Proposal Ideas: 15 Unique Spots to Pop the Question in Costa Rica

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15 Unique Spots to Pop the Question in Costa Rica

Are you ready to take the next step with your loved one and make a lifetime commitment of love and happiness? Well, Costa Rica can certainly be the ideal place to propose! From its lush jungles and misty cloud forests, to some stunning beaches and scenic viewpoints, Costa Rica offers plenty of romantic opportunities to get down on one knee and pop the question. Whether it's a simple and intimate proposal or a grand and elaborate event, Costa Rica is a destination that will surely create lasting memories for you and your partner. 
 
We've categorized some of the best spots to help you find the ideal setting for your special moment because when it comes to proposals, the options are endless! From romantic and relaxing to adventurous and unforgettable, the possibilities for popping the question are only limited by your imagination. 
 
Let's check them out! Plus, get tips from one of our travel experts.
 

Relaxing & Luxurious 

Couples who enjoy being pampered and surrounded by luxurious amenities may find their ideal proposal in the tranquil surroundings of a world-class resort or spa:
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A glamorous romantic resort. Stay in Kura, an adults-only hotel high in the Uvita rainforest. Propose with exclusivity, privacy and stunning views.
 
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High-end spa. Book a couples spa day in Casa Chameleon and propose during this relaxing experience while soaking in mineral hot springs.

Cosmopolitan

Ideal for couples who enjoy the hustle and bustle of a busy city and the energy that it brings. End your Costa Rican adventure on a romantic note by proposing to your partner in the bustling city of San Jose on your final evening:
 
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A rooftop restaurant in the bustling city. Take in the city skyline from a rooftop bar, and pop the question over a glass of wine or a candlelit dinner in our capital city of San Jose.
 
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The National Theater. Are you an art lover? This historic theater is a stunning piece of architecture and a unique backdrop for a proposal. Book a tour and pop the question in one of the artsy corners inside this jewel.
 

Aquatic Escape

Our collection of aquatic proposals is perfect for couples who want to make a splash with their special moment! Costa Rica is the perfect place for all near-the-water activities:
 
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Beach stroll. Get down on one knee and pop the question right by the water. Celebrate together while admiring the famous sunsets of the Guanacaste Province.
 
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Tortuga Island. Go on a catamaran adventure and spend the day on this beautiful island. Propose on a secluded beach with the turquoise waters of the Pacific as a backdrop.
 
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Tortuguero National Park. Take a boat tour through the Tortuguero canals and propose to your partner surrounded by wildlife and nature.
 
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Isla del Caño. Go on a snorkeling expedition. Isla del Caño is known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Propose while exploring the underwater world together but hey, don't lose that ring!

Journey to the Top

Right for couples who enjoy hiking, exploring, pushing their limits, or just simply taking in the beauty of the great outdoors:
 
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Rio Celeste Waterfall. Hike to Rio Celeste, a stunning turquoise river in the Tenorio Volcano National Park. Propose amidst the stunning scenery and breathtaking waterfall.
 
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A volcano. Hike through the Arenal Volcano National Park and propose with a background of the active crater and the surrounding landscape.
 
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The top of the hill! Go on a horseback riding adventure through rolling hills, scenic vistas, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife and propose on top of a scenic ridge with breathtaking views.
 
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Nature hike to five waterfalls. Take a journey to remember and pop the question amidst the beauty of cascading waterfalls, with thermal and crystal-clear waters. Soothe with rejuvenating waterfalls, peaceful pools and exciting adventure.
 
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Corcovado National Park. A unique and intimate setting for a proposal, surrounded by natural beauty, wildlife and the remoteness of the park. After all, Corcovado is the most biologically intense place on Earth in terms of biodiversity!
 

High-In-The-Sky Proposal

Suited for those who enjoy immersing themselves in nature and exploring the beauty of the cloud forest in Costa Rica:
 
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In the jungle while flying. Zip line through the cloud forest canopy and propose with a view of the lush jungle below. There are multiple platforms along the way, during the zip line tours where you can stop and pop the question.
 
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The hanging bridges in Monteverde. Walk hand-in-hand over the misty cloud forests of Monteverde and propose at one of the stunning viewpoints surrounded by nature and wildlife.
 
 

 

Unforgettable trip!

Reviewed September 25, 2021 
By Kelly K
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“… Jessica was amazing and we couldn’t do this trip without her. She booked a 9 day trip for my fiancé and I. We loved all the activities she picked for us. Zip lining, hiking in the dark, white water rafting (our favorite), scuba diving. We liked the 3 hotels we stayed out and especially loved Nayara Springs. Everyone at Nayara Springs was amazing hands down! They knew our names and made our stay special since we got engaged while we were staying there. Jessica and my fiancé even planned stuff behind my back to surprise me and make the trip unforgettable. Overall everyone in Costa Rica was very friendly. Pura Vida!”
 
 

 

Expert Advice

Jessica Luecke, our travel consultant and wedding specialist, has a wealth of tips and secrets to share with you. Whether you're looking for a secluded beach, a breathtaking mountain view, or a romantic hot springs proposal, Jessica has got you covered. Read what she has to say below:
 
I've had the pleasure of being a part of all different styles of engagements, elopements and weddings here in Costa Rica. There are endless venues to begin your love story; rainforests, waterfalls, powdery beaches surrounded by wildlife. 
 
Engagements are my personal favorites because so many of them are a surprise! Small, intimate and full of joy. I have to admit that some of my travelers have popped the question in some of the most unique and special ways here in Costa Rica. You can't go wrong with the scenery here, either! 
 
The country is full of romantic destinations that are perfect for popping the question and making a memorable proposal. Take them to a trip around Corcovado National Park, spend an evening on a pristine beach in Manuel Antonio, or see how many species of birds you can spot on a guided bird watching tour at one of Costa Rica’s national parks. Whatever you're looking for, we have it! See also our picks for the most romantic getaways here.
 
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Weddings in Paradise

Costa Rica is an amazing option for anyone looking to tie the knot in a one-of-a-kind way! Like any wedding, these require planning and logistics - that's where I come in! People will often ask what kind of packages we have for weddings and elopements here in Costa Rica. The truth is, similar to any vacation planning, it varies. Each couple wants something a little bit different and prices will depend on what the special day looks like for you! On average, just the wedding/ ceremony portion can start around $1,500 - $2,500. This depends on your decor, florals, venue, music choice, symbolic vs legal ceremony and what kind of extras you'd like. A destination wedding, no matter the size, should be stress free, personal and meaningful to you.
 

Here to Help!

Our concept of engagement, elopement and wedding planning is similar to that of vacation planning; we help you build and create your special day from scratch, based on what is most important and special to you and your partner. We even help you out hiring an amazing photographer for that special day. There is no "mold" or preset package we can send you as everyone has their own dreams, expectations and budget. 
 
Feel free to reach out to me if you're looking to propose on your next Costa Rican adventure, or if you're planning to say the big "I do" and plan a destination wedding! 
 
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FAQs

  • What are the top elopement destinations in Costa Rica? The main two locations are the rainforest/ volcano area and the beach. Some popular locations in the rainforest are the La Fortuna Waterfall, The Springs Resort & Spa, and Tabacon hot springs (for a small and intimate ceremony). For the beaches, the Guanacaste region is most popular due to the all-inclusive and beach front properties. 
  • What is the best engagement spot? This will depend if you're looking for a popular lookout or destination, or if you want something private and intimate. However, some of the most popular places are the La Paz waterfall gardens, sunset catamaran boat rides and at the end of an adventure (rafting, rappelling, zip lining, etc). 
  • What if it rains? It might! Costa Rica is primarily rainforest and it can rain almost any time of the year. We just have to go with the flow. 
  • What is the best time of the year to get married in Costa Rica? If you're looking for the best weather, the best time to get married in Costa Rica is from December - April. 
  • If I want to be surrounded by wildlife, where should we get married? Manuel Antonio! This part of Costa Rica has abundant wildlife and it's where we like to say "the rainforest meets the ocean" so here you can feel like you're in the heart of the rainforest, yet have a beautiful ocean view in front of you as well. One of our favorite spots in this area is the lookout deck at Costa Verde (important to note that they do not do group reservations in the summer season). 
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About the Author

Jessica Luecke

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Travel Consultant - Wedding & Group Specialist at Costa Rican Vacations
I am originally from Milwaukee, (go Packers!) and now live near the Arenal Volcano area. It is safe to say that with my first “hola” in kindergarten, I knew I was destined to live abroad. Read more and contact me here.
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