Costa Rica Wedding Packages All Inclusive

Planning a destination wedding from afar can feel overwhelming. You are trying to coordinate costs, vendors, travel, and your vision from thousands of miles away. After photographing weddings throughout Costa Rica, I’ve seen how the right package can make the entire process feel simpler, calmer, and far more enjoyable. If you are still searching for the right photographer, you can also explore my work as a Costa Rica wedding photographer.

Costa Rica has become one of the most sought-after places for destination weddings because of its natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and range of options. Couples can choose between lush rainforest retreats, garden venues, white-sand Caribbean beaches, or dramatic black-sand shores along the Pacific coast.

This guide compares the different types of all-inclusive wedding packages available in Costa Rica, what they typically include, and which destinations and resorts are best suited to different styles and budgets, so you can plan with confidence and avoid expensive surprises.

Understanding specific package offerings helps couples compare value and inclusions across top resorts. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:

Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica Wedding Packages

Secrets Papagayo offers four customizable wedding collections on the stunning Papagayo Peninsula, priced based on guest count and inclusions:

Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo Wedding Packages

Four Seasons offers three luxury wedding packages inspired by Costa Rica’s beautiful butterflies, each including dedicated event specialists:

Riu Palace Costa Rica Wedding Collections

Riu Palace offers five distinct packages accommodating Legal, Same Sex, Symbolic ceremonies, or Vow Renewals:

Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

Margaritaville Beach Resort offers flexible packages for various ceremony types:

Additional Resort Package Price Ranges

Destify and other planning resources list package ranges for additional top Costa Rica wedding resorts:

Core Wedding Services

• Venue rental & setup: Provision of ceremony and reception venues with professional setup
• Wedding coordination: Services from an onsite event specialist or dedicated wedding coordinator to assist with all event coordination. Luxury packages like Four Seasons’ offerings include a “Bridal Angel” at the bride’s disposal throughout the planning process
• Legal requirements assistance: Packages may include arrangements for symbolic ceremonies or assistance with legal requirements for civil ceremonies, which require a lawyer or judge to officiate for foreign citizens

Décor & Atmosphere

• Décor & flowers: Beautiful décor options including tropical decorated arches, seasonal flower arrangements, ceremony setup with teak chairs, and bridal bouquets/boutonnieres. Higher-tier packages often include floral credits (e.g., $250-$1,300) for custom arrangements
• Sound & music: Sound systems for ceremony and reception, with premium packages featuring live music options (acoustic duos, guitar soloists, or trio bands for 1-4 hours)

Catering & Celebrations

• Catering & bar service: Food and beverage costs are factored into package estimates, with premium tiers offering private cocktail hours, multi-course dinners, and upgraded menus
• Wedding cake & toast: Wedding cake sized appropriately for guest count plus sparkling wine toast for all attendees
• Additional celebrations: Higher-tier packages often include rehearsal dinners, welcome cocktail parties, and dessert stations

Photography & Memories

• Photography/videography options: Many packages incorporate professional photography, such as The Greta Oro package with a three-hour photography session or The Marpesia package offering a two-hour photography package. Premium tiers may include edited ceremony videos, wedding albums, and 20-50 digital photos

Guest & Couple Amenities

• Guest accommodations: Wedding specialists help secure room blocks for guests. Some packages provide resort credit per guest (e.g., $100 per guest at Secrets Papagayo’s Beyond Memorable package)
•  Couple’s amenities: Complimentary room upgrades, late checkout, romantic turndown service, breakfast-in-bed, spa treatment discounts (15-20% off), or complimentary couples’ treatments like hydrotherapy circuits

Special Services

• Attire care: Premium packages include steaming or ironing of wedding attire
• Beauty services: Some packages provide bridal up-do, makeup application, or grooming services for the couple
• Transportation: Top-tier packages may include airport transfers from Liberia International Airport

Price Ranges by Package Type

National Average: The average cost of a destination wedding in Costa Rica ranges between $8,000 and $10,000. In 2023, the average was calculated at $8,910, significantly lower than traditional weddings in the US or Canada.

Package Price Spectrum:

• Budget Elopements: $1,099-$1,799 (Planet Hollywood basic, Margaritaville Basic Ceremony)
  
• Mid-Range Intimate: $1,449-$4,549 (Secrets Elope in Luxury to Eternal Love)
  
• Standard Celebrations: $3,199-$6,550 (Riu Royal Collection, Four Seasons Marpesia)
  
• Premium Experiences: $9,599-$14,300 (Riu Indulgence, Four Seasons Blue Morpho)
  
• Ultra-Luxury Affairs: $10,899-$13,249+ (Secrets Beyond Memorable, Dreams Las Mareas top tier)

Many all-inclusive wedding packages remain under $5,000 in Costa Rica, providing excellent options for budget-conscious couples seeking comprehensive service. Browse affordable options through Destify’s $3,000-$4,999 package filter.

Hidden Costs to Consider

While package costs are economical, several additional expenses should factor into your budget:

Travel Expenses: Flying to Costa Rica’s unique location can be more expensive than traveling to more centrally located destinations like Mexico or the Dominican Republic. Flight times may be longer and airfare more costly for both you and your guests, a critical consideration when creating your initial budget.

Package Extras & Fees: Standard budget estimates cover venue rental, food and beverage costs, and basic inclusions. However, sales tax (13%) and gratuity (15%) are typically added to any extras or upgrades chosen outside the base package.

Additional Guests: Most packages include a set number of guests (typically 10-40), with per-person fees ranging from $20-$90 for additional attendees depending on the package tier.

Photography Extensions: While many packages include 2-4 hours of photography, couples often desire full-day coverage, requiring additional investment.

Décor Upgrades: Base packages provide standard décor; custom floral arrangements, lighting design, and specialized décor elements require additional budget allocation.

Best Value Seasons (Weather vs. Pricing Trade-offs)

Dry Season (Mid-December to April): This is the most desirable time for Costa Rica weddings, offering sunny, gorgeous weather with minimal rain. However, this peak season means higher travel costs for flights and accommodations, larger crowds at popular venues and attractions, and faster booking timelines (venues often fill 12-18 months in advance). Expect premium pricing for packages during this window.

Shoulder Months (May and November): These transitional months offer the best value for budget-conscious couples. They provide quieter venues, cheaper rates on packages and travel (often 20-30% savings), and more vendor availability, while generally avoiding the peak hurricane season. Weather is typically favorable with brief afternoon showers.

Green Season (June-October): The rainy season offers the deepest discounts on packages and accommodations, with lush, vibrant landscapes. However, September and October see the heaviest rainfall, requiring solid rain contingency plans. Morning ceremonies often work well during this season, as afternoon showers are more predictable.

Guanacaste Province (Pacific Coast Beaches)

Located on the Pacific side, Guanacaste hosts the majority of Costa Rica’s all-inclusive wedding resorts, making it the most popular destination wedding region. This area features beautiful golden sand beaches, deep blue Pacific waters, and distinctive landscapes including mountains and arid savanna plains contrasting with tropical dry forests.

Key Wedding Resort Areas:

• Papagayo Peninsula: Home to luxury properties like Secrets Papagayo, Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo, and Occidental Papagayo, offering secluded coves, pristine beaches, and world-class service
• Tamarindo: A vibrant surf town with bohemian beach venues like Occidental Tamarindo
• Playa Conchal & Playa Flamingo: Featuring Margaritaville Beach Resort with stunning white-sand beaches
• Mata Palo Beach: Home to Riu Guanacaste

Airport Access: Liberia International Airport (LIR) provides convenient access, typically 30 minutes to 1.5 hours from major Guanacaste resorts.

Manuel Antonio (Central Pacific Coast)

Manuel Antonio is a beloved destination wedding area known for uniquely combining stunning Pacific beaches with accessible lush rainforest and jungle settings. This dual landscape provides diverse photo opportunities and guest activities, from beach lounging to rainforest canopy tours and wildlife spotting in Manuel Antonio National Park.

Travel Logistics: Couples and guests typically fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, with a scenic drive time of 2.5 to 3 hours to Manuel Antonio resorts.

Arenal Volcano Region

The Arenal area is famous for its dramatic natural attractions, including the iconic Arenal Volcano (now dormant but still majestic), natural hot springs, and lush tropical gardens. Wedding venues in this region offer adventurous backdrops with volcano views, rainforest settings, and unique activities for guests like hanging bridges, waterfall hikes, zip-lining, and thermal spa experiences.

Even some Guanacaste resorts, such as Riu Palace Costa Rica, highlight distinctive landscapes featuring views of inactive volcanoes from their properties, bringing this dramatic natural element to Pacific coast celebrations.

Central Valley & San José Area

The Central Valley is Costa Rica’s cultural and urban heart, home to the capital city of San José and the country’s main international airport (SJO – Juan Santamaría International Airport). This region offers metropolitan luxury hotel venues like Barceló San José, providing elegant options for couples who prefer non-coastal locations near the capital or who want to minimize guest travel time from the airport.

Best For: Couples with limited trip duration, those combining business with celebration, or guests uncomfortable with long drives on mountain roads.

Match Guest Count to Package Tier

Costa Rica resorts explicitly categorize packages by guest capacity, making it straightforward to find appropriate options:

• “Just the Two of Us” (2 guests): Elopement packages like Secrets’ Elope in Luxury ($1,449) or intimate ceremonies at boutique properties
• “Small and Intimate” (1-24 guests): Packages like Margaritaville Basic Ceremony ($1,799 for 10 guests) or Secrets Eternal Love ($4,549 for 20 guests)
• “A Happy Medium” (25-49 guests): Mid-tier collections like Riu Royal Wedding ($3,199 for 20 guests + additional guest fees) or Four Seasons packages
• “Large Group” (50-99 guests): Premium packages with higher guest capacities and expanded reception options
• “A Grand Affair” (100+ guests): Top-tier offerings like Secrets Beyond Memorable (up to 79 guests, $10,899) or Dreams Las Mareas luxury collections

Venue Capacity Considerations: Beyond package limits, consider actual venue size. Options range from secluded beach coves fitting approximately 20 guests to large sweeping gardens accommodating 150-200+ guests for ceremonies and receptions.

Align Season with Your Priorities

Choose Dry Season (Mid-December–April) if:

• Guaranteed sunshine is non-negotiable  
• You’re planning 12-18 months ahead (essential for this peak season)  
• Budget accommodates premium pricing  
• You prefer the busiest, most vibrant atmosphere   

Choose Shoulder Months (May or November) if:

• Budget is a significant factor (20-30% savings)  
• You prefer quieter venues and more intimate experiences  
• You’re comfortable with occasional brief rain showers  
• You want better vendor and venue availability  

Choose Green Season (June–October) if:

• Maximum budget savings is the priority  
• You appreciate lush, vibrant landscapes  
• You’re flexible with rain contingency plans  
• Morning ceremonies work with your timeline  

Budget Alignment Strategy

Start with the Costa Rica average of $8,000-$10,000 as your baseline budget. Then factor in:

• Flight costs: Costa Rica’s unique location means potentially higher airfare for you and guests compared to Mexico or Caribbean destinations
• Guest count: More attendees mean either higher-tier packages or significant additional guest fees ($20-$90 per person)
• Package inclusions: Carefully compare what’s included vs. what requires upgrades. A $1,599 package plus $3,000 in necessary add-ons may cost more than a $4,549 comprehensive package
• Hidden fees: Remember 13% sales tax and 15% gratuity on package extras
• Photography needs: If the included 2-3 hours isn’t sufficient, budget for extended coverage (we don’t charge for extra)

Browse packages within specific price ranges using tools like Destify’s package filters to stay within budget parameters.

Match Your Style & Experience Preferences

Adventure & Nature Lovers:     

• Choose rainforest venues (Arenal), eco-lodges, or properties maximizing natural surroundings  
• Prioritize locations near national parks and eco-adventures  
• Select packages with flexibility for outdoor exploration  

Luxury & Service-Focused:     

• Opt for premium packages like Four Seasons Blue Morpho ($14,300) or Secrets Beyond Memorable ($10,899)
• Look for “Bridal Angel” services, dedicated event specialists, and white-glove coordination
• Choose resorts with specialized services (attire steaming, beauty treatments, spa credits)

Intimate & Romantic:

• Select elopement packages or “Small and Intimate” collections
• Consider secluded beach coves or private estate venues
• Look for packages with romantic add-ons (couples’ spa treatments, private dinners, room upgrades)

Beach Perfectionists:

• Consider whether you prefer white sand (Playa Flamingo) or dramatic volcanic black sand
• Focus on Guanacaste/Papagayo region resorts
• Choose packages specifically highlighting oceanfront ceremonies
  

Family-Friendly vs. Adults-Only:

• Review package options for accommodating diverse age groups
• Research resort policies, some properties are adults-only while others welcome families
• Consider kid-friendly activities and amenities if children are attending

Major All-Inclusive Resort Packages

Luxury Peninsula Properties:

Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo Wedding Packages –Butterfly-inspired luxury collections ($6,550-$14,300)

Secrets Papagayo (Hyatt Inclusive Collection) – Four customizable packages ($1,299-$10,899)

Popular Beach Resorts:

Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo – Flexible packages starting at $1,799

Riu Palace Costa Rica – Five collection tiers (Complimentary-$9,599)

Package Comparison & Planning Tools

Destify Costa Rica Wedding Packages – Compare packages across resorts with price filters

Destination Weddings – Costa Rica – Comprehensive resort and package information

Wedding Spot All-Inclusive Costa Rica Venues – Browse diverse venue types and styles

Paradise Weddings Costa Rica – Specialized destination wedding coordination services

Expert Local Perspective

As a photographer in Costa Rica with over 18 years capturing destination weddings across Costa Rica’s top venues,from Papagayo Peninsula luxury resorts to Arenal rainforest estates, I’ve witnessed virtually every package type in action. I’ve seen which inclusions truly matter, which resorts consistently deliver exceptional experiences, and how different venues photograph in various lighting and weather conditions.

Whether you need insider advice on choosing the right package for your style, understanding what different price points actually deliver, navigating legal requirements, or capturing your celebration with authentic documentary photography that tells your unique story, I’m here to help.

Free Resource: Read our comprehensive Costa Rica Wedding Planning Guide for insider tips on venue selection, timeline planning, and maximizing your package value.

Personalized Consultation: Schedule a complimentary consultation call to discuss your vision, get honest feedback about package options you’re considering, and learn how to create an unforgettable Costa Rican wedding experience.