8 Breathtaking Places to Elope in Costa Rica

Why You Should Elope in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a place where your elopement can be as adventurous or unhurried as you want it to be. Spend the morning soaring through the forest canopy or exploring lava fields, then slow the pace with an afternoon in a natural hot spring or a barefoot walk along the sand. That precise blend of exhilaration and ease is what sets Costa Rica apart, giving couples the ultimate freedom to design their elopement however they want. It’s a destination where adventure, meaning, and mindful celebration all coexist with each other. I’ve written an entire blog post titled How to Elope in Costa Rica; Everything You Need to Know. It covers everything from the legal process, travel and currency, planning tips, and more! Be sure to check it out to learn more about turning your Costa Rica elopement into reality. 

Regions of costa rica

Because of the country’s striking contrasts, there are so many top-tier places to elope in Costa Rica. They are all independently shaped by diverse microclimates and landscapes that vary dramatically from one region to the next. Sometimes it’s helpful to narrow down an elopement location by exploring general regions that appeal to you first, before diving headfirst into specifics. 

Costa Rica is divided into six regions:

As you can see, each region boasts a completely individual atmosphere for your elopement day – and honestly, that’s what makes Costa Rica one of the most compelling places in the world to elope. Whether you resonate with misty clouds, vibrant beaches, or mountainous landscapes, you’ll find it all here in this Central American beauty. Keep reading to find more information about exact places to elope in Costa Rica.

monteverde

Monteverde is at the very top of my list for places to elope in Costa Rica for many reasons. This remote region of the country truly feels like an emerald world suspended in the clouds. Located in the northwestern interior of Costa Rica, (or within the Puntarenas province), it houses the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and an abundance of biodiversity. For couples craving an immersive and sensory-focused elopement experience, Monteverde offers a rare blend of adventure and intimacy – suspended bridges in the tree-tops, trails lined with orchids and ancient ferns, and the sounds of jungle creatures echoing in the morning fog. The landscapes are grandiose and moody, and the quiet is profound. 

Can you imagine saying your vows with sweeping valley views in the background, in front of moss-covered trees, or even at one of Costa Rica’s luxurious eco-lodges? The magic of the forest is unreal. If you want your elopement to feel otherworldly and grounded, Monteverde is for you.

Things to do in Monteverde: Monteverde is a very adventure-forward area, which means the array of activities and experiences available here are incredible. Some of the best things to do in Monteverde include hiking, ziplining, horseback riding, hanging bridge excursions, wildlife sanctuaries, coffee tours, guided nightwalks through the jungle, and private finca tours. 

Best time of year to visit Monteverde: Monteverde is a great location to visit year-round. However, this part of Costa Rica experiences a rainy season from May – November, and a dry season from December – April. The time of year you visit will ultimately depend on your priorities, and if you’re willing to brave wetter conditions. 

Places to stay in Monteverde: Hotel Belmar | Miramar Forest Cottage | Monteverde Lodge | Monteverde Chameleon Suite

manuel antonio national park

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most captivating coastal landscapes. This area consists of thick and full rainforests that merge into powder-soft beaches. The Pacific proudly glows in layered shades of blues and turquoise throughout this region. Consequently, the park feels like stepping into a scene from the Jurassic Park movies; there’s massive palms that frame the shoreline, monkeys chattering in the trees, and the air brings a warm and salty breeze that’s unique to Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast. This is one of the greatest places to elope in Costa Rica because it’s the perfect balance of raw beauty and accessibility. It’s intimate and vivid, ideal for couples who want their day to feel tropical and alive without venturing totally off-grid. 

Things to do in Manuel Antonio National Park: There’s no shortage of things to do here, including hiking through the park’s trails, watching for wildlife like sloths, capuchins, and scarlet macaws, or lounging on the beach. Additionally, you can book a catamaran cruise, kayak through the mangroves, or go surfing/take private surf lessons.

Best time of the year to visit Manuel Antonio National Park: Although any time of year can be ideal to visit this place, the best time is during the dry season (December – April). This is when the skies are the clearest, the water is calm, and the beaches practically glow at sunrise and sunset. May – September still offer plenty of greenery and fewer crowds, just with short, (and moody), showers.

Places to stay near Manuel Antonio National Park: Tulemar Resort Hotel | Makanda by the Sea | Private Jungle Bungalow

Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a beach town with a down-to-earth kind of energy. It’s also a part of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, and seemingly breathes through lots of golden light and a rolling surf. When you think of Tamarindo, you think of expansive beaches and tropical foliage, paired with sunsets that paint the entirety of the shoreline. Boutique hotel lovers are sure to find a place they love here, as they’re colorful staples of this little paradise. Can you picture yourself wandering through tide pools barefoot at low tide? Or, perhaps exchanging a first kiss on a wide stretch of sand while the waves crash softly behind you? Tamarindo’s atmosphere is modern yet earth-centric, delivering an elopement experience that’s both elevated and undeniably coastal.

Things to do in Tamarindo: Similar to Manuel Antonio National Park, Tamarindo is a mecca for both adventure and leisure. You can book a sailing excursion or a snorkeling tour, try a surf lesson, or explore a variety of nearby beaches. Alternatively, you can opt for a day trip to a waterfall, (Llanos de Cortez), or visit Las Baulas National Marine Park. 

Best time of the year to visit Tamarindo: For consistently warm and calm weather, late December through April are the most spectacular in this area. If you’re in pursuit of fewer visitors, the shoulder season, (May – August), is a worthwhile alternative. Once again, this is a destination you can visit year-round, just be mindful of the impacts of the rainy season. 

Places to stay in Tamarindo: Cabin in Tamarindo | Tamarindo Diria | Villa in Tamarindo | Cala Luna

Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal Volcano National Park feels surreal in both its scale and presence. This is one of the country’s most iconic landscapes, and a standout choice amongst places to elope in Costa Rica. It’s a place where the rawness of volcanic power intersects with the density of the rainforest. The Arenal volcano rises high above the treetops, almost looking perfectly symmetrical. Hot springs steam against the cool mountain air, and the forest is filled with the hums of birds and distant waterfalls. An elopement here can take the form of a vow reading framed by the volcano itself, or a hike through the lava fields. It can even look like soaking in a private hot spring resort hidden inside the jungle. Arenal Volcano National Park is situated in the Northern Zone of Costa Rica.

Things to do in Arenal Volcano National Park: This park and the surrounding areas are packed with ways to celebrate your elopement experience. Adrenaline lovers can enjoy rappelling down waterfalls, ziplining, and hiking. Couples wanting more laid-back activities can take a boat tour on Lake Arenal, relax in hot springs, and walk across hanging bridges.

Best time of the year to visit Arenal Volcano National Park: The drier months, such as December – April, offer the best opportunity to catch a clear morning to see an unobstructed view of the volcano. However, the “green season”, (May – July), is full of saturated foliage, misty landscapes, and usually brings fewer visitors.


Places to stay near Arenal Volcano National Park: Nayara Gardens | Arenal Springs Resort & Spa | Villa Bromelia | AsiaTica Lodge

Papagayo peninsula

The Papagayo Peninsula is a sun-drenched stretch of coastline where crescent beaches collide with green-hued hills. It’s a place that maintains its roots in nature, while still feeling refined and elegant. The peninsula yields panoramic viewpoints, quiet bays, and world-class resorts. Luxury-loving couples will find their place here, as Papagayo delivers exactly that in every direction. Read your vows on a golden-sand beach. Celebrate on an oceanfront terrace carved into the cliffs. Sneak away to one of the many private coves for a more intimate and romantic experience. As you can imagine, the energy of the Papagayo Peninsula is wrapped in both serenity and exclusivity, opening space for a truly one-of-a-kind elopement day. 

Things to do in the Papagayo Peninsula: Beyond the ceremony, Papagayo hosts plenty of other experiences for an unforgettable elopement weekend. You can charter a private sailboat, hike the peninsula’s coastal trails, enjoy curated dining experiences, or even participate in personalized adventures or sunset experiences specifically for couples. 

Best time of the year to visit the Papagayo Peninsula: The peninsula is at its most idyllic during the dry season, from December through April. The shoulder season, which runs from May through August, displays greener hillsides and quieter beaches. There will likely be brief afternoon showers during this time, but they keep everything fresh and hydrated.

Places to stay in/near the Papagayo Peninsula: Four Seasons Resort | Nekajui Peninsula Papagayo | Eco-Friendly Cabina | Bungalow in Flamingo Beach

La fortuna waterfall

La Fortuna Waterfall cascades 70 meters, (over 200 feet), down into a eye-catching pool of water surrounded by tropical rainforest. As soon as you arrive, you’re met with the unmistakable thunder of the falling water, the mist ringing through the trees, and the sunlight that cuts through the canopy. This spot feels wildly enchanting, making it one of the most mesmerizing places to elope in Costa Rica. A vegetated trail leads you down to the base of the falls, where the swirling water and volcanic rock create a visually stunning scene. Another amazing perk to this location is that it’s in close proximity to other breathtaking areas, like Arenal Volcano National Park, (meaning you could see both in one day). Although La Fortuna requires a bit of an adventurous trek, it’s well-worth the experience you receive in return. 

Things to do at/near La Fortuna Waterfall: While you’re in the area, you may consider elevating your elopement experience by swimming at the base of the waterfall, hiking through rainforest trails, or doing a horseback excursion. Furthermore, you can visit nearby hot springs, go on a chocolate tour, explore the hanging bridges, or do a guided wildlife walk. 

Best time of the year to visit La Fortuna Waterfall: La Fortuna Waterfall is most accessible during the dry season, (December – April), when the paths are easier to navigate and the water appears especially clear. The green season brings fewer tourists and wetter conditions, making May – July an excellent choice for couples who love moodier, rainforest-forward imagery. 

Places to stay near the La Fortuna Waterfall: Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort | Amor Arenal | Noah’s Forest by Tifakara

Poás Volcano National Park

Poás Volcano National Park is a true show-stopper. Within the park’s territory lives an immense, active volcanic crater that’s enclosed by a high-elevation cloud forest and large ridgelines. The crater houses a lake rich with minerals, and it shifts color in tandem with the light and natural elements. The scale of it is simply staggering. Poás is one of the most bold places to elope in Costa Rica because it differs so heavily from the traditional tropical scenery, delivering a setting unlike anywhere else in the country. Trails wind through forests and volcanic terrain, giving you vantage points that are powerful in sight. For couples seeking an elopement that feels elemental and connected to the earth in its most awe-inspiring form, Poás Volcano National Park is the perfect choice.

Things to do at Poás Volcano National Park: This region proudly offers short but scenic trails to explore, and nearby coffee plantations to tour in the highlands. You can also roadtrip to La Paz Waterfall, which is only a 30 minute drive from the park. 

Best time of the year to visit Poás Volcano National Park: Because Poás sits at a higher elevation, visibility can change quickly. Timing can be an important part of the experience. The best chance of clear crater views is during the dry season, (December – April), particularly in the early morning before the clouds move in. The shoulder months, (May – June), can still offer optimal opportunities, though expect fast-moving mist/coverage for a fog-draped aesthetic. 

Places to stay near Poás Volcano National Park: Armadillo Cabin | Altura Hotel | Paos Volcano Lodge | Enso A-Frame

las catalinas

Las Catalinas is a picturesque beach town, carved into the hills above the Pacific. This coastal dreamscape combines Mediterranean-inspired architecture with tropical beauty. Not only is Las Catalinas walkable, but it also features cobblestone streets, pastel buildings, plazas, and ocean-view terraces. Just beyond town, you will find golden beaches and rocky coves that are lined by forested hills and blue waters. A Las Catalinas elopement will surely feel intimate and charming, as you can have your ceremony on the beach, dinner in one of the town’s open-air courtyards, and escape to the cliffside for sunset portraits. This town is both romantic and photogenic, making it ideal for couples who want something polished and warm wrapped into one seamless experience. 

Things to do in Las Catalinas: This part of the country can accommodate a range of activities that transform your elopement into a full weekend affair. You can paddleboard, kayak, book a sailing excursion, roam the beaches, or hike the network of trails overlooking the ocean. Alternatively, you can shop at local boutiques in town or sign up for a fine dining experience.

Best time of the year to visit Las Catalinas: December – April is pure magic in Las Catalinas, as there’s typically bright blue skies, calm ocean conditions, and stunning sunsets every evening. May – August may bring occasional rain that clears, revealing dramatic skies and a moodier atmosphere. You may also find quieter beaches this time of year, and full hillsides. 

Places to stay in Las Catalinas: Romantic Ocean View Loft | Ocean View Condo | Oceanfront Apartment | Santarena Hotel

Plan your costa rica elopement

By now, it’s abundantly clear how much this Central American country has to offer to the world. With so many jaw-dropping places to elope in Costa Rica, the scope of what’s possible is wildly exciting. If you’re interested in planning your own elopement celebration in Costa Rica, I’d love to help! As an elopement photographer and planner, my job extends far beyond showing up to take photos. I’m there from start to finish, helping you create an experience that transcends the idea of what it means to get married. To learn more about my process and how to design an elopement that feels authentic to you, send me a message here or fill out the contact form at the bottom of this page. I can’t wait to see where your hearts will take you!

Bonus: Check out some of the images from this waterfall elopement in Costa Rica at El Tigre Falls in Monteverde.