Washington Oaks State Park Wedding Vibes: A Perfect Blend of Beach + Bloom
If you’ve been dreaming of a wedding day that feels a little bit magical, a little bit wild, and totally you..keep on reading about a Washington Oaks State Park wedding. This place is seriously one of Florida’s hidden gems, especially for couples who love nature and quiet moments and are looking for a combo of garden paths and ocean air.
As a wedding photographer based just up the coast from Washington Oaks in Jacksonville, I’ve seen a lot of venues. Washington Oaks has such a peaceful, soul-soothing vibe that makes it perfect for intimate and micro weddings and elopements. Imagine swaying oak trees, rose gardens, and rocky beaches that look like they belong in a storybook and can’t be found anywhere else near this area.
Why You’ll Love Your Washington Oaks State Park Wedding
What makes this beautiful, lush garden so special? It’s the variety and true Florida feel. You can have your ceremony under the shade of historic oak trees, portraits in the rose garden, and then sneak off to the beach for golden hour photos on the rocks. It’s romantic without trying too hard, and there’s an elegance to this wedding “venue” that feels calming, unique, and nature-centered on such a big day.
Plus, if you’re planning something more low-key or want to keep things focused on the experience (rather than a packed timeline), a wedding at Washington Oaks State Park gives you just that…the space to breathe. Just you, your people, and the kind of scenery that doesn’t need any extras.
Best Photo Spots Inside the Park
This is where it gets really fun and one of my favorite parts. As a St. Augustine wedding photographer, I could spend all day here because it is just full of beauty and the best spots for photos. Some of my favorite spots for your wedding portraits are:
- The coquina rock beach – It’s such a unique Florida shoreline and absolutely glows during sunset.
- The rose gardens – So much color and texture, especially in spring.
- The many oak paths – Glowy, golden light, Spanish moss, and the perfect lush garden.
- Tucked-away corners & ponds – From large open grassy areas, to pretty ponds, there’s always a place for photos.
Each part of the park gives off its own vibe, which means your gallery ends up feeling full of variety but still cohesive. And it also means a wedding here can be tailored perfectly to you.
How to Plan Your Washington Oaks State Park Wedding
Okay, now let’s talk logistics (just a little, promise). Since Washington Oaks is a Florida State Park, you’ll need to obtain a permit to host your ceremony here. You can (and should) reach out directly to the park office for the most up-to-date info, but typically, you’ll need to:
- Submit your request well in advance
- Pay a small fee for the permit & rental
- Follow a few rules about decorations, time slots, cleanup, the number of guests, and the location for your ceremony
This spot works best for smaller gatherings, elopements, or even just portraits if you’re getting married nearby and want dreamy nature photos.
A Few Planning Tips from Me (A Wedding Expert) to You
- Go early or late in the day. The light is softer and the park is quieter. Choose a weekday if you can, as weekends often get crowded.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking through gardens and maybe even across the sand and rocks. A backup pair of pretty flats for after the ceremony is perfect.
- Have a backup plan. If you aren’t local to Florida, you need to know that the weather here is…unpredictable, especially in the summer. A covered garden pavilion or a cozy Airbnb nearby is a great safety net.
- Keep it simple. This location speaks for itself. A bouquet, a few personal touches, and the love between you two is all you really need.
Why I Love Photographing Weddings at Washington Oaks
There’s something really special about photographing couples in places that feel deeply peaceful. Washington Oaks brings a calm energy, so you can slow down and actually be present on your wedding day. I’m not big on stiff posing or rushing through timelines. My approach is more about noticing the in-between moments and letting your connection lead the way, and a Washington Oaks State Park wedding is perfect for that.
Whether we’re chasing the last bit of sun on the rocks for your portraits or walking hand-in-hand through the garden, it never feels forced here. Just honest, beautiful moments in one of Florida’s prettiest little secret corners.
Ready To Plan Your Own Washington Oaks Wedding?
If this sounds like your kind of place and vision for your day, I’d love to help you capture it all. If you’re eloping barefoot on the beach or planning a golden hour garden ceremony with your closest people, you’ll find so much to love here, and I’d love to help tell your story.
Let’s start dreaming it up together. Reach out here and let’s do this!
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