Getting married in the Caribbean is a dream for many couples, and when it comes to tropical elegance, breathtaking beaches, and seamless destination wedding planning, nothing compares to destination weddings in Punta Cana.
Located on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana offers turquoise waters, white sand beaches, luxurious all-inclusive resorts, and professional wedding vendors who understand the art of creating unforgettable celebrations. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate elopement or a grand wedding weekend, this guide will walk you through every step of planning your perfect Punta Cana wedding—from venues and legal requirements to choosing the right videographer and creating lifelong memories.
WHY CHOOSE PUNTA CANA FOR YOUR DESTINATION WEDDING?
Punta Cana has become one of the world’s top wedding destinations for a reason. It offers:
- Over 30 miles of stunning coastline
- Direct international flights from major cities
- Resorts and venues that specialize in weddings
- Warm weather year-round
- Activities for guests, from spa days to catamaran cruises
From the luxurious shores of Cap Cana to the laid-back charm of Uvero Alto, Punta Cana gives couples the backdrop and resources to create a once-in-a-lifetime celebration.
BEST AREAS IN PUNTA CANA FOR A WEDDING
🏝️ Bávaro Beach
The most iconic stretch of sand in Punta Cana. Known for its soft sand, calm waters, and nearby luxury resorts.
💎 Cap Cana
Upscale, private, and perfect for luxury weddings. Resorts like Eden Roc or Sanctuary Cap Cana offer elegance and exclusivity.
🌊 Uvero Alto
Less crowded and more intimate, ideal for couples who want privacy, boutique venues, or beachfront villas.
🌿 Macao Beach
Untouched and more rustic—great for boho beach weddings or adventurous couples who want nature as the main aesthetic.
WHEN TO HAVE YOUR DESTINATION WEDDING IN PUNTA CANA
The best months for destination weddings in Punta Cana are December to April, when the weather is dry, sunny, and breezy.
Avoid:
- Hurricane season: August to October
- Peak humidity and heat: June and July (still possible, but requires good planning)
Golden hour in Punta Cana typically occurs between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM, making it the ideal time to schedule your ceremony if you want magical lighting for both photography and video.
LEGAL VS SYMBOLIC CEREMONIES
✅ Legal Ceremony
Requirements:
- Valid passports
- Birth certificates
- Single status affidavits
- Divorce or death certificates (if applicable)
- All documents translated into Spanish and legalized
Legal weddings must be performed by a government official and are legally recognized worldwide.
💍 Symbolic Ceremony
Most couples opt for symbolic ceremonies to avoid paperwork. They legally marry in their home country and celebrate with a spiritual or romantic ceremony in Punta Cana. It looks and feels the same—just without the legal hassle.
HOW MUCH DOES A DESTINATION WEDDING IN PUNTA CANA COST?
While prices vary based on group size and resort, here’s a general breakdown:
| Wedding Type | Average Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Elopement (2–4 guests) | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Small Wedding (20–40) | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Large Wedding (50+) | $15,000 – $30,000+ |
Many resorts offer all-inclusive packages with ceremony, reception, décor, cake, and coordination. Add-ons include premium photography, videographer, private dinner setups, live music, and excursions.
TOP VENUES FOR DESTINATION WEDDINGS IN PUNTA CANA
🌟 Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa
Adults-only, sophisticated, beachfront perfection with stunning wedding locations.
🏰 Sanctuary Cap Cana
Mediterranean-style architecture and top-tier service make this resort a favorite for luxury weddings.
🎶 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana
Lively and bold with full wedding production services. Perfect for couples who love music, glam, and a party vibe.
🌿 Kukua Beach Club
One of the most popular off-resort venues. Boho-chic vibes, delicious food, and stunning beachfront ceremonies.
🕊️ Jellyfish Restaurant
Elegant yet relaxed. Known for its private beach, open-air design, and excellent coordination team.
VENDORS TO BOOK EARLY
For destination weddings, book key vendors 8–12 months in advance. Start with:
- Wedding planner or resort coordinator
- Photographer and videographer
- Hair & makeup artist
- Florist and décor team
- DJ or live band
- Officiant (if symbolic)
- Transportation for guests
Booking a local visual team like Coresfilms ensures your love story is captured with artistic quality and emotional depth—by professionals who know the light, rhythm, and emotion of Punta Cana weddings.
SAMPLE TIMELINE FOR A PUNTA CANA WEDDING
4:00 PM – Guests arrive, music playing
4:30 PM – Ceremony begins (ideal golden hour lighting)
5:00 PM – Cocktail hour & sunset portraits
6:00 PM – Reception dinner
7:30 PM – Speeches, first dance, and entertainment
9:00 PM – Dancing, dessert, late-night fun
Always leave buffer time. Tropical weddings flow best when you’re not rushed.
WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR PUNTA CANA WEDDING
- Wedding attire (in carry-on!)
- Vows, rings, and accessories
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Welcome bags for guests
- Light clothing and swimwear
- Medical kit and essentials
- Decor accents if not provided
ACTIVITIES TO PLAN FOR GUESTS
Make your wedding a full experience. Ideas include:
- Catamaran cruise
- Welcome dinner on the beach
- Spa day for bridal party
- Snorkeling or ziplining adventure
- Farewell brunch or beach BBQ
Punta Cana is full of options to turn your wedding into a vacation for everyone.
FINAL THOUGHTS: YOUR LOVE STORY DESERVES PARADISE
From sun-drenched ceremonies to dancing under the stars, destination weddings in Punta Cana offer the magic, intimacy, and beauty couples dream of. And with the right planning and team in place, it can be more affordable, more memorable, and more personal than a traditional hometown wedding.
Let Punta Cana be the place where your forever begins—with palm trees swaying, the sound of waves in the background, and your love captured in stunning visual storytelling by a team like Coresfilms.



















