Why Guanacaste is the Ultimate Wedding Destination
Fun fact: Costa Rica has more biodiversity than the U.S. and Europe combined. What does that mean for your wedding? Stunning landscapes, golden beaches, lush rainforests—and possibly a monkey crashing your cocktail hour. If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable, sun-soaked wedding where the only stress is choosing between a margarita or a piña colada, Guanacaste is the place for you.
This guide will help you plan your dream wedding in Guanacaste, covering the best venues, legal requirements, costs, and must-know tips. Let’s make your “I do” moment absolutely magical.
The Best Wedding Venues in Guanacaste
Whether you want a luxury beachfront resort, a jungle hideaway, or a private villa, Guanacaste has it all. Here are some of the top wedding venues to consider:
🏝️ Luxury Beach Resorts
🌿 Private Villas & Boutique Hotels
🍃 Eco-Luxury Lodges
If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, check out Airbnb villas or boutique hotels in Playa Flamingo or Tamarindo. These areas offer beautiful beaches with a laid-back vibe.
The Best Time to Get Married in Guanacaste
🌞 Dry Season (December – April): Sun-soaked beaches, golden sunsets, and zero rain. This is peak wedding season, so book early!
🌿 Green Season (May – November): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and romantic evening showers. Mornings are often sunny, making this a great choice for couples who want a tropical vibe with a lower price tag.
💡 Pro Tip: Plan your ceremony about an hour before sunset for that dreamy golden-hour glow in your wedding photos.
How Much Does a Wedding in Guanacaste Cost?
The cost of a wedding in Guanacaste depends on your style and guest count, but here’s a general breakdown:
- Luxury resort wedding: $15,000 – $50,000
- Boutique hotel wedding: $8,000 – $20,000
- Beach elopement: $3,000 – $7,000
- Private villa wedding: $10,000 – $30,000
💰 Ways to save money:
- Consider a weekday wedding (venues often offer discounts).
- Opt for a sunset ceremony with a cocktail reception instead of a full sit-down dinner.
- Skip the traditional cake and go for a local dessert like tres leches or churros with chocolate.
Legal Requirements for a Wedding in Costa Rica
Getting legally married in Costa Rica is surprisingly simple! Here’s what you’ll need:
✔️ Valid passports
✔️ Two witnesses (who aren’t family)
✔️ A sworn statement that you’re both single
✔️ A Costa Rican lawyer or officiant
If this sounds like too much hassle, many couples do the paperwork at home and have a symbolic ceremony in Costa Rica. No stress, all the romance!
Fun Things to Do in Guanacaste Before & After the Wedding
A destination wedding isn’t just about the big day—it’s about the experience! Here’s how you and your guests can make the most of your time in Guanacaste:
🌊 Surf in Tamarindo – Perfect for beginners and pros alike.
🐢 See sea turtles nesting in Ostional – A once-in-a-lifetime experience!
🏞️ Zip-line through the rainforest – Because who doesn’t want to fly over the jungle?
🛶 Take a sunset catamaran cruise – Champagne + sunset = perfection.
🛁 Relax in volcanic hot springs – The ultimate pre-wedding stress relief.
Choosing the Right Wedding Vendors
The right team can make your wedding stress-free and spectacular. Here are some of the best local vendors:
📷 Photography & Videography
🌸 Florists & Decor
🎶 Music & Entertainment
🍰 Catering & Cake
💡 Pro Tip: Hire a local wedding planner who knows the best vendors and can handle all the details while you sip margaritas on the beach.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Capture Your Dream Wedding!
Your wedding day will be one of the most magical days of your life—but it will fly by. That’s why choosing the right photographer is so important.
If you want photos that feel natural, romantic, and full of emotion, I’d love to be part of your story. Let’s create stunning, sun-kissed memories together.
📸 Check out my wedding portfolio: Your Happy Moments
💍 Explore my wedding photography packages: Investment
✉️ Let’s plan your dream wedding together! Contact me here
Guanacaste is waiting for you. Let’s make your wedding unforgettable. 🌺✨
