13 of the top waterfront wedding venues in Melbourne

By:
Frankie David
/
Updated on: February 23, 2022

There is something inherently calming about being by the water. Whether it is the rhythmic lap of the bay or the steady flow of the Yarra, waterfront weddings offer a natural elegance that few other settings can match. Many couples we see choose these locations because they provide a stunning backdrop without the need for excessive styling.

If you are looking for a venue that feels both open and intimate, here are our top picks for waterfront wedding venues in Melbourne.

The rooftop at Harbour Room St Kilda offers a sophisticated setting for ceremonies with uninterrupted views of the bay and the city.

1. Harbour Room St Kilda

Effortlessly combining breathtaking waterfront views with an unbeatable location just 15 minutes from the CBD, Harbour Room St Kilda is a popular choice for elegant beachside weddings. This modern venue boasts versatile interiors and contemporary styling. The spectacular rooftop space is a highlight, offering a perfect setting for outdoor ceremonies in the warmer months.

Harbour Room St Kilda

5 (1) · Victoria

Harbour Room St Kilda sits within the historic Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron, offering panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay, the city skyline, St Kilda Pier, and Catani Gardens. With ceremony and reception spaces for intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, and a dedicated event team managing every detail, it's where Melbourne couples come to celebrate in style.... without the stress.


80-150
$130-185

For couples wanting a true beach wedding, The Baths Middle Brighton provides a picturesque setting right on the water’s edge.

2. The Baths Middle Brighton

Set in a historic building overlooking the Middle Brighton Ocean Baths and Port Phillip Bay, The Baths Middle Brighton offers several beautiful ceremony spaces. The upstairs wedding space takes advantage of the incredible waterfront views and can accommodate weddings of up to 200 guests. Your ceremony can be hosted on the balcony or in the dedicated ceremony room.

The Baths Middle Brighton

4.85 (62) · Victoria

Located on the stunning waters of Port Phillip Bay, The Baths Middle Brighton is a relaxed coastal venue. The second floor is perfect for receptions, and ceremonies can occur on the private balcony that overlooks the bay towards the city, or on The Bath’s private beach. All events are individually tailored, making The Baths one of Melbourne’s most versatile wedding venues.


40-200
$125-250

The terrace at Encore St Kilda Beach is a premier spot for sunset photos and open air ceremonies.

3. Encore St Kilda Beach

For a modern, high end feel, Encore St Kilda Beach is a standout. Positioned within the St Kilda Sea Baths complex, it offers panoramic views of the bay and the pier. The interior is chic and flexible, easily adapting to a cocktail party or a formal sit down dinner. Its proximity to the water is its greatest asset, providing a sophisticated backdrop that feels unmistakably Melbourne.

Encore St Kilda Beach

4.87 (108) · Victoria

At Encore, we are here to guide you in building your dream day. Not only is Encore footsteps from the ocean, we offer a tailor-made experience, where we are interested in you, and bringing your vision to life.


50-700
$178-199
A groom lifting a bride in a white wedding dress in the lush green gardens at Leonda by the Yarra.

Beyond the river views, Leonda by the Yarra is known for its manicured gardens and romantic photo opportunities.

4. Leonda by the Yarra

Surrounded by swaying trees and lush greenery on the banks of the Yarra River, Leonda by the Yarra is a stunningly picturesque wedding venue in Hawthorn. This gorgeous riverside location offers couples several light filled wedding spaces to choose from. For an added wow factor, you can even arrive at your wedding by boat and dock at the private jetty.

Leonda By The Yarra

4.95 (188) · Victoria

Nestled along the Yarra River, Leonda By The Yarra offers two elegant reception spaces designed to make your wedding feel effortless and unforgettable. Say 'I do' in our tranquil private courtyard, framed by lush gardens and the gentle sound of water. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, while our exclusive jetty lets you sail off into your next chapter, quite literally.


60-480
$160-225

The Langham offers a luxury city experience where the Yarra River and Melbourne skyline become your backdrop.

5. The Langham, Melbourne

Situated on the famous Southbank Promenade, The Langham offers a luxury waterfront experience overlooking the Yarra River and the city skyline. It is the ideal choice for couples seeking timeless elegance and five star service. The views of the river at night, with the city lights reflecting on the water, provide a dramatic and sophisticated setting for a grand ballroom reception.

The Langham, Melbourne

4.88 (16) · Victoria

For couples seeking refined luxury, The Langham, Melbourne offers an unforgettable wedding setting. Classical elegance meets contemporary comfort, with every detail expertly prepared to bring your vision to life. Enjoy your ceremony, reception and overnight stay in five-star style, and create a once-in-a-lifetime celebration.


-450
180
A couple sharing their first dance at Showtime Events Centre featuring indoor sparklers and a heritage warehouse ceiling.

Showtime Events Centre brings a modern and industrial edge to the South Wharf riverside precinct.

6. Showtime Events Centre

Located in a heritage listed warehouse on South Wharf, Showtime Events Centre combines industrial grit with modern luxury. The venue sits directly on the Yarra River, offering a paved outdoor area for riverside drinks. Inside, the high ceilings and original timber floorboards create a space that is both vast and intimate, perfect for couples wanting an urban waterfront vibe.

Showtime Events Centre

4.95 (56) · Victoria

The Showtime Events Centre in South Wharf, Melbourne, is an extraordinary warehouse wedding venue that the team can adjust to any theme or style you have in mind. The soaring original ceilings and timber floors combine with modern laser-cut LED wall screens to create an enchanting mix of the old and new. With riverfront views and award-winning service, this venue attracts high-end weddings.


50-350

Golden hour at Greenfields Albert Park highlights the serene beauty of the lake and surrounding parklands.

7. Greenfields Albert Park

Greenfields Albert Park offers a different kind of waterfront appeal. Overlooking the Albert Park Lake and golf course, it feels like an inner city oasis. The venue is light filled and airy, featuring a sunset deck that is perfect for golden hour drinks. It is an ideal choice for couples who want the serenity of the water combined with lush greenery and views of the city skyline.

Greenfields Albert Park

4.86 (14) · Victoria

Greenfields Albert Park is a stunningly light-filled wedding venue nestled in the heart of Melbourne between Albert Park Lake and Albert Park Golf Course. This idyllic Melbourne venue boasts spectacular floor-to-ceiling windows, chic décor, spacious decking for outdoor ceremonies, and world-class menus showcasing the finest local produce.


10-160
$190-230
A bride and groom toasting with champagne glasses on the South Wharf boardwalk at night in front of Cargo Hall.

Cargo Hall is perfectly positioned for couples who want to celebrate against the sparkling lights of the Melbourne CBD.

8. Cargo Hall

Directly opposite the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Cargo Hall offers an uninterrupted view of the city skyline and the Yarra River. This former docking shed has been cleverly reimagined into a contemporary event space with a glass fronted atrium. It captures the essence of Melbourne’s maritime history while providing all the modern amenities required for a seamless celebration.

Cargo Hall

5 (10) · Victoria

Located on Melbourne’s iconic South Wharf Promenade, Cargo Hall is designed for showstopping weddings. Boasting Yarra River frontage and city views, this warehouse space effortlessly blends rustic elements with modern luxuries. Ideal for ceremonies and receptions, couples love the private bridal suite and the flexibility of the space. Cargo Hall is part of the award-winning Showtime Event Group.


-440
146

The expansive windows at The Park ensure that the tranquil views of Albert Park Lake remain the focus of your reception.

9. The Park at Albert Park

The Park is a premier Melbourne venue known for its tranquil lakeside views and grand, industrial chic aesthetic. With floor to ceiling windows, it brings the beauty of Albert Park Lake inside, creating a bright and expansive atmosphere. The high ceilings and statement chandeliers add a touch of glamour to the lakeside setting, making it a versatile choice for both large and small guest lists.

Lakeside Pavilion

5 (3) · Victoria

Located in Melbourne’s picturesque Albert Park with sweeping lake views, Lakeside Pavilion is a standout spot for weddings. Freshly renovated, the venue features an industrial-chic design with striking arched windows that flood the space with natural light—an ideal setting for your wedding day.


A bride and groom embracing on the overwater deck at Port Melbourne Yacht Club under strings of festoon lights at dusk.

The overwater deck at Port Melbourne Yacht Club is an iconic choice for a modern coastal celebration.

10. Port Melbourne Yacht Club

Perched over the water on the shores of Port Phillip Bay, Port Melbourne Yacht Club is a spectacular venue for those who want to feel truly connected to the ocean. The floor to ceiling windows and overwater deck provide some of the best sunset views in the city. It offers a relaxed yet sophisticated environment that suits a modern coastal wedding perfectly.

Port Melbourne Yacht Club

5 (15) · Victoria

Perfectly placed on the Port Melbourne foreshore, Port Melbourne Yacht Club is a spectacular waterfront wedding venue boasting uninterrupted ocean views. This iconic coastal venue offers a breathtaking setting for your Melbourne wedding, with outstanding service and mouthwatering menus from the Atlantic Group.


50-350
bride and groom posing inside the glass viewing tunnel at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium with sharks and fish swimming overhead.

For a truly immersive experience, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium offers a wedding backdrop unlike any other in the city.

11. SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

If you want a truly unique waterfront experience, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium allows you to celebrate literally underwater. Located on the banks of the Yarra River, this venue offers spaces where sharks and stingrays glide past as your backdrop. Managed by the Showtime Event Group, the service is as polished as the setting. It is a bold, memorable choice for those who want to move away from the traditional ballroom.

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

4.96 (27) · Victoria

Are you seeking a truly unique wedding experience? SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is Melbourne’s only underwater wedding venue, boasting world-class fine dining, event management by Showtime Event Group, and jaw-dropping photo opportunities at every turn. Centrally located and fully equipped for celebrations of all scales, this marine wedding venue is every bit as elegant as it is fascinating.


-450
146

Castello’s Longbeach Hotel provides effortless access to the beach for stunning sunset photography and a relaxed coastal feel.

12. Castello’s Longbeach Hotel

For couples looking for a relaxed beachside setting in Chelsea, Castello’s Longbeach Hotel is a fantastic option. It provides a contemporary space with easy access to the sand, making it perfect for those who want a casual ceremony followed by a lively reception. The atmosphere is unpretentious and welcoming, focusing on good food and great views.

Castello's Longbeach Hotel

5 (11) · Victoria

The Longbeach Hotel is a hidden gem on the waterfront in Melbourne's bayside suburb of Chelsea. Whether you are looking to elope, have a small intimate wedding or enjoy a large fun-filled celebration with all of your family and friends, Longbeach Hotel is the perfect venue for you.


40-220
$54-103
A bright outdoor wedding ceremony taking place on the riverside deck at River’s Edge Events with the city skyline in the background.

The external deck at River’s Edge Events allows couples to exchange vows right on the banks of the Yarra River.

13. River’s Edge Events

Located in the World Trade Centre, River’s Edge Events is a sleek, minimalist space that focuses entirely on its riverside location. The venue features 180 degree views of the Yarra River and city surrounds, complete with two outdoor balconies. It is a sophisticated, blank canvas venue that allows you to tailor the space to your specific wedding vision.

River's Edge Events

4.77 (22) · Victoria

Located on the idyllic banks of the Yarra River, between Melbourne CBD and Docklands, River's Edge Events is a contemporary waterfront wedding venue with subtle and sophisticated interiors. With 180-degree river views and an open plan event space, this is the ultimate blank canvas for a chic Melbourne wedding.


1-450
$150-220

 

Choosing a waterfront venue means you are already halfway there with your styling. The water provides the movement and the light, while you provide the personal touches. Whether you prefer the salt air of the bay or the urban energy of the Yarra, Melbourne has a waterfront spot to suit every style.

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