can’t wait to hear all about your love story!
