The islands of the Bahamas are nearby yet a world apart, making this sunny archipelago a dream destination for a wedding celebration where you won’t have to worry about getting you're guests to the party. Less than an hour by air from Miami, Paradise Island is home to two of the most intriguing wedding resorts in the Caribbean region, while the Family Islands of the Bahamas offer a more secluded and laid-back alternative with the bonus of excellent diving and big-game fishing.

The Atlantis needs no introduction: this Paradise Island resort is world-famous for its distinctive nautical utopia architecture, amazing water park and aquarium, unparalleled casino gaming and nightlife options. But there’s a quieter side of Atlantis, too: The Cove is a resort-within-a-resort that features luxury suites, personalized service, and an exclusive adults-only pool. Cove Beach and the Baths Colonnade, two of the Atlantis’ top wedding venues, are nearby.

Aerial view of Atlantis, AQUAVENTURE, The Cove and The Reef

Paradise Island’s most distinguished address, The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas sits on a stretch of pure white sand and has a relaxed-chic vibe to go along with a Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant, beachfront rooms designed by Adam D. Tihany, and an 18-hole golf course along the shores of Nassau Harbour. The most memorable weddings are set amid the ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian cloister, brought to the Bahamas piece-by-piece from France.

When you're celebrating with those you love most, the Family Islands seem a most appropriate wedding destination. With its white and pink sand beaches, rich history, and natural beauty, Eleuthera is also known for its luxury resorts: The Cove, Eleuthera's 120 rooms and villas are arrayed along a crescent of sand that’s a lovely setting for an exchange of vows, followed by an exquisite beach dinner or a reception at the glass-walled Freedom restaurant.

>Written by Bob Curley