Pretty in Ponce Inlet Beach

Tucked away from busy, everyday life there is a hidden gem of a town, Ponce Inlet. Situated just a few miles south of Daytona Beach, Ponce Inlet is a much quieter, more preserved version of it’s bustling neighbor: the “world famous” beach. That being said there are still days worth of exploring and fun within this quaint beachfront town. With emerald water so clear you can see through the warm rolling waves and white sand, you might think you are closer to the Bahamas than Florida! Ponce Inlet provides opportunities to see manatees, dolphins frolicking close by and manta rays swimming by your side. As the fluffy white clouds billow offshore, you and your beloved just might decide to stay forever after your wedding on the beach…and who could blame you? But if you can break away from the sun and sea, then grab your sneakers, appetite for fun and let’s explore Ponce Inlet Beach!

Top 5 Things to do in Ponce Inlet

One of the coolest things about this list is you could do them all without any transportation besides your own two feet! Now if you’re planning a summer Ponce Inlet wedding, you will likely still want to drive and soak up some A/C in between stops. Let’s explore Ponce Inlet and why it is pretty perfect!

1. Ponce Inlet Jetty

There aren’t many places quite like Ponce Inlet Jetty. You can actually walk along a paved sidewalk atop the jetty for about 100 yards. The views are like no other with a variety of boats passing by. It’s like you’re walking on water. The jetty itself is free. Parking at the Lighthouse Park runs $10. Public bathrooms, picnic tables, a wooden walkway through the dunes, all make for a perfect beach adventure! The water is the clearest in this area: watch the fish shimmer in the sun as you take a swim. You can even get married at this park with the lighthouse in the background!

2. Ponce Preserve

You don’t need extreme survival skills to hike this trail. However, the views and peacefulness at Ponce Preserve are well worth any trek. You can walk through a shaded path to a lookout tower with a beautiful ocean view. Continue a little further to a beach access point. Walk in the opposite direction and you can journey down the boardwalk to the Intracoastal river. At its heart is the Green Mound State Archaeological Site, an ancient Indian midden. At the base of the Green Mound is a live oak estimated to be more than 350 years old. It’s the perfect spot to reconnect with your significant other and enjoy the beauty of nature. If you are staying in the area for your honeymoon, why not share a romantic moment and watch the sun rise together.

3. Marine Science Center

A fun spot for animal lovers, kids and grown ups alike! The Marine Science Cente r is an awesome place to visit for an hour or two. You can pet sting rays (don’t worry, they’re harmless), observe gorgeous tropical fish tanks, learn about the turtle rehabilitation and view sea turtles, visit the aviary, and more! And there’s a fun gift shop with perfect souvenirs to remember your Florida Beach Wedding by!

4. Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

Tie your sneakers and get ready for some spectacular views! Climb 203 steps to the top of the 175 foot tall lighthouse. The views of the ocean, beach, and surrounding cities of New Smyrna Beach and Daytona Beach is breathtaking! Trekking to the top is well worth the effort — and when you come back down explore in the on-site museum and light station. The Ponce de Leon Inlet Light Station is one of only 11 lighthouses on the National Historic Landmark list.

5. Off the Hook

Looking for a place to get some delicious fresh seafood (or a burger for you non-seafood lovers out there)? Off the Hook offers delicious food and an atmosphere that matches the Florida vibe. Picture yourself: sitting on the water, sunset watchin’, cold drink in hand, and maybe even a dolphin show in the river if you’re lucky! Sounds like a date!

So what complete beach wedding packages work best with a Ponce Inlet seaside wedding? Our staff recommends these ocean themed decorations:

The Beach Bliss Distinctive Design with navy and gold decor is perfect with the sky, the sand and the sea. Hanging starfish lanterns, flowers, nautical rope and a large decorated “chalkboard” sign announcing the new couple is stunning, along with a chilled water station for your guests. You can even change the materials colors if you like.

Another favorite is the Teal Distinctive Design. Nothing says “ocean” like vibrant teal flowers, greenery and bamboo. White resin chairs and chalkboard sign announce your marriage, along with the convenient addition of chilled water for your wedding guests.

Okay, now you know how to enjoy this pretty and pleasant beachfront venue. We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that getting married on Ponce Inlet Beach is pretty darn awesome too! 🙂 Click HERE to book your beach wedding today!