Close your eyes for a moment. Feel the salty breeze brushing your cheeks, hear the crash of waves syncing with your heartbeat, and picture yourselves barefoot in the golden sand—just you, your love, and the endless Pacific. If this sounds like your kind of fairytale, then a surf & beach elopement in Jacó, Costa Rica might just be the plot twist your love story needs.
Why Choose Jacó for Your Beach Elopement?
Let’s get one thing straight: Jacó isn’t just a beach town—it’s a vibe. Nestled on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, Jacó combines lush jungle backdrops, jaw-dropping sunsets, and a laid-back surf culture that says, “Hey, forget the rules—just ride the wave.”
Unlike more polished (and let’s be honest, sometimes overhyped) destinations, Jacó has an authentic energy. It’s for the wild-hearted, the barefoot adventurers, and the lovers who believe that marriage should begin with a little splash—literally.
Where to Say “I Do” in Jacó: The Best Elopement Venues
Ocean-view luxury or hidden jungle vibes? You can have both. Jacó offers a blend of laid-back and luxe, with stunning venues that cater to every kind of couple.
🌴 Villa Caletas & Zephyr Palace
Perched high above the ocean, these sister properties offer jaw-dropping views, epic sunsets, and the kind of elegance that makes even the toucans pause. Perfect for intimate ceremonies with a cinematic backdrop. Explore Zephyr Palace
🌿 DoceLunas Hotel
Tucked into the jungle, this boutique hotel is a tropical dream. Think: howler monkeys cheering you on, orchids blooming at your feet, and total privacy. A serene choice for nature-loving couples. Check DoceLunas on WeddingWire
🌊 Private Beach Villas
Want the whole beach to yourselves? Rent a luxury villa with direct beach access, and walk straight from vows to waves. View Private Villa Elopements
Surfboards & Bouquets: Yes, You Can Have Both
If you’re dreaming of a surf elopement in Jacó, you’re in luck. This coast serves up surfable waves year-round, with Playa Jacó perfect for beginners and Playa Hermosa just 10 minutes away for more experienced riders.
Want a surf session before or after your ceremony? No problem. Many couples even trade formal wear for wetsuits mid-shoot—trust me, those photos are gold.
Need surf lessons? Locals at Tortuga Surf Camp will get you standing in no time.
When’s the Best Time to Elope in Jacó?
Costa Rica’s dry season (December to April) is the most popular time for weddings. Expect sunny skies, warm breezes, and postcard-worthy lighting. But don’t write off the green season (May to November)—mornings are often clear, the landscapes are lush, and prices drop.
Pro tip? Sunset ceremonies between 4:30–5:30 PM offer that magical golden glow Jacó is famous for.
What You Need to Know: Legal Details (Without the Boring Bits)
Here’s what you’ll need for a legally recognized elopement in Costa Rica:
-
Valid passports
-
Birth certificates (translated if needed)
-
If divorced: your final decree
-
Two witnesses (your photographer and officiant often double as these!)
Or… skip the paperwork and do the legal bit back home. Then go wild with your symbolic ceremony on the beach. No shoes, no stress, no problem.
What to Wear? Think “Beach Chic Meets Adventure”
You could wear a big white gown and black tux—but sand and tulle don’t always get along. Consider these surf-elopement wardrobe swaps:
-
Lightweight, flowy dresses
-
Linen shirts or barefoot suits
-
Flower crowns and barefoot sandals
-
Swimsuits under your outfits (because… post-ceremony surf session!)
Don’t forget: saltwater makes for amazing hair texture.
Bonus: What to Do After the “I Do”
Your Jacó elopement doesn’t end at “I do.” Stick around and:
-
Zipline through the rainforest
-
Spot scarlet macaws in Carara National Park
-
Enjoy sunset cocktails at El Hicaco Beachfront Restaurant
-
Dance the night away in Jacó’s quirky beach bars
-
Or… go surfing again. Obviously.
Meet the Lens Behind the Magic 📷
Hey, I’m Serg—the storyteller behind Your Happy Moments. I specialize in turning your wildest elopement dreams into soulful, cinematic memories. I’ve chased sunsets, stood knee-deep in waves, and captured kisses under jungle rainstorms—just to make sure your love story is told with all its color and chaos.
You can explore my favorite stories here on the blog, dive into the elopement photography packages built for adventurous couples, or send me a message when you’re ready to turn your tropical wedding vision into reality.
Let’s make waves—together.
