The Best Locations For A Destination Wedding
Destination weddings are a chance for couples to embrace the beginning of the lifelong adventure they are about to embark on. Whether you’re planning to go abroad or stay domestic, the best locations for a destination wedding aren’t always in a guidebook. People may choose to get married in a place that means something to them, perhaps, the place they’d met or their first vacation. Other times, couples choose a bucket list destination that they’ve always dreamed of visiting, or simply come across a photo online and fall in love with the city’s charm, yearning to see it in person.
It can be overwhelming deciding what the best locations for a destination wedding are. From seasons to sceneries to venues, there are endless options spread across the entire world to pick from. However, if there is one thing that is certain, you cannot go wrong with trusting your gut and you absolutely cannot go wrong with any of these beautiful places. Below are 18 of the best locations for destination weddings on the beach, surrounded by nature and, of course, the over-the-top glamorous hotspots.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Basic Invite. As always, all opinions are my own.
Best Locations For A DESTINATION WEDDING On The Beach:
1. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta is a gorgeous resort town lining Mexico’s Pacific Coast. This tropical oasis is well-known for its beaches, water sports and, of course, its nightlife (*cough*cough* Bachelorette Party). Many of the all-inclusive wedding venues are located along Banderas Bay, boasting spectacular sunsets over the waves and unique caves, reefs and tunnels to snorkel and scuba dive in beneath them. You’ll be tying the knot overlooking gorgeous scenery and have plenty of options for exciting group excursions with your guests.
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There really is no bad time to visit Puerto Vallarta, so the season will totally depend on your preference. Peak season occurs between January through March. If you’d like to enjoy the sunshine at a more cost-efficient time, May, June and November to Mid-December are all great options. From December to March, the humpback whale watching season is also in swing. Though the city gets sun all year round, most of the rain falls during the summer months and much of the muggy heat occurs during springtime.
2. Koh Samui, Thailand
Koh Samui is the second largest island in all of Thailand and it’s no wonder that this is one of the most beautiful and popular places to visit in the country. The crystal clear water lining the shore kisses the coconut groves and palm-fringed beaches in a way that just makes you want to say, “I do.” If you’re looking for a group excursion outside of your luxury resort, you can explore the many beaches, tour the temples or go off-roading in the rainforest.
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The best time to soak up the sunshine in Samui Island is during the dry season, from December to February. However, keep in mind, this is peak tourist season for a reason. Many come for the weather, others come for the Chinese New Year Celebrations in January and February. July is the ultimate wedding season in Koh Samui (especially for Europeans), meaning you can expect busier beaches and hotels as well as higher prices.
3. Montego Bay, Jamaica
Montego Bay is a place known for its excellent beaches, stunning resorts and hopping nightlife. Their claim to fame is the exquisite Doctor’s Cave Beach, which provides not only a sight for sore eyes, but healing mineral springs beneath the clear waves. From over-the-top venues to cost-effective beauty, a destination wedding in Montego Bay is the place to go for luxury by the ocean and dancing in the sand until the sun rises.
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The best weather in Jamaica falls in the winter months between November and March, when there are sunny days with little rainfall. However, I recommend having your wedding here between November to Mid-December. You will still have that beautiful weather, but you’ll arrive before peak tourist season, meaning better deals and more private scenery.
4. Capri, Italy
You can never go wrong with a wedding in Italy. In Capri, you’ll find a romantic getaway complete with dazzling blue waters and out-of-this-world villas. The two most popular locations to have a destination wedding in Capri are Capri Town and Anacapri. In Capri Town, you’ll find first-class hotels and exquisite dining with a more lively feel. In Anacapri, you’ll be able to escape the hustle and bustle of a city, meaning more secluded villas and intimate escapes. However, keep in mind, Catholic weddings here are only permitted for Italian nationals or residents of Italy.
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Peak season in Capri runs from April to October. Many consider May to mid-September to be the best time for hosting a destination wedding, however, the season depends on what you’re looking for. During the spring, you will have those crisp, perfect days in this tropical oasis, while the air begins to bloom with fresh jasmine and orange blossoms. In the summer, you’ll get those classic glamorous island days, creating an ultimate luxury vacation, however, you will not be alone in this! Thousands of people flock to Capri by the day in the summer months. In September, the flow of tourists starts to slow and you can have a beautiful, private ceremony, as long as you get lucky with the weather.
5. Uluwatu, Bali
Bali is a bucket list destination for many people. The wonderful thing about it is that you can spend OR save as much as you’d like and still have a glamorous wedding. It’s not out of the ordinary to find an amazing villa or hotel for a mere $50 a night. However, there are also tons of luxury hotels that will drop your jaw to the floor if you plan to splurge. Uluwatu in specific is one of the most spectacular places in the south of Bali. You’ll find pristine beaches sparkling from the clifftop views and one of Bali’s most iconic temples. From surfing to spas and performances like the Kecak Fire Dance, your guests will leave knowing they’ve just had a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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Bali is one of the best locations for a destination wedding because it is almost always a wonderful temperature. The only thing you’ll need to consider is rainfall. The peak season is from March until May, where there’s low humidity and less rainfall, but also higher hotel prices. If you visit during the monsoon season (September to February), you will find better deals and a more intimate escape, having some insane beaches all to yourself.
6. The Bahamas
What many don’t realize is that The Bahamas is actually a string of nearly 700 coral islands and 2,400 cays. With that being said, you’ll have plenty of options to find best locations for a destination wedding within this country alone.
To break a few down, Nassau is the most popular island for tourists. It’s a bustling metropolis with plenty of excursions for tourists. Once you get out into the Exumas, the islands get more secluded. Grand Bahama is often thought of as the more luxurious island, with golf courses and all-inclusive resorts lining the beaches. Compass Cay is where you’ll be able to swim with the nursing sharks (although you can do that on a day trip without needing to stay here). Lastly, but certainly not least, is my favorite island: Great Exuma. This island is bigger than Nassua, but has about 5% of the people per population. This means a more intimate getaway with beaches all to yourself. No matter where you stay, there will be plenty of things to do within the islands, making for unforgettable group excursions.
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Peak season in The Bahamas runs from mid-December through mid-April, when the sun overtakes the rainy season. Prices are going to be a bit higher and beaches will be more crowded then. However, if you visit during November to mid-December, you will be able to avoid some of the crowds and still have those gorgeous, sunny days and little-to-no risk of hurricanes. Keep in mind that, in order for your marriage to be legal in The Bahamas, it must occur before sunset (5PM in the winter and 8PM in the summer).
Best Locations For A DESTINATION WEDDING That’s Glamorous:
7. Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como is easily one of the most sought after and absolutely best locations for a destination wedding that’s full of luxury. Protected by the wind at the foot of the Alps, Lake Como one of the deepest lakes in all of Europe. With the enchanting scenery, romantic ambiance, and heavenly dining (not to mention the wine), this place checks all of the boxes. You’ll roam through the Renaissance architecture on the cobblestone streets or take in the scenery from an Italian car. From the views to the cultural heritage, your guests will be absolutely wowed during their stay in Lake Como.
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Summer, like most places, is the peak season in Lake Como. The weather is warm-but not too warm- since the lake helps keep the heat mild. If you’d like to avoid the crowds, both spring and fall are wonderful options, though the air will be much cooler. In the fall, you can expect the leaves to change, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your special day. Winter is a very cold time in Lake Como, with weather dropping below freezing and snowfall here and there. However, the prices will be much better at this time and your guests can take advantage of some of the winter sports, like skiing, without the crowds of tourists flowing in.
8. Tuscany, Italy
As if the wine alone wasn’t enough, Tuscany is one of the most enchanting places in the world. With rolling hills draped in vineyards and fields scattered in endless poppies, there is no charm like Tuscany. You can enjoy a romantic countryside wedding in an intimate setting or be pampered at a luxury hotel overlooking the vineyards. Italian weddings are timeless and an experience like this is something that neither you, nor your guests, will ever forget.
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The peak season in Tuscany is during the summer months, which is also the time that grueling heat sweeps through the vineyards. However, if you’d like more comfortable weather with a vibrant landscape, April to May or September to October are both great options. In April, flower festivals ring as hotels closed for the winter begin to open their doors again. During May, the countryside is back to being a vibrant green as temperatures begin to rise. In September, the grape harvesting begins, which is a wonderful time to visit along with truffle harvesting season in October.
9. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
When tourists think of Mexico, Cancun, Cabo, and Tulum usually come to mind. Only the ones in the know are aware of the charm of San Miguel de Allende. Recently, in 2021, San Miguel de Allende was voted best city in the world by Travel + Leisure and it 2022, it made the list again at #2. Your guests will get to know each other intimately in this cultural town, especially after the callejoneada (a customary wedding parade in San Miguel). If you’re looking for bright, colorful buildings, cobblestone streets and a rustic aesthetic, look no further than one of the best locations for a destination wedding: San Miguel de Allende.
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The best time to say, “I do,” in San Miguel de Allende is from November until April when it is not unbearably hot. However, it’s good to keep in mind that the city will be bustling with other tourists during this time, especially during holidays like Christmas and Easter. However, there are other festivals going on in the city, like Dia de los Muertos, the Annual Wine Festival and even Desfile de los Locos (“Parade of the Crazies”), so plan accordingly!
10. Franschhoek, South Africa
Franschhoek is often described as the “food and wine capital” of South Africa. You will be met with 5-star chefs, one of the most impeccable wine regions in the world and dramatic mountain scenery to top it all off. With stunning views in every direction, whether you choose to do a secluded stay in an estate or a luxury hotel walking distance to anything you could need, Franschhoek is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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The summer in Franschhoek falls between December to February, with the longest daylight being in December. Franschhoek does tend to get rainfall about half of the year, but the lowest chance of any rainfall is around mid-January. By the time June hits, you’ll see an average of 3 days of rain per week. Keep in mind that, with the weather, the busiest and priciest months in Franschhoek tend be January, February and November.
11. Seville, Spain
Seville is a vibrant hot spot known for its romantic architecture and, of course, flamenco dancing. Being the largest city in Southern Spain, you will be greeted with a large array of venues, as well as cultural heritage to keep your guests busy. Strolling the narrow cobblestone streets, indulging in street tapas and fabulous wine, you may just find yourself falling in love all over again in this passionate city.
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Peak tourist season runs through the summer months in Seville. Temperatures can often soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit then, some of the hottest in all of Europe. If you’re hoping to have a more intimate experience in Spain, tie the knot between March and May. The climate is more mild then and you’ll find better rates, as well as some of the city’s best annual festivals.
12. Sintra, Portugal
Sintra has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and not without reason. The city boasts 10th-century ruins, royal palaces and castles and plenty of Romanticism architecture. Portugal is where fantasies and dreams meet reality. You’ll find luxurious venues and vintage manors, setting the scene of a fairytale wedding. Paired with Portuguese wine, Sintra is quickly turning into one of the best locations for a destination wedding in Portugal.
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Tourist crowds tend to file into Sintra during the summer months, especially July and August. However, if you come just before or just after tourist season (late spring or early autumn), you will still be able to capture those beautiful days without the boiling sun. The winter never gets too cold in Sintra, although there will be a higher chance of getting caught in the rain.
13. Istanbul, Turkey
When it comes to glamour, Istanbul knows how to provide. From luxury hotels to top-of-the-notch hospitality and mouth-watering food, Turkey one of the best locations for a destination wedding of any kind. Istanbul is often referred to as the best of the east and the west, as the city sits between two continents: Europe and Asia. With this, a booming metropolis of culture, history and art was born. Group excursions include boat trips through the Bosphorus, spa days at the historical hamams and, of course, plenty of historical tours.
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Summer (June to August) is the most popular season for having a destination wedding in Istanbul. The temperature is warm, but the crowds will be heavy, along with the room rates. If you’re hoping to slide by the heat and the tourists, tie the knot between March and May or September and November. The room rates will be lower along with the crowds and temperatures will still be around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day.
Best Locations For A DESTINATION WEDDING In Nature:
14. Joshua Tree, California
Joshua Tree is truly an out-of-this-world place to get wed. This sacred place holds energy vortexes that are the said to cleanse the mind, body and spirit into a peaceful state. This, combined with the endless hiking opportunities and desert nights spent under the Milky Way, makes for a romantic desert ceremony nestled between unique rock formations and world famous trees.
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Everyone knows that California gets a lot of sun and little rain all year round. However, the heat waves are something to think about. Saying, “I do,” between March to May and October to November is best. This way, you can avoid the boiling desert heat. In the spring, the wildflowers will also begin to bloom, creating a magnificent background by nature.
15. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is simply a magical place. The powerful energy in the vortexes here are meant to help you find yourself, or perhaps, find each other. In fact, not only is Sedona a place for self-care, but it is also a home to self-care leaders. World-class aromatherapists, yoga practitioners, massage therapists and more flock here, adding plenty of opportunities to rejuvenate and relax throughout your life event. On top of this, the scenery itself is breathtaking. Surrounded by red rocks, pine forests and buttes, there will be plenty of eye candy no matter which wedding venue you choose in Sedona.
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The best time to get married in Sedona is between March and May, when the temperatures are warm, but not yet unbearable. This time is also when the nature is in full bloom, creating a gorgeous atmosphere for your special day.
16. Marrakech, Morocco
Just the fact that Marrakech is known as the city of luxury should give you enough information about tying the knot here. From glamorous palaces to 5-star restaurants and luxury spas, you won’t have any trouble creating a beautiful ceremony. However, what’s most exciting about Marrakech is the nature surrounding the city. From the golden sand in the Agafay Desert to the rolling peaks of the Atlas Mountains, there is something for everyone. For group excursions, take a camel ride through Palmgrove or a balloon flight with breakfast and champagne above the red city.
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There are 300 sunny days a year in Marrakech and little to no rainfall. However, the summers here can get very hot and the winters can get to low 40’s Fahrenheit (although that’s a great time to enjoy snowy peaks on Atlas Mountains). With that being said, spring and autumn are both wonderful times for a destination wedding in Marrakech. For your best chance at avoiding any rainfall, plan for May or September in Morocco.
17. Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale is famous for being “The World’s Finest Golf Destination” which goes hand in hand with its endless collection of luxury resorts. This, mixed with a whopping 330 days of sunshine per year, makes a great location for a destination wedding. Scottsdale alone also has almost 100 miles of trails for hiking and biking. Otherwise, you can take the high horse and tour nature in style through horseback-riding, jeep tours and even hot air balloons. From the scarlet rocks jutting through the Lost Dutchman State Park to the clear pools in Fossil Creek and snowy mountain caps in Four Peaks Wilderness, there is a scene for every main character on their special day.
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The hottest months in Scottsdale are from June to July and when I say hot, I mean HOT. Temperatures easily soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit on a daily basis. The months that have the least chance of any rainfall are May, June and October. For moderate temperatures, plan to go to Scottsdale either late September through November or from March to early May.
18. Aspen, Colorado
It’s no secret that Aspen is well-known as a skiing destination. The snow-capped peaks and white-powdered trees make for magical scenery. However, summer in Aspen is another adventure in itself. It’s filled with plenty of trails to hike, meadows bursting with blooming flowers and warm weather with snowy mountains in the distance. Aspen autumns are less crowded, but also beautiful as the foliage begins to change to bright hues, reflecting like gold off of the mountains.
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The best time to visit Aspen is completely up to your preference. If you’d like to tie the knot in a fresh, sparkling snowfall, December to February are the months to save a date. In the summer, the snow has melted into lush green meadows and the temperature is at a nice 70 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’d like to save money in the off season, spring or fall are both great bets.
When it comes to a destination wedding, you can’t really choose a wrong location. Depending on you and your partner’s favorite seasons, memorable vacations or bucket lists, everyone will have their own vision of that dream destination.
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