10 Dream Destinations for the Perfect Wedding Abroad: An Expert Travel Advisor's Picks

When I planned my own destination wedding, I realized just how much magic—and how many moving parts—go into saying “I do” abroad. That experience sparked my passion for helping other couples, because I know how incredible it feels when the logistics fade into the background and all you see are the smiles of your loved ones, the setting sun, and the moment you’ve been dreaming of. Over the years, I’ve scouted venues across the world, built relationships with local teams, and seen firsthand which destinations truly deliver the kind of ease and beauty that makes a wedding unforgettable.

Mexico continues to be one of my favorite recommendations for couples—and for good reason. In Riviera Maya and Mayakoba, I’ve watched couples exchange vows beside the Caribbean Sea, then sneak away at sunrise for photos in a hidden cenote while the water glowed with beams of light. Those quiet, magical moments end up being some of the most cherished memories. On the Pacific side, Los Cabos feels entirely different: chic and dramatic, with golden cliffs that light up at sunset. I’ll never forget arranging a welcome party where waves crashed against the rocks below—the natural soundtrack was so powerful, the couple didn’t even need music.

The Caribbean offers its own kind of romance. Turks & Caicos is for my beach-loving couples who want everything barefoot and breezy, with water so clear it almost looks unreal. I’ve helped plan bonfire welcome parties right on Grace Bay, where guests kicked off their shoes and toasted under the stars. St. Lucia, on the other hand, is pure drama—the Pitons rising like a backdrop designed just for weddings. One of my favorite memories is watching guests sail toward the mountains on a catamaran, champagne in hand, gasping as the sun dipped behind both peaks at once.

Italy is always a dream, and it speaks to couples who want history and romance intertwined. The Amalfi Coast never fails to sweep people off their feet: the scent of lemons in the air, pastel towns clinging to the cliffs, and terraces in Ravello that make the perfect stage for a first look. Tuscany has a completely different rhythm: vineyard-lined hills, golden sunsets, and celebrations that linger long into the evening. I once arranged a private after-hours tasting at a centuries-old winery, and the couple’s rehearsal dinner turned into one of the most unforgettable nights of their lives.

For couples craving something farther afield, the settings become even more extraordinary. Santorini’s caldera views are iconic, but I always recommend Imerovigli over Oia—the sunsets are just as breathtaking, but the terraces are quieter and more intimate. Bali carries its own kind of magic, where couples can incorporate a traditional blessing ceremony in a jungle temple garden, gamelan music, and flower offerings surrounding them. And in Thailand, I’ve sent couples off on longtail boats to hidden sandbars, where they picnicked barefoot in the sand—a wedding day detail their guests still talk about years later.

And then there’s Hawai’i, which feels both exotic and familiar, making it perfect for families. Maui and Kaua’i offer those lush, dramatic backdrops—mountains, waterfalls, and beaches—but also the warmth of Polynesian hospitality that makes every guest feel welcome. I remember standing with a couple as they said their vows along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, the cliffs glowing at golden hour. It was one of those moments where time seemed to stop—the exact kind of memory that makes a destination wedding worth every ounce of planning.

Destination weddings aren’t just about the day you say “I do”—they’re about creating a multi-day experience for you and your guests. The magic happens when the logistics disappear and everything feels seamless. That’s where the insider details make all the difference.

One of my biggest tips is to book well ahead—12–18 months for peak season—especially in smaller destinations like Santorini or St. Lucia, where the best venues and suites are limited. For couples who want a smoother path through legal requirements, I often recommend symbolic ceremonies abroad (with the paperwork handled at home), allowing you to focus on the celebration without the red tape.

Think beyond the ceremony, too. Welcome parties, excursions, and farewell brunches become part of your guests’ wedding memories. In Tuscany, I once arranged an after-hours winery tour and dinner under the stars, turning a simple rehearsal dinner into the highlight of the trip. In Mexico, I’ve planned cenote swims at sunrise for couples’ portraits, and in Hawai’i, I always recommend arriving at least a day early to let both you and your dress recover from the flight.

Another key piece is choosing a venue that fits your guest count now, not “someday.” Oversized ballrooms can feel empty, while too-small villas can be awkward and stressful. And when it comes to room blocks, don’t just negotiate on price—I’ve helped couples secure added perks like cocktail hours, spa discounts, or private excursions, which guests end up valuing far more.

Finally, always build in downtime for your guests. It’s tempting to pack the itinerary, but your loved ones will appreciate space to explore on their own. A curated mix of shared celebrations and free moments makes the whole trip feel effortless. I always suggest a wedding website or travel portal so that guests have every detail—transfers, dress codes, and excursions—in one easy place.

The truth is, a destination wedding isn’t harder than a traditional one—it just requires the right connections, foresight, and attention to detail. With a trusted advisor guiding the process, couples can show up as guests at their own celebration, free to savor every moment.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our destination weddings page.