Las Catalinas Wedding Guide: Mediterranean Vibes In Costa Rica

With so many cool places in the world, it’s hard to choose one to tie the knot in. An Amalfi Coast-like pristine beach? Or perhaps an untamed, lush jungle? If you go for a Las Catalinas wedding, you’ll get both and way more. This beach town on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast brings Mediterranean charm, seaside cliffs, and pastel sunsets into one ultra-romantic, striking location.

Why You Should Get Married in Las Catalinas, Costa Rica

Let’s talk about the reasons to get married in Las Catalinas, Costa Rica — and there are tons.

Mediterranean meets tropical

Las Catalinas feels like a slice of Europe dropped right into Costa Rica. Imagine a seaside village with Spanish colonial architecture and zero cars: just sunshine, good vibes, and cool ocean breeze.

Everything’s walkable

Speaking of zero cars, this town has ample walkable spaces. This means that you, your guests, and your vendors can easily stroll from the ceremony to the reception to the after party. Eco-friendly and convenient!

Breathtaking views

From the hills to the beach, every backdrop is to die for. Want that golden light glowing on your skin and, of course, your wedding photos? Well, this is the spot.

Destination with heart

It’s luxurious, yes, but it still feels like home. Your family and friends can take a lovely walk, relax together, and celebrate in a place as special as your love. It’s authentic, emotional, and all about making it personal.

Best Places to Get Married in Las Catalinas

There are a few iconic standout spots for a Costa Rica destination wedding in Las Catalinas, and we’re breaking them down for you.

Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas

This adults-only boutique hotel is perched high above town, featuring panoramic views, an infinity pool, and ultra-luxury villas. If you’re having a small or medium wedding, this venue will fit like a glove, providing comfort, privacy, and wow-factor. Besides, the staggering cliffside location adds instant cinematic flair to your photos.

2. Santarena Hotel

A charming boutique hotel that feels like it belongs on the Italian coast. It’s romantic, stylish, and has that just-right mix of laid-back and luxe. With its blossoming courtyards and the sound of waves crashing, this is what a Mediterranean-style wedding in Costa Rica should be. Also, their rooftop terrace is a hidden gem for smaller ceremonies or first-look photos.

3. La Ponciana

One of the newest and most exclusive spaces in Las Catalinas, La Ponciana offers elevated dining and a chic setting for rehearsal dinners or micro weddings. Inspired by Mediterranean summers and the richness of local cuisine, La Ponciana brings a high-end but grounded vibe to the table. Pura vida at its best.

4. Beachfront Ceremonies at Playa Danta

You can’t beat a toes-in-the-sand ceremony at golden hour. Playa Danta exudes a serene, natural beauty that goes beyond your wildest dreams. With calm waters, a dazzling sunset view, and easy access, it’s a top contender among the best wedding venues in Las Catalinas. You can even host your cocktail hour or post-ceremony photos right on the beach.

5. Private Villas & Homes

Las Catalinas hosts dozens of charming luxury homes available for rent. The best part? Many of them double as amazing wedding venues. Nothing better than saying your vows on a rooftop terrace with the vast ocean as your witness, or enjoying an intimate dinner in a lush private courtyard. If you’re going for a unique and intimate celebration, this is where it shines.

Some couples rent multiple villas for their entire guest list, making the whole town feel like your private wedding village. No photo-bombers, no annoying crowds, all the goodness.

Looking for more venue inspo?
Check out the How to Plan a Destination Wedding in Costa Rica guide, packed with tips and vendor recs.

Best Time of Year to Get Married in Las Catalinas

Now that we’ve discussed the ultimate Las Catalinas wedding venues, let’s talk about something almost as crucial: timing. Indeed, timing can shape the entire feel of your wedding. So, here’s how the year breaks down for a wedding in Las Catalinas:

February – April: Summer Season

Peak wedding season — book your venue and vendors early!
No rain at all
The sun sets earlier than usual, so plan your ceremony around 4pm

November – January: Lush Season

Perfect for outdoor ceremonies
Blue skies, green mountains
Becoming very popular

May – October: Rainy Season

Expect more frequent rain, especially in late afternoons
Can work beautifully for elopements or intimate weddings that embrace a moody, romantic aesthetic
Venues and vendors may be more available, and pricing can be more flexible
Having a plan B for indoors or having an outdoor tent is the way to go
July has a veranillo (“little summer” in Spanish) – a short period of warm weather similar that’s lovely for your perfect day

Weather tip: Coastal rain tends to pass quickly. You might get a short tropical shower, followed by a watercolor-like sunset. Keep your schedule flexible and have a solid backup plan — just in case.

Planning Tips + Local Vendor Recommendations

Planning a luxury beach wedding in Las Catalinas, Costa Rica, doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how to make it happen without the stress:

Work With a Local Wedding Planner

We’ve collaborated with some amazing wedding planners in Las Catalinas, such as Mil Besos, who know the ins and outs of the area.

They’ll help with:

Booking permits and logistics
Coordinating guest accommodations
Managing vendors and timelines
Making it all feel seamless

Having a planner is especially important in a walkable town like Las Catalinas, where timing and flow really matter.

Book a Local Photo + Video Team

A local wedding photographer and videographer is more than someone snapping pictures. Apart from knowing all the terrain and how to seize each moment of the day, we’re there to capture:

Your mom tearing up as you walk down the aisle
Your friends dancing barefoot at midnight
The real, unfiltered emotion of the day

We focus on documentary, candid, and emotional storytelling — highlighting every laugh, tear, and in-between moment. Not only that, we work closely with your planner, florist, and DJ to make sure every detail is caught in the best light. Literally.

Other Local Wedding Vendors In Las Catalinas to Consider

Ask your wedding planner which vendors match your wedding vibe, or you can ask us!

Florals: Think tropical meets wild Mediterranean. Bougainvillea, orchids, eucalyptus, pampas grass, and heliconia are local favorites.
Catering: Go local with farm-to-table dishes, or blend cultures with fusion cuisine. Think seafood towers, Costa Rican ceviche, and delicious Gallo Pinto.
Music: Live acoustic guitar, saxophone at sunset, or a DJ who knows how to read a destination crowd. Music sets the tone for your whole night.

Tips for a Swift Destination Wedding in Las Catalinas

Book early — Especially during the dry season. Venues and vendors go fast.
Stay in town — Get a villa, stay close to the action, and enjoy that all-walkable lifestyle.
Build downtime in — Let your guests enjoy beach days, yoga classes, or hikes.
Add a welcome or farewell party — It makes the experience last longer (and gives you more time with your favorite people).
Consider a weekday wedding — More availability, better rates, and more flexibility for your dream team of vendors.
Trust your vendors — When you work with experienced locals, you can relax and focus on what really matters — being fully present.

Las Catalinas Wedding: A Lifetime Experience

Having your wedding in Las Catalinas means enjoying the whole package: Terracotta architecture, sunshine glowing non-stop, and the perfect vibe to start building your new life in style. This is the go-to place to let moments full of love and joy happen naturally, while we capture them all, exactly as they felt.

Looking for an experienced Las Catalinas wedding photographer and videographer team to make your most special moments last forever?

We’re here, cameras in hand, ready to tell your story your way. Let’s connect and make it real!