18 Best Destination Wedding Locations Around the World

The Covid-19 pandemic brought along so many changes in our lives. Most of us began working remotely, joining Zoom meetings in our pajama pants, and started cooking all of our meals at home since restaurants were closed for a long time. While the pandemic affected each of us in different ways, there is an entire group of people who spent time, money, and energy planning the most epic of weddings only to have them postponed/ canceled because of all of the pandemic restrictions. If you’re one of those people and you were able to make date changes or cancel at no additional costs, that’s awesome, but most people lost their deposits, making for a very expensive delay in their big day.

Now that most countries are lifting restrictions and the travel industry is starting to boom again, many people have decided to combine a much-needed vacation along with their wedding plans by opting for a destination wedding instead of the more traditional plans. In fact, over 25% of all US-based couples opted for a destination wedding in 2019 – even before the pandemic ever hit. From the Caribbean and Mexico to Hawaii and Europe, we’ve scouted tons of hot places to get hitched and found some of the best places to say ‘I do’ for your post-pandemic destination wedding.

MEXICO

When people think of Mexico, they think of spring break in Cancun or a wild bachelor or bachelorette party in Tijuana. The truth is, the country is filled with so much culture and natural beauty in almost every corner. Ancient historic ruins, lush jungle settings, and thriving nature reserves are just a glimpse of what you could choose from.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Riviera Maya is the perfect choice for a destination wedding if you want a tropical, beachy vibe. A coastal stretch of the Yucatan Peninsula, the Riviera Maya has tons of different settings couples can choose for their big day. Exchange vows on palm-fringed beaches, in the middle of the lush jungle, or in front of historic ancient Mayan ruins for a stunning backdrop you won’t find anywhere else. Couples also opt to go with one of the many nearby Cancun resorts that offer all-inclusive wedding packages. This makes wedding planning super easy because experienced professionals will take care of all the details from wedding licenses to photographers. The best time to get married in Riviera Maya is during the winter months (mid-December through Easter) because the weather is usually sunny and perfect though be warned that it’s also the time it is most crowded.

Los Cabos, Mexico

Los Cabos, Mexico

Guaranteeing surf, sun, and everything fun, Los Cabos is one of the more livelier spots in Mexico for a destination wedding. You’ll be along the southernmost coast of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula where you’ll find a 20-mile-long stretch of white sand beaches, nature trails, award-winning hotels, breathtaking villas, exclusive beach clubs, and championship golf courses. Los Cabos also has so much natural beauty that you might want to celebrate on a cove overlooking the water or with the iconic giant rock arch at Land’s End in the background. All this means is that you’ll have your pick of surroundings when choosing a spot for the ceremony. I love the fact that the romantic setting does not end immediately after the ceremony either – spend your honeymoon on private yachts, secluded beaches, and swimming in the cerulean blue waters of the Pacific. Be sure to avoid June through October where humidity is at its highest and rain is at its heaviest.

Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel, Mexico

If you’re looking for a paradise in Mexico for your destination wedding, but don’t want to be overrun by the tourist crowds that usually take over, head to Cozumel. Situated right off the Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel is a quiet island surrounded by turquoise waters and one of the largest coral reef systems in the world. It’s filled with lush tropical grounds and thriving nature reserves that are home to a plethora of wildlife. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, opt for one of the wedding packages offered by the many resorts there. These packages usually include a symbolic ceremony, a dedicated on-site wedding coordinator, bouquets, wedding cake, floral centerpieces, photographers, and even private cocktail hours and a dinner reception for the newlywed couple and their guests. The weather in Cozumel is nice from mid-December to April but is usually unbearably hot, humid, and raining the rest of the year.

CARIBBEAN

The Caribbean has everything you could ever imagine for a destination wedding – especially if tropical golden sand beaches and palm trees swaying in the background is your thing. Check out spots like Antigua, the Bahamas, or Jamaica for your Caribbean destination wedding.

Antigua, Caribbean

Antigua, Caribbean

Antigua is one of the most revered vacation destinations in the Caribbean so why wouldn’t it double as an equally amazing spot for a destination wedding? You can pick any number of locations on Antigua’s coast which is lined with palm trees and have the warm cerulean water lapping in the background. There are over 300 sandy beaches there, with one of the most popular being Half Moon Bay. You can also pick one of the many resorts with all-inclusive wedding packages on the northwest coast of Dickenson Bay. Choosing Antigua for your destination wedding means that you and your guests will also get to indulge in the fresh and delicious seafood that the island is known for. While the weather is at its best between December and April, the rain and hurricane threat is not so bad so you might consider going during the off-season from May to November – this could also save you some money if you need to stay within a budget.

The Bahamas, Caribbean

The Bahamas, Caribbean

Exchange vows while standing in one of the historic homes in Nassau or while barefoot on the white-sand beaches of Paradise Island. Have a ceremony where your guests can scuba dive around Andros Island afterward or go on an activity-packed excursion with the wedding party. You can start marital bliss at one of the many mega resorts or by renting your own private island such as the remote Harbor Island. The choices are really endless if you choose the Bahamas as your destination wedding location. Who wouldn’t want to get married in the tropical paradise that the Bahamas offers from the minute you arrive. As with most of Mexico and the Caribbean, the weather is best from December to April where there’s less chance of rain and/ or hurricanes.

Jamaica, Caribbean

Jamaica, Caribbean

Jamaica is more than just warm golden sand beaches and sparkling azure bodies of water. The island nation does have a glamorous tropical setting that makes it perfect as a wedding location but it also has so much culture. The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for couples who want to start their lives together in the most relaxed of ways. There are so many resorts with all-inclusive wedding packages that will take care of everything no matter what your preferences are. While there are tons of affordable options, you can also decide to go super luxe and rent out your very own villa or even a private island for you and your wedding party. Say your ‘I do’s’ with your significant other and your loved ones on the beach under palm trees, on a cliff as the sun sets behind you, or amidst lush gardens and waterfalls. The best time to host your wedding in Jamaica is from December to early March – make sure you head out before the spring breakers head in!

EUROPE

Almost every corner of Europe offers a different and unique setting that is perfect for a wedding ceremony, no matter if it’s just the two of you eloping, if you’re having an intimate wedding with few guests, or if you’re having a huge bash that everyone and their mothers are flying out for. Walk down the olive groves of Tuscany, exchange vows in an Irish castle, or toast your new marriage with delicious glasses of wine in Rome.

Tuscany, Italy, Europe

Tuscany, Italy, Europe

If you want to have your destination wedding in Europe, then Tuscany might be the one for you. Plan your getaway wedding at this dream destination in September or October which is right as the heat of summer passes and so do the majority of the tourists. There are many reasons why you would want to get married in Tuscany but the main two are the amazing views and the incomparably delicious food. First, start off with the location – want to exchange vows on rolling hills or green valleys that stretch as far as the eye can see? What about in rustic olive groves or in architecturally magnificent wine estates? You can even choose to get married in one of Tuscany’s many breathtaking beautiful castles. If it’s just the two of you, spend the rest of your days indulging in the amazing wine and cuisine; if you happen to bring a wedding party and guests along, remember that more is always merrier in Tuscany. Be sure to include local specialties on the menu like truffles, porcini mushrooms, olive oil, and pecorino cheese.

Ireland, Europe

Ireland, Europe

If it’s a fairytale dream wedding that you’re looking for, then Ireland is the destination for you. Quaint seaside villages, oceanside cliffs, lush gardens, rolling hills as far as the eye can see – if you can dream it up, Ireland can probably make it a reality. Ireland’s incomparable natural beauty makes it one of the most romantic places to get married in the world. You can also opt for country manors, grand 15th-century castles, and stunning Tudor-style churches for your wedding events instead. You can even stick to what Ireland is very popular for and have your afterparty at one of the many iconic local pubs, filled with delicious local foods and thirst-quenching ales. When planning your destination wedding in Ireland, don’t forget to avoid the week of St. Patrick’s Day altogether; the best time of the year is between May and September.

Rome, Italy, Europe

Rome, Italy, Europe

What better place to say your ‘I Do’s’ than in the Eternal City of Rome? The city is renowned for its seamlessly integrated mix of modern metropolis and old-world culture. You’ll be getting married amidst historic attractions, artistic monuments, cobblestone piazzas, rustic castles, and a number of ancient ruins and churches; if that doesn’t provide the most perfect backdrops for epic wedding photographs, I’m not sure that will. Let’s not forget all of the delicious foods that you, your new spouse, and your wedding guests can indulge in like the carbonara, the gelato, and let’s not forget all the amazing wine. The best time to have your destination wedding in Rome is between April and June and again in September and October; this is when the weather is the nicest.

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INTERNATIONAL

While Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe are some of the most famous choices for US-based couples picking a location for their wedding, there are so many more breathtaking destinations that you should consider. Take a look at the following places for a really unique destination wedding where you can create memories that you will treasure forever.

South Africa

South Africa

If you’re looking for the most exotic destination in the world, then you’re going to want to have your destination wedding in South Africa. South Africa has so much to offer and their natural setting is so beautiful that you’ll be getting the best of both worlds: laid-back country setting full of grasslands, mountains, forests, valleys, and beaches, and then the bustle of quaint villages and the ever-vibrant Cape Town. Where you want to host your wedding is completely up to you and you can make the moment truly yours, just like it should be. Some of the most popular places that we suggest are the vineyards on the Stellenbosch wine route, the deserted beaches of Natal, or in one of the many thriving wildlife preserves housed there. South Africa is the perfect destination wedding location for adventurous couples who want to make their wedding a memorable moment for themselves and their friends and family. Depending on where in South Africa you want to host your wedding has a say on when you should go; Cape Town is perfect weather-wise all year long, while nature retreats are best from June to August and a beachside wedding is optimal from December to February.

Thailand

Thailand

Thailand has such a reputation for being a wild and exotic location, often used for bachelor and bachelorette parties made popular by movies such as The Hangover Part II, but few realize the potential Thailand has as a location for a destination wedding. The South Asian country overflows with culture, style, and an exoticness that is hard to find elsewhere. Host your wedding right in the heart of the urban metropolis which houses historic buildings alongside modern skyscrapers; the brilliant skyline can rival that of Manhattan. If the hustle and bustle of the city aren’t for you, then head to the posh island of Phuket with its sparkling beaches and clear waters where luxurious resorts await to help you plan every detail of your big day. One of the most unique aspects of hosting a destination wedding in Bangkok is that there are unique things you can include in your celebration such as an elephant ride to a ceremony site on the beach. If you want to have a destination wedding in Thailand, then your prime time throughout the year is between November and January because that’s when the weather is warm and doesn’t invite the rain.

New Zealand

New Zealand

There are so many choices on our list for beachside destination weddings and New Zealand is no different; they also have beautiful beachside spots that you can exchange vows on if you choose to. But if you’re choosing New Zealand, I would suggest that you venture toward more remote landscapes that are so stunning and hard to come across anywhere else. Apart from the miles of golden sand beaches, you’ll have your choice of pristine forests, rugged foothills, waterside cliffs, and the snow capped Southern Alps. You might be surprised to know that Waiheke Island is also filled with beautiful olive groves and vineyards that make the perfect backdrop for a wedding ceremony. It doesn’t hurt that after everything’s said and done you and your new spouse can spend some time in the many secluded hot springs scattered across New Zealand. The best time for a destination wedding in New Zealand is from December to February which are the summer months.

Tahiti

Tahiti

Tahiti is renowned for having picturesque landscapes around every corner, which is why it’s no surprise that it’s a paradise beyond measure. The panorama worthy of being on every tropical postcard you come across is filled with lush rainforests, swaying palm trees, and vanilla farms that you can smell before you see. You’ll find some really isolated beaches in Tahiti, which is great if you want the setting of a tropical paradise without the crowded rush of people that usually comes with it. Add a unique cultural twist to your big day by including a Polynesian show with twirling flaming torches and traditional music. Dry season is from May to October so that’s the best time to plan your destination wedding in Tahiti.

India

India

The bright colors of flowing saris, the jingle of bangles, and the beauty of India’s exotic culture enveloping you and your significant other in a romantic happily ever after – that’s what India offers if you choose it as your destination wedding spot. The weather is nice all year long, so you’re not limited to celebrating your wedding during any particular time, but the monsoon season does last from June to September. You can choose your setting because India has everything from bustling cityscapes and historic temples to mist-filled mountains and lush green tea plantations. You can celebrate in almost any natural setting that you can think of – and it doesn’t hurt that the food has so much flavor that it’ll be unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before.

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CONTINENTAL US

Okay, hear me out. We gave you all these amazing countries all over the world where you can have the most memorable destination wedding of your dreams. But what if I told you that you never even have to leave the United States to have a stunning destination wedding? Sometimes, just a change of scenery from our usual day to day makes all the difference in the world. Check out these great places in the continental US for a destination wedding that will blow you away.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor, Maine

We’ve all seen postcards and paintings of stunning lighthouses from Maine, but believe me when I tell you that seeing the panoramic vistas of golden sand beaches, dark blue waters, and rugged coasts will take your breath away. Maine is renowned for its iconic lighthouses and when you see them, you’ll want nothing more than to exchange vows with these stunning scenes in the background. Bay Harbor is the epitome of seaside chic, with sophistication and style combined with a distinct coastal flair around every corner – and let’s not forget all the delicious fresh seafood you can incorporate into your menu. Bay Harbor has amazing weather during the summer months from July to August but is also great for a fall wedding in September.

The Big Island, Hawaii

The Big Island, HawaiiThe Big Island, Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most popular wedding and honeymoon destinations in the world and here’s why: you get the beauty and environment of a tropical island while still being in the continental US so you and your guests don’t have to travel far. The Big Island is the largest island in Hawaii as the name suggests and there are so many different natural backdrops there to choose from. For example, you can choose to say your ‘I Do’s’ on the lunar-like landscape of the Kona Coast, exchange vows in the vibrant green rainforest region, or even start your new life together with towering mountains in the background. What’s even better is that you won’t want to go anywhere else afterward to celebrate your honeymoon; the Big Island has tons of activities like snorkeling, horseback riding, and swimming. While the weather is nice all year long, there is a chance of mild rain showers between November and April.

Lake Placid, New York

Lake Placid, New York

While most of the places we’ve listed for destination weddings are sunny, warm, and tropical, Lake Placid in New York is one of the best places to have your wedding if you want to have a charming winter wedding. Lake Placid is a gorgeous alpine village situated in the heart of upstate New York. Imagine twinkle lights on luxury cabins with snow capped mountain vistas as the backdrop or rustic-chic lakeside lodges that are extremely charming and will ensure you have the most amazing photographs. There are picturesque mountain streams and waterfalls for those who don’t want their wedding in the deadset of winter, but if you’re having it at Lake Placid, a dramatic snowy, stormy wedding is perfect for the backdrop the location offers. If you don’t want a winter wedding, the best time to celebrate at Lake Placid is in April when the spring foliage is stunning.

Tucson, Arizona

Tucson, Arizona

Tucson has a landscape that is found in very few places across the United States; imagine having your ceremony in the middle of a rugged desert setting with cacti and deep sunsets. Otherwise, head to Sabino Canyon with its amazing mountainous terrain for your big day. No matter what you choose, the dramatic Southwest landscape is sure to blow you and your guests away. It’s definitely a unique and different setting where you won’t know what to expect but will definitely fall in love with. Don’t forget about the stunning Native American and Mexican textiles or the turquoise jewelry wedding favors you can incorporate into your ceremony! The weather is warm all year long and there are very few chances of rain; you might want to avoid June and July though (especially if you’re having an outdoor ceremony or reception) because temperatures will be above 90 degrees and there is definitely such a thing as too hot.

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We’ve identified a ton of different locations for a destination wedding that could be perfect for couples with varying differences – whether it’s an intimate romantic ceremony on the beach or a memorable adventure in the thick of a lush jungle. Other than what you and your spouse-to-be want, as well as the setting you guys would prefer, it also helps to have a budget ready so you know which destination would be best for you financially as well. Couples also like to take their guest list into consideration; for example, if having immediate family and friends at the ceremony is important to you, you might not be able to travel very far because of the costs associated with that (plane tickets, accommodation, catered meals, etc.). After you’ve picked a location based on what you guys like, your budget, and your guest list, you might also want to find a wedding planner in your destination of choice. Many resorts offer dedicated wedding planners on site that will listen to the type of ceremony you want and make your dreams a reality. If you’ve had a destination wedding, tell us about your experience in the comments below!