Thinking of Tying the Knot? Here’s Why Getting Married in Costa Rica is a Dream Come True!

About Costa Rica

August 16, 2023

Are you and your partner considering a destination wedding? Costa Rica might be the perfect place for you! With its breathtaking beaches, lush rainforests, and well-established wedding industry, getting married in Costa Rica is a dream come true for many couples.

In this blog post, we will guide you through getting married in Costa Rica, from the legal requirements to the best time of year to tie the knot. So, let’s dive in!

Costa Rican weddings are magical because of the many natural wonders of the country!

Why Say “I Do” in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has long been a favorite among travelers seeking a unique connection with nature. However, in recent years, it has also emerged as a sought-after destination for couples looking to tie the knot in a memorable and picturesque setting.

Here are some reasons why Costa Rica is the perfect destination for your wedding:

Breathtaking natural beauty

Costa Rica boasts an array of natural landscapes, from its pristine beaches to its lush mountains and volcanoes. This makes it a beautiful destination for couples celebrating their love against a backdrop of beautiful sunsets and scenic views.

You can have everything you need to plan your wedding in Costa Rica

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, especially when it is a destination wedding, but in Costa Rica, you can find everything you need to ensure your wedding planning goes as smoothly and stress-free as possible.

Here are some of the things you can count on:

Comprehensive wedding packages:

Many hotels in Costa Rica offer competitive wedding packages that include wedding planners to help ease the stress of preparations and all-inclusive amenities for the bride, groom, and their guests. Additionally, several specialized wedding planners in Costa Rica are experts in organizing weddings for foreigners, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Experienced local wedding planners

Destination weddings have become more popular over the years, and while it is possible to plan your wedding in Costa Rica on your own, many couples choose to work with a local wedding planner who can help coordinate all the details.

With the help of an experienced professional, you can easily find the perfect venue, hire local vendors, and navigate the legal requirements for getting married in Costa Rica.

Extraordinary wedding venues

Costa Rica offers a variety of stunning locations for your wedding, from beachfront resorts to mountain lodges. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular places to get married in Costa Rica.

Some of the most popular places to get married in Costa Rica include:

Manuel Antonio: Manuel Antonio is a popular wedding location in Costa Rica due to its stunning natural beauty. It is home to one of the most beautiful national parks in the world, with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical rainforests, making it a picturesque backdrop for any wedding.
Tamarindo: Tamarindo is a favorite among couples for its laid-back vibe and breathtaking sunsets. It is a vibrant beach town known for its beautiful beaches, world-class surfing, and a wide variety of dining and accommodation options, making it a convenient and attractive location for weddings.
Arenal: Arenal is famous for its majestic volcano and natural hot springs. The lush landscape, surrounded by tropical rainforests and stunning views of the Arenal Volcano, makes it a unique and romantic location for weddings. Additionally, the area offers a variety of outdoor activities for guests, such as hiking, zip-lining, and hot springs, making it a fun and adventurous destination.

Honeymoon paradise:

One of the significant advantages of getting married in Costa Rica is that you don’t have to travel far for your honeymoon. The country offers various opportunities for couples to relax, unwind, and make memories that last a lifetime, all while exploring the natural wonders of Costa Rica.

At Find My Costa Rica, we specialize in crafting luxurious and romantic getaways that are perfect for your honeymoon. Explore our curated selection of dreamy destinations and start planning the ultimate celebration of your love.

Whether you dream of a traditional church wedding or a more relaxed beach wedding, you can find the perfect wedding venue in Costa Rica to make your special day unforgettable!

Essential Guide to Getting Married in Costa Rica

Before you can say “I do” in this tropical paradise, there are a few legal requirements that you need to be aware of. Let’s take a closer look at what the Costa Rican law stipulates about how to get married in Costa Rica.

#1 Legal requirements for foreigners

Foreigners getting married in Costa Rica will need a valid passport. If one of the parties is a Costa Rican citizen, they will need a Costa Rican identity card (Cedula de Identidad) and a Certificate of Single Status (Certificado de Solteria) issued by the Costa Rica civil registry.

If a woman has been divorced or is a widow, she can only remarry after 300 days from the official issuance date of her divorce decree or her former husband’s death certificate. This requirement can be waived if she proves she is not pregnant before her marriage ceremony.

#2 Witnesses

Costa Rican law requires two non-family member witnesses to attend the wedding for civil marriages. These witnesses must provide copies of their passports and a statement of their civil status, nationality, address, and occupation.

#3 Officiant

Only priests, judges, and lawyers are legally authorized to perform a marriage ceremony in Costa Rica. If you wish to have a non-Catholic religious wedding ceremony, a Costa Rican lawyer or judge must also be present to make the marriage official. Civil marriages legally conducted in Costa Rica are valid worldwide.

#4 Submitting legal documents

After the ceremony, the officiant will submit the necessary legal documents to the Civil Registry for registration. It takes about three months for the Civil Registry to issue your Costa Rican marriage certificate, which your lawyer will have translated and then sent to your closest consulate or embassy to be authenticated.

#5 Legalize the marriage in your home country

To be legally recognized in your home country, your official marriage certificate must be translated into your native language by an official translator, authenticated by the Costa Rican Ministry of Foreign Relations, notarized by a Public Notary, and certified and signed by your country’s embassy or consulate.

However, checking with your local government or embassy for additional requirements or documents to register your marriage in your home country is always important.

The Best Time to Get Married in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a stunning country blessed with a tropical climate, which means there are specific times of the year that are more favorable for a wedding.

With this in mind, the best time to get married in Costa Rica is during the dry season, which typically lasts from December to April. This period is characterized by predictable weather, minimizing the chances of rain interrupting your special day. However, it’s worth noting that this is also the peak tourist season, so venues and services may be pricier and less available.

Costa Rica has become a sought-after wedding destination for many people worldwide!

Embrace the Magic of a Costa Rican Wedding

If you are considering getting married in Costa Rica, we hope this guide has helped you plan your wedding day. Our country is not just a destination; it’s an experience that captures the heart of every visitor.

Imagine exchanging vows with the love of your life in this paradise with all of your loved ones present; it will be a memory to cherish forever. Ready to embrace the magic? Contact Find My Costa Rica to discover more about romantic getaways you can explore with your significant other.

The rainy season is genuinely wonderful for travelers who prepare for it. Crowds are smaller, forests are greener, and waterfalls are at their most dramatic. It rains hard, but usually in defined afternoon windows — mornings are often clear.

Want the full picture? Our guide to Costa Rica’s rainy season covers what to expect region by region.

What to pack by activity

Do not repeat your master checklist here these are the additions that matter for specific trip types. Grab what applies to your itinerary and leave the rest.

Beach and water sports

Rash guard sun protection in the water is more effective than sunscreen alone
Waterproof phone case or action cam housing
Reef-safe sunscreen mandatory in marine reserves; this is not a suggestion
Water shoes for rocky beaches and shallow reef walks

Hiking and national parks

Trekking poles especially useful on steep, wet trails in Corcovado or Chirripó
Gaiters for deep mud on rainy season trails
Extra headlamp batteries early morning wildlife walks start before dawn
Microfiber towel compact and dries fast between hikes

Wildlife watching

Binoculars note that most FMCR partner guides carry loaners, so check with your guide before packing yours
Zoom lens (200mm or more) for photographing birds and monkeys at distance
Early-morning layers wildlife is most active before 8am when temperatures are still low
Silent, dark-colored clothing neon colors startle wildlife

City and culture (San José and beyond)

Money belt or anti-theft bag pickpocketing exists in busy market areas
Light cardigan or blazer for nicer restaurants
Comfortable walking shoes cobblestones in Barrio Amón are tough on sandals

Traveler enjoying a Costa Rica sunset view from a scenic overlook

What NOT to pack for Costa Rica

This is the section most travelers wish they had read first. Overpacking is the number one complaint we hear from guests on their first day. Less really is more when you are moving between regions.

Jeans: They never fully dry in the humidity. Swap them for quick-dry pants or shorts and thank yourself on day two.

High heels or dress shoes: You will not need them. Even nice restaurants in Costa Rica are casual. One pair of clean trail sandals does the job.

Too many shoes: Three pairs maximum: waterproof sandals, trail shoes, and flip flops. Shoes are heavy and take space.

Non-reef-safe sunscreen: It is prohibited in several reserves and harmful to marine ecosystems. Bring reef-safe from home. Brands like Raw Elements and Badger are good options.

A hair dryer: Almost every hotel and lodge provides one. Leave yours at home.

Valuables you cannot afford to lose: Leave the expensive jewelry and the laptop you need for work. Use your trip as a proper break.

Cotton everything:Cotton absorbs moisture and stays wet all day. Pack synthetics or merino for everything except maybe one casual outfit.

Practical tips for packing smart: documents, money, and tech

Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your trip.

Customs also requires a tiquete de salida proof of onward travel out of Costa Rica. This can be a return flight or a bus ticket to a neighboring country. Have it printed or easily accessible on your phone. See Costa Rica national park regulations via SINAC for entry requirements at protected areas.

Money

Colones (CRC) are the local currency; USD is widely accepted but change is given in colones
ATMs are available in most towns withdraw colones there rather than exchanging at the airport, where rates are poor
Visa and Mastercard accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and tour operators; carry some cash for small sodas and local markets

Health prep

Check the CDC health recommendations for Costa Rica before your trip they cover vaccines, repellent, and food safety guidance. Travel insurance is not required by law, but we strongly recommend it for anyone doing adventure activities.

Tech

Costa Rica runs on 110V/60Hz US travelers need no adapter or converter
Cell coverage is solid in tourist areas; download offline maps before heading into remote zones
WhatsApp is the primary communication tool in Costa Rica make sure it is installed and working

Tropical hot springs surrounded by rainforest in Costa Rica

Do I need a visa to visit Costa Rica?

US, Canadian, and UK citizens do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica for stays up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your trip. You will need to show a return or onward ticket at customs.

Is tap water safe to drink in Costa Rica?

Yes in most areas. Tap water in San José, Guanacaste, La Fortuna, and other major tourist regions is safe to drink and often tastes good. In very remote or rural communities, confirm locally before drinking. Carry a reusable bottle and refill with confidence in most places.

What is the best luggage for a Costa Rica trip?

A soft-sided rolling suitcase works well if you are staying in one or two places. If you are moving between regions beach, rainforest, and volcano a mid-size backpack (40–50L) is far more practical. It fits in small boats, shuttles, and keeps your hands free on trails. We see guests arrive with giant hard-shell suitcases and spend the trip wishing they had packed a bag.

Do I need to bring bug spray to Costa Rica?

Yes. We recommend a picaridin-based repellent like Sawyer 20% over DEET it works just as well in tropical conditions, does not damage gear or plastics, and has no harsh smell. Apply it especially at dawn and dusk during the rainy season.

Ready to plan your trip? Let Find My Costa Rica handle the details from itinerary to insider tips. Contact us!