The Best Costa Rica All-Inclusive Resorts for Weddings
This Article is all about All-Inclusive Venues for weddings in Costa Rica. To learn about venues that are not all inclusive, please check out my resource page: Best Wedding Venues in Costa Rica.
The Best Costa Rica All-Inclusive Wedding Venues
If you’re dreaming of a Costa Rica wedding surrounded by lush rainforests, breathtaking beaches, and the relaxing Pura Vida lifestyle, you’re in the right place. Costa Rica has to offer some of the most spectacular all-inclusive wedding resorts, making planning a wedding effortless and stress-free.
Whether you want a beach wedding at Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica or a luxurious ceremony at Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica, the possibilities are endless.
What You’ll Discover in This Guide:
- Why all-inclusive wedding packages simplify your wedding journey
- The top Costa Rica wedding venues for your dream destination wedding
- What to know about wedding costs and legal requirements
- Tips for capturing the best wedding photos in paradise
Ready to bring your dream wedding to life? Let’s dive in!
Why Choose a Costa Rica All-Inclusive Wedding Venue?
Planning a wedding should be an exciting and joyful experience, not a stressful one. That’s why getting married in Costa Rica at an all-inclusive resort is the perfect choice. From the moment you arrive, everything is taken care of—accommodations, meals, drinks, and, most importantly, your wedding day details.
Imagine taking all the stress out of planning your wedding by simply buying one wedding package. The vendors may come all rolled up in that package, or your planner will give you a few options to choose from and that’s it. There’s no endless list of decisions you have to make and all you have to do is pick out your dress.
All-inclusive wedding packages make it easy to enjoy every moment without worrying about logistics. Most resorts provide an on-site wedding team, including a wedding specialist who handles everything from your wedding ceremony setup to reception details like your wedding cake and wedding dinner.
✔ Stress-free planning with a destination wedding package
✔ Built-in luxury, from spa treatments to gourmet dining
✔ Resorts often offer wedding date availability tools to help you choose the perfect day
✔ Exclusive perks like couples’ massages, private beachside dinners, and post-wedding excursions
How Costa Rica Wedding Packages Simplify Planning
With a Costa Rica wedding package, planning a destination wedding becomes seamless. Many wedding packages in Costa Rica include:
- A dedicated wedding specialist to assist with the wedding planning process
- Ceremony and reception setup at a stunning wedding venue
- Floral arrangements, music, and personalized decor
- Professional photography to capture your unforgettable destination wedding
- A wedding cake, cocktails, and a curated wedding dinner
- Assistance with paperwork if you want to get legally married in Costa Rica
Plus, most all-inclusive wedding resorts provide wedding website tools to help couples manage guest lists, travel arrangements, and flights to Costa Rica.
Stunning Costa Rican Landscapes: From Tropical Beaches to Lush Rainforests
One of the best reasons to choose a Costa Rica destination wedding is the breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re a beach lover or a nature enthusiast, Costa Rica has two incredible wedding backdrops:
- Beach Weddings: Imagine saying “I do” with the Pacific Ocean or the Caribbean Sea as your backdrop. Popular beachfront resorts like Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica, and Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica offer picture-perfect oceanfront ceremonies.
Additional Reading: Explore the 5 Best Beaches Near Tamarindo for Couple or Family Photos: A Photographer’s Guide.
- Rainforest Retreats: For couples who love the jungle, a local wedding at a private wedding villa surrounded by nature offers an intimate, magical setting. Luxurious villas provide unparalleled views of lush forests and the coastline.
Whether you prefer soft sand beneath your feet or a scenic mountain vista, planning your destination wedding in Costa Rica means choosing from some of the world’s most breathtaking wedding locations.
The Average Cost of a Destination Wedding in Costa Rica vs. Other Destinations
Weddings can be expensive, but a Costa Rica all-inclusive wedding can be surprisingly affordable compared to other tropical wedding destinations. You’ll know exactly how much your wedding is going to cost you — as long as you’re clear about what your all inclusive package includes. Be sure that everything you want is included in the original package so there are no surprises when you arrive.
The average cost of a destination wedding in Costa Rica ranges from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the number of wedding guests, venue, and package inclusions. In comparison:
- Mexico & the Caribbean: $10,000 – $35,000
- Hawaii: $20,000 – $50,000
- Italy & France: $25,000 – $60,000
Costa Rica provides amazing wedding value with its mix of affordability, high-end services, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you choose a wedding resort, a private wedding villa, or an intimate local wedding, you’ll get an unforgettable destination wedding without breaking the bank.
Bonus: Costa Rica allows couples to have both a symbolic or legal wedding ceremony, making it easier to plan your dream event. If you wish to get legally married in Costa Rica, you’ll need:
- A valid passport
- Two witnesses (who aren’t family members)
- A lawyer or notary to officiate
- A signed sworn statement of your marital status
Once completed, your marriage will be legally recognized in most countries.
Additional Reading: Learn more about the legal requirements for getting married in Costa Rica.
On top of all this, you’ll get to spend (usually) a week in paradise with your sweetie and your closest friends and family. You don’t have to worry about keeping your guests entertained either because the resort has that taken care of. It’s the ultimate way to relax, get married, and have the time of your life.
Where to Get Married in Costa Rica if You’re Looking for an All-Inclusive Wedding Location
There are various options for Costa Rica all-inclusive weddings. This is nice because it gives couples the chance to personalize their experience. After all, you want to enjoy an easy, stress-free wedding, but that doesn’t mean you want a cookie-cutter one.Here are some of my favorite venues for all-inclusive weddings in Costa Rica. Hold on to your hat because this is going to be a fun ride!
Planet Hollywood in Papagayo, Costa Rica
Many couples are looking for luxury accommodations, all-inclusive convenience, and access to both jungle and beach settings for their wedding photography. Planet Hollywood Costa Rica delivers on all fronts, offering:
- Spectacular Location: Situated on the gorgeous Papagayo Gulf in Guanacaste, this resort provides breathtaking backdrops where the vibrant jungle meets pristine beaches.
- All-Inclusive Luxury: The resort’s comprehensive wedding packages take the stress out of planning a destination celebration, allowing couples to focus on creating memories.
- Celebrity-Worthy Accommodations: With stylish rooms and exceptional service, guests experience star treatment throughout their stay.
Dreams Las Mareas Guanacaste
Dreams Las Mareas Guanacaste is a stunning all-inclusive resort property located on the gorgeous El Jobo beach in the northern part of Costa Rica’s Guanacaste province. It is just an hour and a half away from the international airport in Liberia, making it super easy to access this gorgeous location.
Once you see the largest pool in Guanacaste lazily snaking through the grounds and the view of the Pacific Ocean beyond, you’ll know you’ve arrived in paradise. Surrounded by lush, tropical rainforest, the hotel sits on a gorgeous white sand beach.
A short stroll brings you right to the beach where you can swim in the calm waters or simply sit on the shore and enjoy the sound of the surf. The hotel promises the height of luxury but works hard to minimize its environmental impact. For its efforts, the hotel has received the Rainforest Alliance Certified mark. The hotel also partners with the Tora-Carey organization, which protects and bolsters the local sea turtle population.
Riu Guanacaste
Located right on the beautiful Matapalo Beach, Riu Guanacaste is a fantastic 24-hour all-inclusive resort. With onsite dining at 4 different restaurants, sports, activities, spa, and more, it’s literally impossible to get bored here.
The hotel offers a customizable 5-star wedding experience with either a beach or garden ceremony spot. You can choose from 4 tiers of extravagance and personalize your experience within each tier to enjoy a wedding that is unique to you.
Riu Palace
For a more private, high-class experience, couples can tie the knot at the adjoining Riu Palace. Set aside a bit from the rest of Riu Guanacaste, Riu Palace Costa Rica is an all-inclusive experience offering more seclusion, yet with all of the same great amenities, more luxurious accommodations, and more.
The wedding package options and customizations are similar with the addition of a 4th story terrace ceremony location.
Check out this fun wedding for an example, or check out my complete guide below:
The Westin Reserva Conchal
What truly makes W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal stand out for weddings is its boutique hotel ambiance despite being a luxury resort. This creates an intimate and exclusive atmosphere, perfect for creating cherished memories with your loved ones. The resort also offers a range of complimentary on-site activities and services, ensuring that your destination wedding celebration is not just beautiful but also filled with meaningful experiences.
With certified wedding planners, innovative chefs, and a commitment to personalized service, Marriott W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal promises to tailor every moment of your destination wedding to reflect your unique style and preferences. From luxurious accommodations with panoramic views to a serene ambiance that embraces the vibrant culture of Costa Rica’s Guanacaste region, this luxury resort sets the stage for a love story that’s as unique as you are.
Four Seasons
Nestled on the Papagayo Peninsula, the Four Seasons in Guanacaste offers beaches on both sides of the resort. In addition to the usual onsite dining, spa, and activities you can also go golfing on the resort’s course or grab some bicycles and head out to get some exercise and explore!
The outdoor wedding locations at the Four Seasons offer gorgeous views of both beaches, overlooking Culebra Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Imagine that sunset! Indoor wedding spots are warmly decorated with elements inspired by nature and the local culture.
With three package tiers to choose from, couples can pick the perfect option for their special day. Of course, the onsite wedding coordinator will handle all the preparations for a stress-free day!
JW Marriott Hotel Guanacaste
Located right on the beach in Hacienda Pinilla in Guanacaste, the JW Marriott offers the posh experience that you may be looking for. The hotel boasts a plethora of onsite amenities — spa, fitness center, onsite dining, etc. — and plenty of nearby nature activities like trips to the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, scuba diving, ziplining, fishing, and more!
Weddings are fully customized at this hotel. You get a Marriott Certified Wedding Planner who will handle all the details of your day. Set a budget and tell your planner what is important to you and they will get to work organizing the wedding of your dreams. You can choose from both indoor and outdoor locations to pick the perfect spot to say “I do”
Barcelo Occidental Tamarindo
Occidental Tamarindo in Guanacaste, located on Costa Rica’s stunning Pacific coast, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, top-tier amenities, and a variety of spaces to host both intimate and grand weddings. This all-inclusive, 5-star resort boasts lush gardens, pristine beaches, and spectacular sunsets, setting the stage for romantic beachside ceremonies. Langosta Beach, with its soft sands and vibrant sunset backdrops, creates an enchanting atmosphere that enhances every photograph.
Secrets Papagayo
Kids are a joy, but you might prefer a more intimate adults-only experience for your wedding. You can get that at Secrets in Papagayo, Guanacaste. The resort offers amenities that are centered around igniting romance (although it’s your wedding so you’re probably already on fire!) Regardless, you (and your guests) will enjoy taking advantage of couples’ packages at the spa or just lounging around the pool. There’s even waiter service both by the pool and on the beach!
Secrets offers three wedding packages with full-service wedding planning. Enjoy a gazebo or beach ceremony location and choose from the amphitheatre, beach, or terrace for the reception. Whatever you choose, you will be surrounded by beauty and elegance at this excellent 5-star resort.
While this venue is not a strictly all-inclusive option, you can buy all-inclusive packages at the Marriott hotel located on the grounds. With all the advantages of a Marriott Certified wedding planner, you can plan the custom wedding of your dreams from afar with very little fuss.
There are 18 event rooms to choose from, including the Marina Garden with a stunning view of the boats.
Kids are a joy, but you might prefer a more intimate adults-only experience for your wedding. You can get that at Secrets in Papagayo, Guanacaste. The resort offers amenities centered around igniting romance (although it’s your wedding so you’re probably already on fire!) Regardless, you (and your guests) will enjoy taking advantage of couples’ packages at the spa or just lounging around the pool. There’s even waiter service both by the pool and on the beach!
Secrets Papagayo offers three wedding packages with full-service wedding planning. Enjoy a gazebo or beach ceremony location and choose from the amphitheater, beach, or terrace for the reception. Whatever you choose, you will be surrounded by beauty and elegance at this excellent 5-star resort.
While this venue is not a strictly all-inclusive option, you can buy all-inclusive packages at the Marriott hotel located on the grounds. With all the advantages of a Marriott-certified wedding planner, you can plan the custom wedding of your dreams from afar with very little fuss.
There are 18 event rooms to choose from, including the Marina Garden with a stunning view of the boats.
Did you hang in there with me? We covered a lot of fantastic resorts, but that’s because Costa Rica has a ton to offer! Whichever option you choose for your destination wedding, you won’t be disappointed. Don’t forget to document your experience! Not everyone gets to enjoy a luxury all-inclusive wedding in Costa Rica and you won’t want to forget a single second of your day. When you contact the wedding planner at your chosen resort, don’t forget to mention that you’ve already got the perfect photographer picked out.
From First Look to First Dance – Let’s Capture Your Costa Rica Destination Wedding!
Costa Rica isn’t just another destination wedding experience—it’s a place where love stories come to life in the most breathtaking settings. Whether you’re planning an all-inclusive destination wedding, an intimate wedding at a villa, or an adventure elopement, capturing the essence of your wedding day is my passion.
With over a decade of experience photographing ceremonies in Costa Rica, I’ve worked at the most incredible locations, from luxury Costa Rica all-inclusive resorts to hidden rainforest gems. I know how to capture the beauty of Costa Rica in every shot, making sure your photos reflect the emotions, atmosphere, and unforgettable details of your special day.
My Relaxed, Professional Approach to Wedding Photography
Your wedding day should feel natural, effortless, and fun. My approach to wedding photography is all about creating a relaxed experience, allowing you to enjoy every moment while I document the magic.
✔ Natural, Candid Style: Capturing the authentic moments that make your love story unique.
✔ Expertise in Costa Rica’s Light & Landscapes: Whether it’s golden hour on the beach or a lush rainforest backdrop, I know how to make nature enhance your wedding photos.
✔ No-Stress Experience: I work seamlessly with your wedding tools, planners, and vendors to make sure everything flows effortlessly.
✔ Perfect for Every Wedding Size: Whether you’re having a small elopement or a large celebration, I tailor my photography to fit your vision.
Let’s Make Your Dream Costa Rica Wedding Unforgettable!
Costa Rica is a dream destination for weddings, and your wedding photos should reflect the breathtaking beauty of this paradise. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a white-sand beach, under a jungle canopy, or at a luxurious wedding at a villa, I’ll capture every moment so you can relive your great wedding for years to come.
Want to see other venues in Costa Rica? Take a look at my guide about some of my favorite wedding venues in Best Wedding Venues in Costa Rica.
Ready to capture your perfect destination wedding? You can check out my wedding photography packages below! Get in touch today!
