My daughter just returned from the Bahia Esmeralda - she had the gazebo wedding on the beach by the Amber at 5:00 in the afternoon and you know what ladies -there were people still on the beach but it was fun -you are focused on all your guests anyway and you don't really notice the other people plus - it is the most exquisit setting with the ocean behind you -and the gazebo is a little higher than right down on the beach - don't count it out ladies - have a look before you make your decision - I thought it might be a little impersonal as well but it was actually wonderful. The photographer that the hotel supplies - super super pictures and really reasonable. He had some excellent shots - you will be really happy with him if you are using him.