The Best Destination Wedding Locations (and When to Go)
Bare feet in warm sand. A string quartet playing as the sun drops into the ocean. Your favorite people gathered around a long dinner table under the stars, and nobody has to drive home. A destination wedding turns one day into a whole week of memories. The hardest part is choosing where.
Quick answer: Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica are the most popular, affordable choices for couples from the Midwest. Aruba is great for avoiding hurricane season, Hawaii skips the passport, and Tuscany and Santorini are dreamy for an intimate European celebration.
Top destinations at a glance
Destination | Best for | Best months |
|---|---|---|
Riviera Maya / Cancun, Mexico | Huge resort choice, easy flights, great value | December to April |
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic | Long white beaches, budget-friendly packages | December to April |
Jamaica | Romantic adults-only resorts, island culture | December to April |
Aruba | Reliable sunshine, outside the main hurricane belt | Year-round |
Costa Rica | Jungle-meets-beach adventure couples | December to April (dry season) |
Hawaii | No passport needed, stunning scenery | Year-round |
Tuscany, Italy or Santorini, Greece | Intimate, romantic European weddings | May to June, September to October |
Why Mexico and the Caribbean lead the way
All-inclusive resorts make destination weddings simple. Your guests' meals, drinks and entertainment are covered, many resorts have on-site wedding coordinators, and packages often bundle the ceremony, flowers, a cake and a private dinner. Some resorts even include a basic wedding package when enough guests book rooms.
How to choose the right location
Think about your guests. Nonstop flights and easy passports mean more people will say yes.
Mind the weather. Hurricane season runs June through November in the Caribbean and Gulf.
Set your budget early. Europe is magical but usually costs guests more than Mexico or the Caribbean.
Check the legal rules. Legal requirements vary by country, so many couples sign the paperwork at home and hold a symbolic ceremony abroad.
My take as your travel advisor
The best location is the one your must-have guests can actually reach. For most Midwest couples, that's Mexico or the Dominican Republic. If you want a smaller, more exclusive celebration, Europe or Hawaii can be unforgettable. I help couples weigh the vibe, the budget and the guest experience together, and I handle guest bookings so you don't have to.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest destination wedding location? Mexico and the Dominican Republic usually offer the best value for both the couple and guests.
Where can we have a destination wedding without a passport? Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are popular passport-free options for U.S. citizens.
How far ahead should we book? Twelve to eighteen months gives you the best choice of dates and gives guests time to save.
Let's find your perfect "I do" spot. I'll match you with the right destination and resort, and coordinate your guests' travel, at no extra cost. Start planning your destination wedding or call or text (618) 772-9206.
Glenn Sunnquist
Owner, SIX18 Travel LLC
Certified Travel Advisor
CLIA Member
Cruise & Resort Vacation Specialist
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