Costa Rica has become a popular destination for weddings and for good reason. It’s stunning to start with, has amazingly talented vendors to handle many of your wedding needs and the people are just plain wonderful. We visited this special place and found that no matter what you’re into, Costa Rica has something for you.

1. Traditional Resort

Located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, you’ll find the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo. Because you’re able to see both sides of the ocean from the narrow strip of land the resort is spread across, there isn’t a bad view to be had.

When you enter the meandering cobblestone driveway, you may see a howler monkey or two lazing away the day in the tree canopy above or the resident coati scurrying about. The property is made up of 154 hotel rooms, suites and high-end villas, all of which boast luxurious décor and amenities. The outdoor decks are screen-enclosed, keeping the bugs out and the views in. Starting your day waking up to the sound of the resident birds and wildlife while sitting comfortably on your balcony is an absolute must.

Wedding groups are a perfect fit here and the options for backdrops are endless. From beachfront lawns to open-air ballrooms and even private villas, The Four Seasons Costa Rica has something to fit just about any sophisticated couple.

Thinking about doing something a little different for the rehearsal dinner? Consider renting a catamaran to sail away mid-day for a snorkel excursion, SUP boarding or just a gorgeous day on the open water. By the time your guests return from their adventure, the sun will just begin to set and you can all enjoy a relaxing cocktail on the beach to put a perfect end to a perfect day.

2. Boutique Hotel

Around the corner from the Four Seasons in Papagayo is where you’ll find the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, a brand new property and one which is drastically different from many you’ll find in Costa Rica. With an industrial style and minimalistic décor, this property takes pampering to a whole new level.

The rooms are stark white with clean lines, modern amenities and details such as complimentary flip-flops, sun hats and fedoras to take with you down to the pool or beach. Like them enough to take home? Go ahead, that’s what they’re meant for.

The negative-edge pool is surrounded by oversized woven beach lounges, so an afternoon nap after a dip in the pool should be on the top of your to-do list.

Visiting the spa here is a must. Consider arranging a post-wedding-day-rehab party with your loved ones before you head off on your honeymoon. A list of mini-treatments served with cocktails and fresh, healthy foods is what we experienced and we found it to be a great way to bond as a group.

3. Private Villa/Luxury Home

Nestled in the hills overlooking Playa Tamarindo is Las Mareas, a small villa community adjacent to luxury estate homes. Currently the property has six, three-bedroom private villas with a shared negative-edge pool and common area. Renting these private villas will impress even the most discerning guest. Each two-story villa is complete with a full kitchen, great room and stunning master bedroom.

Families and groups can stay in these villas and take the main event to one of the jaw-dropping private homes nearby, which are owned and operated by the same company.

El Chante, which means “shanty” in Spanish, is anything but. This Balinese-inspired estate home takes luxury to a whole new level. As you enter the home, the welcoming dark wood decks overlook the ocean, Tamarindo Estuary and Las Baulas National Park. You can truly see for miles. A sunset ceremony and reception here would be the ideal start to a lifetime together. The entire home is also open to rent and you’ll enjoy the imported Balinese décor, al fresco showers, open-air feel and private deck off each room.

To get around the area with ease, use 3Monkies Tours. They’re perfect for groups of any size.

No matter which way you decide to celebrate your union in this beautiful place, one thing is for sure — you will have the country’s tagline of “pura vida,” meaning “pure life,” to start your marriage off on the right foot.

Photos courtesy of (in order of appearance): Sean Davis Photography Costa Rica (1st, 3rd & 5th), Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort (2nd & 6th), Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo Resort (4th)

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Fall/Winter 2014 issue. You can order a copy here.