Shining Tides, located in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, is a beachfront property purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. King in 1887. At that time it was a spacious summer home dubbed “The Reservation”. Over the years the beautiful mansion became a distinguished summer home. Later called the Mattapoisett Manor and finally named Shining Tides.

shining tides

Today the property is used for a preschool, an afterschool program, as well as a family and exercise program location. In the summer the YMCA camp enjoys the 25 acres of land sprawling alongside the Mattapoisett Harbor.  After many requests to host private events on-site such as weddings, receptions, graduations and other events, the YMCA Southcoast’s Board of Directors opened Shining Tides in 2010 in anticipation that a portion of profits from events would provide scholarship funds for the YMCA camp.

Start off your event with a ceremony by the beach and conclude on the lengthened porch and dance through the sunsets and until the stars come out. You will find your photos to be picture-perfect over the glistening Mattapoisett Harbor with your bridal party and groom or bride-to-be. 

shining tides porch

The lavish porch can hold 200 guests and tents are also allowed on the premises for more room.  The property allows for fantastic views over the sprawling ocean. Come at sunset and experience stunning sights from the gazebo.

shining tides shore

Here, in New England, beach-side weddings or even just beach-themed weddings are very poplular. Luckily we got the opportunity to provide great food in some of the prettiest venues.  It is always amazing to see the creative ways folks decorate their events, as well.  We have collected some of our favorite beach-theme decorating ideas on one of our fun Pinterest boards.  There seems to be no end to the creativity!