Ultimate Guide to Planning a Costa Rica Destination Wedding

Planning a big wedding can be stressful and a lot of work, but a Costa Rica destination wedding offers a dreamy alternative. Want to skip the stress of a huge guest list and enjoy an intimate celebration? It could be the perfect fit for you.

This guide will cover our ultimate destination wedding tips for tying the knot in Costa Rica. Everything you need to know, in one place.

As destination weddings become more popular, many couples ask: Is Costa Rica a good place for a destination wedding? Yes, it’s one of the best. It’s beautiful, simple, and stress-free. Soft sandy beaches, clear blue water, and warm tropical air surround you. Rainforest meets ocean, creating a stunning natural backdrop for your ceremony. 

Your guests will love it, too. They can enjoy ocean views, quiet gardens, and a peaceful, private setting. For the adventurous guests, there’s always an adventure waiting. Surfing, ziplining, or spotting wildlife makes for a fun, unforgettable wedding trip. Most importantly, the atmosphere stays relaxed, letting you focus on your day, not the details.

One of the best times for a Costa Rica destination wedding is from December through April. This is the dry season, bringing sunshine, calm ocean breezes, and clear skies for beach ceremonies. 

The green season, which runs from May through November, offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds. Short tropical showers might occur but often make the scenery even more vibrant.

Both seasons have their charm: sunny and bright or lush and peaceful. Ylang Ylang Beach Resort hosts weddings from April 15 to December 15.

Planning a Costa Rica destination wedding is easier than you think. You can keep things simple, stress-free, and fun with a little organization. Here are eight steps to make your destination wedding come together effortlessly.

Do you picture an intimate beach ceremony or a lush rainforest backdrop? A small elopement or a larger celebration with family and friends? Decide on your wedding style first, then let it guide your every other choice.

Look for a wedding venue that matches your style and offers convenience for guests. Some couples love a private beachfront setting, while others prefer a garden surrounded by nature. Ylang Ylang Beach Resort combines ocean views and tropical gardens.

A local wedding planner knows the best vendors and handles details you can’t manage being long-distance. Many venues, including Ylang Ylang, offer wedding packages that simplify planning and make your day stress-free.

Destination weddings require extra notice. Send save-the-dates well ahead of time so guests can book flights and accommodations. Include travel tips, packing suggestions, and details about the area.

Yes, U.S. citizens can legally marry in Costa Rica.. A lawyer or judge typically officiates a civil ceremony. You’ll need valid passports, birth certificates, and proof of single status. If previously married, bring divorce or death certificates. Two witnesses are also required. 

After the ceremony, the lawyer files the paperwork, and your marriage certificate is mailed to you. Some couples choose a symbolic ceremony instead and complete the legal process back in the U.S.

You’re getting married in Costa Rica — why not turn your wedding into a mini-vacation for everyone? Plan optional adventures like ziplining, snorkeling, waterfall hikes, or wildlife tours. Don’t forget to leave time for guests to relax on the beach or explore on their own.

Many couples stay longer and turn their wedding into a honeymoon. Our Honeymoon Package combines romantic beachfront rooms, spa treatments, candlelit dinners, and unforgettable romance. You can turn your destination wedding into a dreamy honeymoon without having to leave the resort.

Finally, remember to pack essentials like lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and your wedding attire as carry-on. Arrive a few days early to relax, finalize details, and settle in before the big day. With these steps, Costa Rica wedding planning stays organized, simple, and stress-free.

Ylang Ylang Beach Resort offers everything you need for an unforgettable Costa Rica destination wedding. The resort sits on a quiet, private beach surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Exchange vows with the ocean as your backdrop, then celebrate under the stars.

Our wedding packages make planning easy. Choose between our Group Weddings (accommodates up to 80 guests) or one of our Elopement Packages. Our team helps with every detail, including the ceremony setup, flowers, photography, music, dinner, and more. 

Ready to start planning? Book your room and wedding package today!

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