Planning Your Destination Wedding

Want to have a destination wedding but don't know where to start? There are so many gorgeous locations in the world to hold your nuptials, which is why we've rounded up our top 50 destination wedding locations below. Learn all about our favorite places, then start organizing your faraway fete with the help of specialized planning resources, such as DestinationWeddings.com.

Mexico: Los Cabos

In order you for you to complete a Civil Ceremony and legally be married in Cabo San Lucas you need to provide the following documents: A Judge must preside and perform the ceremony. You must have blood tests taken in Cabo a couple days prior to the ceremony. You must provide 4 witnesses. Why Get Hitched Here: Fun in the surf and sun is what Los Cabos—which stretches from the town of Cabo San Lucas to the west over to San Jose del Cabo to the east, along the southernmost coast of Mexico's Baja California peninsula—is all about. In between the two is the Corridor, a 20-mile string of cozy hotels, championship golf courses, winding horse trails and white-sand beaches. Lively Cabo San Lucas draws plenty of celebrities, meaning there's no shortage of uber-exclusive beach clubs and villas, plus plenty of fuss-free all-inclusives, so finding a venue and accommodations for your guests will be a breeze. You can also take a boat ride to a private beach or cove to say your vows (how's that for special?). Looking for something a little different? Enter your beach ceremony by horse, or make the release of baby sea turtles part of your wedding program. Cabo San Lucas is also home to the region's iconic giant rock arch at Land's End, where the deep-blue waters of the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez meet for some spectacular waves (kind of like your relationship, no?). When to Wed: Winter months have the best weather, but are crowded, with sunny, 70-degree days mid-December through Easter. Try April and May, traditionally slower months when the weather's still good. Avoid spring-break season, which runs from late February through March. Though summer offers the best prices, humidity is uncomfortably high then. Rain is heaviest in June and October, with hurricanes possible through November.

Far-Flung: Costa Rica

Why Get Hitched Here: With two breathtaking coasts only a short plane ride away from each other—one on the Pacific, the other on the Caribbean—Costa Rica is the perfect destination for couples who are looking for an unspoiled tropical background for their nuptials but don't want to sacrifice their modern urban tastes. In fact, this small country truly has something for every couple. Treat your guests to amazing mountaintop views during an outdoor ceremony or reception, or for a truly standout affair, you can even get married on the edge of a volcano! If you're dreaming of a beach bash, how do sun-baked stretches of white sand sound? Though deforestation once threatened the country's dense rain forests, several nature preserves, biological reserves and national parks have been established to protect the landscape, and they're now some of the most naturally stunning places to say "I do" (think: waterfall wedding). Ecotourism is very popular here, making less traditional but equally luxurious eco-lodges and rain forest bungalows another desirable (and romantic) option for couples who want to throw a green wedding. When to Wed: You'll want to schedule your wedding during the dry season, from late December through April, except on the Caribbean coast, where it rains throughout the year (the Pacific coast is drier). The temperature and humidity vary with altitude but are much higher along the coasts. If you are considering a Costa Rica destination wedding for your upcoming nuptials, we hope that our advice and tips can help make the planning process and a lot less daunting!

Mexico: Cozumel

Why Get Hitched Here: Set just off the Yucatan Peninsula, this peaceful island in the Caribbean is framed by one of the largest coral reef systems in the world, surrounded by turquoise waters and home to wildlife-filled nature reserves, which spells P-A-R-A-D-I-S-E for outdoorsy couples looking for a quiet spot (read: away from the tourist crowds) to tie the knot. Expect lush grounds and pristine swaths of sand, plus a range of resorts (including many luxe all-inclusives) with impeccable service and on-site wedding planners and vendors to help you plan your perfect party. Nature-loving couples and their guests will love Cozumel's Chankanaab National Park, where you can check out a lagoon, botanical gardens and a replica of a Mayan village, and find incredible snorkeling. When the more laid-back guests tire of sipping cocktails and sunning themselves on the beach, they can hit up the shops and restaurants of downtown San Miguel. When to Wed: High season begins in mid-December and typically lasts through Easter, with the rainy season running from May through mid-October. Although temps may only top out at 90 degrees during the summer, the humidity can make it uncomfortably hot. And beware of spring-break crowds in March and April.

US: The Big Island, Hawaii

Why Get Hitched Here: The Big Island is (you may have guessed) the largest island in the chain and offers incredibly diverse topography. In fact, 11 of the world's 13 climatic zones can be found on the island (there's even snow on top of the highest mountains!). The landscape varies dramatically as you travel around the perimeter, so you'll have your choice of backdrops: The Kona coast to the west has a lunar-like landscape, while the north and east coasts are wet and super-lush. There's plenty for guests to do too, from exploring the rain forest region to going horseback riding, snorkeling or just lazing on the beach. When to Wed: Anytime—year-round, temperatures are in the 70s and 80s during the day. Dry season runs May through October, but even in winter, rain showers are short and mild. If you're looking to save a little cash, avoid winter through early spring, when tourist season is in full swing.

US: Aspen, Colorado

Why Get Hitched Here: This Rocky Mountain town possesses the perfect mix of natural beauty, rustic charm and posh amenities. In addition to luxe mountain lodges, you'll find elegant ballrooms and sleek restaurant spaces to host your wedding events. Aspen's gorgeous mountains and valleys will thrill any outdoors enthusiast, while its ample selection of high-end shops and swank restaurants can keep indoorsy types more than entertained. When to Wed: While many couples choose to get married between late November and early March to create a winter-wonderland wedding, keep in mind that summer and fall are also gorgeous (and less crowded) times of year here.

US: Las Vegas, Nevada

Why Get Hitched Here: While drive-through chapels, Elvis-impersonator officiants and celebrating your nuptials at a blackjack table are still a part of what Las Vegas offers, there's a whole other side to Sin City that's making it one of the hottest Stateside spots to tie the knot. We're talking bold ballrooms, cool restaurants and chic poolside settings, plus hundreds of resorts and hotels that offer wedding packages for every budget. And even nonbetting guests will have plenty to keep them entertained. When to Wed: Avoid the summer heat—spring offers the most temperate climate, and the summer sizzle cools in September and October. You'll have the most luck with availability and good rates during the first three weeks in December, but prices spike and availability plummets between Christmas and New Year's and on holiday weekends (including Valentine's Day and Cinco de Mayo), as well as during big-deal sports weekends (like the Super Bowl and NCAA Final Four) and times when there are giant conventions or events scheduled.

Mexico: Riviera Maya

Why Get Hitched Here: This coastal stretch of the Yucatan Peninsula along the Mexican Caribbean mixes ancient Mayan ruins with palm-fringed beaches to give your wedding a real tropical feel. Farther north, seemingly carved out of the jungle, Cancun sits at the tip of the peninsula, twinkling with big resorts and a boisterous nightlife. Choose a property in Cancun's hopping Hotel Zone, book an entire boutique hotel or go for a hacienda-style wedding in a Mayan village near one of the ancient archaeological sites. The ruins of the ancient Mayan empire in seaside Tulum provide a stunning backdrop. For a slower-paced setting, try Playa del Carmen, which displays an authentic rustic charm and is home to some gorgeous beaches. And there's no shortage of natural settings here, either: Say "I do" in a lush, tropical garden, in a beautiful eco-park or among the cenotes, or freshwater pools, the Riviera Maya is famous for. When to Wed: Winter months offer the best weather but are crowded, with sunny, 80-degree days from mid-December through Easter. Avoid spring-break season, late February through March. April and May are traditionally slower months, and the weather's still good. Rain is heaviest in June and October, with hurricanes possible through November. Humidity is uncomfortably high in the summer.

US: Tucson, Arizona

Why Get Hitched Here: Retreat to the city of turquoise jewelry, saguaro cacti and deep-orange sunsets. Located in the southern region of Arizona between Phoenix and the Mexican border, Tucson offers a natural and rugged rendition of the Southwest landscape for a unique setting for your "I dos." On the weekend lineup for your friends and family: catching a glimpse of a road runner while hiking through Sabino Canyon, touring the historic Mission San Xavier del Bac or perusing the photo and art galleries full of Native American and Mexican textiles and jewelry. When to Wed: Tucson's weather is generally warm year-round, and most days are bright and sunny. Temperatures regularly climb into the 90s (and above) in the summer, with June and July accounting for the largest number of very hot days.

US: San Francisco, California

Why Get Hitched Here: If you're looking for an urban setting that offers more in terms of scenery than just a concrete jungle, head to northern California's big city. San Fran is urban without being overwhelming, combining big-time sophistication with the laid-back, dressed-down attitude of the rest of the West Coast, making it one of the top US cities to tie the knot in. San Francisco wins the hearts of brides- and grooms-to-be for many reasons: Hills rise and drop everywhere you look; huge parks share space with skyscrapers and ornate, bay-windowed Victorian homes; cable cars rattle over the streets; and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge are everywhere from within the city as well as the water, which surrounds San Francisco on three sides. Plus, foodies will love the assortment of fresh, local ingredients and world-class fare that make designing a memorable menu for your reception a breeze. When to Wed: San Francisco averages about 65 degrees year-round, meaning anytime is the right time, though expect the city's famous fog in the summer. Whenever you go, make sure to tell guests to dress in layers—when the sun sets, they'll need that pashmina or cardigan.

US: Park City, Utah

Why Get Hitched Here: Park City offers the European sophistication and majestic peaks that the Alps are known for—sans the passport requirements. Thanks to a new crop of ritzy resorts, the former mining town has turned into a top destination for nuptials. But Park City has something going for it that other mountain destinations don't: It's located just 40 minutes from the Salt Lake City airport, making it a great option for winter weddings. Plus, it's home to three world-class ski resorts, all with dedicated teams to help put together your dream wedding. When to Wed: Ski season starts in early December and lasts into mid-April, but the summer and fall are gems and provide plenty for guests to do, including hiking, fly-fishing and mountain biking. May can be dreary and rainy as the snow starts to melt, while the weather in late October and November can be dicey—it could be 80 degrees one day and snowing the next.

US: Kauai, Hawaii

Why Get Hitched Here: Kauai is known as the "Garden Isle" for its incredibly lush tropical landscape and is perfect for those looking for a more secluded spot to tie the knot. It remains the least developed of the four main islands, and life here tends to move at a slower pace. Although Kauai's Mount Waialeale is considered the wettest spot on earth (it receives an average of more than 400 inches of rainfall per year), the island's southern coast is perpetually sunny, making it ideal for weddings. Guests can surf, hike or take a helicopter tour. When to Wed: Anytime—temperatures year-round are in the 70s and 80s during the day. Dry season runs May through October, but even in winter, rain showers are short and mild. If you're looking to save a little cash, avoid winter and early spring, when tourist season is in full swing.

US: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Why Get Hitched Here: The majestic Tetons offer a breathtaking background for your nuptials (and the sunsets here simply can't be beat for romantic wedding pics and ceremonies), but you'll also find rustic ranches and a Wild West vibe in Jackson Hole if a Western theme (think: cowboy boots and hay-bale benches) is more your style. Your guests can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, fly-fishing and checking out the local shops, museums, bars and shootout (seriously!) in town. When to Wed: The summer and early fall are beautiful in Jackson Hole, but late spring and fall can be unpredictable. Winter weddings are gorgeous here, but keep in mind: A big storm could make it difficult, or even impossible, for your guests to get there.

US: Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley, California

Why Get Hitched Here: Wine Country USA is filled with stunning landscapes—rolling hills, lush valleys and acre upon acre of vineyards (aka the perfect romantic backdrop for your nuptials). Of course, the abundance of amazing wines produced here, and the world-class restaurants with dishes worthy of accompanying them, will certainly make treating your guests a breeze. And given the sheer number of vineyards and charming inns, resorts and spas surrounding them, you'll also have plenty of options for venues and accommodations. When to Wed: Summer and October are the best times to visit the region. September can be beautiful, but you may have problems with availability, and rates will be at their peak because it's harvest season. Even though you're in California, temperatures can drop at night (think: mid-50s in the summer), so be sure your guests know to bring sweaters and wraps for the evenings.