You could try to talk to a travel agent and have them narrow down your choices by your requirements: walking distance to things, price range, wedding options & cost, etc. Then you would have a smaller list to start really looking at.
I have not heard anyone on this site recommend avoiding resorts. There are pluses and minuses of every place. When I was second guessing my choice I started looking at other threads on here and reading what the other brides were complaining about I realized that there is no place perfect.
Weddings, local and destination, are only as stressful as you make them. I find it really hard not to get carried away, but then I remember if I do NOTHING else from here on out I am still going to get married on a beach and have a great group of friends and family with me. Not to mention the love of my life

Good luck choosing and let us know your next steps! I love helping to pick resorts and look at their websites!!!