The allure of a destination wedding is undeniable. You get to celebrate the start of your new life together with your closest family and friends, far from home and the everyday hustle and bustle. It's also an opportunity to get away from it all to focus on what truly matters: each other.
But with so many beautiful locations to choose from, it can be a daunting task to narrow down your options. Of course, few places on earth combine fantasy and reality as well as the Caribbean. With its turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and lush forests, the Caribbean is an ideal destination for a destination wedding.
So, whether you're looking for something intimate or an event that's bigger than life, these 10 Caribbean locations are perfect for a destination wedding.
The Bahamas
The Bahamas is a British Overseas Territory in the Atlantic Ocean consisting of 700 islands, cays, and islets. The largest island is New Providence, where Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas, is located. If you're looking for a tropical paradise with opulent accommodations and a wide selection of activities, look no further than the Bahamas.
Why:
With its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of swaying palm trees, it's easy to see why so many couples choose the Bahamas as their wedding destination. Not only does the Bahamas offer some of the most stunning backdrops for your special day, but it's also a great place to spend time with your loved ones as you prepare for your union. Additionally, there is an excellent international airport in Nassau, making it easy to travel to the Bahamas from the U.S. and Europe.
When to Go:
Winter and Spring are both excellent times to get married in the Bahamas. These seasons offer beautiful weather with warm days and cool nights. Hurricane season runs from June through November so keep that in mind when booking your big day in the Bahamas.
Best Wedding Venues:
The Cove at Atlantis
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
Antigua
Antigua is a small, English-speaking island nation in the Caribbean Sea, part of the Leeward Islands. This small island has a big heart and people who love it. Whether you're looking for a tropical paradise or an off-the-beaten-track adventure, Antigua offers it all.
Why:
Antigua is a beautiful island with a great mix of culture, history, and luxury. The people are friendly and welcoming, the weather is warm and sunny, the beaches are amazing, and there is plenty to do! From diving to sailing, hiking, and suntanning, there's a great mix of activities for guests to enjoy. The island is also home to several historical sites, with many old colonial buildings in St John's still standing proud.
When to Go:
You can have your wedding here in any month of the year, but some months are better than others. The peak season in Antigua is January through April, when the weather is still warm but not too hot, with less chance of storms or hurricanes.
Best Wedding Venues:
Hermitage Bay
Jumby Bay
Jamaica
Jamaica is a country of breathtaking beauty, with a wide range of landscapes, from the tropical shores of the north coast to the mountainous interior. The island is home to some of the world's most spectacular beaches and resorts, as well as to a wide variety of wildlife.
There's no better place than Jamaica for beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and exhilarating activities to delight your wedding guests.
Why:
For many couples, Jamaica is the perfect place to get married — especially if they want an intimate wedding with just family and friends. You'll find everything you need in Jamaica - from spectacular white sand beaches to breathtaking waterfalls and lush tropical rainforests. There are also plenty of activities to entertain guests outside of the wedding itself, such as hiking and watersports. Overall, Jamaica is the perfect location for couples seeking a destination that offers a vibrant mix of culture and nature in the Caribbean.
When to Go:
The best time to visit Jamaica is between December and April when the weather is at its finest. There are fewer rainy days during these months, and temperatures are cooler during the day.
Best Wedding Venues:
Round Hill Hotel and Villas
Jamaica Inn
Aruba
The perfect Caribbean escape, Aruba offers an island paradise full of natural beauty and unspoiled luxury. Located in the southern Caribbean Sea, Aruba is a part of the ABC Islands, alongside Bonaire and Curaçao. Just 18 miles from Venezuela, the island is known for having a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. Overall, Aruba is a world-class destination with delicious food, gorgeous beaches, and incredible luxury accommodations.
Why:
If you are looking for an island destination as beautiful as it is interesting, Aruba should be your first choice. Whether you're looking for an adventure or just want to relax and unwind, Aruba has something for everyone. Additionally, it's easily accessible from the United States. Plus, its friendly culture, diverse cuisine, and endless beaches make it one of the most charming destinations in the Caribbean. In short: There are plenty of reasons to choose this island paradise for your destination wedding!
When to Go:
December through April is the high season for Aruba. It's the coolest, driest time of year, with average highs in the low 80s and lows in the mid-70s. May through November is hurricane season, but Aruba rarely gets hit by a big storm.
Best Wedding Venues:
The Ritz-Carlton
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa & Casino
Want to learn more about Aruba? Check out our blog post Aruba: Everything You Need to Know
Riviera Maya
The Riviera Maya is a region in Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, south of Cancún. This region extends about 75 miles and includes places like Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and Tulum. Additionally, many of Mexico's best luxury hotels and resorts are located here, as well as several eco-resorts and cenotes. Home to some of the best beaches in the world, as well as Mayan ruins and beautiful scenery, you can't go wrong with this part of Mexico.
Why:
The Riviera Maya has long been a popular destination for couples looking to get married in Mexico. With its gorgeous beaches, impressive archaeological sites, and lush jungles, it's no wonder that this region is considered one of the most romantic places in the world. Furthermore, there are many different areas in the Riviera Maya that you can choose from for your wedding ceremony. Have an intimate gathering under the palm trees on a secluded beach, or go all out with a grand reception at one of the many luxury resorts.
When to Go:
The dry season in the Riviera Maya falls between December and April and is the most popular time to visit. While July through September feature off-season prices, expect a bit more rainfall.
Best Wedding Venues:
Chablé Maroma
Hotel Esencia
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a Central American country, bordered on the north by Nicaragua, on the south by Panama, and the east by the Pacific Ocean. It has more than 100 national parks and protected areas, making it one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world. Furthermore, the country has a great climate year-round and beautiful beaches that make it the perfect tropical paradise.
Why:
Costa Rica is a fantastic destination for those who want to get away from it all but still have access to luxury. From the lush rainforests to the beautiful beaches and volcanoes, Costa Rica is the perfect place to exchange vows and start your new life as a married couple. With its tropical climate and laid-back atmosphere, it's no surprise that this Central American country has become an increasingly popular choice for destination weddings.
When to Go:
Late November through April are the best months to have a wedding in Costa Rica. These months experience the least amount of rain in most parts of the country, so you can expect clear skies on your big day.
Best Wedding Venues:
Los Altos Resort
El Mangroove, Autograph Collection
Saint Lucia
St. Lucia is a beautiful island in the Caribbean sea with a rich history and culture. The scenery on the island varies from tropical rainforest to volcanic mountains, white-sand beaches, and coral reefs. Blessed with a mild tropical climate, couples can expect clear blue skies and warm sunshine year-round. Famed for its old-world charm and natural beauty, Saint Lucia is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean.
Why:
The island of Saint Lucia is the ideal wedding destination for couples looking for a tropical getaway with a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful scenery. The island is known for its amazing beaches, restaurants, and resorts, where you will feel like you are on your own private island. The relaxed pace of life and unspoiled environment that St. Lucia offers makes it an ideal location for a destination wedding.
When to Go:
December to March is the peak wedding season months for St. Lucia. May can be the perfect wedding month to avoid the high season as well as hurricane season.
Best Wedding Venues:
Jade Mountain
Ladera Resort
Want to learn more about St. Lucia? Check out our blog post St. Lucia: Everything You Need To Know
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island that is a territory of the United States. This beautiful island is known for its friendly locals, gorgeous beaches, plush resorts, and clear blue oceans. The mountains are full of hiking trails and waterfalls, while the beaches offer opportunities for swimming or surfing on the island's coastline. From the capital of San Juan to the lush rainforests of El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico offers plenty of options to enjoy and explore.
Why:
The US territory of Puerto Rico offers everything you could want from a Caribbean destination wedding location: gorgeous beaches, a laid-back atmosphere, and friendly locals. But unlike its neighbors to the north, it also has something they don't—an easy flight from New York City. Leave the passports at home - no need for them here! Plus, you can enjoy the familiar ease of phone service and the comfort of an English-speaking Island.
When to Go:
The high season falls between December and April, as with the other Caribbean islands. May is your best bet if you're hoping to avoid the crowds, as most of the tourists will have already come and gone.
Best Wedding Venues:
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
Turks & Caicos
Turquoise waters, striped reefs, and a warm, cerulean sky create a tranquil island paradise in the Turks and Caicos. This British Overseas Territory is located in the Caribbean Sea, with islands just far enough away to feel exotic and remote. It's easy to find your own slice of paradise here, with eight core islands to choose from, including Providenciales, Grand Turk, and South Caicos. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly getaway or an intimate and quiet retreat, the Turks and Caicos are a truly incredible destination.
Why:
If you're looking for privacy, relaxation, and high-end service, the Turks and Caicos are the place you've been dreaming of. Enjoy the pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs without the crowds in this tropical paradise. While less developed than many Caribbean islands, the Turks and Caicos offer a number of high-end hotels, resorts, and restaurants. Plus, it's easy to reach Turks and Caicos from the US; you can fly there direct from several major cities.
When to Go:
April to June is considered the best time to have a wedding in the Turks & Caicos, as flights are affordable and the weather is just right.
Best Wedding Venues:
Amanyara
Sailrock Resort
Belize
The Republic of Belize is in Central America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Mexico. It's a small country, but it features some of the most beautiful landscapes and wildlife you can find anywhere. Known for its coral reefs, rainforests, and Mayan ruins, Belize is an excellent choice for couples looking for adventure.
Why:
Set against the backdrop of pristine coral reefs and untouched jungles, Belize is the ultimate luxury tropical wedding destination for couples looking for an unforgettable vacation experience. Belize offers luxury accommodations alongside the chance to experience a mix of diverse cultures, exotic cuisine, and natural splendor. Exotic rainforests and pristine Caribbean coastline provide the ideal backdrop for your magical nuptials. For couples seeking a one-of-a-kind luxury tropical wedding experience, Belize is the perfect destination.
When to Go:
The dry season runs from November to April, so if you are looking at an outdoor wedding venue, these months will be your best bet.
Best Wedding Venues:
Ka'ana Resort
Victoria House Resort & Spa
Thinking a Caribbean wedding may be the right choice for you? Reach out to the destination wedding experts at Travel Queen! We’re here to help you plan every detail of your dream nuptials — from finding the right resort to booking vendors and transportation — so all you have to do is relax and enjoy your wedding day!
Check Out Our Other Destination Wedding Resources:
How to Start Planning a Destination Wedding | The Ultimate Destination Wedding Guest Guide | Everything You Need To Know About A Sandals Destination Wedding | The Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Destination Wedding Locations | How Do You Know if a Destination Wedding Is Right for You? | The Best All-Inclusive Resorts for a Small Destination Wedding | Why You Should Choose An All-Inclusive Resort For Your Destination Wedding | Free Destination Wedding Venue Guide