Epic Costa Rica Wedding in June: A great Photographer’s guide

Epic Costa Rica Wedding in June: A great Photographer’s guide

June: Lush Landscapes and Intimate Celebrations

June brings the heart of the rainy season, with lush landscapes, cooler temperatures (especially in higher elevations), and a quieter atmosphere for weddings. While rain is expected, the beauty of the surroundings makes it a unique time for a celebration.

wedding engagement costa rica beach

Weather Through My Lens

June is part of the green season, characterized by daily afternoon showers. Mornings are typically sunny, with rain usually starting in the afternoon. Temperatures range from 72°F to 84°F (22°C to 29°C). The Central Valley and higher-altitude areas like Monteverde remain cooler, while coastal regions can still experience warm days with afternoon rain. According to 2024 forecasts, rainfall deficits are expected in the Caribbean and Northeast Zone, normal rainfall in the North Pacific, Northwest Zone, and Central Valley, and surpluses in the Central and South Pacific. A “veranillo” (brief dry spell) is possible in mid-June. Warmer-than-normal temperatures are also expected.

    Photographer’s Tip: The diffused light from overcast skies is excellent for portrait photography, creating a soft and even glow. Embrace the lush greenery and consider using colorful umbrellas as props for unique and fun photos.

    Location Insights

    After years of shooting across the country, here are my top June wedding locations:

     

    • Central Valley: Offers beautiful gardens and haciendas that are especially vibrant during the rainy season.
    • Highlands (Monteverde, San Gerardo de Dota): Cooler temperatures and misty landscapes create a romantic and ethereal atmosphere.
    • Pacific Coast (Especially Central and South): While rain is more frequent, the dramatic skies and lush vegetation offer stunning backdrops.

    What I Love About June Weddings

     

    • Lush and vibrant landscapes, with rainforests and waterfalls at their most beautiful.
    • Intimate weddings with fewer tourists, creating a more personal experience.
    • Cooler temperatures in the highlands, offering a refreshing alternative to the coast.

    Planning Considerations

    Based on my experience with June weddings:

     

    • Rainy Afternoons: Be prepared for daily rainfall, especially in the afternoons. Plan an indoor ceremony or provide umbrellas for your guests.
    • Outdoor Venues with Shelters: Choose a venue with sheltered outdoor spaces to ensure your ceremony is still magical, even if it rains.
    Costa Rica wedding guide June.

    Guest Experience

    From feedback I’ve received from wedding guests:

     

    • Guests can enjoy a more relaxed and less crowded experience.
    • The cooler temperatures in the highlands are comfortable for outdoor activities.

    Season Fruit:

    Zapote
    Costa Rica wedding guide June.

    Local Events to Consider

    When scheduling your June wedding, keep in mind:

     

    • Día de San Pedro: Celebrated in rural areas, this holiday features parades and community events.

    Photography Timeline Tips

    For June weddings, I typically recommend:

     

    • Morning ceremonies are generally recommended to avoid the afternoon rain.
    • Be flexible with your schedule and take advantage of breaks in the weather.
    • Capture the vibrant colors of the flora and the dramatic skies.
    Costa Rica wedding guide June.

    Additional Points for June:

     

    • Weather Concerns: Rainy season with daily afternoon showers. Plan for rain.

    • Tourist Season and Crowds: Low tourist season, offering a more intimate experience.

    • Local Events or Holidays: Día de San Pedro and various local festivals.

    • Venue Availability: Easier to find availability and potentially better prices.

    • Travel Logistics: Flights and accommodations are generally more affordable.

    • Unique Local Touches: Incorporate local traditions and cultural elements into your wedding.

    • Guest Comfort: Advise guests to pack light clothing, rain gear, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.
    Costa Rica wedding guide June.


    Check out other months’ wedding guides:

    Epic Costa Rica Wedding in May: A great Photographer’s guide

    Epic Costa Rica Wedding in May: A great Photographer’s guide

    May: Embracing the Green Season’s Lush Beauty

    In this Costa Rica wedding May, you will know how this month ushers in the green season, with lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and more affordable wedding options. While it marks the start of the rainy season, the mornings are often sunny, offering beautiful opportunities for your wedding.

    Costa Rica wedding guide May

    Weather Through My Lens

    May marks the beginning of Costa Rica’s rainy season. Expect warm, sunny mornings followed by afternoon showers, especially in the Central Valley and along the Pacific coast. Temperatures range from 75°F to 88°F (24°C to 31°C). According to 2024 forecasts, the rainy season is expected to start on normal dates in the North Pacific, Central Valley, and Northeast Zone, but earlier than usual in the Central and South Pacific. There’s also the possibility of heavier-than-normal rainfall in the Pacific and Central Valley. Warmer-than-normal temperatures are expected in much of the country.

      Photographer’s Tip: The diffused light on overcast days can be incredibly flattering for portraits. I often use natural light and reflectors to create soft, romantic images. Embrace the lush greenery for stunning backdrops.

      Location Insights

      After years of shooting across the country, here are my top May wedding locations:

       

      • Pacific Coast (Especially Central and South): While rain is more likely, the landscapes are incredibly vibrant, and you might catch some stunning post-rain sunsets.
      • Central Valley: Offers beautiful gardens and haciendas, but be prepared for afternoon showers.
      • Caribbean Coast: While not traditionally having a strong dry season, May can still see some rain here.

      What I Love About May Weddings

      • More intimate weddings with fewer tourists.
      • Lush scenery, with vibrant forests, waterfalls, and tropical flowers.
      • More affordable rates for venues, vendors, and accommodations.

      Planning Considerations

      Based on my experience with May weddings:

       

      • Afternoon Showers: Be prepared for potential rain. Consider morning ceremonies or indoor options as a backup plan.
      • Rain-Ready Venues: Choose venues that offer both indoor and outdoor options, such as resorts with covered terraces or garden pavilions.

      Guest Experience

      From feedback I’ve received from wedding guests:

       

      • Guests can enjoy a more relaxed and less crowded experience.
      • The lush landscapes are perfect for nature lovers.

      Season Fruit:

      Manzana de agua

      Local Events to Consider

      When scheduling your May wedding, keep in mind:

       

      • Labor Day (May 1st): Costa Rica celebrates with local festivals, parades, and community events.

      Photography Timeline Tips

      For May weddings, I typically recommend:

       

      • Morning ceremonies are generally preferred to avoid afternoon showers.
      • Be flexible with your schedule to take advantage of breaks in the rain.
      • Capture the vibrant colors of the flora and the dramatic skies.

      Costa Rica wedding guide May, Additional Points:

       

      • Weather Concerns: Start of the rainy season, with sunny mornings and afternoon showers. Be prepared for rain.

      • Tourist Season and Crowds: Low tourist season, offering a more intimate experience.

      • Local Events or Holidays: Labor Day parade might add local flavor.

      • Venue Availability: Easier to find availability and potentially better prices.

      • Travel Logistics: Flights and accommodations are generally more affordable.

      • Unique Local Touches: Incorporate local flowers and fruits that are in season during the green season.

      • Guest Comfort: Advise guests to pack light clothing, rain gear, and insect repellent.

      Check out other months’ wedding guides:

      Epic Costa Rica Wedding in April: A great Photographer’s guide

      Epic Costa Rica Wedding in April: A great Photographer’s guide

      April: Transition and Contrasts

      April in Costa Rica offers a mix of sunny mornings and occasional rain, creating a unique atmosphere for a wedding. The changing light in April offers interesting photographic opportunities.

      costa rica wedding guide April

      Costa Rica wedding guide April

      Weather Through My Lens

      April marks the transition to the rainy season. Expect warm, sunny mornings with occasional afternoon showers. Coastal areas like Guanacaste generally remain drier and sunnier, while the Central Valley and highlands experience cooler evenings. Temperatures range from 75°F to 88°F (24°C to 31°C). Importantly, according to climate forecasts for 2024, rainfall deficits are expected in the Caribbean and Northeast Zone, while the Central and South Pacific will experience surpluses.

        Photographer’s Tip: The mix of sun and clouds can create dramatic lighting. I recommend being flexible with your schedule to capture the best conditions. Having a backup plan for rain is essential.

        Location Insights

        After years of shooting across the country, here are my top April wedding locations:

         

        • Guanacaste: Still a good choice for beach weddings with more reliable sunshine than other areas.
        • Central Valley: Gardens and haciendas offer beautiful settings, but be prepared for potential rain.
        • Highlands: Cooler temperatures and stunning views, but rain is more likely in the afternoons.

        What I Love About April Weddings

        • Stunning sunsets, especially on the Pacific coast, after the afternoon showers clear.
        • The transition into the green season brings lush landscapes and vibrant colors.
        • Reduced crowds in some areas as the peak season winds down.
        costa rica wedding guide April

        Planning Considerations

        Based on my experience with April weddings:

         

        • Rainy Afternoons: While mornings are usually perfect, afternoon showers are common. Be prepared with a backup plan for outdoor events.
        • Booking Early: Due to the tail end of the high season, securing venues, photographers, and accommodations in advance is still crucial.

        Guest Experience

        From feedback I’ve received from wedding guests:

         

        • Guests can still enjoy outdoor activities in the mornings.
        • The lush landscapes are beautiful for exploring.
        beach wedding ceremony in Hermosa Beach Costa Rica

        Season Fruit:

        Mango

        Local Events to Consider

        When scheduling your April wedding, keep in mind:

         

        • Semana Santa (Holy Week): A major celebration with religious processions and local events. This can add a unique cultural element to your wedding week, but it also means larger crowds and potentially higher prices in some areas.

        Photography Timeline Tips

        For April weddings, I typically recommend:

         

        • Morning ceremonies are ideal to avoid the afternoon rain.
        • Keep an eye on the weather and be flexible with your schedule.
        • Capture the vibrant colors of the blooming flowers and lush greenery.
        costa rica wedding guide April

        Costa Rica wedding guide April, Additional Points:

         

        • Weather Concerns: Sunny mornings with increasing chance of afternoon showers. Have a backup plan for outdoor events.

        • Tourist Season and Crowds: High season is winding down, but some crowds remain, especially during Semana Santa.

        • Local Events or Holidays: Semana Santa (Holy Week) is a major event with religious processions and festivities.

        • Venue Availability: Booking in advance is still recommended, especially for popular venues.

        • Travel Logistics: Flights and accommodations may be slightly less expensive than peak season but still book early.

        • Unique Local Touches: Incorporate Easter themes or local traditions related to Semana Santa if your wedding coincides.

        • Guest Comfort: Advise guests to pack light clothing, rain gear, and comfortable walking shoes.
        Bride and groom photo session at beach wedding in costa rica

        Check out other months’ wedding guides:

        Costa Rica Best Wedding Guide: Month-by-month Photographer’s Surprising Perspective

        Costa Rica Best Wedding Guide: Month-by-month Photographer’s Surprising Perspective

        Costa Rica Wedding Guide

        As a wedding photographer capturing destination weddings across Costa Rica for over 15 years through my lens at crissorama wedding photography, I’ve seen how each month brings its own unique magic to wedding celebrations. Let me guide you through choosing the perfect month for your Costa Rica wedding, with insights I’ve gained from photographing hundreds of couples in every season.

        The best month to get married in Costa Rica

        Choosing your wedding date is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. In Costa Rica, with its diverse microclimates and distinct seasons, the time of year can significantly impact your wedding experience. To help you navigate this decision, I’ve put together a month-by-month guide, highlighting the key characteristics of each month for weddings.

        costa rica wedding guide

        Key Questions to Ask Yourself When Choosing Your Wedding Date:

        When deciding on the perfect month for your Costa Rica wedding, consider these important factors:

        Weather Concerns:

         

          • “Will it rain?”
          • “How hot or humid will it be?”
          • “Is it safe to plan an outdoor ceremony?”
        Tourist Season and Crowds:

         

          • “Will there be too many tourists?”
          • “Are hotels and venues more expensive or harder to book?”
        Local Events or Holidays:
          • “Are there any events or holidays that might interfere with the wedding?”
          • “Can guests enjoy local festivals before or after the wedding?”
        Venue Availability:
          • “Do I need to book far in advance for my venue?”
          • “Are there any specific venues that are particularly stunning during certain months?”
        Travel Logistics:
          • “Are flights more expensive during this time?”
          • “How easy is it for guests to travel to Costa Rica during this month?”
        Unique Local Touches:
          • “Are there seasonal flowers, foods, or decor ideas to include?”
          • “What cultural elements can we add to make the wedding special?”
        Guest Comfort:
          • “What should guests pack for this time of year?”
          • “Are there any activities guests can enjoy during their stay, considering the weather?”
        costa rica wedding guide

        Choosing the Right Month for You

        Each month in Costa Rica offers a unique experience. If you prioritize guaranteed sunshine and don’t mind higher prices and crowds, January, February, or December are excellent choices. If you dream of a lush, intimate wedding and are open to the possibility of rain, the green season months (May-October) offer incredible value and stunning scenery. The shoulder months of April and November provide a nice balance between weather and crowds.

        By considering these factors and exploring the detailed month-by-month guides, you can choose the perfect time to say “I do” in beautiful Costa Rica.

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in June: A great Photographer’s guide

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in June: A great Photographer’s guide

        June: Lush Landscapes and Intimate CelebrationsJune brings the heart of the rainy season, with lush landscapes, cooler temperatures (especially in higher elevations), and a quieter atmosphere for weddings. While rain is expected, the beauty of the surroundings makes...

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in May: A great Photographer’s guide

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in May: A great Photographer’s guide

        May: Embracing the Green Season's Lush BeautyIn this Costa Rica wedding May, you will know how this month ushers in the green season, with lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and more affordable wedding options. While it marks the start of the rainy season, the mornings...

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in April: A great Photographer’s guide

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in April: A great Photographer’s guide

        April: Transition and ContrastsApril in Costa Rica offers a mix of sunny mornings and occasional rain, creating a unique atmosphere for a wedding. The changing light in April offers interesting photographic opportunities.Costa Rica wedding guide April Weather Through...

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in March: A great Photographer’s guide

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in March: A great Photographer’s guide

        March: Embracing the End of the Dry SeasonMarch is a stunning month for weddings in Costa Rica, with warm weather, vibrant energy, and minimal rain across the country. I find the light in March particularly flattering for portraits.Costa Rica wedding guide March...

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in February: A great Photographer’s guide

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in February: A great Photographer’s guide

        February: A Month of Romance and SunshineFebruary continues the dry season's charm, with sunny days, warm temperatures, and breathtaking landscapes perfect for a wedding.Costa Rica wedding guide February Weather Through My Lens February offers consistent dry weather,...

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in January: A great Photographer’s guide

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in January: A great Photographer’s guide

        January: Prime Wedding Season in ParadiseLooking through my Costa Rica wedding guide, January never fails to impress me with its perfect wedding conditions. As one of Costa Rica's most sought-after wedding months, here's what you need to know:Costa Rica wedding Guide...

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in March: A great Photographer’s guide

        Epic Costa Rica Wedding in March: A great Photographer’s guide

        March: Embracing the End of the Dry Season

        March is a stunning month for weddings in Costa Rica, with warm weather, vibrant energy, and minimal rain across the country. I find the light in March particularly flattering for portraits.

        wedding dress hanging outside the room on costa rican wedding

        Costa Rica wedding guide March

        Weather Through My Lens

        March continues the dry season, with sunny days and temperatures between 76°F and 89°F (24°C to 32°C). Beaches and coastal areas like Tamarindo and the Nicoya Peninsula enjoy clear skies, while mountain areas remain cool and refreshing.

          Photographer’s Tip: The bright sun can create strong shadows. I often use reflectors to soften the light and ensure even illumination.

          Location Insights

          After years of shooting across the country, here are my top March wedding locations:

           

          • Coastal Areas (Tamarindo, Nicoya Peninsula): Perfect for beach weddings with consistent sunshine.
          • Mountain Regions (Poás Volcano, Irazu Volcano): Offer breathtaking views and cooler temperatures for a unique wedding experience.
          • Central Valley: Pleasant weather for outdoor weddings in gardens and haciendas.

          What I Love About March Weddings

          • Prime outdoor weather ideal for any type of ceremony without worrying about rain.
          • Tropical fruits are in season, perfect for incorporating into wedding menus.
          • The springtime vibes exude energy and renewal, reflecting the spirit of your love story.
          costa rica wedding guide March

          Planning Considerations

          Based on my experience with March weddings:

           

          • Book Early: March is a popular month for both weddings and travel. Secure venues and vendors well in advance.
          • Crowded Areas: Coastal regions can be busy due to spring break travelers. Consider private venues or off-the-beaten-path locations.
          costa rica wedding guide March

          Guest Experience

          From feedback I’ve received from wedding guests:

           

          • Guests can enjoy various outdoor activities, from surfing to hiking.
          • The warm weather is perfect for exploring Costa Rica’s beaches and national parks.

          Season Fruit:

          Mangosteen

          Local Events to Consider

          When scheduling your March wedding, keep in mind:

           

          • Oxherder’s Day (Día del Boyero): Decorated oxcarts are made and paraded in the capital.
          • Seasonal Easter Events (if early April): Many local celebrations start gearing up for Semana Santa, adding cultural richness.
          costa rica wedding guide March

          Photography Timeline Tips

          For March weddings, I typically recommend:

           

          • Morning ceremonies: Capture the softer light and avoid the midday sun.
          • Afternoon ceremonies: Take advantage of the stunning sunsets for romantic photos.
          • Consider capturing the vibrant colors of the local fruits and flowers in your photos.

          Costa Rica wedding guide March, Additional Points:

           

          • Weather Concerns: Very low chance of rain, hot temperatures in coastal areas. Ideal for outdoor weddings.

          • Tourist Season and Crowds: High tourist season due to spring break, expect crowds and higher prices.

          • Local Events or Holidays: Oxherder’s Day and potential early Semana Santa celebrations offer cultural experiences.

          • Venue Availability: Book venues well in advance due to high demand.

          • Travel Logistics: Book flights and accommodations early due to spring break travel.

          • Unique Local Touches: Incorporate seasonal tropical fruits and flowers into your décor and menu.

          • Guest Comfort: Advise guests to pack light clothing, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
          bride and groom photo session at costa rican wedding in la fortuna

          Check out other months’ wedding guides: