St James Bay Resort

Set along Florida’s unspoiled Forgotten Coast, St. James Bay Golf & Pickleball Resort offers a peaceful and scenic retreat ideal for intimate weddings and relaxed destination celebrations. Surrounded by protected wetlands, serene lakes, and native wildlife, the resort delivers a setting that feels secluded, authentic, and naturally elegant—far from the crowds and commercial venues of larger cities.

Located in Carrabelle, just a short drive from the Gulf, this resort is well-suited for couples who want to combine ceremony and celebration with extended time in nature, whether it’s through golf, pickleball, or simply relaxing in the calm of coastal Florida.

Wedding Venues

St. James Bay offers several flexible spaces for ceremonies, receptions, and wedding weekend events:

• The Fountain Room – A refined indoor banquet room with panoramic views of the resort’s signature fountains and putting greens. Ideal for receptions up to 100 guests, it features large windows, neutral tones, and easy flow to the outdoors.
• The Beer Garden – A spacious outdoor patio near the Crooked River Grill, perfect for rehearsal dinners or casual receptions. With 5,000 square feet, it can comfortably accommodate groups up to 200.
• Lawn & Garden Areas – Open-air green spaces around the resort provide opportunities for tented ceremonies or sunset receptions beneath the stars. These areas offer full flexibility in layout and decor.

Custom wedding packages are available and can include venue setup, tables and chairs, in-house catering from the grill, bar packages, and coordination assistance.

Accommodations

Guests can stay directly on-site in one of the resort’s private accommodations, all of which are designed for comfort, space, and extended stays:

• Residence Condominiums – Two- and three-bedroom units with full kitchens, laundry, living rooms, and screened balconies overlooking the course. Ideal for families and longer guest stays.
• Clubhouse Villas – One-bedroom units with open layouts and convenient access to the main clubhouse and amenities. Great for couples or small groups.

Group blocks are available, making it easy for everyone to stay in one place and avoid outside travel between events.

Amenities for Wedding Weekends

• 18-Hole Championship Golf Course – Audubon-certified and designed to integrate naturally into the surrounding environment. A great activity for groomsmen, fathers, or a relaxed day-before outing.
• Pickleball Complex – Eight outdoor courts overlooking scenic wetlands. Courts can be reserved for casual group play or competitive matches among guests.
• Outdoor Pool – A quiet pool area perfect for pre- or post-event relaxation.
• Crooked River Grill – On-site dining open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering coastal-inspired fare. Can also host private dinners or brunches for wedding groups.
• Fitness Center & Trails – For guests looking to stay active, the resort offers a fitness center and walking paths throughout the property.

Guest Experience

Couples who host weddings at St. James Bay often highlight the laid-back setting, attentive staff, and ability to transform the resort into a private weekend retreat for friends and family. Guests enjoy the slower pace of the area and the ability to enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort. The combination of golf, outdoor recreation, and on-site lodging makes it easy to build a full weekend itinerary around the celebration.

Nearby Attractions

• Carrabelle Beach – Quiet, uncrowded shoreline just a short drive from the resort.
• Apalachicola National Forest – Offers hiking, birding, and scenic drives through old-growth pine and wetland ecosystems.
• Local Fishing Charters – Carrabelle is a known hub for Gulf fishing, and charters are readily available for groups.
• St. George Island – A popular day trip with scenic beaches and a charming lighthouse.

Why St. James Bay Is a Strong Choice for Weddings

For couples seeking a venue that feels personal, peaceful, and surrounded by nature, St. James Bay delivers on all fronts. It offers multiple ceremony and reception spaces, on-site lodging, in-house catering, and recreation—all in a setting that’s serene and memorable. This is an ideal choice for smaller to mid-sized weddings that favor charm over crowds, and quality over spectacle.

Let engine.com help you reserve guest accommodations and finalize event details, so your wedding weekend unfolds exactly as envisioned—with comfort, beauty, and Southern ease.