Cancun is one of those places that feels like it was made for weddings. Powdery white sand, turquoise water stretching to the horizon, palm trees dancing in the breeze… it’s obviously beautiful, but it’s also so much more! Cancun has luxurious resorts, endless jungle adventures, and whether you want an intimate barefoot ceremony on the beach or a big multi day celebration with your favorite people (or a little of both), Cancun delivers. If you’re looking for the perfect place to tie the knot, but feeling a little intimidated by the thought of planning a destination wedding, I’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll talk about planning your dream Cancun wedding, including the legal stuff, the venues, and how to make the day your own personal adventure.
Why Choose Cancun for Your Wedding?
If you’re not totally set on your elopement destination yet, here are just a few reasons why I think Cancun might just be the one.
Unbeatable Scenery
There’s a reason that Cancun is one of the most popular wedding destinations in the world! The backdrop is effortlessly gorgeous. Think clear blue skies, golden sunsets, and lush, tropical gardens.
Endless Adventures
Outside of the resorts, Cancun also offers tons of fun adventures. You can zipline through the jungle, explore Mayan ruins, swim in clear blue cenotes, and more – there’s something for every couple! It truly is paradise for those who want to kick off their marriage with an adventure. But, it’s the best of both worlds – there are also spas to unwind in, poolsides to lounge by, and plenty of opportunities for R&R.
It’s Easy to Get To
Part of planning a destination wedding is, of course, getting there. But also, you need to make sure your guests get there too. Cancun is a major hub, and is well-connected to the US, making it a pretty easy destination. You’ll fly into the Cancun International Airport, and won’t have to travel far to get to your final destination. The resorts are usually a short shuttle ride away!
The Best Time for a Wedding in Cancun
Cancun is stunning pretty much year round, but the most popular time to visit is December through April for a reason. The weather is warm (usually around the mid 70s, but it can range from around 65 – 85 degrees), sunny, and perfect for enjoying the beach – whether you want to stay on the shore or hit the water for snorkeling or surfing!
May can be a great time to tie the knot, because it’s after the peak season, so you can expect fewer crowds and lower prices. Starting in June, it gets a little rainier, but there are still plenty of sunny days! You do need to make sure that you’re prepared for any weather, and bring some layers. September and October are the rainiest months, and though all of May through November is hurricane season, they’re most likely to happen in September and October.
Cancun Wedding Venues
Here are a few options for where you can tie the knot!
Dreams Sapphire Resort & Spa
The Dreams Sapphire Resort & Spa is one of the absolute best places for a Cancun wedding. It’s just 15 minutes from the airport, and the all inclusive resort offers beachfront views, swimming pools, and so much more. You can get married overlooking the ocean, have a reception under the stars, and whether you’re planning a small elopement or a big wedding with your whole crew, they offer packages that will fit what you’re looking for.
Other Cancun Wedding Venues
- Hyatt Ziva Cancun – a stunning family friendly resort on the beach
- Nizuc Resort & Spa – for couples who want something modern and luxurious
Getting Legally Married in Cancun
To make sure that your wedding in Cancun is officially official, there are a few things you’ll need to do. However, keep in mind that you can also sign the papers at home, then have your ceremony in Cancun! Your marriage doesn’t start with a signature on a form – it starts when you exchange vows, so don’t worry, it’ll feel just as special. This can just make things a little easier, and ensure that you can focus on the fun stuff during your wedding, rather than on logistics.
To get legally married in Cancun, you need your passports and birth certificates, and they need to have an apostille and be translated. You also need a blood test, which must be done in Mexico, as well as four witnesses with their passports. The paperwork must be presented to the civil registrar, and then you can have your ceremony. After the wedding, you can apply for a marriage certificate, which is valid in both Mexico and the US. It’s all a bit complicated, but most resorts will have a wedding planner who can help!
Tips for Planning Your Cancun Wedding
Here are some tips to make sure your wedding experience is the best it can be!
Consider a Multi Day Celebration
You’re traveling all the way here, so make the most of the destination! Plan a welcome dinner, beach bonfire, or group excursion – or, take some time for adventures just the two of you.
Explore Around Cancun
The resorts are incredible, but there’s also so much to see beyond them. Cancun and the surrounding area has some gorgeous jungles, cenotes, and more. Go for a hike, explore the blue pools, snorkel with turtles, take a sunset cruise… the options are endless!
Let Your Photographer Capture the Whole Story
A Cancun wedding isn’t just a ceremony – it’s an experience. It’s golden sunsets, ocean swims, laughing with your favorite people, and quiet moments where everything feels just right. Those quiet moments the day before, like hugs at the welcome party and poolside hangs, are just as much a part of your day. Whether you’re planning a tiny elopement on the beach or hosting a big bash, make sure that when you look back at your photos, you see the whole story. Book your wedding photographer for the entire wedding day, and maybe for some pre-celebrations and post-adventures!
Ready to Plan Your Cancun Wedding Adventure?
Your wedding experience should feel wild, joyful, and completely true to who you are! Cancun has everything you need to make that happen, so whether you’re ready to jump into planning or you’re still dreaming up what your perfect day might look like, I’m here for it – and for you. If you’re ready to get started, contact me!
