FWIW, there is a marina in the back of Tween Waters and arrangements can be made for shelling cruises, fishing excursions, kayak expeditions, etc.

The wedding I attended at La Playa had 120 guests and I was told that the total was about $140k. If I had to do Naples, I'd do La Playa, if I was not worried about expenses for the family or guests. Gorgeous hotel.

Does it have to be Sanibel? What about Sarasota? If you want high end there is the Ritz Carlton. For a drop dead gorgeous wedding site what about the Ringling Mansion? The property is right on the bay and just so romantic. The rose garden is in top bloom this time of year and there is so much to recommend the area. The downtown has a nice vibe and there is theatre, and boat rides, botanical gardens and so much more to do than Sanibel. Long Boat Key, Siesta Key and the famous white sand beaches. St. Armands circle with its shops and restaurants. Sanibel is lovely, but Sarasota is beautiful and much more cosmopolitan. More like Naples, but maybe not so pricey.

I'll second hotzim's thoughts on Sarasota. Gorgeous beaches and lots of things to do. Check out the Longboat Key Club and the Ritz, but I can't imagine anyplace more beautiful and unique as the Ringling Estate for a wedding.

Good luck!

I've always thought the Ringling would be a fabulous wedding venue, but it's probably seriously pricey and would be on the formal side. Longboat Key Club might be more what OP has in mind, and hotzim's list of other Sarasota attractions gives you an idea of what else guests might enjoy doing while on this trip. Yes, they're coming for the wedding, but if they're going to spend the money, time, and vacation days on a trip like that, it's nice to offer them other things to do.

I'm also planning a wedding in the Naples/ish area from NYC! My parents live in FTM and checked out the Ritz and LaPlaya. Neither of them are on the water and I sort of have my heart set on that - although from what I hear both are nice.

Does anyone have recommendations for waterfront reception sites? Doesn't have to be a hotel - are there mansions that I could use in that area? Am open to Sanibel, Marco Island, Captiva, Naples, etc.

The situation is a little complex because we're looking to have Pakistani food - LaPlaya allows outside catering - anyone else?

What about reception sites not waterfront that allow outside catering?

Any recommendations are super appreicated. Thanks!

The LaPlaya resort is absolutely direct beach/oceanfront. Could not be more "on the water" unless it was a boat!! There are 2 Ritz Carltons in Naples; Ritz Golf and Ritz Beachfront...not sure of the exact name, but it is within walking distance of LaPlaya...gorgeous.