Planning Activities for Guests During a Wedding Weekend in Guanacaste

A destination wedding in Guanacaste is about so much more than the ceremony itself. It’s about bringing your favorite people together, enjoying the sunshine, discovering beautiful places and creating memories that extend far beyond the wedding day.

With its golden beaches, warm Pacific waters, beautiful resorts and relaxed tropical atmosphere, Guanacaste offers endless opportunities to turn a wedding celebration into a full weekend getaway. Whether your guests are looking for adventure, relaxation or simply a reason to spend a little more time together, there is something for everyone.

As wedding planners, we always encourage couples to think about their guests’ experience throughout the entire weekend. A few thoughtfully planned activities can make everyone feel included while allowing guests to enjoy Costa Rica at their own pace.

Here are some of our favorite ways to make the most of a wedding weekend in Guanacaste.

1. Spend a Day on a Catamaran

If there is one experience we would recommend adding to your wedding weekend, it’s a catamaran excursion. Sailing along the Pacific coastline, enjoying the ocean breeze, stopping for a swim and spending the afternoon surrounded by beautiful scenery is a wonderful way to bring everyone together.

It’s an especially lovely activity for guests arriving a few days before the wedding. Some catamaran excursions include snorkeling, swimming stops, food and drinks, making it an easy and enjoyable group experience.

A little tip from us: Costa Rican sunshine can be stronger than you expect, especially when you’re out on the water. Remind your guests to bring plenty of sunscreen, preferably reef-friendly, sunglasses and a hat. Reapply sunscreen throughout the day, even when enjoying the shade.

2. Adventure Time: ATV Tours and Surfing

For guests who enjoy a little adrenaline, Guanacaste has plenty to offer. ATV excursions through tropical landscapes, coastal trails and scenic viewpoints are a fun way to explore the region.

Surfing is another fantastic option, especially for guests staying near beaches such as Tamarindo, Playa Grande or Playa Avellanas. Beginners can book a lesson with a local instructor, while more experienced surfers can enjoy the Pacific waves.

A little tip from us: Adventure activities are best enjoyed with a little planning. Choose reputable operators, follow all safety instructions and make sure guests understand the requirements before booking. For ATV tours, helmets and appropriate safety equipment are essential. For surfing, beginners should take lessons with qualified instructors and choose conditions suitable for their experience.

And remember: the wedding is still ahead! Leave enough time to relax and recover before the big celebration.

3. A Fishing Day for the Guys

For guests who love being out on the water, a private or shared fishing charter can be a fantastic addition to the weekend.

Guanacaste is well known for its sport fishing, and the Pacific coastline offers opportunities to catch species such as mahi-mahi, tuna and sailfish, depending on the season.

It’s a great way to spend a morning with friends, enjoy the ocean and experience another side of Costa Rica.

And for anyone who prefers a slower morning, there’s always the option of staying behind for a leisurely breakfast by the pool!

4. A Little Pampering: Massages, Nails and Relaxation

Not every wedding weekend activity needs to involve adventure. Sometimes the best way to spend a day in Costa Rica is by slowing down.

We love the idea of arranging a little pampering time for guests, whether it’s a relaxing massage, a manicure, a pedicure or even an in-room spa experience.

For groups of friends getting ready for the wedding, booking a few beauty treatments can be a lovely way to spend time together before the celebrations begin.

Think tropical surroundings, refreshing drinks, a little music and some well-deserved relaxation.

5. Beach Days and Sunset Drinks

One of the simplest pleasures of a Guanacaste wedding weekend is enjoying its beautiful beaches.

Leave some time in the itinerary for guests to explore the coastline, swim in the ocean, enjoy a long beach lunch or simply settle into a sun lounger with a refreshing drink.

As the afternoon approaches, a beach bar or sunset cocktail spot is the perfect place to gather everyone together.

There is something special about watching the sun disappear over the Pacific with your favorite people around you. No elaborate plans needed.

6. Pool Days: Sometimes Doing Nothing Is the Best Plan

Not every moment of a destination wedding weekend needs an itinerary.

A relaxed pool day can be exactly what guests need, particularly after traveling or before a full day of wedding celebrations.

Think poolside lounging, refreshing cocktails and mocktails, music, casual lunches and plenty of time to catch up with family and friends.

For couples hosting guests at a villa or resort, organizing a casual poolside gathering can also be a wonderful alternative to a more structured event.

7. Bring Everyone Together with a Welcome Party

While activities allow guests to explore Guanacaste in smaller groups, a welcome party is a wonderful opportunity to bring everyone together.

Whether it’s a casual beachfront gathering, a sunset cocktail reception or a relaxed dinner under the stars, it gives guests the chance to meet, reconnect and start celebrating before the wedding day.

It also sets the tone for the entire weekend.

The beauty of a destination wedding in Guanacaste is that everyone can create their own experience.

Give your guests a few wonderful recommendations, organize one or two group activities and leave enough room for spontaneous moments. After all, the best memories are often made in between the plans.

Beyond the wedding day, it’s about creating an experience everyone will remember.