All-Inclusive Destination Wedding Resorts in Mexico for all Budgets

With its stunning beaches, tropical climate, and an endless supply of luxury all-inclusive resorts, it’s no wonder The Riviera Maya/Cancun has become one of the most popular wedding destinations in the world.  As someone who had her destination wedding in Cancun, I may be a little biased, but I really do believe that few places can rival this tropical paradise.

I also know that once I settled on The Riviera Maya and Cancun region, my head started spinning with all of the venue options available.  So if you have decided on a destination wedding in the Riviera Maya, but have no idea which resort to choose, this post is a good starting point.

Travel expert, Jack Benoff from Vacationeeze, compiled this list of all-inclusive wedding resorts in Mexico.  Jack has over 25 years in the travel industry and has helped plan destination wedding travel to Mexico for many couples and their guests.  He was a great resource for this post, so let’s get started.

The difference between low and high budget all-inclusive resorts

Dining Options

The key differences between a $$$$ and a $$ resort will be that the more expensive ones will have many more restaurants to choose from, and a greater selection of entrées.

You will have no restrictions regarding which restaurant you can dine in, how often you can go, or what you can order off the menu.  The food and service will be top quality, with many different cuisines for you to choose from. Most of the $$$$ resort restaurants don’t even require reservations.   At the $$$$ they will include 24-hour room service and the brands of liquor and beer at the bars will be top-shelf international brands you know from home, whereas at some of the $$ resorts they will serve local brands that you’ve probably never heard of.

Amenities

The $$$$ resorts will typically provide you robes in the room, upgraded amenities, turn down service in the evening and free WiFi.

Service

You will find the staff at the $$$$ resorts to be very attentive to you and your guests’ needs.    Most of the $$$$ resorts have between 100 and 500 rooms.   Most of the $$ resorts are larger complexes of 2,000 to 3,000 rooms.

Wedding Packages

Each property will have its own selection of wedding packages to fit every budget.  Typically, the $$$$ resorts will have more complementary offers such as free rooms, free ceremonies, and room upgrades.  There is a resort for every destination wedding group.  The key is to find the perfect one to host your wedding and to assure that you and your guests have an amazing experience.  Working with a travel agent that has experience planning destination weddings is an important first step as they can save you the hassle of reading reviews, making many overseas calls, and dealing with confusing information.

$$$$ All-Inclusive Wedding Resorts in The Riviera Maya

Family-Friendly

Dreams is designed to reflect the charm of the Mexican Caribbean. Surrounded by glistening pools, lush tropical gardens and a palm-studded beach, this 486 premium octagonal rooms and suites property will allow guests to luxuriate in private and spacious accommodations with each room having at least one Jacuzzi and ground floor room offering a plunge pool, daily refreshed minibar, full marble bathroom, and a wealth of amenities. Nine gourmet themed restaurants without reservations, six fabulous bars ranging from elegant to swim-up, plus a fully-equipped fitness center and a world-class Dreams Spa.

Dreams Tulum is located on one of the most unique beaches in the Riviera Maya surrounded by lush tropical acres, sugary white sand, and magnificent colonial architecture. Just five minutes from Tulum and 30 minutes from Playa del Carmen, Dreams Tulum offers Unlimited-Luxury with upscale surroundings and combines fun and relaxation with the ancient world of the Maya.  All guest rooms and suites offer a private and furnished patio or balcony with a hammock, marble bathrooms, daily refreshed mini-bar and 24-hour room service. Dreams Spa by Pevonia offers a full range of natural curative massage therapies and facial treatments, each designed to soothe your body, mind, and spirit. And to really help you unwind, the Explorer’s Club keeps your kids happy and busy with their own kind of supervised fun.  They have over 6 restaurants and many bars for you to relax.

Azul Sensatori is a true multigenerational resort where couples and families can reconnect and relax while enjoying the Karisma Gourmet Inclusive Experience featuring 5 la carte restaurants, 5 bars, and lounges, spacious suites, 24-hour room service with personalized service, making this a treat for all the senses.  They have multiple pools and even an adults-only area.  The resort has a dedicated kids club with a full day of activities.  If you are looking for a special place to hold your wedding, the resort has a spectacular rooftop wedding venue which is 100% private and has 360-degree views.

Azul Beach is a gourmet inclusive hotel, by Karisma located in the beautiful Bahia Petempich in the Mayan Riviera. Just 20 minutes south of Cancun Airport, 25 minutes south of downtown Cancun, 40 minutes north of Playa del Carmen. The intimate atmosphere affords proximity so that every room in this 148-room boutique-style hotel is just steps away from the beach, pools, and restaurants. Recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award, families and couples will savor the complete Karisma Gourmet Inclusive Experience, from full-service concierge service to stylish guestrooms, outstanding gourmet a la carte dining options, beach butlers, four poster beach beds, daily and nightly activities, and a Kids Club.

Hard Rock– Just off the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea, the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is nothing short of the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Live it up with world-class shopping and endless style. Enjoy the beauty of a private protected beach. Treat the kids to the Little Big Club and teen activities. Hit the links at an 18-hole golf course. Or channel your inner awesome and spend some time at Heaven – an adults-only expanse with stunning pools, lavish spa treatment rooms, dining, and more. Bottom line, it’s all top shelf.  They have many restaurants including two steakhouses, an Asian fusion restaurant, and a Mexican restaurant.  Guests will also be provided with credits to spend during their stay.  The couple will also earn credits to be used to pay for their reception and wedding events.

Generations, Mexico’s premier all-Suite, all-Butler, all-gourmet beachfront resort where couples, wedding parties, and families can savor a gourmet-inclusive experience, and a vacation that fosters togetherness. This 144-suite resort stretches along a secluded beach in Riviera Maya, providing indulgences from Gourmet Inclusive a la carte cuisine to infinity pool balcony suites, complete with attentive butler service. With the Eko Kids Club offering supervised activities for children, parents can run off and play all by themselves, knowing that their little ones are in good hands and having fun. And with everything from beach watersports to nightly live entertainment, there are plenty of adult activities to run off to.

Moon Palace, is located 5 miles south of the airport and nestled between the pristine 1,975-foot white-sand beach and 55 acres of tropical foliage.  This all-inclusive property offers 2,314 air-conditioned rooms, most with ocean or partial ocean views, and features Double Whirlpool Tub, 14 restaurants, 16 bars including 6 swim-up bars, 7 oversized pools, tennis, a full-service spa, a signature golf course on premises, miniature golf, a kid’s club, discotheque, a daily activity program and theme nights. Stay at one, enjoy select Palace Resorts.  Guest staying at the Moon will receive credits that can be used for massages, tours, room upgrades and even to swim with the dolphins.   The wedding couple will earn credits to pay for their wedding reception and events.

Zoetry Paraiso De La Bonita – Indulge yourself in The Art of Life® at Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita, a luxurious, secluded retreat combining Endless Privileges® with holistic wellness, tranquility, and romance. Perfectly situated along Cancun’s famed Riviera Maya, this AAA Five Diamond resort offers magnificent ocean views, graciously appointed suites, gourmet dining, Bvlgari® bath amenities, and more.  If you are looking for 5 star pampering, where the staff knows you name within a few hours of check-in, this is your place.  Rooms are all ocean front with large bedrooms, living rooms and bathrooms.  The resort has 3 restaurants and 24 hour rooms service.

Adults Only

Secrets Silversands – With remarkable attention to design and comfort, these 433 retreats open with ultra-cozy suspended beds, sofa, supple bathrobes and slippers, daily refreshed mini bar, private, furnished terrace or patio, and 24-hour room service. Fantastic sea and tropical garden views come with all. Because no vacation is complete without exceptional gourmet dining, premium brand beverages and nightlife, Secrets Silversands pays special attention to each. For starters, guests will find eight reservation-free gourmet restaurants and clothing boutique, eight posh bars, and live entertainment in an open-air theatre. When night turns into day, the fun begins with eight expansive pools, an infinity pool, billiards, dance classes, fitness center, kayaking, sailing and tennis. Equally as popular is the lavish Secrets Spa.

El Dorado Royale Nestled on a mile-long strand of pearl-white beach, guests will find world-class restaurants, renowned chefs, personal concierges, and bars. Guests of El Dorado Royale, are more than welcome to visit El Dorado Casitas Royale and Generations Riviera Maya next door to partake in their activities and enjoy over 15 restaurants and 10 bars. There is always something to do at the resort.  If you want to sit back and relax and have a drink on the beach or work out at one of the two fitness centers.  The resort even has its own catholic church to host your wedding.   If you can dream it, then the planners at El Dorado Royale can make it happen.

Breathless is a stylish and exhilarating resort, located just 15 minutes from Cancun International Airport and nestled between the jungle and Caribbean Ocean. 526 ultra-modern suites feature chic accommodations and the refined amenities included in the Unlimited-Luxury experience, where everything is included – 24-hour room service, daily refreshed mini-bars, pool and beach wait services, and so much more. Guests will experience their highest level of luxury and personal service at the Xhale club, with exclusive access to the Xhale club lounge, two private pools, elevated concierge service, and other special amenities. They offer 10 trendy restaurants for you to dine at and  5 bars and lounges including a 35 person Jacuzzi.  The resort just opened in the fall of 2016, so everything is brand new.  Be the first of your friends to host your wedding here.

$$$ All-Inclusive Wedding Resorts in The Riviera Maya

Now Jade – Guests will receive 550 sumptuous, spacious accommodations with 24-hour room and concierge service, flat-screen surround sound televisions, daily refreshed premium mini bars in-suite, wireless internet, private terraces, and, without exception, spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.  Your creature comforts extend to three oversized swimming pools, six game courts, motorized water sports, and an outdoor theater for shows and movies beneath the stars. Now Jade Riviera Cancun also brings together a culinary and mixology team who delivers fine food and drink within seven gourmet, reservation-free restaurants and five stylish bars and lounges.  This is a 4-star resort but the prices are very similar to most $$$ resorts. They have many great wedding venues with spectacular ocean views.  It is our top pick in this category.

Now Sapphire – Inspired by the many shades of blue, Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun offers unlimited-luxury amidst impressive Mayan architecture, lush landscaping, and resplendent ocean views. Its oceanfront setting, alongside a collection of pools featuring luxurious beds and oceanfront palapas, treat guests to the ultimate in waterfront relaxation, elegance, and tranquility.  The resort offers 7 restaurants and most don’t require any reservations.   There are 5 bars and lounges to relax during the day and night.  There is a full activity program all day.   There is also a great kids club to keep the little ones busy.  The resort has many great wedding venues with amazing ocean views.  This resort offers similar amenities as most of the $$$$ resorts but prices the same as most $$$ resort.

Grand Palladium – Featuring 264 spacious and modern suites, the resort also features 9 delicious a la carte restaurants (Mexican, Japanese, Mediterranean, Steak House, Italian, Chinese, Brazilian, BBQ Grill, and International cuisine), 5 buffet restaurants with show cooking, 26 bars distributed throughout the complex, sports facilities and entertainment activities, so that there is plenty to do to enjoy in this tropical paradise. With the biggest and most complete Spa & Wellness Center in the Mayan Riviera, you can pamper yourself with a luxurious massage or treatment for total relaxation. The daily program consists of sports activities and entertainment for all ages. Either on the beach or at the pool, this resort offers fun for everyone: volleyball, archery, aerobics, salsa & merengue lessons, beach games, video game tournament, Spanish lessons, mini-golf tournament, and more.  The list is endless. The shows and games at night at the theater, the mini-disco for kids, the Sunset Boulevard disco (ages 18 and up), and live music also delight guests.

Barcelo Maya Colonial sits amidst the beauty of the Mexican Caribbean and the mystery of the Mayan World.  It is only 45 miles south of Cancun International Airport, 12 miles south Playa del Carmen, and 20 miles north of Tulum.  Surrounded by spectacular lush gardens with tropical vegetation, the architecture is the perfect mix to rest & relax or participate with endless entertainment options. Barcelo Maya Colonial & Tropical is ideal for families, couples, groups of friends and meetings.   Set among well-manicured tropical gardens, 1.12 miles sugar-white sand beach along crystalline turquoise waters and spectacular coral reef is an unparalleled exhibition of the Caribbean paradise that will dazzle your senses. This beachfront resort features one of the best palm-filled beaches of the Riviera Maya.  Barcelo Maya Colonial & Tropical features a total of 960 guest rooms, 8 restaurants and 7 bars, free form pools with Jacuzzi, a fun-filled Barcy Kids Club including a water park specially designed for children up to 12 years old, non-motorized water sports, 18 hole mini-golf, Teen’s Club, Discotheque, Theater, Gym/Fitness center, spectacular nightly shows with live band music, 2 tennis courts, professional soccer field, and 16,000 square feet full service U Spa.

Iberostar Paraiso – This is an all-inclusive resort where beautiful architecture meets nature to create a perfect balance. It offers approximately 1300 feet (400 meters) of white sand beach. In addition, the property has a spectacular lake pool with center islands covered with palm trees, waterfalls, and Jacuzzis, plus a separate children’s pool – all surrounded by palm trees and huts. There is a shuttle service within the hotel grounds every 15 minutes.

Bluebay Grande Esmeralda – This luxurious family-friendly hotel is just 40 minutes south of Cancun airport, consists of 979 elegant rooms and suites contemporarily decorated, overlooking the sea or the beautiful garden setting distributed in 8 buildings, and a private beach. They offer all the facilities to enjoy and relax including a modern 2,500 square meter spa with its fully equipped gym. To enjoy the cuisine during your stay, BlueBay Grand Esmeralda offers a wide variety of buffets and a la carte restaurants to delight in creative dishes made with great products. Be sure to book dinner in Don Isi Gourmet Mexican restaurant where you will find important specialties of each region of Mexico which is a real treat for the palate of discerning guests.

$$$$ All-Inclusive Wedding Resorts in Cancun

Family Resorts

Dreams Sands – Stay in one of 437 elegantly appointed rooms at Dreams Sands Cancun, boasting tasteful chic decor and breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and Isla Mujeres. A 650 foot private stretch of pristine, white sand beach offers non-motorized water sports, palapas and chaise lounges, while two swimming pools with a swim-up bar and an outdoor Jacuzzi await you! Send your taste buds on a wild journey at six gourmet restaurants, savor international and domestic unlimited top-shelf spirits at four bars and lounges, and stay fit & rejuvenated at the on-site spa and fitness center. Bring the kids, and they’ll enjoy supervised activities at the Explorer’s Club!

Dreams Playa Mujeres is a brand new resort that opened in November 2016 and has 502 spacious suites, with stunning pool, garden, swim-out, ocean views, or ocean fronts.  Their Unlimited-Luxury includes unlimited premium drinks and gourmet dining, 24-hour room service, daily refreshed minibar, and more. This family-friendly resort is conveniently located only 10 minutes away from shopping and local stores in downtown Cancun. Also, guests at Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf and Spa Resort will have complimentary green fees and access to an 18-hole championship golf course located in the Playa Mujeres complex.   Unlimited-Luxury inclusions will treat guests with elegant accommodations, graciously appointed, limitless access to vast gourmet a la carte dining options and specialty restaurants with no reservations required as well as unlimited international and domestic top-shelf spirits at any of the 9 bars and lounges.  If you are looking for a resort on white powder sand with turquoise waters then this is your place.    It is right next to Secrets Playa Mujeres, which is an adults-only all-inclusive resort.

Hard Rock Cancun – To live like a rock star means never being far away from the action. Lucky for you, the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel Cancun puts you right in the middle of it. Located in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, the hotel pays homage to a lifestyle of excess and unsurpassed services. They offer 5 restaurants to choose from with no reservations required at most.  There is always music and great entertainment at the resort.  Guests will receive credits to be used for tours, the spa, and other activities.  The wedding couple will earn credits that can be used to pay for their wedding events and reception.

Beach Palace is located in Cancun’s hotel zone and features 285 luxurious accommodations, each with a whirlpool tub, balcony, first-class amenities and 24 hour room service. Adults enjoy two rooftop pools with bar service, while the little ones are entertained at the kid’s club featuring fun games, water activities, and its own kiddie pool. In addition, enjoy a pool with a swim-up bar, a spectacular beach, and fine dining at four distinct restaurants and bars. For those looking for a pampering experience, this property features a modern spa. Best of all, its great location lets you enjoy all that Cancun has to offer.  Guests will receive resort credits to be used for tours, the spa, and other activities.  The wedding couple will earn credits that can be used to pay for their wedding events and reception.

Zoetry Villa Rolandi – Indulge yourself in the Art of Life at Zoetry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres Cancun, a luxurious, secluded retreat combining endless privileges with holistic wellness, tranquility, and romance. Idyllically located on the exclusive island of Isla Mujeres, this 35 oceanfront room haven features gourmet dining, a Spa & Thalasso Center, deluxe yacht services, Bvlgari bath amenities, and graciously appointed suites, only 30 minutes from mainland Cancun.   Immerse yourself in the Endless Privileges experience that is included in your Zoetry Villa Rolandi stay. Intertwine wellness, gourmet meals, top-shelf spirits, fine wines, entertainment, and other luxury amenities during your Endless Privileges getaway.

Adults Only

Secrets the Vine is located on one of the world’s most picturesque beaches, the enticing white sand beaches of the Caribbean Sea. This resort presents 495 graciously appointed guest rooms with private balconies revealing awe-inspiring views of the Caribbean Sea and Laguna Nichupte. The stunning 12,580 square foot Secrets Spa by Pevonia is designed for relaxation and rejuvenation evoking the magical world of the Cenotes. Secrets The Vine Cancun is filled with layers of moments to discover from natural luxury to unexpected flavors.  The resort offers 9 dining choices most of which don’t require any reservations.  Secrets is known for their top-shelf beverages at over 6 bars and lounges at the resort. This Unlimited-Luxury haven provides opulence to the most discerning traveler with a pure white sand beach and stunning ocean views stretching as far as the eye can see, yet is located only 9 miles southwest of Cancun’s International Airport.  If you want to be in the center of the action, shopping, and entertainment of Cancun, but want a 5 star home then Secrets is your choice.

Secrets Playa Mujeres is located in beautiful Playa Mujeres, complete with famous white sandy beaches and stunning ocean views in a privileged gated community. This brand new, adults-only, all-suite resort is only 35 minutes from the Cancun International Airport and 10 minutes from downtown Cancun, adjacent to an 18-hole signature golf course and in close proximity to some of the best golf courses, shopping centers, beachfront restaurants and nightlife in the area.  The resort offers great dining choices including French, Asian Fusion, Italian, Mexican and fresh seafood right on the beach.  There are great wedding venues on the beach and overlooking the beach.

Sun Palace – Located in the southern end of the hotel zone in Cancun, Sun Palace is the only property geared to couples in this area. This all-inclusive, couples’ only resort features 252 guestrooms, all beautifully appointed with a Double Whirlpool Tub, balcony, 24-hour room service and unparalleled ocean views. Couples rejoice in the spa, three infinity pools with swim-up bar at the main pool, and a stunning white sand beach. Four specialty restaurants satisfy the most demanding palates with a variety of international cuisines. Active guests enjoy kayaks and paddleboats, a fully equipped gym, and unforgettable off-site excursions to interesting Mayan sites, while daily activities and nightly shows will keep them entertained throughout their stay.

La Blanc – The adult’s only Le Blanc Spa Resort is located in the heart of the hotel zone facing a spectacular and private white sandy beach. The resort’s interior, including walls, ceilings, and furniture are all centered on the color white and feature contemporary and minimalist decoration touched with tropical and Mexican elements that create a stylish exotic ambiance. The all-suite guest rooms, which feature accommodations and Double Whirlpool Tub, are particularly well suited to couples. For complete relaxation, experience a day at the Spa where elegant spa suites let you enjoy rejuvenating treatments in breathtaking views of Nichupte lagoon. When not enjoying the spa, guests will be able to lounge by one of the 3 outdoor pools, including 2 infinity pools and a Whirlpool Tub. Savor some of the finest haute cuisine at any of the five International restaurants or enjoy top-shelf drinks at any of the 5 exquisite bars. For the perfect newlywed experience, you can have your wedding and honeymoon at Le Blanc as well. Those looking for more adventure can try activities at one of the other 6 nearby Palace Resorts which gives them complimentary access to the amenities, golf courses, beaches, and more.

$$$ All-Inclusive Wedding Resorts in Cancun

Family Resort

Sandos – A one of a kind hotel presenting the right blend of beauty, elegance, and understated luxury allowing for the most discerning travelers to fully relax. The exclusive “Total Gourmet Experience” will awaken your senses and delight the palates with a variety of exquisite flavors.

Strategically located on one of the most beautiful beaches of Cancun, at only 9 miles from Cancun’s International Airport and very close to the main shopping areas and nightlife of the Hotel Zone. A choice of recognized golf courses are within easy distance of the hotel and will enhance the stay of the golf enthusiast with choice and variety.

Iberostar Cancun has an 18-hole golf course, a luxurious spa, a modern fitness center, a spectacular convention center, and outdoor areas for events and social activities. IBEROSTAR Cancun also features magnificent pools including an infinity pool, one soccer field, two tennis courts, one buffet restaurant, one snack bar, four specialty restaurants, one modern sports bar, one ice cream parlor, and one cigar bar. This property also offers a complete activity program for the entire family that includes a kids’ club.

Crown Paradise Cancun – If you are looking for unforgettable vacations, the Crown Paradise Club All-Inclusive Resort in Cancun has everything you need. Begin with modern facilities, special areas and activities for children and adults, included non-motorized water sports, family swimming pools, spa, golf, varied services, a large gastronomic selection in a la carte specialty restaurants, domestic and international drinks, shows and nighttime entertainment; all this and much more ensure your vacations in Cancun will be unforgettable.

About Vacationeeze

Selecting the perfect resort for your wedding is an important decision, as you need to find one that has the perfect venues for your ceremony, cocktail, and reception as well as a resort that will cater to the needs (and budgets) of your guests.   If you need help in this process feel free to contact Jack Benoff at Vacationeeze.  Jack and the team at Vacationeeze have been helping clients turn their travel dreams into vacation reality for over 25 years.   Typically in any given week, someone from the Vacationeeze team is traveling to a different destination wedding to either meet the wedding planners or host one of their clients and their guests at the resort.

You can contact Jack at 215-454-2080 or at jack@vacacationeeze.com.