10 Budget-Friendly Wedding Destinations Around the Globe

Whether you dream of a sunset beach wedding or a breathtaking desert scene, there’s something truly enchanting about celebrating your love in a beautiful destination with your closest friends and family as you say, 'I do.' If you've always imagined exchanging vows in a picturesque location without overspending, we've got a list of affordable wedding destinations in the U.S. and beyond.

Here are some fantastic locations for a budget-friendly destination wedding, along with helpful planning tips.

La Paz, Baja California Sur

La Paz in Baja California Sur has emerged as a prime choice for bachelor parties, wedding celebrations, and honeymoons. It’s a more budget-friendly option than Los Cabos, yet it boasts many similar attractions. La Paz blends adventure and tranquility amidst stunning landscapes, where the desert beauty meets the clear waters of the Sea of Cortez. Must-see spots include the gorgeous Balandra Beach, the charming town of Todos Los Santos, and the historic Our Lady of Peace Cathedral, constructed in the late 19th century. The area offers accommodations and venues to fit various budgets, such as the Baja Club Hotel and Paradero Todos Santos.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

With budget-friendly non-stop flights available from most major U.S. cities and a variety of hotel prices, it’s no surprise that couples looking for an affordable destination wedding choose San Juan, Puerto Rico. Plus, there’s no need for a passport to visit. The island boasts historical sites that provide stunning backdrops for ceremonies, with the Catedral de San Juan Bautista being the most sought-after location thanks to its breathtaking architecture and its status as the first church built in the Americas. Directly across the street, Hotel El Convento serves as an ideal base for a destination wedding. In San Juan’s trendy oceanfront Condado District, La Concha Resort is perfect for larger weddings, offering seven venues, including a beachfront space and a ballroom that accommodates up to 580 guests. 

Cape Cod, Massachusetts 

Cape Cod remains a prime choice for a romantic escape, featuring charming villages, seafood shacks, and beautiful beaches. Renowned for its stunning vistas and exceptional service, Red Jacket Beach Resort serves as an ideal wedding venue for those seeking a budget-friendly option. The resort boasts lovely venues, accommodations, cottages, and amenities, including private beaches, indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, and multiple dining options.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 

Renowned as the heart of the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach is a favored choice for destination weddings thanks to its central East Coast location and an extensive 60-mile stretch of beaches offering budget-friendly venues and accommodations. Nestled along its own private beach, Kingston Resorts has been recently renovated and offers various affordable venue choices, including a private ballroom and an open-air terrace atop the new Black Drum Brewing restaurant. This beautifully crafted space features innovative elements like sliding glass garage doors that adapt to each event’s requirements, along with two lush lawns perfect for outdoor cocktail receptions. 

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta’s ease of access from the United States makes it an economical option for destination weddings. Once a quaint fishing village, it has transformed into a romantic getaway, famously hosting Hollywood icons Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton during the filming of "The Night of the Iguana." Puerto Vallarta offers a little something for everyone, from stunning snorkeling and diving experiences to a vibrant culinary scene, particularly along the waterfront Malecon Boardwalk, brimming with restaurants and bars serving up margaritas and guacamole. For smaller weddings, Casa Kimberly is an ideal choice, featuring a beautiful nine-suite boutique hotel made up of two connected buildings linked by the Puente del Amor (Bridge of Love).

Pensacola, Florida 

With sweeping ocean views, Pensacola, Florida, provides a stunning backdrop for any event. The area boasts sugar-sand beaches, distinctive shopping, and activities suitable for all ages, ensuring there's something for every guest. Located right on the shoreline of Pensacola Beach, Pier Suite, established in 2020, serves as an exquisite destination for weddings, offering spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico. This venue guarantees a quick, seamless, and stress-free experience, with clear costs and planning processes. 

Camden, Maine

Camden, Maine, often referred to as the "Jewel of the Midcoast," is nestled in the heart of coastal Maine, flanked by mountains and picturesque bays. With a lively downtown area and a diverse culinary scene, budget-conscious couples have a wealth of activities to explore. For a luxurious getaway that remains affordable, Relais & Châteaux’s Camden Harbour Inn offers a romantic atmosphere for weddings, complete with all-inclusive packages available year-round. 

Lexington, Kentucky

Nestled among horse farms and scenic countryside, Lexington, Kentucky, is a charming destination for an affordable wedding or elopement. Couples can choose to hold an intimate ceremony at the Historic Lexington Courthouse, a distinguished landmark made of native Kentucky limestone, boasting a beautiful event space on its top floor. For a fairytale setting, the nearby 110-acre estate, The Kentucky Castle, offers various pricing options. This enchanting venue features luxurious suites, a farm-to-table restaurant, a grand ballroom, a swimming pool, and a spa. If you love live music, celebrate your union at The Burl in the historic Distillery District or unwind with soul tunes at Tee Dee’s Blues Club.

New York, New York

While New York City might not initially come to mind as an affordable option, it is the ultimate location for micro weddings, which are gaining popularity among those desiring a more intimate celebration. With options ranging from breathtaking rooftop venues showcasing New York’s skyline to cozy and customizable spaces, Arlo Hotels offers an ideal base for couples seeking seclusion amid the city’s vibrant energy. For instance, Arlo NoMad provides a modern setting perfect for an affordable micro wedding, all while being close to eclectic shopping, must-visit sights, and top dining spots.

Alberta, Canada 

Alberta, Canada, renowned for cities like Calgary and Edmonton, boasts stunning landscapes that make it a dream wedding destination. Couples can tie the knot against the breathtaking backdrops of the Canadian Rockies and the Badlands. Generally, venue and vendor costs in Alberta are significantly lower than those in the U.S., with even better deals available during winter months. For a winter wedding, consider The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, an upscale mountain resort offering remarkable views.