Why Choose a Destination Wedding in the Dominican Republic?
Destination wedding in the Dominican Republic – sounds like a dream, right? Saying your vows on a beautiful beach with crystal-clear water and palm trees swaying in the breeze. I know planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but I’ve planned dozens of romantic getaways to the DR, and it’s always one of my top picks for couples.
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In this post, we’ll dive into the best destination wedding resorts in the Dominican Republic, making it easier for you to choose the perfect spot for your special day. I’ll share the highlights of each resort, what makes them special, and why they might be the perfect choice for your wedding.
Why Choose the Dominican Republic for Your Destination Wedding?
When it comes to destination weddings, the Dominican Republic really stands out. One of the biggest reasons I recommend it is because of the incredible variety of resorts and wedding packages available. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly resort where everyone can join the fun or an adults-only retreat for a more intimate celebration, the DR has it all. Plus, it’s usually more budget-friendly compared to other tropical destinations, making it a great choice for many couples. You get the best of both worlds: stunning beaches and landscapes without breaking the bank.
Our Top 11 Destination Wedding Resorts in the Dominican Republic
Between our fellow agents and our own clients, we’ve made a list of the resorts that are at the top of the list for destination weddings! We’ll dive into our reasons why below in a pros and cons chart for you to save for later! (Get a pen and paper)
- Casa del Campo
- Dreams Royal Beach
- Dreams Flora
- Hyatt Ziva/Zilara
- Hilton La Romana
- Lopesan Costa Bavaro
- Royalton Punta Cana
- Hard Rock Punta Cana
- Majestic Elegance
- Dreams Playa Mujeres
- Secrets Cap Cana
How Much is a Destination Wedding in the Dominican Republic?
It is surprisingly affordable, with typical costs ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the resort and package you choose. When you add in your rooms and travel expenses, most of my clients fall around the $20K mark. Many resorts offer all-inclusive wedding packages that can save you money and simplify planning.
For example, some packages include the ceremony, reception, accommodations, and even honeymoon perks. By taking advantage of these deals, you can enjoy a beautiful and memorable wedding without breaking the bank.
Is a Wedding in the Dominican Republic Legal in the US?
Yes, a wedding in the Dominican Republic is legally recognized in the US, but there are specific requirements to ensure everything is official. To get married in the DR, you’ll need to provide valid passports, birth certificates, and a single status affidavit.
After the ceremony, your marriage certificate must be translated into English and authenticated by the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the US Embassy. Once you’ve completed these steps, your marriage will be legally recognized back home, allowing you to enjoy your special day without any legal worries.
What is the Best Month to Get Married in the Dominican Republic?
Figuring out the best time to get married in the Dominican Republic mostly comes down to the weather and how busy things get. The weather is usually warm and sunny all year, but the nicest, driest months are from December to April. This is peak season, so things can get a bit pricey and crowded.
If you’re looking for a sweet spot with good weather and fewer tourists, try May or November. These shoulder months offer great weather and more availability. Just remember to avoid the hurricane season, which runs from June to November, but we’ve seen success with our couples having weddings these months. It’s just something that you’d want to keep in mind.
Resort Highlights: Our Top 5
| Resort | Pros | Cons | Who It’s Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casa del Campo | Offers a private beach, luxury villas, world-class golf courses, and excellent food in a boutique setting in La Romana | Costs more, may feel too exclusive for some | Couples seeking a luxurious, exclusive experience with a focus on great food |
| Dreams Royal Beach | Provides a family-friendly, all-inclusive experience with lush gardens, perfect for beach weddings | Gets busy during peak seasons | Families wanting a lively, all-inclusive resort with a beautiful beach wedding option |
| Dreams Flora | Boasts a tranquil atmosphere, beautiful beachfront, newly renovated spaces, and comprehensive wedding packages | Limited nightlife options | Couples desiring a peaceful, intimate setting with natural beauty |
| Hyatt Ziva/Zilara | Features family-friendly (Ziva) and adults-only (Zilara) options, luxury amenities, and stunning views | Larger resort that can feel crowded | Groups with mixed needs (families and adults) seeking luxury and versatility |
| Hilton La Romana | Offers an all-inclusive experience with both family-friendly and adults-only sections, excellent service, and is ideal for wedding groups with kids | Higher costs during the high season | Couples and families needing flexibility, great service, and kid-friendly options |
The Honorable Mentions (Honestly These Are Amazing Too)
| Resort | Pros | Cons | Who It’s Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lopesan Costa Bavaro | Showcases luxurious suites, extensive amenities, a beautiful beachfront, and an exceptional rooftop terrace for off-beach weddings | Larger property, with longer walks between amenities | Travelers looking for a luxurious resort-style vacation with a unique wedding venue |
| Royalton Punta Cana | Delivers an all-inclusive, family-friendly experience with an elegant setting | Some areas can be noisy due to activities | Families and couples seeking an elegant and active stay |
| Hard Rock Punta Cana | Provides vibrant nightlife, entertainment, and extensive amenities | Can be too lively for those wanting a quiet experience | Couples and groups looking for fun and entertainment |
| Majestic Elegance | Offers a family-friendly, all-inclusive setting with elegance and a stellar onsite wedding team | Gets crowded during peak travel times | Families and couples needing elegance, convenience, and excellent wedding coordination |
| Dreams Playa Mujeres | Features a family-friendly, all-inclusive experience with lush gardens | Further from the airport, with a longer transfer time | Families and couples preferring a serene garden setting |
| Secrets Cap Cana | Provides an adults-only, romantic ambiance with personalized service | Costs more, limited to adults only | Couples seeking a romantic and intimate experience |
How Many Days Do You Have to Be in the Dominican Republic Before Getting Married?
To have a legal ceremony in the Dominican Republic, you need to stay for at least three nights before the wedding to sort out all the paperwork. If you’re going for a symbolic ceremony, you can skip this three-night requirement. Arriving three to five days before your wedding is our recommendation.
You get time to settle in, meet with your wedding planner, finalize details, and relax before the big day. Plus, you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings and start celebrating early.
For your Dominican Republic honeymoon itinerary, check this out here!
Destination Wedding in Dominican Republic: BEST ADVICE
Use a destination wedding specialist. They will help you with the entire planning process. You’ve never planned a wedding…let alone one in another country. Make sure you are working with an expert who can guide you and make sure you wedding is a success.
And by the way, that’s what we do! So whenever you are ready, you can contact us here. It’ll be the best first step you make towards planning your dream wedding in the Dominican Republic.