Picture this: palm trees swaying in the salty breeze, the sun setting over the Pacific like it’s personally congratulating you, and your guests clinking glasses as a steel drum band plays your favorite love song. This isn’t a Pinterest dream—this is your wedding reception in Jacó, Costa Rica. 🌺
Nestled between rainforest and ocean, Jacó is not just a surfer’s paradise but a tropical canvas for your wedding masterpiece. Whether you’re dreaming of a barefoot beach bash, an elegant mountain-view soirée, or something that involves a catamaran (yes, really), Jacó has it all.
Let’s dive into the most memorable, mouthwatering, and downright magical restaurants and venues for your wedding reception in this paradise-on-earth.
1. Graffiti Restro Café + Wine Bar
🎨 Urban Chic Meets Jungle Soul
If Banksy had a kitchen, it’d probably look like this. Graffiti Restro Café is a vibrant, artsy space that brings fine dining into a chill, intimate setting. Their menu is a love letter to Costa Rican ingredients with a global twist—think filet mignon with mango glaze or truffle fries dusted with local herbs.
Perfect for couples who want an intimate yet upscale reception with plenty of creative flair. Plus, their craft cocktail game is seriously next level.
📍 graffitirestro.com
2. The Green Room Café
🌿 Boho Vibes and Fresh Beats
Planning a reception where your guests can dance barefoot under the stars and sip on basil mojitos with fresh sugarcane? Welcome to The Green Room Café. Known for its commitment to sustainability and nightly live music, this venue oozes soul.
They offer a farm-to-table menu and a vibe that feels like a cozy backyard concert… if your backyard happened to be in paradise.
📍 greenroomjaco.com
3. Villa Caletas & Zephyr Palace
🏛️ Epic Views. Epic Love.
Want your wedding to feel like the cover of a luxury bridal magazine? This is your spot. Perched above the Pacific, Villa Caletas and Zephyr Palace offer sweeping ocean vistas, jaw-dropping architecture, and an amphitheater that looks like it was made for vows and violins.
It’s elegance with a tropical twist—and the sunsets? Pure cinematic gold.
📍 milbesoscostarica.com
4. Sealounge Catamaran + Playa Fantasia
⛵ The Only Thing Better Than “I Do” Is “Ahoy!”
Yes, your reception can start on a boat. Sealounge Catamaran sails you across turquoise waters before dropping anchor at Playa Fantasia, a private beach that feels like your own island. Think bonfires, fresh seafood buffets, DJs spinning barefoot on the sand, and you two sipping champagne under a sky full of stars.
This is for the adventurous, sea-loving souls who believe love is the greatest voyage.
📍 sealoungecatamaran.com
5. DoceLunas
🌺 Jungle Fairytale Energy
Tucked in a lush garden just five minutes from the beach, DoceLunas is where the rainforest becomes your reception hall. The thatched-roof rancho, twinkling lights, and tropical flora create a magical setting for an unforgettable night.
They’ve hosted everything from barefoot boho parties to elegant tented affairs, and their team is amazing at helping you make the space your own.
📍 DoceLunas on WeddingWire
6. Croc’s Resort & Casino
💃 Big Glam, Big Fun
Want something a little more luxurious (and maybe a little Vegas)? Croc’s is a beachside resort that knows how to throw a party. From full ballrooms to open-air terraces, they can accommodate just about any vision.
Bonus: there’s a spa, casino, and plenty of guest rooms, so your crew can make a weekend of it.
📍 crocsresortcasino.com
7. Jaco Laguna Resort & Beach Club
🌅 Private, Peaceful, and Perfectly Beachy
This lesser-known gem sits at the quiet end of Jacó Beach. Jaco Laguna Resort is ideal for couples who want a relaxed, scenic beachfront reception with all-inclusive wedding services—floral design, live music, and a menu as colorful as the sunset.
It’s cozy, romantic, and wonderfully customizable.
📍 jacolagunaresort.com
🧡 Quick Tips for Planning a Jacó Wedding Reception:
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Best season? December–April (hello, dry skies!)
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Guest size: Many venues handle 20–100 comfortably.
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Permits for beach events? Sometimes needed—ask your planner or venue.
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Catering questions: Vegan? Kosher? Bring your questions; most places are flexible!
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Local flavor: Embrace the gallo pinto and passionfruit cocktails. You’re in Costa Rica!
🌟 FAQ (For Curious Lovebirds)
What’s the best time to host a wedding reception in Jacó?
Dry season (Dec–April) is ideal for weather and sunsets.
Are there beachfront restaurants in Jacó for weddings?
Yes! Jaco Laguna, El Hicaco, and Sealounge’s Playa Fantasia are perfect for sand-between-your-toes receptions.
Can I have a legal wedding in Jacó too?
Absolutely. Costa Rica is super wedding-friendly—even for foreigners.
What if it rains?
Most venues offer backup indoor options or can tent outdoor spaces beautifully.
How far is Jacó from the airport?
About 1.5–2 hours from San José (SJO) via scenic coastal road.
📸 Want the Moments to Last Forever?
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s as heartfelt as it is photogenic, I’d love to be your storyteller. As a destination wedding photographer who’s fallen in love with Jacó’s light, colors, and soul, I specialize in capturing moments that feel as magical as the ones you just read about.
✨ Explore my latest stories here
💌 Check out my photo packages here
📬 Let’s make your memories last forever — say hello here
Let’s turn your happiest moments into art. 🌿📷
