Filters
Costa Rica
Wedding Locations
for
Costa Rica Wedding Resorts
-
Destify’s favorite
Hotel Riu Guanacaste
Read more: Hotel Riu GuanacasteYour RIU Guanacaste wedding ceremony could be along beautiful Matapalo Beach, with stunning Costa Rican mountains in the background.
Venues: 3
Package Costs:
$1,599 – $9,599
-
Destify’s favorite
Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica
Read more: Hotel Riu Palace Costa RicaFeaturing the characteristic wonders of tropical beaches, set against the distinctive landscapes of mountains, arid savanna plains, and even inactive volcanos, RIU Palace Costa Rica is a one-of-a-kind backdrop to have the destination wedding journey of your dreams.
Venues: 3
Package Costs:
$1,599 – $9,599
-
Destify’s favorite
Occidental Papagayo
Read more: Occidental PapagayoCall the babysitter, because Occidental Papagayo is an adults-only paradise perfect for young newlyweds and their wedding groups, or those that want a little peace and quiet during their destination wedding!
Venues: 2
Package Costs:
$1,999 – $3,999
More About Costa Rica Weddings
How Much Does a Costa Rica Wedding Cost?
Costa Rica destination weddings for 30–60 guests typically range from $7,000 to $12,000 USD, depending on the region, resort type, and package level. Elopements generally range from $1,500 to $3,000 USD, while luxury eco-resorts, private villas, or boutique venues can exceed $15,000+ USD. Costs vary by location, season, and experience-based upgrades.
Average Cost Breakdown by Guest Count
| Guest Count | Average Total | Package Type | Typical Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elopement (2–10) | $1,500–$3,000 | Symbolic Ceremony | Officiant, bouquet, dinner |
| 30 Guests | $7,000–$10,000 | Standard Package | Ceremony, light décor, dinner |
| 50 Guests | $9,000–$12,000 | Mid-Range | Reception, upgraded florals, music |
| 100+ Guests | $14,000–$18,000+ | Luxury | Private venues, premium bar, entertainment |
What Affects Costa Rica Wedding Prices
Several factors influence pricing more significantly in Costa Rica than in traditional all-inclusive destinations:
-
Location within Costa Rica: Papagayo, Tamarindo, and Guanacaste are typically pricier; the Caribbean side may offer lower costs.
-
Resort category: Eco-luxury and boutique resorts cost more than standard beach resorts.
-
Guest count: Larger groups increase food, beverage, and private event costs.
-
Seasonality: Dry season (December–April) brings higher pricing; green season offers more value.
-
Add-ons: Photography, videography, hanging florals, waterfall excursions, and adventure activities can add significant cost.
Unique Cost Advantages of Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers excellent value for couples who prioritize nature and experience over heavy décor:
-
Wide range of wedding package tiers
-
Economical symbolic ceremonies
-
Naturally stunning settings reduce décor needs
-
Many venues offer scenic backdrops without costly upgrades
-
Great value for adventure-focused weddings rather than traditional luxury events
Costa Rica Wedding Packages (2026 Update)
Costa Rica wedding packages range from simple symbolic elopements to full-scale celebrations for 30–80 guests. Packages typically include ceremony setup, an officiant, florals, décor, and a dinner option. Unlike traditional all-inclusive destinations, pricing varies more by resort style, venue type, and experience level rather than fixed package tiers.
What Costa Rica Wedding Packages Typically Include
Standard Inclusions
-
Ceremony location (beach, garden, or terrace)
-
Wedding coordinator
-
Symbolic ceremony officiant
-
Bouquet and boutonniere
-
Basic décor and seating
-
Small wedding cake
-
Dinner reservation or reception option
-
Sound system for the ceremony
Optional Enhancements
-
Hair and makeup services
-
Floral arches or installations
-
Private cocktail hour
-
DJ or live musician
-
Photography and videography
-
Spa services
-
Room upgrades
Wedding Package Levels & Pricing Expectations
| Package Level | Price Range | Best For | Typical Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elopement Packages | $1,500–$3,000 | Couples or micro weddings | Ceremony, bouquet, cake |
| Standard Packages | $2,500–$5,000 | 10–30 guests | Basic décor, officiant, dinner |
| Premium Packages | $5,000–$9,000 | 30–60 guests | Reception, upgraded florals, music |
Customization & Upgrade Options
Costa Rica weddings are highly customizable and often centered around nature-inspired experiences:
-
Decorative installations and statement arches
-
Jungle or rainforest ceremony setups
-
Private dinners in garden or beachfront locations
-
Live musicians (guitarists, violinists, local performers)
-
Additional cocktail hours
-
Adventure add-ons like sunset sails or waterfall photoshoots
Costa Rica Wedding Venues
Costa Rica offers a diverse mix of wedding venues, ranging from intimate coves to expansive resort spaces for 50–100+ guests. Venues are known for blending natural landscapes with eco-friendly resort design, creating unforgettable backdrops without excessive décor.
Types of Wedding Venues in Costa Rica
-
Beach venues: Golden-sand beaches with tree-lined edges
-
Garden venues: Lush tropical gardens with natural shade
-
Rainforest or jungle venues: Immersive, nature-forward settings
-
Ocean-view terraces: Elevated vantage points overlooking the Pacific
-
Private villas & boutique estates: Ideal for luxury micro weddings
-
Waterfall or nature-adjacent venues: Scenic backdrops for small groups
Overview of Costa Rica Destination Weddings
Costa Rica is known for eco-focused wedding experiences featuring rainforests, beaches, volcano views, and adventure-driven activities. Destination weddings here combine flexible package options with nature-forward venues, primarily located in Guanacaste and Papagayo, which offer strong infrastructure for group travel.
What Makes Costa Rica a Unique Wedding Destination
-
Dense rainforests and protected natural areas
-
Extraordinary biodiversity
-
Eco-friendly and sustainable wedding venues
-
Nature-based experiences like hot springs and waterfalls
-
A rare balance of beaches and inland landscapes
Landscapes & Scenic Backdrops
-
Darker-sand beaches with deep blue Pacific waters
-
Rainforest canopies and jungle surroundings
-
Volcano backdrops in Arenal and La Fortuna
-
National parks and wildlife reserves
-
Hot springs and nature-adjacent photo settings
Where Costa Rica Wedding Resorts Are Located
Guanacaste
-
Home to most Costa Rica wedding resorts
-
Strong for beach weddings and group travel
-
Accessible via Liberia International Airport (LIR)
Papagayo Peninsula
-
Luxury and upscale resorts
-
Cliffside terraces and elevated ocean views
Other Notable Areas
-
Tamarindo: Trendy beach-town weddings
-
La Fortuna & Arenal: Rainforest or volcano-view ceremonies
Who Costa Rica Is Best For
-
Adventure seekers
-
Eco-conscious couples
-
Guests who enjoy hiking, wildlife, and national parks
-
Travelers preferring boutique resorts
-
Couples wanting a wedding rooted in nature and experience
Best Time to Get Married in Costa Rica
-
Dry season: Mid-December to April (best weather, higher pricing)
-
Green season: May to November (lower pricing, lush scenery)
Pros of green season: fewer crowds, better value, vibrant landscapes
Cons: occasional rain — outdoor venues benefit from flexible timelines
Weather varies by region, with the Pacific coast generally drier than the Caribbean side.
Legal vs Symbolic Weddings in Costa Rica
Symbolic weddings are the most common option due to ease and flexibility.
| Ceremony Type | Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Symbolic | None | Most popular and easiest |
| Legal | Documents, fees, witnesses, translations | More complex, varies by location |
Many couples complete legal paperwork at home and enjoy a symbolic ceremony in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica Wedding Packages by Guest Count
| Guest Count | Cost Range | Package Type | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2–10 | $1,500–$3,000 | Elopement | Ceremony, bouquet, dinner |
| 30 Guests | $7,000–$10,000 | Standard | Ceremony, décor, dinner |
| 50 Guests | $9,000–$12,000 | Premium | Reception, florals, music |
| 100+ Guests | $14,000–$18,000+ | Luxury | Private venues, entertainment |
Elopements & Small Weddings in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is ideal for elopements thanks to its privacy, natural beauty, and boutique venues.
Expected cost: $1,500–$3,000.
Popular settings include rainforest overlooks, secluded beaches, private villas, and waterfall-adjacent venues. Optional add-ons include waterfall photoshoots or hot-spring dinners.
Luxury & Unique Wedding Venues in Costa Rica
-
Rainforest canopy venues
-
Ocean-view terraces
-
Boutique eco-lodges
-
Volcano-view ceremony spaces
-
Waterfall-adjacent venues
-
Private villas for intimate weddings
Travel Info for Costa Rica Destination Weddings
Airports
-
Liberia (LIR): Guanacaste & Papagayo
-
San José (SJO): Central & Caribbean regions
Typical Travel Times
| Airport | Region | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| LIR | Guanacaste | 30–90 min |
| LIR | Papagayo | 45–75 min |
| SJO | La Fortuna | 2.5–3 hrs |
Travel Notes
-
Passport required
-
Flights can be costly due to limited routes
-
Book early for group travel
-
Destify assists with logistics and guest coordination
Plan Your Costa Rica Wedding with Destify
From rainforest ceremonies to ocean-view terraces and eco-luxury resorts, Costa Rica offers an unforgettable destination wedding experience rooted in nature and adventure.
💬 Get your free Costa Rica wedding quote today and let Destify help you plan a celebration that’s effortless, meaningful, and truly one of a kind.
Destination Wedding Quote
Costa Rica
Our Favorite Places To Say “I Do” In Costa Rica
Destify’s Favorite Costa Rica Wedding Resorts
-
Destify’s favorite
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica
Read more: Planet Hollywood Costa RicaA destination wedding at the iconic Planet Hollywood Costa Rica is a production with two co-stars – you and your newlywed.
Venues: 10
Package Costs:
$1,099 – $10,000
-
Destify’s favorite
Hotel Riu Guanacaste
Read more: Hotel Riu GuanacasteYour RIU Guanacaste wedding ceremony could be along beautiful Matapalo Beach, with stunning Costa Rican mountains in the background.
Venues: 3
Package Costs:
$1,599 – $9,599
The Destify Difference
We turn all-inclusive into all-considered, curating resort experiences that feel as personal as your love story. Our experts take care of the details, so you can savor every moment surrounded by friends and family in paradise.
Discover Destinations
We make planning part of the celebration. Browse our partner resorts and build your dream destination wedding package.
Book with confidence
Transparency is our love language. Our wedding travel experts walk you through what’s included and take care of the rest.
Invite your inner circle
Every Destify couple gets a shareable wedding hub for guests to get answers, book rooms, and stay in the loop — so you can stay present for what matters most.
Testimonials
Client Reviews
We’ve helped thousands of couples!
from WeddingWire Reviews
“Destify was incredibly helpful for me and my fiancé. In just one week, she helped us make more progress than we had managed in months on our own. We simply told her our preferred location, wedding size, and price range, and she provided us with various options to choose from. This made the process so much easier, saving us from having to research everything ourselves and become overwhelmed!”
– Shade B. 5/24
from Google Reviews
“Our wedding planner was exceptional. Our experience was great. The wedding dinner was so good and the resort was beautiful. We had about 70 guests stay at the same resort and everybody enjoyed their stay! Thank you”
– Mona A. 6/24
from WeddingWire Reviews
“On our initial call, I explained my dream destination wedding and she was quick to find a few to send over briefly after our phone call. She knew just what I wanted; I fell in love with one of the locations sent over (her one and only email she had to send over!). She was always available and super helpful/ informative. Total amount of time it took from the moment I was on destify to the moment I reserved my dream destination wedding within a week!”
– Destinee A. 1/24
from The Knot Reviews
“I did not even know where to start when planning a destination wedding. I am very limited on planning time due to being in grad school and I am so glad I found Destify. I worked with Gabby who was absolutely amazing! She constructs a list of resorts that meet what you are looking for after a short phone call with her. She offered to send a whole new list of resorts if we did not like any in the first set. She was always available for a phone call and responded to emails so fast. She did all of the initial communication with the resort and sends you all the information about resorts to help you narrow down your top resort! Once in contact with the resort, they pretty much do all the heavy lifting for you. If you are questioning going through Destify… DO IT!”
– Olivia F. 7/24
from Google Reviews
“Destify has made booking my destination wedding, extremely quick and easy. From the get-go, Gabby was able to find me exactly what I was looking for when all I knew was that I wanted a “Jungle Wedding”. Then Jean has been a huge help when my guests decided they wanted to add rooms/change their RSVP. He was quick, and ever-so polite. Lastly, Kelly has given me constant, amazing help every time something seemed to go wrong. I’m so thankful to have had this team assist me, and highly recommend them and this company to anyone who is even toying with the idea of a destination wedding.”
– Shannon A. 6/24
from WeddingWire Reviews
“Alison… WOW! She has been such a huge help with booking our dream destination wedding. Has helped me look and research several hotels until we found the perfect one. I can’t recommend them enough. My wedding website is up and ready for my guest to book their travels !! 10/10”
– Nicole C. 2/23
from The Knot Reviews
“Our experience with Destify has been extremely positive. Michelle has been so helpful with helping us select a location, date, and resort that worked for us. She really took time to understand what it is we wanted for our wedding and made sure that the resort matched exactly what we were looking for. Her communication over email has been fantastic and she has been very patient with us after we have changed our minds last-minute on the resort. I was very surprised to hear their services were free given the amount that they assisted with, and has helped us save money on hiring an actual wedding planner to book everything. Would definitely recommend Destify to anyone who is planning a destination wedding.”
– Kimberly M. 6/24
from Google Reviews
“Destify really made our 20 year wedding vow renewal planning smooth, easy to communicate with & it turned out amazing! I would recommend Destify to all who’s planning for a destination wedding. Thank you Destify!!! ❤️”
– Cheryl M. 6/24
from The Knot Reviews
“Alison with Destify has been an absolute dream to work with! I had reached out to four other companies about wedding packages before finding Destify and Alison answered all of my questions within a 15 minute phone conversation that I couldn’t get answered from other companies within weeks of phone calls and emails. Not only did she email me updates but she would text me as well so I could be as informed of the process as possible. Any questions I have had since booking with Destify she has been right there to answer them and even fielded the questions the resort had when I was out of town for a funeral. I would recommend Destify to anyone especially if you are planning a destination wedding!”
– Shelby A. 6/24
