Pura Vida in Costa Rica

Latin America is for Lovers

Getting married amidst the sights and sounds of a tropical rainforest is one romantic beginning! If you love the beach, crave adventure and relish the beauty of nature, then Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo is idyllic for your destination wedding.

Just under six hours fly time from Los Angeles, the resort is perched in a monkey-filled forest above two of Papagayo’s three beautiful beaches on the Pacific Ocean. With several indoor-outdoor restaurants and event spaces to choose from (each uniquely designed to perfection for the destination) picking the exact place to wed may be your toughest decision. The Andaz Beach House, located ten minutes away by shuttle (or a quick beach-to-beach boat ride), is a private destination in itself.

Large ceremonies and receptions under the stars and trees that line the still waters of the bay are magical here. For smaller group settings, follow the volcanic rock staircase to the outdoor wedding pavilion that encases couples and loved ones in lush greenery. It also houses a massive art structure ideal for ceremonial decorating.

Before and after the big day, Andaz Costa Rica keeps you busy. With the Papagayo Explorers Club, an Arnold Palmer 18-hole championship signature golf course and Onda Spa, there’s something for everyone. Watersports such as paddle boarding and kayaking are complimentary on property and zip lining is just a short distance away. 

Maria Victoria Gomez, assistant director of sales, marketing and events, describes the adventure that awaits, including night walks, mountain biking and even a barista experience. “The finest Costa Rican coffee, chocolate and loose leaf teas from Asia can be enjoyed as part of a unique culinary experience…our Master Barista Class takes guests on a journey of coffee discovery, learning the techniques for making the perfect cup of coffee, in addition to comparing different coffee making methods from around the world.” Chao Pescao Small Plates and Bar hosts locally-inspired mixology classes, ideal for family bonding time, and Ostra sets the scene for more formal family gatherings.

When a destination wedding is more than just a day, Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo delivers pura vida in spades.

Photos courtesy of (in order of appearance): Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo (1st, 3rd) and Peninsula Papagayo (2nd, 4th, 5th)

This article first appeared in Destination I Do's Spring/Summer 2019 issue. You can order a copy here.