The 3 Most Affordable Destination Wedding Locations
As a Destination Wedding Expert, I frequently receive inquiries from couples seeking the most budget-friendly destination wedding locations. The good news? You can find resorts to suit every budget almost anywhere you go BUT let me spill the beans on the top three places that won't break the bank and will give you the MOST VALUE when you're ready to say "I do." Bonus: They all offer direct flights from the continental U.S.! So, kick back with a glass of your favorite bubbly, curl up with your favorite blanket on the couch, and read on to find your ideal location for your destination wedding.
Mexico
The Sky Terrace at the Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres is the perfect venue for couples that want a beach backdrop but no sand in their shoes.
From Cancun to Playa del Carmen, Tulum to Costa Mujeres, Cabo to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is all-inclusive resort heaven. Resorts line this side of the country, and you can expect beautiful beaches with clear turquoise waters (though some spots can get pretty seaweed-y). And there is so much to see and do, from private tequila mixology classes to snorkeling and whale watching expeditions to Mayan ruins. The starting rate for a Mexico wedding usually falls between $750 and $1,100 per guest. You can figure this out by tallying up the cost of a three-night stay at an all-inclusive resort, plus private airport transfers. My go-to picks in Mexico are Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres, Hyatt Ziva Cancun, and Secrets Vallarta Bay. Want to learn more? - Check out how to host a wedding on the East Coast of Mexico.
Dominican Republic
Dreams Macao Beach
You’ll find a lot of the same resort brands here in the Dominican Republic as you would in Mexico, along with smaller, boutique properties. Many of them are located on or near Punta Cana—which, in my mind, is exactly what you picture when you think “beach.” A wide, sugar-soft swath of sand, a scattering of swaying palms, and shallow turquoise waters that stretch out to the horizon. Beach lovers, you’ll be in heaven here! In addition to beach time, you can also enjoy more adventurous excursions, like horseback riding along the coast, ziplining, and jungle hikes. The focus is more on nature than history here (as opposed to East Coast Mexico with its popular Mayan ruins). The Dominican Republic is another gem for affordable weddings, with rates averaging $850 to $1,300 per guest. It's a tad pricier than Mexico but totally worth it for that laid-back island feel. Top picks here include Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, Dreams Macao Beach, and Hard Rock Punta Cana is newly renovated and perfect if you're into modern amenities and ocean views.
Secrets Wild Orchid
Jamaica
There is so much to love about Jamaica. With three distinct cities to visit: Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, and Negril, there’s the perfect spot for every all-inclusive family vacation, destination wedding, or honeymoon. In fact, Jamaica invented the all-inclusive resort! So you know you’ll have top-notch hotels to choose from. Jamaica rounds out our affordable wedding hotspots in the Caribbean, with rates ranging from $1,000 to $1,400 per guest. Foodies, take note—the local cuisine here is divine! Jamaica also has plenty of options for outdoor adventurers: Try jungle river tubing or floating down the river on a cool bamboo raft or even climbing an actual waterfall. Check out Secrets Wild Orchid, Secrets St. James, Royalton Negril, or Hyatt Ziva/Zilara Rose Hall for possible destination wedding options that won’t break the bank.
More Money-Saving Tips
Secrets Vallarta Bay and their dreamy tablescapes & Pacific Coast drama
Want to stretch your wedding budget even further? Here's the scoop:
First, book during the off-season (think May, October, early November, or early December) for the best rates. Avoid holidays like spring break or Christmas, which often come with longer stay requirements and fewer perks.
Opt for destinations with daily direct flights to save on airfare and avoid those dreaded layovers.
Lastly, choose a resort with a wedding package that fits your guest count and style. With so many options, it's helpful to have a specialist (like me!) on board to guide you.
Ready to start planning? Check out our free workbook OR reach out today and let's make your dream destination wedding a reality with a free consultation. I'm excited to meet you and dive into this once-in-a-lifetime adventure together. Cheers to your love story!
