If you’re dreaming of an intimate, adventurous wedding experience, Costa Rica might just be the perfect destination for your elopement! Not only does it offer breathtaking beaches, but the lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls are unmatched! This tropical paradise has endless options for a romantic and unforgettable day. So whether you’re imagining a sunset ceremony on the sand or exchanging vows surrounded by towering trees and vibrant wildlife, Costa Rica’s natural beauty effortlessly sets the stage for a magical celebration. Plus, its laid-back vibe and welcoming culture make it the perfect place to escape and focus on what truly matters—your love story! If that hasn’t convinced you already, discover my top ten reasons to elope in Costa Rica below!
The Perfect Blend of Scenery, Adventure, and Luxury
Reason 1: STUNNING NATURAL BEAUTY
There are many beautiful backdrops in Costa Rica for an elopement, from lush rainforests to pristine beaches, volcanoes, and waterfalls. The variety of landscapes makes it a great place for any couple to find a setting that perfectly fits their vision! Check out this blog post I wrote for lots of location ideas!
Reason 2: ADVENTURE OPPORTUNITIES AND RELAXING SETTINGS
Costa Rica is perfect for couples that crave adventure. You can zip-line through the jungle, snorkel the crystal clear waters, or even hike through protected conservation areas for opportunities to see wildlife. There are many experiences available for thrill-seeking couples. And if you are wanting to relax, there are plenty of opportunities to slow down, too! You can spend your mornings and afternoons exploring the wilderness of Costa Rica then spend your evening sitting on the deck of your AirBnB rental watching the sun set over the ocean. Or if you have no desire to adventure, stay at a resort and spend your day by the ocean or at the pool You could even book a spa treatment!
Reason 3: ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS AND INTIMATE VENUES
Costa Rica has a wide range of luxurious, all-inclusive resorts and private villas tailored for elopements. There are options from intimate, eco-friendly retreats or high-end resorts with ALL the amenities. Many venues even offer elopement packages! Here are a few examples of all-inclusive resorts and intimate venues to consider:
1. Nayara Gardens | Location: La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano
2. Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo | Location: Guanacaste, Costa Rica
3. Kura Boutique Hotel | Location: Uvita, Costa Rica
More Reasons to Elope: Affordable, Easy, and Eco-Friendly
Reason 4: AFFORDABLE YET LUXURIOUS
Compared to other popular destinations, Costa Rica offers luxury without the overwhelming price tag. You can have an experience that is high-end elegance but for a much lower cost than traditional wedding destinations. Costa Rica is often referred to as the Hawaii of Central America, but you’ll spend a fraction of the cost for a similar experience!
Reason 5: EASE OF TRAVEL AND LEGAL MARRIAGE
Getting to Costa Rica is is pretty easy from many major cities, especially for North American couples. Flights are relatively affordable and the country is known for its tourism-friendly infrastructure. Also, getting legally married in Costa Rica is straightforward for foreigners, with relatively simple paperwork requirements and no residency rules.
Reason 6: ECO-FRIENDLY AND SUSTAINABLE OPTIONS
Costa Rica is a leader in eco-tourism, making it an excellent choice for couples who are environmentally conscious! Many elopement venues are eco-friendly, offering sustainable practices such as locally sourced food, renewable energy, and efforts to minimize environmental impact. Check out this blog for in-depth tips on how to plan an eco-friendly wedding or elopement experience!
Final Reasons to Elope in Unique, Welcoming Costa Rica
Reason 7: WARM AND WELCOMING CULTURE
Costa Rican locals call themselves “Ticos,” and are known for their warm hospitality and “Pura Vida” lifestyle, which is all about living life to the fullest. Couples who choose to elope in Costa Rica will feel welcomed and relaxed, with a stress-free experience that allows them to focus on their love and celebration.
Reason 8: YEAR-ROUND GREAT WEATHER
Costa Rica is warm year-round, which means you can get married outside any time of year! You will want to be mindful of the rainy season (May through November), but eloping during rainy season will also come with the perk or even more affordability as traveling during the rainy season to Costa Rica is less expensive!
Reason 9: PRIVACY AND INTIMACY
Elopements in costa Rica can be as private as couples wish. With many secluded beaches, hidden waterfalls, and remote mountain retreats, couples can enjoy an intimate experience far from the hustle and bustle of traditional wedding venues. It’s the perfect destination for couples that want a deeply personal and meaningful ceremony without the distraction of a large crowd.
Reason 10: UNIQUE EXPERIENCE
Eloping in Costa Rica offers couples the chance to create an entirely unique experience, combining romance, adventure, and nature. The country’s diverse landscape, vibrant culture, and variety of venues allow each couple to craft a one-of-a-kind elopement that reflects their personalities and dreams, making their wedding day unforgettable.
Feeling Inspired by All These Reasons to Elope in Costa Rica?
Let’s do this thing! I’m a Kansas City and Costa Rica based photographer who believes that love between two people is pure magic. I give my whole self to photographing weddings in a style that shows raw, intimate, emotional love. So let’s document your love story in a way that feels authentic to you! Learn more about me here. If you think we’d be the perfect fit and you’re ready to kickstart your costa Rica adventure, let’s connect! I can’t wait to celebrate your love in a tropical setting. In the meantime, find all the Costa Rica elopement planning tips you need on the blog. I recommend starting with these resources below to ensure your elopement experience is seamless and breezy!
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Costa Rica?
Adventure Costa Rica Elopement Guide in Uvita
Top Destinations for Costa Rica Honeymoons
Best Beaches in Costa Rica for a Beachfront Elopement
Photography by Sara Anne | Reasons to Elope in Costa Rica
Vendors Featured: Reasons to Elope in Costa Rica
Venue: Villa Amaite (@villaamaite) | Couple: Lucia (@luciadelav) and Mauricio (@mauricio_rafart) | Dress: Ouma Bridal (@ouma_bridal) | Florist: Narcissus & Echo (@narcissusandechofloral) | HMUA: Makeup by Jac Foo (@makeupbyjacfoo) | Stationary: Lulla Belle Design (@lullabelledesign)
