Costa Rica is a dream destination for adventurous couples seeking a romantic backdrop for their engagement photos. With its breathtaking landscapes, like dreamy beaches, lush rainforests, and dramatic waterfalls, this tropical paradise offers endless possibilities for creating stunning, timeless portraits. Choosing an engagement photo location that reflects your relationship and love story is key to creating unforgettable photos. Costa Rica’s diversity and endless options of ideal spots ensures you’ll find the perfect location. Let’s dive in!
Featuring Kaylie and Dion’s stunning session at Villa Amaite!
Costa Rica Beaches that Capture the Romance of Costa Rica | Engagement Photo Location Ideas
Playa Montezuma
Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Montezuma offers a mix of bohemian charm and natural beauty. Its golden sands, swaying palm trees, and dramatic rocky coastline make it a perfect spot for couples who want a relaxed yet unique setting. the area’s serene vibe and stunning sunsets set the stage for and intimate and romantic engagement session.
Manuel Antonio Beach
Manuel Antonio Beach is a picture-perfect location for couples seeking both adventure and romance. It is surrounded by a lush jungle backdrop and has the prettiest turquoise water, making it look a dreamy scene. The national park that it is located in will give you the opportunity to see unique flora and fauna, and can also add a bit of diversity to your photos as a you meander through to the beach.
Uvita Beach
Uvita Beach is known for its iconic whale tail sandbar and tranquil vibe. The unique setting offers a balance of serene ocean views and lush greenery, making it an ideal location for dreamy, coastal engagement photos. Make plans to shop or stop for a bite to eat in one of the local spots before or after your session to have a full experience!
Costa Rica Waterfalls for a Dramatic, Dreamy Backdrop | Engagement Photo Location Ideas
La Fortuna Waterfall
One of Costa Rica’s most iconic waterfalls, La Fortuna is surrounded by lush rainforest and cascades into a serenely blue pool below. The vibrant greenery and dramatic 70-meter drop make this spot perfect for couples who want breathtaking, nature inspired portraits.
Nauyaca Waterfalls
Hidden in the heart of the Rainforest near Dominical, the Nauyaca Waterfalls offer a stunning two-tier cascade. Adventurous couples willing to take a short hike to the falls will be rewarded with a romantic and private setting.
Llanos de Cortez Waterfall
Easily accessible near Liberia, Llanos de Cortez is a beautiful waterfall. It’s idyllic cascade into a pool is perfect for dreamy engagement photos, and its easy hikes to the top of the waterfall and to a natural cave pool make it ideal for couples seeking both romance and adventure.
Costa Rica Mountain and Volcano Views for Adventurous Couples | Engagement Photo Location Ideas
Arenal Volcano
Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most recognizable landmarks. The dramatic cone shape rising above the lush greenery is unmistakable! Couples can capture breathtaking photos with the volcano in the background and document their venture to views along the trails. You can even consider a more unique option and rent a boat to take out on the Lago Arenal (Lake Arenal) which is located just a short drive away from the volcano.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Monteverde offers a magical, misty setting with its enchanting cloud forest. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience, providing an ethereal atmosphere, towering trees, and suspension bridges which make for an adventurous, yet intimate backdrop for engagement photos.
Irazú Volcano
Irazú Volcano offers panoramic views of Costa Rica’s incredible landscapes. This volcano is an ideal location for couples who want an adventurous and truly unique location that includes volcanic craters and spanning vistas.
Romantic Gardens and Estates in Costa Rica | Engagement Photo Location Ideas
Else Kientzler Botanical Garden
Making time to have your engagement photos taken at this beautiful garden in Grecia will be well worth it. The Else Kientzler Botanical Gardens is a haven for flower lovers, with colorful blooms, manicured pathways, and peaceful fountains. It’s a charming location for couples who want a romantic and elegant garden-inspired setting.
Hacienda La Chimba
Hacienda La Chimba is a coffee plantation with beautiful views, charming rustic buildings, and picturesque trails. It is a great location for couples who love the idea of incorporating Costa Rica’s coffee culture into their photos.
Lankester Botanical Garden
Situated near Cartago, this stunning garden is home to tropical plants, orchids, and serene walking paths. Its vibrant colors and tranquil atmosphere create a unique, romantic backdrop for engagement portraits.
Tips for Capturing Stunning Engagement Photos in Costa Rica
While Costa Rica’s natural beauty offers the perfect backdrop for engagement photos, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your photos are as magical as the location.
Best Time of Day For Photos
Lighting can change dramatically depending on the time of day, so it’s important to plan your photoshoot around the best lighting conditions.
- Golden Hour is Magic: The last 45 minutes just before sunset or just after sunrise provide soft, warm lighting that naturally creates a dreamy, romantic vibe for your photos. This is the perfect time of day for engagement photos at the beach, or any outdoor location that is in direct light.
- Midday Light Can Be Hot and Intense: The sun can be very intense throughout the midday. If you want to do your photos during midday, opt for a shaded or indoor location. Most waterfalls for perfect for midday lighting.
What to Wear for Engagement Photos
- Breathable, Flowy Fabrics: Opt for light, airy outfits to stay comfortable in the warm and humid climate (avoid polyester and nylon, instead look for cotton, linen, or pure silk). Dresses with loose, flowy skirts create movement in your photos and look beautiful against natural backdrops.
- Complement the Setting: Choose natural/earthy tones, pastels, or soft neutrals to create a natural and cohesive look in your engagement photos. Avoid bold colors and patterns (such as fluorescent reds and plaid stripes) that can be distracting and create color casts on your skin.
- Practical Footwear: Bring comfortable shoes for walking to locations and pack your stylish footwear in an easy-to-carry bag to use during your photoshoot.
Considerations for Rainy Season Photoshoots
- Embrace the Lush Greenery: The rainy season (May to mid-November) will provide vibrant greenery throughout the country.
- Be Prepared for Rain: Wear clothing that won’t be too heavy or see-through in the rain. Bring lightweight rain jackets or clear umbrellas for unexpected showers. Try to roll with the weather, and have fun with it!
Why Costa Rica is the Perfect Engagement Photo Location
Costa Rica’s natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and romantic atmosphere make it an unforgettable destination for engagement photos. Whether you’re drawn to serene beaches, dramatic waterfalls, misty mountains, or vibrant gardens, there’s a location that perfectly complements your relationship and love story.
Choosing Costa Rica for your engagement session while you are traveling there is about more than just the photos – it’s about creating an experience you will remember forever. When you choose Costa Rica, you are choosing both adventure and romance, and a perfect backdrop to capture your connection in a way that is authentic and timeless.
Sweet Reactions from Kaylie and Dion
“😍 AHHHH omg yay!!! Thank you! Just scrolled through quickly and love then so much!!
Had he best time meeting and shooting with you!! Us meeting was meant to be! Love these so much Sara!
GIRL the way I just teared up reading that 🥹 You get us. Thank you so much for capturing our love❤️”
Feeling Inspired by These Costa Rica Engagement Photo Location Ideas?
Let’s bring your dream engagement session to life! I’m Sara, a Costa Rica photographer, and I give my whole self to photographing weddings in a style that shows raw, intimate, emotional love. You can learn more about me here. And if you’re ready to take that next step, then let’s get connected! I can’t wait to hear all about your vision and bring it to life through authentic, romantic imagery! Until then, discover more engagement photo location ideas and tips on the journal to kickstart the planning process!
