Your destination tropical wedding should feel like vacation, look like it’s straight out of a magazine, and celebrate your unique love story! Lendsey & Logan’s wedding at the Royal Palms Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona was a perfect example of how to infuse a tropical modern aesthetic into your day, even if you’re not on an island. From heartfelt moments to lush, houseplant-inspired decor (yes, really!), this wedding is full of ideas to steal for your own tropical celebration.

Bright red bougainvillea flowers climb over a dark wooden pergola under a clear blue sky, with part of a decorative column visible at the bottom.

A white lace wedding dress with off-the-shoulder sleeves hangs on a black hanger against a tan wall beneath green leaves.

Tall palm trees stand against a clear blue sky, partially framed by the edge of a building in the foreground.

Flat lay of wedding items including invitations, high-heeled shoes, lace garter, flowers, a camera, perfume, and wedding stationery on a large green leaf.

Two arch-shaped cards, one pink and one beige, displaying wedding event details, placed on a surface with flowers and green leaves nearby for a destination tropical wedding

A decorative green tropical-themed wedding invitation with a wax seal, placed on a monstera leaf, next to a pair of white pointed-toe shoes.

Why Destination Tropical Weddings Work Anywhere

You don’t have to be in Hawaii or the Maldives to pull off tropical vibes! With the right design elements, lush greenery, bold florals, modern signage, and intentional color choices, you can bring that island energy wherever you are. This wedding is proof: Arizona desert meets island chic, and it worked!

The key? Start with what you love. Lendsey & Logan are obsessed with houseplants (same, honestly), so they leaned into that love by incorporating greenery into every part of their wedding. It made the entire day feel personal, intentional, and seriously stunning.

A bride in a white dress stands outdoors with three bridesmaids in dark green dresses, all holding bouquets and smiling at the camera for destination tropical weddings

A bride in a white, off-shoulder wedding dress holds a colorful bouquet and smiles while standing outdoors near stone columns and greenery for destination tropical wedding

Destination Tropical Wedding Tips for Your Own Day

Whether you’re planning a destination wedding or bringing the tropics to you, here are a few planning tips to create that elevated, modern feel:

Think foliage-forward: Tropical doesn’t have to mean bright pinks and flamingos. You can keep it minimal and fresh with greens and white, or go bold with bright blooms like bougainvillea, orchids, or protea.
Use your love story: Like Lendsey & Logan did with their plant theme, find ways to infuse who you are as a couple into the design. Love to surf? Add surfboard signage. Obsessed with cocktails? Create a tropical signature drink menu.
Choose a venue with natural charm: Whether it’s a resort like Royal Palms, a garden, or even your own backyard, choose a space with good bones and let your floral and design team do the rest.
Mix modern with natural: Sleek signage, textured linens, rattan or bamboo furniture, and unexpected color palettes (hello sage and terracotta!) can all elevate your look.

A green wedding display board with “Lendsey + Logan, February 26th, 2025” holds rows of small bottles, decorated with tropical flowers at the base.

A cluster of green ferns and tropical leaves with white and red flowers is arranged beside wicker chairs on a grassy surface for a destination tropical wedding

An outdoor wedding altar features a large floral arch with pink and orange flowers and greenery, set against a tan wall and large tree. Wicker chairs line the aisle.

A floral arrangement featuring orange roses, dahlias, and green tropical leaves, set outdoors with blurred trees in the background.

A bride and groom stand under a floral arch exchanging vows, with an officiant between them, outdoors for a destination tropical wedding

A bride and groom stand outdoors in front of pink flowers and palm trees; the groom kisses the bride’s hand as she holds a bouquet, both dressed in wedding attire for a destination tropical wedding

The Best Locations for a Destination Tropical Wedding

If you're dreaming of palm trees, salty air, and saying “I do” with the sound of waves in the background, you're in the right place. Whether you're thinking island paradise or something that just feels like one, here are some of my absolute favorite locations for a tropical-inspired wedding day:

Hawaii

You already know I’m obsessed. Each island has its own magic, but Oahu, Kauai, and Maui are top-tier for a reason. Oceanfront views, lush gardens, and sunsets that will make your jaw drop? YES PLEASE. Ko Olina is a fave for couples who want that elegant-meets-easygoing feel.

Turks & Caicos

Okay, this one is giving barefoot luxury all the way. Think clear turquoise water, pristine beaches, and that breezy island energy that feels straight out of a postcard.

The Maldives

If you're going full-on destination glam, THIS is it. Overwater bungalows, private dinners under the stars, and those deep blue waters are stunning!

Palm Springs, California

Not your traditional tropical, but hear me out: modern villas, endless sunshine, and all the palms. If you're vibing with something a little more retro and cool, this desert paradise might be your perfect match.

A seating chart with numbered sections is displayed against a tan wall, with a floral arrangement and a wooden bench placed in front on green grass.

A floral arrangement in a white vase featuring peach and pink flowers, greenery, and tropical leaves, placed on a dark wooden surface outdoors.

Outdoor dining table set for an event with white tablecloths, floral centerpieces, and greenery, arranged under a pergola in front of a decorated fireplace.

Elegant outdoor dining table set with white linens, glassware, and floral arrangements; a large green and peach flower arch decorates the fireplace in the background for a destination tropical wedding

Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is like the effortlessly cool friend of tropical destinations. Boho-chic venues, jungle hideaways, and beachfront ceremonies with coconut drinks in hand? Count me in!

Scottsdale, Arizona

Like Lendsey & Logan’s wedding at Royal Palms! Who says tropical vibes can’t exist in the desert? The palm-lined courtyards, terracotta tones, and lush plant styling brought their whole tropical-modern vision to life.

No matter where you choose, the key is to find a place that feels like you. Whether that’s a remote beach, a luxury resort, or a palm-filled courtyard, let’s bring your destination tropical wedding dreams to life in the most beautiful way. And if you’re still deciding? Let’s chat! I love helping couples pick the perfect backdrop for their love story.

Aerial view of an outdoor event space with round tables set for guests, arranged on a paved courtyard surrounded by greenery and pathways.

Large group of people seated at round tables outdoors for a formal event, with string lights overhead and palm trees in the background.

A bride and groom cut their wedding cake together at an outdoor evening reception.

Let's Plan your Destination Tropical Wedding!

With a little creativity, an amazing vendor team, and a vision that reflects you, you can have a celebration that feels like your dream destination. Whether you’re getting married in Hawaii, California, or the desert like Lendsey & Logan, it’s all about bringing the vibe with you. Looking for a destination wedding photographer who’s all about capturing the real moments and the stylish ones? I’m your girl. Let’s bring your tropical wedding dreams to life. See more of my work on Pinterest and contact me here!

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Design & Planning: Events by Paris

Venue: Royal Palms Weddings

Florals: Sway Floral Studio

DJ: Trego the DJ

Ceremony Strings: Sweetwater Strings

Rentals: Confetti Studio

Signage: Aster & Palm

Video: Sancho Films