25 Best Destination Wedding Locations in the US and Abroad

A destination wedding turns your celebration into a trip your guests will never forget. Whether you dream of a tropical beach, a mountain lodge or an Italian villa, the right location depends on your budget, guest list and the experience you want to share. Here are 25 popular destination wedding locations and the planning essentials.

Destination weddings in the US

No passports needed, simpler legal requirements and easier travel for guests.

1. Hawaii: beaches, waterfalls and sunsets on several islands.
2. Florida Keys: laid-back island style without leaving the country.
3. Napa and Sonoma, California: vineyard elegance and great food.
4. Colorado mountains: alpine meadows, lodges and ski towns.
5. Lake Tahoe: crystal-clear water and mountain views.
6. Charleston, South Carolina: historic charm and plantation-style estates.
7. Savannah, Georgia: oak-lined squares and Southern romance.
8. Sedona, Arizona: dramatic red rock landscapes.
9. Texas Hill Country: ranches, vineyards and wildflowers.
10. New England coast: lighthouses and seaside towns in summer and fall.

International destination weddings

1. Mexico (Cancun, Tulum, Los Cabos): all-inclusive resorts and easy flights from the US.
2. Jamaica: resort packages and lively culture.
3. Dominican Republic (Punta Cana): long white beaches and many resorts.
4. Aruba: outside the main hurricane belt, with steady weather.
5. The Bahamas: turquoise water and close to the US.
6. Costa Rica: rainforests, volcanoes and eco-luxury.
7. Tuscany, Italy: villas, vineyards and rolling hills.
8. Amalfi Coast, Italy: cliffside views and lemon groves.
9. Santorini, Greece: white-washed villages and caldera sunsets.
10. Provence, France: chateaux and lavender fields.
11. Portugal (Algarve, Sintra, Douro): beaches, palaces and vineyards.
12. Ireland and Scotland: castles and dramatic landscapes. See castle wedding venues.
13. Bali, Indonesia: temples, cliffs and tropical gardens.
14. Iceland: waterfalls, glaciers and adventurous elopements.
15. Canadian Rockies: turquoise lakes and mountain lodges.

Choosing the right destination

Timing and weather

• The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, which affects the Caribbean, the Gulf and parts of Mexico; consider travel insurance and backup plans.
• Mediterranean summers are hot and busy; late spring and early fall are popular alternatives.
• Mountain weather can change quickly; plan warm layers even in summer.

Legal requirements

Rules vary widely. Some countries require residency periods, translated documents or civil ceremonies. Many couples marry legally at home first and hold a symbolic ceremony abroad. Check the destination's official requirements early.

Guest planning tips

• Send save-the-dates 8 to 12 months ahead. See save the date photo ideas.
• Reserve room blocks and share travel details on your wedding website.
• Expect a smaller guest count; destination weddings are often intimate.
• Plan a welcome event and a group activity.
• Consider hosting a reception at home for those who cannot travel.

Budget

Destination weddings can cost less than a large hometown wedding because guest lists are smaller, but travel, lodging and planner fees add up. Compare costs in wedding venue costs, and see how to choose a wedding venue before booking.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most popular destination wedding location?

Mexico and the Caribbean are among the most popular for US couples thanks to short flights and all-inclusive resorts; Hawaii leads within the US.

How far in advance should you plan a destination wedding?

Start 12 to 18 months ahead and send save-the-dates 8 to 12 months before the date.

Are destination weddings cheaper?

They can be, because guest lists are usually smaller, but travel and lodging costs vary widely.

Do you need a wedding planner for a destination wedding?

It is strongly recommended. Many resorts include an on-site coordinator, and local planners know vendors and legal requirements.