Pelican Grand Beach Resort

Located directly on a quiet stretch of Fort Lauderdale’s Atlantic coastline, Pelican Grand Beach Resort delivers an oceanfront wedding experience that blends Southern charm, beachside luxury, and timeless elegance. With panoramic views of the sea, swaying palms, and the soft rhythm of the waves in the background, this resort offers everything needed for a coastal wedding celebration that feels as easy as it is unforgettable. The moment guests step into the grand, white-columned lobby—complete with rocking chairs and wraparound porches—it’s clear this is no ordinary beach hotel.

Only minutes from downtown Fort Lauderdale and just a short drive from the airport, the resort offers the rare luxury of both seclusion and convenience. The property features 156 guest rooms and suites, most with direct ocean views, private balconies, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood each space with natural light—ideal for makeup prep and pre-ceremony photography.

Ceremony & Reception Spaces

Pelican Grand Beach Resort offers over 7,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space tailored for weddings and milestone events of all sizes:

• Atlantic Ballroom – With 1,400 square feet of space and panoramic windows facing the ocean, this elegant ballroom accommodates up to 60 guests for a seated reception. Crystal light fixtures and neutral tones make it a versatile space for any color scheme or theme.
• Oceanview Terrace – This outdoor space offers breathtaking views of the water and is perfect for ceremonies or cocktail hours. With the Atlantic as your backdrop, every photo is naturally stunning.
• North and South Rooftop Terraces – These intimate venues feature pergolas and elevated views, perfect for small ceremonies, welcome receptions, or stargazing dinner events.
• Private Beach – For a true toes-in-the-sand experience, the resort’s private beach can be transformed into a romantic ceremony site or bonfire reception under the stars.

Every wedding at Pelican Grand is coordinated by the resort’s event planning professionals, who help execute everything from room setups and menu customization to seating arrangements, AV needs, and last-minute detail management.

Guest Accommodations & Experience

Guest rooms and suites at Pelican Grand are decorated in soothing coastal tones with plush bedding, soaking tubs, and tasteful white furnishings. Many suites include a separate living area, ideal for families or bridal party groups. For newlyweds, oceanfront suites with private balconies are available for honeymoon-style seclusion after the party winds down.

On-site amenities include:

• Zero-Entry Pool and Lazy River – Great for guests looking to unwind or entertain kids during the wedding weekend.
• Spa at Pelican Grand – Full-service spa with massages, facials, and bridal beauty services available by appointment.
• Beach Service – Chairs, umbrellas, and towel service are available daily for all guests, included with the resort fee.
• In-Room Dining and Concierge Services – From late-night champagne to early-morning espresso deliveries, everything is handled with care.

Culinary Offerings

Dining is a highlight at Pelican Grand. The hotel’s signature restaurant, OCEAN2000, serves a coastal American menu with regional and seasonal ingredients. For weddings, the culinary team designs custom packages that can include plated meals, buffet spreads, or even live chef stations for interactive receptions. Late-night bites like gourmet sliders and craft cocktail bars are available as add-ons, and rehearsal dinners can be hosted on the beach, on the terrace, or in one of the private indoor salons.

Menus can be adjusted for dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegan, kosher-style, and allergen-friendly preferences.

What Wedding Guests Love

Guests often comment on the seamless blend of laid-back beach relaxation and upscale service. They love the ability to go from lounging by the lazy river to dancing barefoot on the sand within the same weekend. Many reviewers note the warmth of the event staff, the attention to detail during weddings, and the consistently high standard of hospitality across the entire resort.

The Atlantic Ballroom’s ocean backdrop and the quiet elegance of the rooftop terraces receive frequent praise from couples and photographers alike. While valet parking is available for a fee, many guests say the coastal scenery and walkability of the surrounding area make the experience feel worth it.

Nearby Attractions

• Las Olas Boulevard – Boutiques, art galleries, and al fresco dining just ten minutes away
• Hugh Taylor Birch State Park – A natural preserve ideal for pre-wedding photo sessions
• Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale – Scenic walking trails, museums, and theaters for group outings
• Port Everglades – Convenient for pre- or post-wedding cruises
• Local Water Excursions – Charter boats, paddleboard rentals, and snorkeling trips are all close by

Why It Works for Weddings

Pelican Grand Beach Resort offers the kind of all-in-one experience that makes destination weddings feel effortless. With a private beach, flexible event spaces, on-site planning, and plenty for guests to do in between events, it creates a flow that encourages connection, celebration, and calm. Whether you’re planning an intimate rooftop ceremony, a ballroom dinner with dancing, or a beachfront party that goes late into the night, the resort delivers timeless elegance in a truly coastal setting.

Let engine.com help you coordinate your wedding weekend at Pelican Grand Beach Resort—from room blocks and vendor referrals to finalizing your celebration timeline. Engine connects you with exceptional venues and makes it easy to plan unforgettable weddings with confidence.