So, you wanna get married somewhere dreamy and still be able to afford cake too?
Girl, same.
But first let me just say:
You don’t have to drop $30K on a wedding to have a magical, Instagram-worthy day.
Nope, you don’t need to be rich to have a wedding that looks like a dream. You just need a little imagination, maybe a passport (or not!), and some decent Wi-Fi to start planning.
This post is packed with cheap destination wedding locations that are drop-dead gorgeous and won’t drop-kick your budget. Beaches? Yup. Vineyards? Got ‘em. Mountain views? Hell yeah!
If you want a beautiful, cheap destination wedding spot that won’t confuse your grandma or empty your savings, you’re in the right place. Because that Instagram-worthy day is right infront of you. So, get your groove on and let’s go wedding hacking!
Why a Destination Wedding Can Save Money (And Your Sanity!)
Okay, let’s address the sparkly elephant in the room:
Not gonna lie—destination weddings sound crazy expensive. Like “should we sell a kidney or rent out our couch on Airbnb?” kind of expensive.
Plot Twist!
Not even close! Truth is, cheap destination wedding locations almost always cost less than a big ‘ol hometown bash—especially if you play it smart and skip all the fluff…..that, let’s face it, no one remembers anyway.
So, here’s the tea……
My friend Rachel just pulled off the most gorgeous destination wedding in Mexico—and yes, I was there, living my best life as a guest who didn’t have to plan a single thing. No bouquet toss, no speech, no awkward plus-one situation. Just me, a sun hat, and enough chips and guac to feed a small village.
I was skeptical at first. I mean, weddings in another country? Sounds pricey, right? But Rachel swore it actually saved her money. And after seeing how chill and beautiful the whole thing was, I totally believe her.
Here’s what I saw—and why cheap destination wedding locations are totally the move if you’re tying the knot (or just crashing one like me):
1. You Invite Fewer People—on Purpose
Rachel’s wedding in Playa del Carmen wasn’t packed. It wasn’t supposed to be. She kept the guest list short and sweet—just family, a few close friends, and me (duh). And because it was in Mexico, it naturally filtered out all the distant cousins and old coworkers who just wanted a free meal.
No one was mad. No one was left sitting at Table 14 with strangers. It was cozy, joyful, and way easier on her budget.
2. The Honeymoon Is Already Built-In
Rachel and her new hubby didn’t even move hotels after the wedding. They were already in paradise, so they just rolled right into honeymoon mode the next morning—with matching robes and zero stress. One trip, one resort, and one giant coconut drink with both their names on it.
I, on the other hand, took full advantage of the spa discount and went for a seaweed wrap. I mean… when in Mexico, right?
3. You Can Bundle Everything (Even the Cake)
They booked an all-inclusive resort that handled literally everything. I watched Rachel float through that week like she had a wedding planner, a vacation planner, and a fairy godmother rolled into one. The resort set up the ceremony, arranged the flowers, booked the photographer, made the cake, and even threw in a couple’s massage.
And the cake? I don’t even like cake—and I had seconds.
4. You Focus on What Actually Matters
I asked Rachel how she pulled this off without losing her mind. She said, “When you’re getting married somewhere like Mexico, you stop caring about chair covers and start thinking about what you actually want.”
And it showed. Her whole vibe was relaxed, present, and joyful. There were no dramatic relatives or mile-long to-do lists. Just love, laughter, and tacos.
Honestly, it made me think—if I ever do find a man who makes it past date #3, this might be the only kind of wedding I’d consider.
5. It’s Less Pressure. More Joy.
Let’s be real—big weddings can feel like a job interview with fancy appetizers. But Rachel’s destination wedding? Total vacation energy. People were there to celebrate, not critique. No one asked about dress codes or table settings. They just danced, toasted, and made beach memories they’ll talk about for years.
I flew home sunburned, full of stories, and 100% convinced: cheap destination wedding locations aren’t just budget-friendly—they’re soul-friendly too.
The 10 Best Cheap Destination Wedding Locations
If you want a beautiful wedding without going broke, these spots bring all the magic—without the massive price tag.
1. Sayulita, Mexico
The Vibe: Where Boho Dreams Meet Budget Bliss
If you’ve never heard of Sayulita, let me paint the picture: barefoot on the beach, a sunset so pretty it feels fake, and the sound of tacos sizzling somewhere in the distance. It’s got that laid-back, artsy vibe—like if a surf town and a Pinterest board had a baby.
This is the kind of place where you don’t need to drop $30K to have a wedding that feels straight out of a travel magazine. Rachel (remember her?) said it best: “It felt like a dream, but we didn’t break the bank doing it.”
So how does Sayulita keep things affordable without losing the magic?
For starters, Airbnb villas are everywhere. Your whole crew can stay together, crash in cozy jungle homes or breezy beachfront spots, and still have money left over for margaritas. The taco stands alone are a reason to go. Like, your wedding dinner could literally be street tacos—and no one would complain. Promise.
When should you book?
If you’re thinking Saturday in high season, lock it down 9–12 months ahead. But if you’re flexible and cool with a Thursday wedding (which, hello, leaves the whole weekend for partying), look at May to October—it’s cheaper, less crowded, and still stunning.
Want to legally marry there?
You totally can. But fair warning: Mexico wants paperwork. And a blood test. (Not kidding.) Most people skip the red tape, get legally hitched at home, and just throw the real celebration in Sayulita. Nobody’s checking for certificates when you’re dancing barefoot in the sand.
Where will guests stay?
Literally everywhere. From hostels to boutique hotels to villa rentals that sleep eight, your guests can go budget or bougie. Either way, they’ll be comfortable and close to the action.
Getting there?
Easy. Fly into Puerto Vallarta, then take a 45-minute ride through some scenic jungle roads to Sayulita. If you watch for seat sales from Canada or the U.S., you can get there for the price of a Target run.
Planning help?
Oh, Sayulita’s got you. There are tons of local planners who specialize in beach weddings and know all the shortcuts. Some offer full packages starting at around $1,500. Or if you’re like me—aka slightly Type A—you can totally DIY it with a little internet sleuthing and a few spreadsheets.
Money talk:
They use pesos, but most places are cool with U.S. dollars. And don’t stress—everyone working in tourism speaks English, so you won’t be playing charades trying to find a hair stylist or florist.
Things to do?
Endless. Your guests will be out surfing, eating tacos, hiking through the jungle, or doing sunrise yoga on the beach. It’s a wedding and a vacation. Trust me—they’ll thank you later.
2. Tulum, Mexico
The Vibe: Jungle Chic Without the Giant Price Tag
Tulum is where the jungle meets the beach… and somehow it all looks like a magazine spread. Think: barefoot brides, ocean breeze, and that boho-meets-luxury feel—but on a budget that doesn’t require a second job.
When I say this place is vibe central, I mean it. Dreamy cenotes, ancient ruins, soft white sand, and stylish little cafés that look like they were made for Instagram. And yes, you can get married here without selling your car.
Why is it so affordable?
Because you don’t have to rent the beach to have a ceremony on it. Tulum’s public beaches are stunning and free. That’s right—free!
Toss down a rug, bring some flowers, and boom—you’ve got the best ceremony space in town.
When to book it?
Skip December through April unless you’re okay with high prices and crowds. Late spring and early fall are your golden window—fewer tourists, way better rates, and it’s still warm enough to swim.
Getting legally married in Tulum?
You can, but Mexico likes its paperwork. Blood tests and notarized documents are involved.
Most couples keep it simple: do the legal bit at home and then have your symbolic wedding here. Same love, less hassle.
Where can guests stay?
Everywhere.
Tulum has options for every kind of traveler—from rustic jungle cabanas to posh boutique hotels. If you’re rolling deep, grab a private villa and split the cost with friends.
Group trip + wedding = instant win.
How do you get there?
Fly into Cancun and take a 2-hour drive down to Tulum. You can take a shuttle, rent a car, or book a van for the whole crew.
Flights from major cities are usually pretty good, especially if you’re using travel points.
Vendors + packages?
Tulum has no shortage of wedding planners who specialize in “effortless glam.” Think: minimalist arches, tropical florals, candlelit dinners on the sand.
Some offer weekdays or off-season deals that can save you thousands.
What about language + money?
Spanish is the go-to, but English is widely spoken. You’ll be fine. They take pesos, but most touristy places accept U.S. dollars too—though your money goes further if you pay in local currency.
3. Portugal
The Vibe: Wine, Castles & Wallet-Friendly Romance
Picture this:
…you’re saying “I do” in a literal castle… and you didn’t even need a royal budget to get there.
Welcome to Portugal, where everything looks like a fairytale and actually costs less than your cousin’s backyard wedding.
Portugal is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets when it comes to cheap destination wedding locations.
From vineyards in the Douro Valley to pastel palaces in Sintra and dramatic cliffs in the Algarve—this place serves views, history, and romance on a budget.
When to book it?
Late spring or early fall is your sweet spot. May, September, and October still give you that warm Euro glow, but without the tourist stampedes or hotel surge pricing. Book flights and venues 9–12 months out for best deals.
Can you legally marry here?
Technically yes but get ready for a paperwork parade. Most people (aka smart people) skip the legal stress and just do a symbolic ceremony in Portugal after legally tying the knot at home.
Guest accommodations?
Oh boy, there are soooo many options to choose from; Airbnbs, boutique hotels, cozy villas—you name it!
Whether your crew wants a countryside retreat or something walkable in Lisbon, it’s totally doable without maxing out any credit cards.
How do you get there?
Direct flights from Toronto, New York, Boston, and more are often pretty affordable (especially if you book early or use points). Lisbon and Porto are your best entry points.
Bonus: public transport is great once you’re there, so no need to rent 14 cars.
Vendors and wedding packages?
Yes, yes, and heck yes. Portugal has loads of local planners who specialize in budget-friendly elopements and micro-weddings.
Packages often start around $2,000 and can include a ceremony, flowers, photos, and even a vineyard dinner under the stars.
Language + currency?
Portuguese is the language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. They use the Euro, and your money goes way further here than in most Western European countries.
Think: $5 wine that tastes like $50 wine.
And what can guests do?
Ohhhh I dunno, just drink amazing wine, stroll cobblestone streets, hike along cliffs, take castle tours, eat flaky pastel de nata pastries until they cry happy tears… You get the idea. ��
4. Dominican Republic
The Vibe: Island paradise with a side of all-you-can-eat buffet
Alright, real talk: if your Pinterest board looks like a tropical honeymoon threw up on it (in the best way), the Dominican Republic might just be your budget’s new BFF. It’s one of the best cheap destination wedding locations if you’re after palm trees, white sand, and rum punch that hits just right.
The DR is basically built for destination weddings. It’s warm, it’s welcoming, and the all-inclusive resorts? They do everything but walk you down the aisle (and honestly, they’d probably do that too if you asked nicely).
When to book it?
Spring and fall are your best bet. January to April is stunning, but you’ll pay for it. September and October? Cheaper, but maybe pack a cute umbrella—just in case.
Legal marriage stuff:
You can legally marry here, but unless paperwork is your love language, it’s way easier to get hitched at home and have your “just married” moment on the beach without the stress.
Guest stays:
Punta Cana and La Romana have a buffet of resort options for every budget—luxury, mid-range, or “I need a deal and I need it now.” Bonus? Your guests won’t have to plan a thing. Just pack, relax, and sip something fruity with an umbrella in it.
Flights & getting there:
Flights from most U.S. and Canadian cities are easy-peasy. And they’re often under $500 round-trip—sometimes way less if you catch a seat sale. Boom.
Vendors and packages:
Most resorts offer all-in-one wedding packages that start around $1,000. That usually gets you the ceremony setup, officiant, flowers, cake, and maybe even a spa day for the bride (yes, please). Plus, they’ve done this a thousand times, so you’re in expert hands.
Language + money stuff:
Spanish is the main language, but resort staff usually speak English. The local currency is the Dominican peso, but USD is widely accepted—so no need to stress over currency conversion.
Fun stuff for your peeps:
Catamaran cruises, snorkeling, zip-lining, beach volleyball, foam pool parties that are somehow both embarrassing and amazing… Your guests will have a blast and get a tan.
5. Banff, Alberta (Canada) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Vibe: The Mountain Wedding That Won’t Break the Bank
Okay, so maybe you’re not a flip-flops-in-the-sand kind of bride. Maybe you’re more “boots, blankets, and glacier lake romance.” If that’s the case, let me introduce you to one of the UTMOST STUNNING cheap destination wedding locations out there: Banff, Alberta!!
This little Canadian town is tucked inside a national park—and spoiler alert: the views are FREE. I’m talking turquoise water, snow-dusted peaks, and photo ops so good your photographer might faint.
Best time to book:
September or early October is the sweet spot. The fall colors are magical, the summer crowds are gone, and everything—from hotels to vendors—is way cheaper.
Legal marriage stuff:
Canada keeps it chill. Just grab a marriage license from Alberta and bring two witnesses. No blood tests. No weird rules. Just love, paperwork, and some mountains to stare at while you say “I do.”
Where your guests can stay:
Banff has it all—fancy lodges, cozy inns, budget-friendly motels, and cute cabins you can rent for your whole wedding crew. You can even find group-friendly Airbnb’s if you book early.
Flights & getting there:
Fly into Calgary (YYC), then enjoy a 90-minute drive through postcard-perfect scenery. Flights from most major cities aren’t bad, especially if you snag a deal or use your points.
Vendors & wedding stuff:
Banff has some of the best small elopement companies and photographers in the game.
You can find affordable elopement packages that include your ceremony setup, flowers, officiant, and even help with permits. Starting around $1,500, it’s basically a steal—especially for something this gorgeous.
Language + money stuff:
English is the main language (hi, Canada), and they use the Canadian dollar. If you’re American, your money goes a bit further here—love that for us.
Things your guests will love:
Hiking trails, hot springs, scenic gondola rides, wildlife spotting, and canoeing on Lake Louise. Honestly, it’s like getting married inside a Pinterest board.
6. Las Vegas, Nevada
The Vibe: Neon lights, wild nights, and zero pressure.
Why it’s budget-friendly:
Vegas is the queen of cheap weddings. You can tie the knot for under $200. Want Elvis? Done. Want to skip the drama and just say “I do” with a milkshake in one hand? Also, doable.
You’ll save thousands compared to a big hometown wedding.
Best Time to Book:
Anytime! Vegas is always awake. Spring and fall are the sweet spots for weather. Midweek dates save you serious money—plus, shorter buffet lines.
Legal Marriage Requirements:
No blood test. No waiting period. Just get your marriage license and hit up a chapel. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.
Guest Accommodations:
From no-frills motels to bougie rooftop pool suites—Vegas has something for every wallet. You can even score group deals if your crew is rolling deep.
Flight Costs or Accessibility:
Flights are usually dirt cheap. There’s a good chance your local airport has a direct to Vegas with a flight attendant named Cheryl who’s seen it all.
Local Vendors or Packages:
Chapels start around $199 and often include music, flowers, and a photographer. Wanna level up? Some spots turn full-on hotel suites into wedding venues. Yes, really.
Language and Currency Notes:
English, dollars, and a high chance of someone dressed as Darth Vader officiating your ceremony. No, seriously.
Fun Things for Guests to Do:
Pool parties, buffets, live shows, casinos, people-watching, and maybe even a helicopter ride over the Strip.
Your guests will be talking about it forever.
7. Bali, Indonesia
The Vibe: Jungle views, quiet beaches, dreamy sunsets and 100% main character energy.
Why it’s budget-friendly:
Bali is pure magic—and shockingly affordable once you get there. Villas, food, flowers, and full wedding packages are all budget-friendly.
You’ll feel like a queen without needing royal money.
Best Time to Book:
Dry season (April to October) is your best bet. Book 9–12 months out to snag the best villas and vendors.
Legal Marriage Requirements:
It’s possible, but paperwork is a little extra. A lot of couples just do the legal part at home and come here to throw the dreamy, no-stress ceremony of their Pinterest dreams.
Guest Accommodations:
There’s everything from jungle hideaways to beachfront resorts—often under $100/night. Guests can buddy up in a villa or go solo. It’s all super flexible.
Flight Costs or Accessibility:
Flights are the priciest part, especially from North America. But once you’re there, it’s affordable across the board.
This is where credit card points or travel hacks come in handy.
Local Vendors or Packages:
Bali has tons of amazing wedding planners offering all-inclusive packages.
For around $1,000–$2,000, you can get florals, food, a photographer, and even traditional Balinese touches like dancers or spiritual blessings.
Language and Currency Notes:
They speak Bahasa Indonesia, but English is everywhere. You’ll be using Rupiah, and your money stretches like yoga pants after brunch.
Fun Things for Guests to Do:
Waterfalls, temples, yoga classes, beach clubs, surfing, spa days, and smoothie bowls galore. It’s the kind of trip people brag about for years.
8. Greece (Islands like Crete or Paros)
The Vibe: Blue Rooftops, Big Flavor, and Budget-Friendly “I Do’s”
So, here’s the deal my dear……
Greece is not just for honeymooners in white linen pants. It’s also a total win if you want a destination wedding that looks like a postcard but doesn’t cost your firstborn child.
And no, I’m not talking about Santorini’s influencer-priced chaos. We’re going off the beaten path to places like Crete, Paros, or Naxos—where the sunsets still slap and the wedding packages won’t require a second mortgage.
Best Time to Book:
Go for late May, early June, or September. That sweet spot gives you perfect weather, fewer crowds, and way lower prices than peak summer madness.
Legal Marriage Stuff:
Greece does allow foreigners to get legally married, but it comes with a side of red tape. Most couples skip the stress and handle the legal part at home, then throw their big fat Greek wedding abroad.
Where Your Guests Can Stay:
Greece has everything—from boutique hotels and beachfront Airbnb’s to charming village stays with grandma-level hospitality. Group villas are super affordable on the smaller islands.
Flights & Getting There:
Fly into Athens and hop a short flight or ferry to the islands. It’s surprisingly easy and not too pricey if you book early or use travel points. Budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet can be your BFFs here.
Wedding Planners & Packages:
Tons of local planners specialize in intimate weddings with major Greek charm.
You can snag all-in-one wedding packages starting around $1,500 that include the ceremony, flowers, photos, and even baklava (you know that matters).
Language + Currency Notes:
Greek is the language, but in tourist spots, English is everywhere. Greece uses the Euro, and compared to other parts of Europe, your cash stretches a bit further—especially when you’re eating €2 gyros by the sea.
What Guests Will Love:
Crystal-clear beaches, historic ruins, lazy lunches in olive groves, and dancing under string lights like you’re in Mamma Mia.
Plus? The food alone is reason enough to RSVP yes.
9. Jamaica
The Vibe: Laid-Back Vibes and No-Fuss Weddings
If Greece is your “eat-pray-love” fantasy, Jamaica is the “rum-punch-and-reggae” realness.
It’s one of my favorite cheap destination wedding locations because it hits all the marks: stunning views, all-inclusive options, and the kind of laid-back joy that reminds you what weddings are really about—fun, love, and avoiding family drama.
When to Book:
January to April is prime time, but prices can be high.
For better deals, look at May, early June, or late fall—just keep an eye on hurricane season (August to October can be a gamble, but some folks score serious discounts).
Can You Legally Marry There?
Yes, and Jamaica makes it easy-breezy. No long waiting periods or piles of paperwork. You just need to be there 24 hours before, and boom—you’re eligible to tie the knot.
Where Everyone Can Sleep:
All-inclusive is the keyword here! This is your JAM.
Resorts in Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios offer stay-and-play deals, so your guests can party, nap, and repeat without blowing their budget.
You’ll also find budget-friendly Airbnb’s and charming boutique hotels if you want something cozier.
Flights & Accessibility:
Flights from Canada and the U.S. are super easy, and you’ll often find seat sales to Montego Bay or Kingston.
Plus, many resorts offer free airport shuttles, so you can start sipping cocktails 30 minutes after landing.
Vendors, Planners, and All the Extras:
Resorts here LOVE weddings. Packages often start at $999 and include everything—ceremony, cake, flowers, even a steel drum band if you ask nicely.
There are also independent planners if you want something more unique.
Language + Currency:
English is spoken everywhere, and while they use the Jamaican dollar, USD is widely accepted. Just double check prices—some vendors list in JMD and some in USD.
Fun for Your Guests:
Snorkeling, river tubing, waterfall hiking, rum tasting, beach lounging. Oh, and the jerk chicken? Unreal.
Jamaica turns your wedding into a full-blown vacation for everyone—even your grumpy uncle who “doesn’t do islands.”
10. Savannah, Georgia
The Vibe: Southern Charm on a Sweet Tea Budget
If you’ve ever dreamed of getting married under moss-covered trees with a warm breeze and a vintage vibe, Savannah is calling your name.
It’s one of the best cheap destination wedding locations for couples who want romance, history, and a little bit of southern sass — without the sky-high price tag.
When to Book:
Spring and fall are absolute perfection in Savannah. Think April to early June or late September to November. The weather’s cozy, the flowers are blooming, and your curls won’t frizz up in full-on summer humidity.
Marriage Legalities:
Getting legally married in Georgia is easy-peasy. Grab a marriage license from any probate court in the state (no blood test required), and you’re good to go — even if you don’t live there.
Guest Accommodations:
Downtown has charming inns, Airbnb’s, and budget-friendly hotels galore. If your guest list includes everyone from your childhood BFF to your cousin’s emotional support ferret, there’s a spot for them all.
Flights & Accessibility:
Fly into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport — it’s small but mighty. If flights are pricey, you can also land in Jacksonville or Atlanta and road trip in. Bonus: the city’s walkable, so guests won’t need to rent cars.
Vendors & Packages:
This town is full of amazing wedding vendors who know how to work with a smaller budget.
Or skip the vendors altogether and do an elopement in Forsyth Park or on the courthouse steps, then celebrate with shrimp ‘n’ grits and cupcakes downtown. Total small wedding goals.
Language & Currency:
English and USD. No exchange rates. No confusion. Just say y’all and smile.
What Guests Will Love:
Strolling through historic squares, ghost tours, riverfront walks, buttery biscuits, pralines that taste like magic — and those dreamy Spanish moss trees that make every photo look like it belongs in a romance novel.
Smart Tips for Booking a Cheap Destination Wedding
- Pick the Right Time: Avoid busy seasons! Try getting married in May or November instead of the summer. It’s cheaper and less crowded.
- Look for All-in-One Deals: Choose places that offer the venue, food, and hotel stay in one package. It saves money—and stress!
- Skip the Fancy Stuff: No one remembers chair covers or ribbon on the napkins. Keep it simple and save big.
- Use Travel Points: Got credit card points? Use them for your flight—or even your honeymoon!
- Elope First, Party Later: If money’s tight, do a small wedding now and celebrate with friends and family later.
REMINDER: if you’re saying “I do” with sand between your toes, you’ll definitely want a beach-friendly wedding dress to match the vibe.
Check out these cheap wedding dresses for a beach wedding that, well, don’t look cheap at all!
Affordable Can Still Be Magical
Cheap doesn’t mean basic. And affordable doesn’t mean forgettable.
You deserve a wedding that feels like you—whether that’s barefoot on a beach or twirling in the forest with a bouquet you picked yourself.
The right cheap destination wedding location is out there waiting. And your guests? They’ll be too distracted by the beauty (and budget-friendly cocktails) to even notice you saved thousands.
Destination weddings are basically the budget-friendly hack nobody talks about. You skip the stress, save cash, and start your marriage with a tan and a margarita in hand.
So yeah, maybe your aunt will grumble about needing a passport. But she’ll survive.
And you? You’ll be sipping coconut water with your soulmate under a palm tree.
And that, my friend, is worth every mile.
