Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico for a Destination Wedding
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1. El Dorado Seaside Suites, Riviera Maya
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2. Royal Hideaway Playacar, Playa del Carmen
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3. Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen
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4. Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraiso, Playa Paraiso
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5. Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort & Spa, Punta Mita
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6. Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa, Oaxaca
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7. Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, San Jose del Cabo
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Where to Buy Your Wedding Dress: BHLDN
You’ve probably been to more weddings than you can count, but how many truly stand out? One way to ensure your big day is memorable for everyone: Make it a destination wedding. If it’s your turn to say “I do,” consider an all-inclusive resort in Mexico. For starters, Mexico is easy enough to reach from anywhere in the U.S., though it’s wise to choose a resort on the same coast that the majority of your guests are coming from. Opting for an all-inclusive property can also help with the planning process. Knowing that all food, drinks, and activities are covered gives your already overloaded brain fewer things to think about. Plus, the budget-friendly factor means more guests are likely to make the trip. With that in mind, we put together a list of top all-inclusive resorts that are perfect for a Mexico destination wedding.
Located an hour south of Cancun, El Dorado Seaside Suites is an adults-only, beachfront all-inclusive that is split into two sections -- the Palms and the Infinity. The latter lures those who like a bit more action, thanks to suites with terrace infinity pools and/or swim-out access to the hotel's large, main infinity pool. Meanwhile, the former consists of buildings facing the peaceful gardens. Either way, guests will have access to some features at the next-door El Dorado Sensimar Riviera Maya, including six out of 10 gourmet-style restaurants. The large spa with hydrotherapy, relaxed dinner dress codes, and overall romantic vibe will also keep your wedding guests happy. Couples can exchange their vows right on the beach, or say their "I dos" on the open-air terrace.
The Royal Hideaway Playacar is one of the Leading Hotels of the World, a group of properties known for all-out luxury. If you’re looking for a sophisticated, adults-only wedding experience, this refined, colonial-style retreat should be on your short list. Your guests will be greeted with a flute of Champagne and cool towel in the lobby. Marble baths with walk-in showers and jetted tubs add to the overall wow factor. Guests can chill out in the cigar lounge, and pick between six restaurants. Its location is also bound to delight family and friends looking to make a full vacation out of your big day. It’s situated on a beautiful beach while also being close to Playa del Carmen’s renowned Fifth Avenue, lined with excellent restaurants, lively bars, and chic boutiques.
Many of the best all-inclusive resorts don’t allow kids. However, if your heart is set on having your adorable niece as the flower girl, you don’t have to settle. The Grand Velas is an all-inclusive that manages to successfully cater to both grown-ups seeking peace and quiet as well as families with little ones. Set on over 80 acres of mangroves that meet a white-sand beach, its accommodations are split between three buildings -- two family-friendly and all with their own pool complexes and eateries. The resort is staffed with several wedding planners and offers an array of packages with customizable options to match just about any couples’ preferences and budget.
A glitzy, adults-only resort, the Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraiso is a top pick among couples in their 20s and 30s whose motto is “if we’re going to do it, let’s do it right.” Splash out on a destination wedding here, and you and your guests will be treated like VIPs. How so? For one, you’ll get a butler who can, before your plane even lands, customize the contents of your minibar, infuse your space with your choice of fragrance, and book your spa treatment in the exclusive couples cabin. A dedicated special event planner is on call, and yours will be the only wedding on any given day (something you’re unlikely to get at most venues back home).
The main draw of the Grand Palladium Resort & Spa in Riviera Nayarit is the dreamy setting. What makes the scenery in Riviera Nayarit different from what you’d find on the east coast? Mountains -- and huge cacti. There’s also a private beach here, as well as three pools, including a saltwater option and an adults-only infinity pool. The spa features Turkish baths and an impressive list of pampering treatments, which you and your sweetheart will likely need before the big day. However, it’s the stunning colonial-style wedding chapel that seals the deal. One thing worth noting: The open-air buildings offer amazing views, but there are no elevators. As long as climbing stairs isn’t an issue for anyone in your family, this property could be the gem you’re looking for.
If you want your affair to be away from it all, this might just be your spot. Presiding over picturesque Conejos Bay, Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa sits far from other resorts in Huatulco, which is -- to begin with -- much less touristy that the Yucatan. Oceanfront ceremonies, under a breezy gazebo, are the way to go here. You can hold your reception in the lavish ballroom, on the beach, or on an elegant terrace, depending on the number of guests. This resort becomes an even stronger option if you expect a mostly young, single crowd. The clientele here is primarily couples and groups of friends, so you can expect to find plenty of bars open all day and night, including a swim-up option, the upscale Sky Bar, and the trendy late-night Desires Lounge. And with approximately 400 rooms, this property is big enough to avoid bumping into those annoying relatives. Also worth noting: The Secrets brand offers a honeymoon registry service.
There are many reasons to go with Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos: its all-inclusive rates go easy on most wedding budgets; the decor is fresh and modern; the entertainment options, including a theater, are top-notch; and the dining options are vast. You’ll even be able to exchange your vows on the beach. It’s a fun place for older guests, little kids, and teens -- important if your guest list includes a wide range of ages. If you visit and decide to book your wedding at the property, you’ll receive a $500 credit toward one of their wedding packages. Extras include rose-petal decoration of your suite, a mani-pedi and hair styling, and a discount on spa services for all of your guests. The only drawback? The beautiful blue water here is not safe for swimming, much like many other areas of Los Cabos.
Your very special day calls for an equally special dress--and shopping wedding dresses online can be a toughie. Trust BHLDNYou’ll Also Like: