How to Find the Best Destination Wedding Resort for You: A Complete Guide

Jan 18

Planning a destination wedding is an exciting yet challenging process. You’ve decided on the dream of getting married in an exotic location, but now comes the big question: how do you choose the best destination wedding resort for your big day? With so many destination wedding locations to choose from, selecting the right venue can feel overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to help you find the best places for a destination wedding and the best destination wedding resorts that suit your vision, budget, and style.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing your ideal destination wedding resort, from location to budget to amenities, ensuring that your wedding day is as magical as the destination you’ve always dreamed of.

1. Start with the Location

When planning a destination wedding, location is everything. The world offers countless destination wedding locations—from sun-kissed beaches in the Caribbean to lush, green landscapes in Europe. The key is to find a place that resonates with you as a couple while meeting the needs of your guests.

Factors to consider when choosing the best destination wedding location:

Climate and Seasonality: The weather plays a crucial role in your decision. Are you dreaming of a tropical beach wedding? If so, consider the seasonality of the location—some destinations have rainy seasons, while others are perfect year-round. Research the best times to visit specific regions.
Accessibility for Guests: Consider how easy it will be for your guests to travel to the location. If many of your friends and family are flying internationally, pick a destination wedding location with accessible airports and reasonable flight costs. For example, Mexico and the Dominican Republic are popular because of their direct flight options from many cities.
Cultural Significance: For a unique destination wedding, think about locations that hold cultural or personal significance to you and your partner. Whether it’s a beach in Bali or a vineyard in Tuscany, choosing a location with sentimental value can make the day even more special.

2. Consider the Type of Wedding You Want

The best places for a destination wedding will also depend on the kind of wedding you envision. Do you want an intimate, private ceremony or a grand celebration with dozens of guests? Are you dreaming of a beach wedding or a cultural destination like a historic city or tropical garden?

Here are some different types of destination weddings and the resorts that specialize in them:

Beach Weddings: For couples who dream of a unique destination wedding with sand between their toes and the ocean as their backdrop, beach resorts in places like Mexico, the Caribbean, or Hawaii are perfect. Many resorts offer wedding packages specifically designed for beachfront ceremonies.
Mountain or Vineyard Weddings: If you’re looking for something unique and scenic, consider a wedding in the mountains or at a vineyard. Places like Napa Valley, Tuscany, or Whistler in Canada offer breathtaking backdrops and intimate venues for small or larger weddings.
Cultural or Historic Weddings: If you’ve always dreamed of a destination wedding surrounded by history, ancient architecture, and culture, consider destinations such as Italy, France, or Greece. Resorts here often offer wedding packages that blend local traditions and customs with modern amenities.
Luxury All-Inclusive Weddings: If you want a no-stress wedding, luxury all-inclusive resorts like Sandals, Secrets, or Hard Rock often offer everything from the ceremony to the reception to the honeymoon—making them great options for couples looking for a convenient and upscale experience.

3. Evaluate Resort Amenities and Packages

Once you’ve identified potential destination wedding locations, it’s time to research the best destination wedding resorts in those areas. Look for resorts that offer extensive wedding packages and amenities that align with your needs.

Things to consider when evaluating resort amenities:

Wedding Packages: Many resorts offer customizable wedding packages. Some include everything from the ceremony to the reception, decor, and even photography. Others allow you to pick and choose individual services. Some popular resorts known for their excellent wedding packages include Riu, Sandals, and Dreams Resorts. Be sure to ask for a full list of inclusions in any package to ensure you’re getting good value for your money.
Guest Accommodations: One of the biggest advantages of an all-inclusive destination wedding resort is that the accommodations are often bundled with the wedding package. However, make sure the resort offers a variety of room types to accommodate both your wedding party and guests. Check for family-friendly options, adult-only areas, or accessible rooms for elderly guests or those with disabilities.
Reception Options: Depending on the size of your wedding, you might need a space that accommodates a large reception. Some resorts offer beachside receptions, while others have grand ballrooms or outdoor garden venues. Think about how formal or casual you want the reception to be and choose a resort with the right type of space.
On-site Coordinators: A key benefit of choosing a destination wedding resort is that many resorts have on-site wedding coordinators to help you plan your big day. These experts are experienced in organizing weddings at that specific resort and can offer valuable guidance in selecting vendors and making decisions about your ceremony and reception.

4. Budget Considerations

Budget is one of the most important factors when choosing a destination wedding resort. Fortunately, there are options for every budget, from cheap destination weddings to luxury wedding resorts. Knowing how much you’re willing to spend will help narrow down your options and give you a better idea of what’s available within your price range.

Here are some tips for budgeting your destination wedding:

Set a Realistic Budget: Be clear about your wedding budget early in the process. Factor in travel, accommodations, wedding packages, reception costs, and any extras you might want, such as a photographer, entertainment, or spa services for guests.
Consider All-Inclusive Resorts: Choosing an all-inclusive resort can save money in the long run. These resorts offer everything from food and drinks to excursions and entertainment, often making it easier to control costs and avoid unexpected expenses.
Ask About Hidden Fees: Some resorts charge hidden fees for services like upgrading the ceremony or adding additional guests. Be sure to ask for a breakdown of all fees before making your decision to avoid surprises later on.

5. Look for Reviews and Recommendations

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, check online reviews and testimonials from other couples who have married at the destination wedding resorts you’re considering. Websites like Wedding Wire or The Knot provide in-depth reviews that can give you insight into other couples' experiences.

Ask for Recommendations: Wedding planners, travel agents, and friends who have hosted a destination wedding may have valuable recommendations. Be sure to ask for their insights on the best places for destination weddings and their experiences with various resorts.
Social Media: Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are also great resources for finding inspiration and feedback from real couples. Search for hashtags like #destinationwedding or #weddingresorts to see photos and reviews of popular wedding venues.

6. Consider the Experience for Your Guests

While your wedding day is all about you and your partner, remember that your guests’ experience is also important. After all, they’re likely traveling a long distance to join you on your special day. When choosing a destination wedding location, consider the following:

Things to Do for Guests: Choose a resort that offers activities for guests beyond the wedding itself. This might include excursions, spa treatments, golf, water sports, or nightlife. The more your guests enjoy their stay, the more memorable your destination wedding will be.
Family-Friendly Options: If you’re inviting children, ensure that the resort offers family-friendly accommodations and activities. Some resorts have kids' clubs, babysitting services, and kid-friendly dining options, making them great choices for families.

Finding Your Perfect Destination Wedding Resort

Choosing the best destination wedding resort involves more than just picking a stunning location—it’s about finding a place that aligns with your vision, budget, and personal style. By considering factors like location, type of wedding, resort amenities, and guest experience, you’ll be able to find the perfect venue for your dream wedding. Whether you’re looking for a unique destination wedding or a simple beach ceremony, the right resort will help make your special day unforgettable.

So start researching, ask the right questions, and take your time finding a destination wedding location and resort that suits both you and your guests. Happy planning!

Coral Tide