Destination Weddings in Punta Cana: What You’ll Really Spend (And How to Make It Worth It)

Planning a wedding in Punta Cana sounds like paradise — and it is — but it also comes with some real costs that couples don’t always see upfront. As a local wedding photographer who’s been part of hundreds of celebrations here, I want to share exactly what you can expect to spend, what’s worth splurging on, and what you can skip.

Is Punta Cana Expensive for Weddings?

It depends on what you compare it to. A destination wedding here can actually cost less than a big traditional wedding back home — but it all comes down to how big your guest list is and how custom you want to make it.

Some couples spend less than $5,000. Others go all-out and hit $30,000 or more. The sweet spot for most couples is somewhere between $8,000 and $15,000 for a beautiful, mid-size wedding at a private venue with lots of personal touches.

What’s the Cheapest Way to Get Married in Punta Cana?

All-inclusive resorts offer wedding packages that can be surprisingly affordable. Some resorts even throw in a basic ceremony for free if you book enough rooms for your guests.

But here’s the catch: “free” often means a cookie-cutter ceremony with limited decor, a tiny guest list, and strict vendor rules. If you’re dreaming of something unique, private beach clubs and restaurants like Kukua, Huracan Cafe, or Jellyfish give you more freedom to personalize everything — but they do cost more.

Where Does the Money Actually Go?

Here’s a quick look at what couples here usually spend money on:

• Venue & Ceremony Setup: $2,000–$6,000

• Food & Drinks: $75–$200 per person

• Decor & Flowers: $2,000–$8,000 (depends on how Pinterest-worthy you want it!)

• Photography & Videography: $2,000–$5,000

• Hair, Makeup, Entertainment, Extra Rentals: $1,000–$5,000

And don’t forget the “hidden” costs — like outside vendor fees if your resort charges them, transportation for guests, or that last-minute extra hour with your DJ.

How to Save Money (Without Sacrificing the Experience)

• Keep the guest list intimate. It’s the simplest way to cut costs.

• Book in shoulder season. May and September–November often have better rates and fewer crowds.

• Work with local vendors. You’ll avoid travel fees and get people who know the venues inside and out.

• Be smart about extras. That full-day videography package or giant firework show? Cool, but maybe not essential.

What Couples Say After It’s Over

After all the cake is eaten and the music stops, most couples tell me the same thing:They wish they’d spent more on photography and less on things like massive centerpieces. Why? Because your photos and video are what you have left forever.

My Best Advice

If you’re dreaming of getting married here, start with what’s most important to you: a stunning location, your favorite people, and moments you’ll never forget. Then build your budget around that — not the other way around.

If you’d like a local expert to help you figure out the best venues, trusted vendors, or how to make your timeline flow beautifully, I’d love to help.