5 Best Destination Wedding Resorts in Riviera Maya

Date
March 3, 2025
Read time
17 mins
Location Guides
Wedding Venues

Hey there, couples (and wedding planners)! It’s Daijha from Star Power Photo Booths, your go-to gal for all things fun and fabulous when it comes to weddings. Today, I’m stoked to share with you my top picks for the best destination wedding resorts in the stunning Riviera Maya. Whether you’re dreaming of a beachside ceremony, a jungle backdrop, or something uniquely chic, I've got you covered. Let’s ride!

1. Banyan Tree Mayakoba - Playa del Carmen

If you’re looking for a place that screams luxury and tranquility, Banyan Tree Mayakoba is your spot. Nestled in a lush mangrove forest with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, this resort is all about elegance and exclusivity. Imagine saying “I do” in a floating wedding chapel or on a pristine beach at sunset. Plus, their private villas with pools are perfect for some pre-wedding relaxation. And let’s not forget the top-notch gourmet dining options that will leave your guests raving.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba Wedding Photo By Adrian Bonet Photography

Why Banyan Tree Mayakoba Stands Out

Luxurious Accommodations: The Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers private villas that provide an intimate and luxurious experience. Each villa features a private pool, spacious living areas, and beautiful views of the surrounding mangrove forests or the Caribbean Sea. This makes it an ideal setting for couples who want to indulge in luxury while having a private retreat.

Personalized Experiences: This resort is known for its personalized services. From a private romantic dinner on the beach to a custom spa treatment, the Banyan Tree Mayakoba ensures that every guest feels special. Their wedding packages are tailored to the couple’s preferences, ensuring a unique and memorable experience.

Stunning Venues: Whether you prefer a beachside ceremony or a more intimate setting in the floating chapel, Banyan Tree Mayakoba has stunning venues to choose from. The floating wedding chapel is particularly unique, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for your vows.

World-Class Dining: The resort offers a variety of dining options that cater to every palate. From authentic Thai cuisine at Saffron to Mexican specialties at Cello, your guests will be treated to a culinary journey.

Sustainable Luxury: Banyan Tree Mayakoba is committed to sustainability and environmental conservation. They have various eco-friendly practices in place, ensuring that your wedding doesn’t come at the expense of the environment.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Scenic Beauty: Gorgeous natural setting with mangrove forests and beachfront views.
  • Exclusive Experiences: Private villas, floating wedding chapel, and personalized wedding packages.
  • Gourmet Dining: Exceptional culinary experiences with international and local cuisine.
  • Luxury Amenities: World-class spa services and private pools in villas.

Cons:

  • Cost: High-end luxury comes with a higher price tag.
  • Accessibility: The exclusive and secluded nature may require more effort for guests to reach.

Detailed Pros

Scenic Beauty: Banyan Tree Mayakoba is surrounded by lush mangrove forests and pristine beaches, offering a serene and picturesque setting for your wedding. The natural beauty of the location provides a stunning backdrop for wedding photos and creates a tranquil atmosphere for your special day.

Exclusive Experiences: The resort offers a range of exclusive experiences, including private villas with pools, a unique floating wedding chapel, and personalized wedding packages. These features ensure that your wedding day is as unique and special as your love story.

Gourmet Dining: With a variety of dining options, Banyan Tree Mayakoba caters to all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for Thai cuisine, Mexican specialties, or international dishes, the resort’s restaurants will impress you and your guests with their culinary excellence.

Luxury Amenities: The resort’s world-class spa services and luxurious accommodations ensure that you and your guests are pampered throughout your stay. The private pools in each villa provide a perfect place for relaxation and unwinding before and after the wedding.

Detailed Cons

Cost: The luxurious amenities and exclusive experiences at Banyan Tree Mayakoba come with a higher price tag. However, the exceptional service and stunning setting make it worth the investment for many couples.

Accessibility: The resort’s secluded location can make it more challenging for guests to reach. It may require additional travel arrangements, such as private transfers, to ensure a smooth arrival for your wedding party.

2. Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun - Playa del Carmen

For those seeking an adults-only paradise, Secrets Maroma Beach is the ultimate choice. This all-inclusive resort offers everything you need for a dreamy wedding without the fuss. Picture this: a stunning beachfront ceremony followed by a reception under the stars with gourmet dining and endless entertainment. The serene and sophisticated atmosphere makes it perfect for a romantic, intimate wedding. And with plenty of on-site activities, your guests will have the time of their lives.

Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun Wedding Photo by Del Sol Photography

Why Secrets Maroma Beach Stands Out

Adults-Only Luxury: As an adults-only resort, Secrets Maroma Beach offers a tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a romantic wedding. The absence of children ensures a serene environment, allowing you and your guests to fully relax and enjoy the celebration.

All-Inclusive Convenience: The resort’s all-inclusive packages take the stress out of wedding planning. Everything from the ceremony and reception to dining and entertainment is covered, allowing you to focus on enjoying your special day.

Stunning Beachfront: Secrets Maroma Beach is situated on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Riviera Maya. The powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters provide a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding ceremony and photos.

Elegant Venues: The resort offers a variety of elegant venues for your ceremony and reception. Whether you choose a beachside gazebo or a more intimate garden setting, Secrets Maroma Beach ensures a picturesque setting for your vows.

On-Site Activities: There’s no shortage of activities for your guests to enjoy. From water sports and beach volleyball to nightly entertainment and themed parties, there’s something for everyone at Secrets Maroma Beach.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Adults-Only: Ensures a tranquil, sophisticated atmosphere.
  • All-Inclusive: Comprehensive packages cover ceremony, reception, dining, and entertainment.
  • Beachfront Venues: Stunning locations for ceremonies with beautiful ocean views.
  • Activities: Plenty of on-site activities for guests to enjoy.

Cons:

  • Age Restriction: No children allowed, which may be a downside for couples with young families.
  • Size: Large resort may feel less intimate.

Detailed Pros

Adults-Only: The adults-only policy at Secrets Maroma Beach creates a peaceful and sophisticated atmosphere. Without the presence of children, the resort is able to maintain a serene environment, making it an ideal choice for a romantic wedding.

All-Inclusive: The all-inclusive packages at Secrets Maroma Beach make wedding planning a breeze. Everything is taken care of, from the ceremony and reception to gourmet dining and entertainment. This allows you to relax and enjoy your special day without worrying about the details.

Beachfront Venues: The resort’s beachfront venues are simply stunning. With the powdery white sand and turquoise waters as your backdrop, your wedding ceremony will be nothing short of magical. The beachfront location also provides a beautiful setting for your wedding photos.

Activities: Secrets Maroma Beach offers a wide range of on-site activities for your guests to enjoy. From water sports and beach volleyball to nightly entertainment and themed parties, there’s something for everyone. This ensures that your guests will have a great time throughout their stay.

Detailed Cons

Age Restriction: While the adults-only policy creates a tranquil atmosphere, it may be a downside for couples with young families. If you have children or are expecting guests with children, this resort may not be the best fit for your wedding.

Size: Secrets Maroma Beach is a large resort, which may make it feel less intimate. If you’re looking for a more private and intimate setting for your wedding, you may want to consider a smaller resort.

3. Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa - Tulum

Dreams Tulum is where romance meets adventure. This beautiful resort is set in the bohemian paradise of Tulum, offering a unique mix of beachfront beauty and jungle charm. Their picturesque wedding gazebo and chapel are simply magical, and the lush gardens provide endless photo opportunities. Plus, the town of Tulum is just a short trip away, where you and your guests can explore ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and cool beach clubs. It’s the perfect spot for a laid-back, yet unforgettable wedding.

Dreams Tulum Resort Wedding Photo by Carrie Rogers Photography

Why Dreams Tulum Stands Out

Bohemian Charm: Dreams Tulum captures the bohemian charm of Tulum, offering a unique blend of beachfront beauty and jungle allure. The resort’s relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings create a romantic and laid-back setting for your wedding.

Versatile Venues: The resort offers a variety of picturesque venues for your ceremony and reception. Whether you choose the beachside gazebo, the charming chapel, or the lush gardens, you’ll find the perfect backdrop for your vows and photos.

Local Attractions: Dreams Tulum is located close to the town of Tulum, giving you and your guests easy access to local attractions. Explore the ancient Mayan ruins, visit the vibrant markets, or relax at one of Tulum’s trendy beach clubs. This adds an extra layer of adventure and excitement to your wedding celebration.

Family-Friendly: Unlike some resorts, Dreams Tulum is family-friendly, making it a great choice for couples with children or those expecting guests with families. The resort offers activities and amenities for guests of all ages, ensuring that everyone has a great time.

Eco-Friendly Practices: Dreams Tulum is committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. They have various initiatives in place to minimize their environmental impact, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious couples.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Unique Setting: Combines beach and jungle for a picturesque backdrop.
  • Versatile Venues: Beautiful wedding gazebo, chapel, and lush gardens.
  • Local Attractions: Close to Tulum’s ruins, markets, and beach clubs for guest activities.
  • Family-Friendly: Welcomes guests of all ages.

Cons:

  • Travel: Located further from Cancun airport, potentially longer travel times.
  • Weather: Jungle setting may bring more humidity and insects.

Detailed Pros

Unique Setting: Dreams Tulum offers a unique blend of beachfront beauty and jungle charm, creating a picturesque backdrop for your wedding. The resort’s natural surroundings provide endless photo opportunities and a serene atmosphere for your special day.

Versatile Venues: The resort offers a variety of beautiful venues for your ceremony and reception. Whether you choose the beachside gazebo, the charming chapel, or the lush gardens, you’ll find the perfect setting for your vows and photos.

Local Attractions: Dreams Tulum’s proximity to the town of Tulum allows you and your guests to explore local attractions. Visit the ancient Mayan ruins, shop at the vibrant markets, or relax at one of Tulum’s trendy beach clubs. This adds an extra layer of adventure and excitement to your wedding celebration.

Family-Friendly: Dreams Tulum is a family-friendly resort, making it a great choice for couples with children or those expecting guests with families. The resort offers activities and amenities for guests of all ages, ensuring that everyone has a great time.

Eco-Friendly Practices: Dreams Tulum is committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. They have various initiatives in place to minimize their environmental impact, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious couples.

Detailed Cons

Travel: Dreams Tulum is located further from Cancun airport, which can result in longer travel times for you and your guests. However, the resort offers transportation services to make the journey as smooth as possible.

Weather: The jungle setting of Dreams Tulum can bring more humidity and insects. It’s important to consider the weather and plan accordingly, especially if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or reception.

4. Nizuc Resort & Spa - Cancun

Nizuc Resort & Spa in Cancun is the epitome of chic sophistication. This luxury resort offers stunning oceanfront views, stylish venues, and top-tier service that will make your wedding day truly special. Whether you’re dreaming of a beach ceremony, a garden affair, or a grand ballroom celebration, Nizuc has it all. And with its award-winning spa, you can indulge in some much-needed pampering before your big day. Your guests will love the luxurious amenities and the close proximity to Cancun’s vibrant nightlife and attractions.

Nizuc Resort & Spa Wedding Photo by Take It Photo

Why Nizuc Resort & Spa Stands Out

Chic Sophistication: Nizuc Resort & Spa is known for its chic and sophisticated ambiance. The resort’s modern design and luxurious amenities create an elegant setting for your wedding. Whether you’re planning a beachside ceremony or a grand ballroom reception, Nizuc provides a stunning backdrop.

Top-Tier Service: The resort’s exceptional service ensures that every detail of your wedding is taken care of. From personalized wedding planning to attentive staff, Nizuc goes above and beyond to make your special day flawless.

Diverse Venues: Nizuc offers a variety of beautiful venues for your ceremony and reception. Choose from a beachside location with ocean views, a lush garden setting, or a grand ballroom for a more formal celebration. Each venue is designed to create a memorable experience for you and your guests.

Award-Winning Spa: The resort’s award-winning spa offers a range of treatments to help you relax and rejuvenate before your big day. Indulge in a massage, facial, or other spa services to ensure you look and feel your best.

Proximity to Cancun: Nizuc’s location in Cancun provides easy access to the city’s vibrant nightlife and attractions. Your guests can explore the local area, enjoy fine dining, and experience the best of Cancun while celebrating your wedding.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Chic Sophistication: Luxury resort with stunning oceanfront views and stylish venues.
  • Top-Tier Service: Exceptional service ensuring a flawless wedding experience.
  • Diverse Venues: Options for beach, garden, and ballroom celebrations.
  • Amenities: Award-winning spa, luxurious accommodations, and proximity to Cancun nightlife.

Cons:

  • Cost: Luxury and high-end services come at a premium.
  • Popularity: High demand may require booking well in advance.

Detailed Pros

Chic Sophistication: Nizuc Resort & Spa’s modern design and luxurious amenities create an elegant setting for your wedding. The resort’s sophisticated ambiance and stunning oceanfront views provide a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony and reception.

Top-Tier Service: The resort’s exceptional service ensures that every detail of your wedding is taken care of. From personalized wedding planning to attentive staff, Nizuc goes above and beyond to make your special day flawless.

Diverse Venues: Nizuc offers a variety of beautiful venues for your ceremony and reception. Whether you choose a beachside location with ocean views, a lush garden setting, or a grand ballroom, each venue is designed to create a memorable experience for you and your guests.

Amenities: The resort’s award-winning spa offers a range of treatments to help you relax and rejuvenate before your big day. Indulge in a massage, facial, or other spa services to ensure you look and feel your best. Nizuc also offers luxurious accommodations and a variety of on-site activities for you and your guests to enjoy.

Proximity to Cancun: Nizuc’s location in Cancun provides easy access to the city’s vibrant nightlife and attractions. Your guests can explore the local area, enjoy fine dining, and experience the best of Cancun while celebrating your wedding.

Detailed Cons

Cost: The luxurious amenities and top-tier service at Nizuc Resort & Spa come with a higher price tag. However, the exceptional experience and stunning setting make it worth the investment for many couples.

Popularity: Due to its high demand, Nizuc may require booking well in advance. It’s important to plan ahead and secure your desired dates to ensure availability for your wedding.

5. Xcaret Park - Playa del Carmen

Xcaret Wedding Photo by Del Sol Photography

For a wedding that’s truly one-of-a-kind, Xcaret Park is a must-consider. This eco-park offers a variety of unique venues, from a picturesque chapel on the river to stunning beach locations and a grand ballroom. The park’s natural beauty and cultural elements add a special touch to your celebration. Incorporate local Mayan traditions, enjoy performances, and make the most of the park’s attractions for a wedding that’s both fun and unforgettable. Your guests will be talking about this experience for years to come.

Why Xcaret Park Stands Out

Unique Venues: Xcaret Park offers a range of unique venues for your wedding. Choose from a picturesque chapel on the river, stunning beach locations, or a grand ballroom. Each venue provides a beautiful and memorable setting for your ceremony and reception.

Cultural Elements: Xcaret Park incorporates local Mayan traditions and cultural elements into your wedding celebration. From traditional performances to authentic cuisine, the park offers a unique and immersive experience for you and your guests.

Natural Beauty: The park’s natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for your wedding. With lush landscapes, crystal-clear cenotes, and beautiful beaches, Xcaret Park offers endless photo opportunities and a serene atmosphere for your special day.

Fun Experience: Xcaret Park is known for its attractions and activities, making it a fun and exciting destination for your wedding. Your guests can explore the park’s attractions, enjoy performances, and participate in activities, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Eco-Friendly Practices: Xcaret Park is committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The park’s initiatives to protect the environment and preserve local culture make it a great choice for environmentally conscious couples.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Unique Venues: Diverse options including a chapel on the river, beach locations, and a grand ballroom.
  • Cultural Elements: Incorporate local Mayan traditions and performances.
  • Natural Beauty: Eco-park setting with lush landscapes and unique attractions.
  • Fun Experience: Guests can enjoy the park’s attractions, making the wedding memorable and fun.

Cons:

  • Logistics: Managing a wedding in an eco-park may require more coordination.
  • Cost: Extra expenses for park access and activities for guests.

Detailed Pros

Unique Venues: Xcaret Park offers a variety of unique venues for your wedding. Whether you choose the picturesque chapel on the river, a stunning beach location, or a grand ballroom, each venue provides a beautiful and memorable setting for your ceremony and reception.

Cultural Elements: Incorporating local Mayan traditions and cultural elements into your wedding celebration adds a special touch. From traditional performances to authentic cuisine, Xcaret Park offers a unique and immersive experience for you and your guests.

Natural Beauty: The park’s natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for your wedding. With lush landscapes, crystal-clear cenotes, and beautiful beaches, Xcaret Park offers endless photo opportunities and a serene atmosphere for your special day.

Fun Experience: Xcaret Park is known for its attractions and activities, making it a fun and exciting destination for your wedding. Your guests can explore the park’s attractions, enjoy performances, and participate in activities, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Eco-Friendly Practices: Xcaret Park is committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The park’s initiatives to protect the environment and preserve local culture make it a great choice for environmentally conscious couples.

Detailed Cons

Logistics: Managing a wedding in an eco-park may require more coordination. It’s important to work with the park’s event planning team to ensure that all details are taken care of and that your wedding runs smoothly.

Cost: There may be extra expenses for park access and activities for your guests. It’s important to budget for these additional costs and communicate with your guests about any fees associated with attending your wedding at Xcaret Park.

So there you have it – my top five picks for destination wedding resorts in the Riviera Maya, complete with pros and cons! Each of these resorts offers something unique, ensuring that your wedding day is lit.

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