Costa Rica made history in 2020 when it became the first Central American country to legalize same-sex marriage, and the country’s progressive stance on equality is reflected in its tourism industry.
For LGBTQ couples planning a destination wedding in Costa Rica, this means more than just legal recognition. It means resorts that actively welcome and celebrate same-sex couples, staff who are trained in inclusive hospitality, and a cultural atmosphere where your love is honored without hesitation.
Costa Rica’s natural beauty also makes it an extraordinary canvas for any wedding. Volcanic peaks, tropical rainforests, and Pacific coastlines create dramatic, romantic, and completely unique backdrops. Add in the country’s famous “pura vida” philosophy (a genuine embrace of life’s simple joys). You get a wedding destination where every guest feels welcomed and every moment feels meaningful.
We’ve selected the best LGBTQ-friendly wedding resorts in Costa Rica based on their inclusivity, venue quality, wedding packages, and guest experience. Our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists can help you find the perfect resort to celebrate your love story.
Top LGBTQ Friendly Destination Wedding Resorts in Costa Rica
The resorts below have demonstrated a genuine commitment to welcoming LGBTQ couples. Both are experienced at hosting same-sex celebrations and provide the same exceptional wedding services to all couples regardless of orientation. Here are the best options for an LGBT destination wedding in Costa Rica.
Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica
Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica is the premier adults only all inclusive resort on the Papagayo Peninsula, and its commitment to inclusivity matches its commitment to luxury. The Hyatt Inclusive Collection, which operates the Secrets brand, has a strong track record of welcoming and celebrating LGBTQ weddings across all its properties. You and your partner will receive the same attentive, personalized service that every couple deserves!
The wedding venues here are among the most beautiful in Central America. A beachfront ceremony space provides the Pacific coast at its most dramatic, while elevated terraces offer panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding tropical forest.
The “Unlimited-Luxury” experience also means your guests enjoy gourmet dining, premium drinks, and a world-class spa without worrying about extras. The dedicated wedding team customizes every detail with tiered packages that give you flexibility.
For LGBTQ couples who want a luxurious, all inclusive Costa Rica wedding at a resort where inclusivity is built into the culture, Secrets Papagayo is the clear frontrunner.
Learn more about Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica and get a free quote today >>
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica brings a fun, energetic atmosphere to the Papagayo Peninsula, and its inclusive approach to weddings means LGBTQ couples are welcomed with the same enthusiasm as any couple. The resort operates on the Royalton platform, which has a solid history of hosting same-sex celebrations across its properties in the Caribbean and Central America.
The “Vacation Like a Star” concept creates a lively, celebratory energy that sets a great tone for a wedding weekend. Wedding venues include a beachfront gazebo surrounded by tropical scenery and garden spaces with Pacific views. The resort’s pool complex, entertainment schedule, and themed events keep your guests engaged and having fun throughout their stay. Plus, the kids’ club also makes it a workable option for couples with families on the guest list.
For LGBTQ couples who want a fun, welcoming, family-friendly all inclusive wedding on Costa Rica‘s stunning Pacific coast, Planet Hollywood brings personality and celebration to every moment.
Learn more about Planet Hollywood Costa Rica and get a free quote today >>
More Information for Planning Your LGBTQ Destination Wedding in Costa Rica
Planning an LGBTQ destination wedding in Costa Rica comes with some unique advantages. The country’s legal framework supports same-sex marriage, the culture is welcoming, and the resorts listed above are experienced at creating inclusive celebrations. Here’s what else you should know.
Costa Rica LGBTQ Destination Wedding Cost
The average cost of a wedding in Costa Rica typically ranges between $10,000 and $45,000. Costs depend on guest count, resort and resort class, time of year, and package add-ons. LGBTQ wedding packages at Costa Rica’s inclusive resorts are priced identically to heterosexual wedding packages. There’s no premium or difference in service.
Compared to the average U.S. wedding cost of $36,000, a Costa Rica celebration can offer comparable or better value with the added bonus of a Pacific coast vacation. A Certified Destination Wedding Specialist can help you find the right package for your budget.
Costa Rica LGBTQ Destination Wedding Packages
All inclusive resorts in Costa Rica offer the same tiered wedding packages to all couples. Standard packages include an on-site coordinator, ceremony setup, a bouquet and boutonniere (or two bouquets, depending on your preference), a wedding cake, and a sparkling wine toast. Premium packages add private receptions, photography, entertainment, and spa treatments.
The wedding teams at both Secrets Papagayo and Planet Hollywood are experienced at customizing celebrations to fit every couple’s vision.
Is Same-Sex Marriage Legal in Costa Rica?
Yes. Costa Rica legalized same-sex marriage in May 2020, making it the first Central American country to do so. LGBTQ couples can have a legally recognized ceremony in Costa Rica. If you prefer a symbolic ceremony (which most destination wedding couples choose for simplicity), that’s also fully supported. Your on-site coordinator or Specialist can guide you through the options.
Costa Rica LGBTQ Destination Wedding Travel Information
Costa Rica’s main airports are Juan Santamaria (SJO) near San Jose and Daniel Oduber (LIR) in Guanacaste, which is closest to the Pacific coast resorts. LIR receives direct flights from several U.S. cities. Flight times average 4 to 6 hours from most U.S. cities. U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport but don’t require a visa for stays under 90 days.
Costa Rica LGBTQ Destination Wedding FAQs
Is Costa Rica welcoming for LGBTQ weddings?
Very much so. Costa Rica has been one of the most progressive countries in Latin America on LGBTQ rights, and the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2020 cemented that reputation. The tourism industry, particularly the all inclusive resorts in Guanacaste, actively welcomes LGBTQ couples and has staff trained in inclusive hospitality. You and your guests will feel genuinely welcomed.
Do I need to do anything different to plan an LGBTQ wedding in Costa Rica?
No. The planning process is identical to any destination wedding. The same packages, venues, and coordination services are available to all couples. The only consideration is whether you want a legal ceremony (which requires some paperwork) or a symbolic ceremony (which most couples choose for simplicity). Your Certified Destination Wedding Specialist will walk you through both options.
What’s the best time of year for a wedding in Costa Rica?
The dry season from December through April offers the best weather on the Pacific coast. May and November are good shoulder months. The rainy season from June through October brings afternoon showers but also lower rates and lush green scenery.
Start Planning Your Dream LGBTQ Destination Wedding in Costa Rica Today!
Costa Rica combines legal recognition, cultural warmth, and stunning natural beauty to create one of the best LGBTQ wedding destinations in the world. Whether you choose the Pacific luxury of Secrets Papagayo or the fun-loving energy of Planet Hollywood, your celebration will be honored and celebrated with genuine enthusiasm.
Ready to start planning? Fill out our online wedding planning form to receive personalized recommendations and a free quote from our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists. Your dream Costa Rica wedding is closer than you think.
About the Author
Maggie Sabin
Maggie started as the SEO Manager at DestinationWeddings.com in 2024, where she works to drive organic traffic and conversions while creating meaningful, SEO-optimized content for the website. Previously, Maggie's career spanned from Human Resources & Recruitment to teaching at international schools for almost 10 years. Maggie spends her free time traveling, learning new languages, reading non-fiction books, working out, going to the beach and spending time cuddling her dog, Lola!
