Is it just us or has Costa Rica become the absolute go-to destination? There are beaches, there’s the rainforest, and it can be a trip that’s as much (or as little) of an adventure as you want. That’s why it’s a favorite for destination weddings, and an exciting place to bring family and friends.
Costa Rica is a small country packing a lot of punch, with lush rainforests, waterfalls, volcanoes, and black and white-sand beaches filling the land between its Caribbean and Pacific Coasts. Driving coast to coast takes only three hours by car, so it’s possible to surf or unwind on the black sand beaches of the Pacific and then snorkel through the calm Caribbean waters on one vacation. For couples getting married in Costa Rica, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and exploring the diverse and colorful ecosystems are also popular excursions. The range of Costa Rica wedding venues provides a world of possibilities!
We’ve enlisted Carolyn Drummond, a Certified Destination Wedding Specialist with DestinationWeddings.com, to round out some of the key Q&A’s about planning a Costa Rica destination wedding.
What are the marriage license requirements for a Costa Rica destination wedding?
For couples, getting married in Costa Rica is fairly easy. There is no residency requirement, but the bride and groom’s US Citizen passport must be valid for at least six months after your departure date.
What’s the best time of year for a wedding here?
The best time of the year to have a wedding in Costa Rica is December to May as it is the dry season; however, weddings can be held year-round.
What are some of your favorite venues for weddings?
My favorite all-inclusive properties in Costa Rica are Dreams Las Mareas (family friendly) and Secrets Papagayo.
What’s the average cost of a wedding here?
The actual wedding costs for a Costa Rica destination wedding will vary based on specific needs of the bride; however, a basic package for up to 20 guests starts at $3,199. This includes, judge or minister, onsite coordinator, wedding cake and sparkling wine, bridal bouquet, hairstyle and make up for one member of the wedding couple, up to two corsages and boutonnieres for the bridal party, private cocktail hour and private dinner reception, one center piece for sweetheart table, 36 full color photos and additional offers.
What’s the #1 piece of advice you would give a bride planning a destination wedding in Costa Rica?
If you are planning a destination wedding in Costa Rica with 10 or more guests, I recommend getting a group agreement in order to lock in your travel dates and rates for you and your guests and take advantage of group amenities that may apply.
If you want to find out more about planning a destination wedding (and the best resorts to do it at), we suggest starting with a Certified Destination Wedding Specialist at DestinationWeddings.com. They’re FREE and they’ll get you amazing discounts and perks.
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Wonderful wedding guide, very informative. Costa Rica is such gorgeous place, an exotic Latin American country that is still somewhat of a gem. Perfect place for beach weddings.