20 Most Unique Destination Wedding Venues in The World
Explore the most unique and breathtaking wedding venues around the world with our expert insights.
Skip the sponsored ads and biased blogs; with over a decade of experience planning destination weddings around the world, we’ve uncovered prime and prestigious destinations just for you.
As seasoned destination wedding specialists, we’ll delve into the gems of Mexico, the creme de la creme Caribbean islands, and Europe’s most astounding venues.
Discover and secure the date for your dream celebration all in one spot. 🌟
20 Most Unique Destination Wedding Venues in The World
- TierraLuna Garden at Garza Blanca Vallarta
- Dry Cenote at El Dorado Royale
- Cave Wedding Venue at Hotel Xcaret
- The White Porticoes at Grand Velas Nayarit
- Chapel at El Dorado Maroma
- The Beach Venue at Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
- The Cenote at Sandos Eco Caracol
- Stone Gazebo at Excellence Riviera Cancun
- Aqua Terrace at El Dorado Royal Casitas
- The Covered Pier at Generations Riviera Maya
- The Orange Tree at Garza Blanca Vallarta
- Cocoon Shaped Event Studio at Andaz Papagayo
- Over-The-Water Serenity Wedding Chapel at Sandals Montego Bay
- Sky Terrace at Royalton Bavaro in The Domincan Republic
- The Eclipse Canal at Hard Rock Punta Cana
- Sky Bar at Breathless Punta Cana
- Beaches Fountain at Secrets Royal in the Dominican Republic
- Terra Nostra Terrace & Lower Deck at Nizuc Resort & Spa
- Tenuta La Madonnina di Barna in Lake Como
- Fort George in Croatia
1. TierraLuna Gardens at Garza Blanca Vallarta
Nestled along the exclusive southern coastline of Puerto Vallarta, this unique 85-acre resort seamlessly blends the tranquility of a tropical paradise with crystalline waters, creating a landscape unlike any other.
The TierraLuna Gardens, strategically positioned on the mountainside, serves as an exceptional outdoor haven, preserving both indigenous and exotic plant varieties for an idyllic wedding ceremony setting.
The resort offers a fairytale experience with three shimmering pools, imparting a sense of privacy and exclusivity.
The bride and groom Suite, spanning 1,545 square feet at the ocean’s edge, boasts an expansive terrace and a luxurious spa-inspired bathroom with a 180° panoramic view of lush landscapes, promising an exceptional and unforgettable experience.
2. Dry Cenote at El Dorado Royale
El Dorado Royale in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, offers a variety of different wedding locations all in one resort, making it unique for its list of picture-perfect spaces.
However, our Destination Wedding Specialists particularly love the little-known venue of the “dry cenote“.
Cenotes, whether dry or filled with water, offer a distinctive and naturally beautiful setting.
The unique geological features and surrounding landscapes can create a memorable and visually stunning backdrop for a wedding ceremony.
A whole host of incredible perks come with planning a destination wedding at El Dorado Royale, so even if you’re not intrigued by the dry cenote, it’s worth reaching out to us anyway to discover why we love this resort for destination weddings so much.
3. Cave Wedding Venue at Hotel Xcaret
Selecting just one exceptional venue from Hotel Xcaret posed a delightful challenge, as our Destination Wedding Specialists insist that “anything Xcaret” should be considered.
The resort’s incredible achievement lies in seamlessly integrating nature into its design.
Break free from tradition and embrace the extraordinary with this unique Cave venue choice!
Differentiate your ceremony from the rest with an option like no other.
With accommodation for up to 50 guests, this distinctive wedding venue offers a variety of special features to enchant your attendees.
Immerse yourself in an exclusive, breathtaking setting, where your wedding colors will come to life vibrantly.
4. The White Porticoes at Grand Velas Nayarit
No surprises here—Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has clinched the prestigious 2023 Travelers’ Choice award.
As you step in, expect a lavish reception for your guests, complete with thoughtful gifts, exquisite drinks, and the occasional massage therapy.
Weddings at this haven of luxury embody opulence, seamlessly blending modern architectural elegance with a deep reverence for the natural beauty surrounding it.
The Gazebo, the resort’s pièce de résistance, presents three pristine white “porticoes” framing the majestic “Banderas Bay,” providing an idyllic backdrop for a dream ceremony and capturing breathtaking moments in stunning photographs. Elevate your experience where sophistication meets the sublime—truly one of Mexico’s most unique wedding venues.
We just got back from Puerto Vallarta and this specific venue still holds front and center in our mind.
5. The Chapel at El Dorado Maroma
For a ceremony that’s uniquely traditional, explore El Dorado’s Nuestra Señora de Los Dolores Chapel.
However, take your special day to new heights of comfort and distinctiveness by opting for a stay in the on-site water bungalows – akin to a mini Mexican-Maldives experience.
Indulge in the extraordinary with turquoise water views through the glass floor, sun decks, porches featuring a plunge pool, jacuzzi tubs, and exclusive access to a private restaurant.
It’s a flawless fusion of tradition and unparalleled luxury.
Plus, Dorado Maroma Beach is regularly voted one of the best beaches in the world!
6. The Beach Venue at Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
We just got back from here, and we were so impressed with the views from the beach!
A genuine paradise for weddings tucked away amidst palm trees, hammocks, and endless vistas of tranquil turquoise waves meeting the sand.
What sets this venue apart? Indulge in uniquely crafted food and cocktails featuring locally sourced ingredients that tantalize the taste buds beyond imagination.
This venue is enhanced by sweeping views of immaculate beaches, which ensures an unmatched serenity. With exclusive 5-star amenities and the option of a ballroom, terrace, or beach setting, it becomes the ideal setting for an idyllic paradise wedding.
Immerse yourself in the embrace of lush gardens and private pools, envisioning your wedding photos capturing the enchantment of this extraordinarily distinctive location.
7. The Cenote at Sandos Eco Caracol
Imagine exchanging vows on the brink of a cenote nestled in one of Mexico’s most breathtaking wedding venues.
Sandos Caracol Eco Resort has ingeniously crafted a space that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings.
This single resort boasts three distinct wedding locations.
Choose The Cenote Cristalino, situated amidst lush tropical plants, featuring a charming wood platform for more intimate ceremonies.
Alternatively, illuminate your fairytale wedding on the terrace, where a striking rectangular fountain takes centre stage, aglow with enchanting lights as your night unfolds.
For a shaded setting, particularly ideal for early-day ceremonies, The Beach Gazebo, with its distinctive design, provides both you and your guests with a valuable retreat.
One of our very own team members recently got wed here, so we think that says it all!
8. Stone Gazebo at Excellence Riviera Cancun
Explore the rustic allure of wooden platforms and tiki huts at Excellence Riviera in Cancun, where Boho vibes reign supreme.
Despite its Cancun location, this spot effortlessly creates the illusion of a captivating island escape.
Distinguished by its fusion of traditional Mexican interiors and classic yet contemporary elements, this resort stands out, cultivating a truly unique and captivating ambiance.
Catering to diverse needs, it accommodates both smaller, intimate weddings and larger ceremonies with equal grace and style.
9. Aqua Terrace at El Dorado Royal Casitas
El Dorado Casitas Royale in the Mexican Riviera Maya boasts an impressive 19 wedding venues, offering an abundance of choices for your special day.
The options are so diverse that being spoiled for choice is an absolute understatement.
As a bonus, the resort provides access to a magical cenote for those looking to add a touch of enchantment to their wedding ceremonies.
Among the 19 venues, the Aqua Terrace stands out, surrounded by the beautiful hues of the ocean.
This customizable venue is ideal for hosting wedding ceremonies, which features a captivating see-through platform, creating the illusion of floating over water as you walk down the aisle. With a capacity for up to 100 guests, it offers a truly unique experience.
10. The Covered Pier at Generations Riviera Maya
The Premium Pier Deck, set in a picturesque location with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, boasts an elevated position that serves as a captivating backdrop for both wedding ceremonies and receptions.
This venue is particularly prized for its ability to create a sense of privacy and intimacy, making it the perfect choice for couples in search of a romantic and exclusive wedding experience.
Positioned over the water, the deck offers a unique celebration experience above the gentle waves of the Caribbean, infusing an extra touch of romance into the atmosphere.
Additionally, couples can take advantage of the venue’s flexibility, allowing you to customize the décor in line with your preferences and wedding theme.
The Premium Pier Deck’s versatility ensures it can be transformed to manifest your vision for your special day.
It has to be seen to be truly appreciated!
Why not arrange some site visits with us so you can be 110% confident on your venue choice?
11. The Orange Tree at Garza Blanca Vallarta
12. Cocoon Shaped Event Studio at Andaz Papagayo, Costa Rica
Perched on the scenic shores of the Papagayo Peninsula in Costa Rica, this coastal haven is tailor-made for couples seeking comfort and dreaming of a destination wedding.
Just a short 35-minute drive from Liberia Airport, Andaz Costa Rica beckons with distinctive venues inspired by the abundant flora and fauna.
From cocoon-shaped event studios to a Beach House, an open-air restaurant, and a sprawling garden, each space offers a unique setting to craft an unforgettable event.
This retreat provides everything essential for a flawless destination wedding experience.
13. Over-The-Water Serenity Wedding Chapel at Sandals Montego Bay
14. Sky Terrace at Royalton Bavaro in The Domincan Republic
Get ready for the heightened beauty of your destination wedding in this extraordinary event space.
Countless couples and their guests have been entranced by the enchanting features of this unique destination wedding venue, highlighted by its glass windows and ceiling offering an uninterrupted view of the cascading Caribbean Sea during the ceremony.
The resort ensures personalized seating and setup choices for your Sky Terrace, whether it’s for your special day, reception, or cocktail hour.
With a capacity for 70 guests, Royalton Resorts, emerging gems in the Caribbean Islands, have swiftly become favourites for our wedding couples.
Among them, Royalton Bavaro in the Dominican Republic stands out as a top choice, providing captivating Caribbean surroundings combined with the indulgences of an all-inclusive resort.
Boasting a private beach, the FlowRider® surf simulator, 5 pools, and even a 1,200-foot lazy river, this resort sets the stage for an unparalleled destination wedding experience.
15. The Eclipse Canal at Hard Rock Punta Cana
The Eclipse Canal stands out as one of our preferred venues in the Dominican Republic, truly eclipsing the competition! 😉
This extensive knee-deep water pool is strategically located in the heart of the resort property.
During the ceremony, a plexiglass walkway and structure are positioned over these waters, providing you and your wedding party the unique experience of walking across the water to say ‘I Do.’
The Eclipse Canal, a truly distinctive destination wedding venue, adds a touch of magic to your vows.
With an impressive venue capacity of 400 guests, it’s the perfect choice for larger group sizes.
16. Sky Bar at Breathless Punta Cana
Breathless Punta Cana’s Sky Bar, nestled in the Dominican Republic, is an intimate, open-air venue that promises an unforgettable experience.
Allow us to assist you in crafting the seating, decor, and color scheme for this special location.
Here’s a top tip for an exceptionally unique occasion: Consider booking a sunset ceremony at this distinctive destination wedding venue, where you can tie the knot as the orange sun sets beneath the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea. Please note that the venue has a maximum capacity of 35 guests.
Breathless Punta Cana stands out as one of our preferred resorts in the Dominican Republic.
This adults-only, all-inclusive paradise boasts exceptional amenities, including the world-class Spa by Pevonia, daily resort activities, theme parties, over 750 contemporary suites with private balconies, and much more. For those seeking an affordable yet remarkable wedding, Breathless Punta Cana offers wedding packages ranging from $999 to $3,799.
Please note prices are subject to change over the years so please reach out for up to date pricing.
17. Beaches Fountain at Secrets Royal in The Dominican Republic
Witness the mesmerizing dance of the waters as you share your first kiss as newlyweds at this exceptional destination wedding venue!
With its expansive and open layout, the Fountain proves to be an excellent choice for sizable wedding guest lists.
Featuring seating spaces both in front and on the sides, it serves as a magnificent stage for your destination wedding.
Our destination wedding specialists are here to assist in helping you decorate and style the venue to your preferences, ensuring that the Fountain’s water spouts perfectly synchronize with your special moment.
This venue has a capacity for 150 people.
Secrets Royal Beach, a sprawling and opulent property, seamlessly combines luxurious amenities with a romantic ambience.
Nestled around 700 yards of pristine white sand, the shoreline is so pure and glistening that visitors often liken it to sugar!
Secrets Royal Beach offers day and nighttime entertainment, including live music, theme nights, beach parties, and more, ensuring a memorable and vibrant experience for all.
18. Terra Nostra Terrace and Lower Deck at Nizuc Resort & Spa
Discover an enchanting alfresco open-air terrace in Mexico’s Riviera Maya that effortlessly channels the essence of Italy in the Mexican Caribbean. Illuminated by festoon or fairy lights, this setting exudes sophistication and charm.
Perfect for intimate dinner receptions, this venue becomes a canvas for creative possibilities, especially if you prioritize aesthetics.
Nizuc, a luxury 5-star resort, beckons with a secluded oceanfront paradise and gourmet dining experiences.
It’s important to note that no wedding packages are available at this resort. Instead, the hotel prides itself on curating 100% tailored occasions, ensuring a truly personalized celebration.
Entertainment is permitted until 11 pm, offering ample time for guests to revel in the festivities.
The max capacity for this venue is 80 people.
19. Tenuta La Madonnina di Barni in Lake Como
Tenuta La Madonnina di Barni is not just a restaurant in Lake Como; it is renowned for its weddings and spectacular fireworks displays.
So, you can definitely exchange vows and celebrate enduring love with a bang!
Perched high on the mountainside, the views overlooking Lake Como create an idyllic backdrop for a picturesque wedding, establishing a romantic and timeless atmosphere that captures those special moments.
20. Fort George in Croatia
Ready to Plan Your Destination Wedding?
Excited by the unique wedding locations we have shared? Fantastic!
The PlayaDelCarmen.Com team is thrilled to assist couples in crafting their dream destination wedding.
Oftentimes whittling down your venue choices is the most overwhelming part. Based on your vision and budget, we’re here to help by providing honest and unbias advice!
We leverage our expertise and connections to ensure you get the best value for your budget.
Give us a call at 888-537-9797 or fill out the contact form on our website to kickstart your planning.
Have thoughts or questions about destination wedding locations? Share them in the comments, and I’ll respond promptly!