September 1, 2025 please! Just expecting a tentative RSVP at this point demonstrating interest. We know it may take some time for people to decide on travel dates, PTO, budget, etc! Looks like best time to book flights is in October. We'll be visiting Costa Rica during the high season, so it will be better to get travel plans together early.
Fantastic question -- we've outlined our suggestions in a Google doc which you can review here (copy & paste link into browser): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PyN6U-rIN4kb1b2Wp--m8BLO34HnTun4/edit I would suggest making a copy to your personal Google Drive account so that you can use the packing list as a check list. Feel free to reach out for any other questions / opinions!
We've been to Monteverde, La Fortuna, and Drake Bay previously, and definitely recommend. Brief summaries below. Monteverde Monteverde, Costa Rica is a misty cloud‑forest wonderland bursting with biodiversity, hanging bridges, zip‑lines, and rare wildlife—perfect for bird watchers, nature lovers, eco‑tourists, and adventure seekers. Driving: 4 hours from SJO, 2.5 hours from LIR, 4 hours from Manuel Antonio. La Fortuna La Fortuna (Arenal) is a vibrant adventure hub nestled at the foot of the majestic dormant Arenal Volcano—ideal for hikers, wildlife fans, hot‑spring lovers, and adrenaline seekers. Driving: 2.5 hours from SJO, 4 hours from Manuel Antonio. Drake Bay A bit out of the way, catch a boat from Sierpe (1.5 hour from Manuel Antonio) to this remote town for unparalleled nature and wildlife sighting at Corcovado. Other popular areas include: - Tortugero National Park for turtles! - Tamarindo for beaches!
Emilio's Cafe -- coffee & all around good food La Lambretta PizzerĂa -- amazing oven fired pizza, Olivia approved La Mariposa -- spectacular cocktails and an even more spectacular view! You can also purchase a day-pass for the pool. Food not necessarily recommended. Agua Azul -- very high-rated restaurant with impeccable vibes and great service. El Avion, El Wagon -- both restaurants are part of the Costa Verde family of businesses, and feature rustic themed designs and good food.
Yes there is parking very close to the location for the ceremony. The reception is somewhat removed from the ceremony location, which involves walking around 10 minutes and up a hill. It will be hot, so plan accordingly. The hotel has a car to bring people to the reception location, but other guests can park at the ceremony location and take their cars up to the reception location.
Semi-formal attire -- perfect for a warm, tropical setting like Manuel Antonio. 👗 For Women: - Flowy midi or maxi dresses in light, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or chiffon - Bold florals, soft pastels, or tropical prints are welcome - Wedges, dressy sandals, or block heels (no stilettos—grass and sand!) - Lightweight jewelry, sun hats optional Look to this Pinterest board for inspiration. https://pin.it/2ifEmIzkt 👔 For Men: - Linen or lightweight dress pants with a button-down shirt or short-sleeve dress shirt - Blazers are optional (especially in the heat) - Loafers, dress sandals, or closed-toe espadrilles - No ties required unless you want to!
Review images in the below folder for additional details on Costa Verde layout as well as room types & pricing. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1X5u6tBTZ__e7NOKLjaKgE3zfAySj-wGw
Outside of the wedding venue hotel (which we think is spectacular, hence why we chose it for a lush, green, Costa Rican vibe!), we visited a number of hotels around Manuel Antonio. We recommend Parador for the resort experience, as well as Mariposa for more of a modern boutique hotel experience with spectacular views. There are also a number of houses for rental for groups that you can look into. Let us know if you want any opinion based on location/venue.
Not at the wedding events, but they are allowed to be anywhere at Costa Verde other than the Adults-Only pool and bar!