Looking for a luxurious, beachfront wedding venue in Byron Bay that combines elegance, intimacy, and five-star vibes?
Welcome to Raes on Wategos — where stunning views meet world-class food, boutique accommodation, and a ceremony space that’s as private as it is breathtaking.

As a Byron Bay celebrant, I’ve been lucky enough to officiate several beautiful weddings at Raes, and let me tell you — this place is pure magic for couples looking to tie the knot in style, without the stress or fuss of a big, traditional wedding.

Why Couples Love Getting Married at Raes on Wategos

Let’s talk about what makes Raes on Wategos one of the best intimate wedding venues in Byron Bay:

• 🏝️ Unmatched location – You’re literally on the beach at Wategos, one of the most iconic and peaceful spots in Byron.

• 🥂 Incredible food & wine – You can celebrate your ceremony, then wander downstairs for a fine-dining experience at Raes Dining Room (with a killer wine list to match). Raes retained its two hats in the prestigious Good Food Guide 2025!

• 🛌 On-site accommodation – No need to go anywhere else. Get ready, get married, and stay the night — all in one private, elegant space.

• ✨ Perfect for elopements & micro-weddings – With luxe suites and a penthouse that opens to the sea, it’s ideal for small weddings and couples who want something intimate, meaningful, and beautiful.

Real Raes Wedding Stories from a Byron Bay Celebrant

Over the years, I’ve had the honour of guiding a few very special couples through their “I dos” at Raes — each one intimate, emotional, and full of heart.

💕 Charlotta and Tony

A 48-Hour Elopement That Hit All the Feels

Charlotta and Tony organised their wedding at Raes in just two days. Yep — you read that right! No flies on them, or the wonderful staff at Raes! They held their ceremony in one of the beautiful suites, with just four guests — including the mutual friends who introduced them.

Before the wedding, they even invited me into their home to make sure we were the right fit. One month later, they said their happy, heartfelt vows by the ocean, surrounded by love and luxury. Proof that when it’s right, it doesn’t need to be complicated.

💕 Kirsty and Steve

A Sleeping Toddler & A Legacy of Love

Kirsty and Steve’s wedding in the penthouse suite was intimate and emotional — the kind of ceremony that makes your heart ache in the best way. Their two-year-old daughter, Remy, all dressed up for the occasion, fell asleep just before the ceremony started (which honestly made it even sweeter).

We celebrated the beginning of one marriage and honoured another — Steve’s parents had just celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary two days earlier. It was a truly special moment to witness the start of something new, grounded in a legacy of long-lasting love.

💕 Jolene and Lachlan

From Card Tricks to Commitments

These two beautiful humans brought the laughs and the tears. Jolene’s first memory of Lachlan?

“He showed me a card trick — and if you ask him, I was very impressed by it.”
Lachlan’s version?
“I performed my amazing card trick and she was BLOWN AWAY and IN AWE of me.”

Thirteen years later, they made their relationship legal in the most intimate way — with a heartfelt ceremony in the Raes penthouse suite. Alongside their favourite people in the world, they sealed a love story built on laughter, kindness, and true connection.

Why Raes is Perfect for Your Byron Bay Elopement or Micro-Wedding

Whether you’re planning a spur-of-the-moment elopement, a romantic vow renewal, or a private micro-wedding with just your closest people, Raes on Wategos delivers the full package:

• 🌅 Ceremony location + accommodation + celebration all in one

• 💒 Private, luxury suites perfect for personal ceremonies

• 🍽️ Celebratory meals in the stunning onsite restaurant

• 🎥 Photo ops galore — beach, palms, architecture, chef’s kiss

• 🧘‍♀️ A relaxed vibe with five-star service

From my side as your celebrant, I’ll make sure your ceremony feels just right. Whether it’s warm and funny, quiet and tear-filled, or a mix of both — your love story will shine. I’ll take care of the legals, the script, the flow, and even print out your vows so you can be fully present in the moment.

Planning a Wedding at Raes? Here’s What You Need to Know

• 📍 Location: Wategos Beach, Byron Bay NSW

• 👥 Ideal for: Elopements and micro-weddings with up to 10 guests

• 🛌 Accommodation: Boutique suites and penthouse with ocean views

• 🍷 Food & Drink: Onsite fine dining restaurant with curated menus

• 💍 Best Celebrant Vibes: Laid-back, story-driven, warm, inclusive (that’s me 😉)

👉 Check out Raes on Wategos Accommodation & Venue Details

and get in touch with me here to enquire about my availability!

FAQs

Can we have our ceremony at Rae’s on Wategos?
Yes — Rae’s is licensed for intimate ceremonies and elopements. You can hold your ceremony on the grounds, on the balcony, or even stroll across to Wategos Beach for a barefoot moment.

How many guests can Rae’s on Wategos accommodate?
Rae’s is perfect for smaller, luxe weddings and elopements. It’s ideal for up to 30 guests, depending on your setup and whether you’re using the restaurant, terrace, or suites.

Is Rae’s suitable for destination weddings?
Absolutely. With its boutique accommodation, on-site restaurant, and unbeatable beachfront location, Rae’s is a dream destination venue for couples travelling from Sydney, Melbourne or overseas.

Can we host both the ceremony and reception at Rae’s?
Yes — Rae’s offers full-service wedding options, so you can hold your ceremony and reception in one seamless, luxurious setting. It’s especially popular for twilight or sunset events.

Do you have experience officiating weddings at Rae’s on Wategos?
Yes — I’ve had the joy of officiating several beautiful weddings at Rae’s. I know the team, layout, and flow of the space, which helps everything run smoothly from start to finish.