What if I told you that your wedding day could start with the call of toucans, be interrupted (adorably) by a photobombing monkey, and end with barefoot dancing under the stars on a secluded beach?
Welcome to Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica’s lush, untamed wedding wonderland—where the rainforest meets the Pacific, and the only thing more breathtaking than the scenery is the love story you’ll tell in it.
Whether you’re already dreaming of a destination wedding in Costa Rica, or just curious about where tropical meets unforgettable, here’s everything you need to know to get married (and get amazing photos) in Manuel Antonio.
🌿 Why Get Married in Manuel Antonio?
Because… jungle magic.
This national park isn’t just one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It’s also packed with soul-stirring beauty: towering rainforest trees, warm golden beaches, and cliffs with ocean views so dramatic, they’ll make your guests go, “Wait… this is real?”
And yes, while you’re saying “I do,” a sloth may quietly watch from a branch above. (No RSVP required.)
But beyond its postcard-perfect vibes, Manuel Antonio also offers luxury resorts, professional wedding planners, and a laid-back pura vida energy that makes everything—from your legal paperwork to your beachside reception—feel smooth, joyful, and just a little wild.
📸 The Photography? Out of This World.
Now, imagine all this beauty captured forever.
From misty rainforest mornings to sunsets that set the Pacific on fire, wedding photography in Manuel Antonio National Park is a dream for couples who crave authenticity, emotion, and epic backdrops. You’ll get moments that don’t just look good—they feel good.
And yes, I’ve literally chased the light through jungle paths and across tidepools to get that perfect golden-hour kiss. It’s what I live for.
🏝️ Best Wedding Venues in Manuel Antonio
Here are three gems where nature meets elegance—and your wedding photos will absolutely sparkle.
A luxury villa that feels like a private treehouse with panoramic views of the Pacific. Perfect for large or intimate weddings—and monkeys have been known to make an appearance.
Beachfront serenity with eco-luxury vibes. Think barefoot ceremonies at sunset and cocktails under palm trees.
Perched above it all with rainforest-meets-ocean views. Their infinity pool terrace is next-level gorgeous for photos.
🗓️ Best Time to Get Married in Manuel Antonio
The dry season (December to April) is prime time: blue skies, golden light, and minimal rain.
But if you love lush greens and want fewer tourists (and better rates), the green season (May to November) has its own charm—just pack a pretty umbrella and be flexible with timing.
💍 Legal Stuff, But Make It Simple
Getting legally married in Costa Rica is very doable. You’ll need:
Want to skip the paperwork? Many couples do a legal ceremony at home and a symbolic one here with all the tropical drama and none of the red tape.
(For a detailed breakdown, check out elopeincostarica.com).
🌴 Planning Your Wedding
Here’s the thing: You don’t need to go it alone. Local planners like Mil Besos Costa Rica are absolute pros at curating unforgettable tropical weddings—handling everything from permits to piña coladas.
And trust me, when you’re trying to figure out whether the howler monkeys will disrupt your vows (they won’t, unless you schedule them at dawn), having someone local is gold.
🐒 Wild Guests (and Unexpected Laughs)
Let’s talk about the wildlife.
Yes, sloths, iguanas, toucans, and capuchin monkeys may make an appearance. One time, I was photographing a couple on the beach when a cheeky monkey grabbed a boutonniere and made a run for it. The groom laughed so hard, it became his favorite photo.
Your wedding here? Expect the unexpected. Embrace it. Photograph it. That’s the Manuel Antonio way.
📌 Wedding Photography Packages & Portfolio
If you’re dreaming of Manuel Antonio wedding photos that are vibrant, emotional, and a little bit wild (in the best way), I’d love to be your guide.
Explore my recent wedding stories and gallery on the blog, discover what’s included in my photography packages, or reach out directly via my contact page.
Let’s turn your tropical “I do” into timeless images full of joy, soul, and sunshine.
🧳 Final Tips for Your Tropical Wedding Adventure
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Pack light but smart: Breathable wedding attire, reef-safe sunscreen, bug spray, and backup shoes (for jungle hikes and sandy beaches).
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Book early: Manuel Antonio is popular! Venues and vendors fill up, especially in high season.
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Make it a weeklong celebration: From ziplining and catamaran tours to beach picnics and sunset yoga, this is a perfect spot for a wedding and a vacation.
🌟 A Note on Expertise
As the founder of Your Happy Moments, I specialize in destination wedding photography that’s heartfelt, cinematic, and rooted in natural beauty. With years of experience shooting across the globe—and a special love for tropical elopements—I bring not just a camera, but a calm presence, artistic eye, and deep care for your story.
