Your Ultimate Cabo San Lucas Wedding Guide: Venues & Costs

So you're thinking about a Cabo San Lucas wedding? Smart move. We've been to countless weddings in this slice of paradise, and let me tell you, there's something magical about saying "I do" with the Sea of Cortez as your backdrop.

Look, here's the thing about Cabo destination weddings: they're not just about the Instagram-worthy photos (though you'll get plenty of those). It's about celebrating your love in a place where the desert meets the ocean, where every sunset looks like a painting, and where your guests will thank you for giving them the best vacation of their lives.

But planning a wedding from miles away? That can feel overwhelming. Don't worry. We've got your back with everything you need to know about cabo wedding venues, costs, and all the nitty-gritty details that'll make your big day perfect.

Why Choose Cabo for Your Wedding?

Honestly? Cabo just makes sense for weddings. The weather is reliable (sunshine 350 days a year), the scenery is unbeatable, and you've got options for every style and budget.

Your guests get a vacation out of the deal. Win-win. Plus, Mexican hospitality is the real deal. The vendors here have perfected the art of making couples feel special while keeping everything running smoothly.

And let's be real, a cabo beach wedding at sunset with mariachi music? That's the stuff wedding dreams are made of.

Best Cabo Wedding Venues

Beachfront Resorts

The resorts here know weddings. They've been doing them for years and have the process down to a science.

Grand Velas Los Cabos is where we'd get married if we were doing it again. The adults-only section keeps things sophisticated, and their wedding packages include everything from flowers to photography. Expect to spend $15,000-$25,000 for 50 guests.

Esperanza Resort sits on a private beach in the Corridor. It's intimate, luxurious, and their wedding team is incredible. Budget around $20,000-$30,000 for a medium-sized celebration.

For something more budget-friendly, Breathless Cabo San Lucas offers solid cabo wedding packages starting around $8,000 for smaller groups.

Private Villas

Want total privacy and customization? Luxury villas are where it's at. You'll have complete control over vendors, timing, and every detail.

Villa Lands End offers stunning views of the arch. Villa Bellissima has multiple ceremony locations on the property. These venues typically run $3,000-$8,000 just for the space, but you'll save on catering by bringing in local vendors.

Pro tip: Villa weddings work best for groups under 60 people. More than that and logistics get tricky.

Unique Venues

Sunset Monalisa is built into the cliffs overlooking the Pacific. The views are insane, but it's pricey. Budget $25,000+ for a full wedding here.

For something different, consider a private yacht ceremony. We've seen couples exchange vows on the water with the arch in the background. It's intimate, unique, and surprisingly affordable at $5,000-$12,000 depending on the boat size.

Cabo Wedding Costs Breakdown

Real talk: destination weddings can be expensive or reasonable, depending on your choices. Here's what we typically see:

Budget Cabo Wedding ($10,000-$20,000)

• Resort wedding package: $8,000-$12,000
• Photography: $1,500-$3,000
• Flowers and extras: $500-$2,000
• Welcome party: $1,000-$3,000

Mid-Range Wedding ($20,000-$40,000)

• Better resort or private venue: $12,000-$25,000
• Professional photography and video: $3,000-$6,000
• Upgraded flowers and decor: $2,000-$4,000
• Multi-day celebrations: $3,000-$5,000

Luxury Cabo Wedding ($40,000+)

• Premium venue: $20,000-$40,000
• Top-tier photography team: $5,000-$10,000
• Custom design and florals: $5,000-$15,000
• Multiple events and entertainment: $10,000+

Fair warning: these numbers can climb fast when you start adding extras like live bands, fireworks, or premium bar packages.

Planning Timeline and Legal Requirements

Legal Ceremony vs Symbolic

Most couples we know do a quick legal ceremony at home, then have a symbolic ceremony in Cabo. The Mexican legal requirements involve blood tests, paperwork, and waiting periods that can stress you out.

Symbolic ceremonies give you all the emotion and celebration without the bureaucratic headaches. Your officiant can be anyone you want, and you'll have more flexibility with timing and locations.

12 Months Before

• Book your venue (the good ones fill up fast)
• Send save the dates
• Research wedding planners
• Block hotel rooms for guests

6-8 Months Before

• Finalize vendor contracts
• Send invitations
• Plan adventures and activities for guests
• Book your concierge services

2-3 Months Before

• Final headcount to venues
• Finalize ceremony details
• Arrange transportation
• Confirm all vendor details

Working with Wedding Planners

Look, you could plan everything yourself, but why would you? A good local planner knows the vendors, speaks the language, and can handle last-minute issues while you're getting ready.

We recommend planners who specialize in cabo destination weddings. They typically charge 10-15% of your total wedding budget, but they'll save you that much in vendor negotiations and stress reduction.

The best planners we've worked with: Elena Damy (high-end), Cabo Wedding Services (mid-range), and Creative Destination Events (budget-friendly but thorough).

Guest Experience and Accommodations

Your wedding isn't just about one day. It's about creating an experience for everyone who travels to celebrate with you.

Where to House Your Guests

Book room blocks early. The Corridor resorts (between Cabo and San José) offer the best value and beautiful beaches. Downtown Cabo has more nightlife if your crowd likes to party.

Consider renting a large villa for your immediate family or wedding party. It creates a home base and can actually save money compared to multiple hotel rooms.

Activities for Guests

Plan at least one group activity. Sunset sailing trips are always a hit. Deep-sea fishing for the adventurous types. Beach club days for those who just want to chill.

Give people options but don't over-schedule. This is their vacation too.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

The best months for a cabo beach wedding? October through May. You'll get perfect weather, minimal rain, and comfortable temperatures.

June through September is hurricane season, but honestly, Cabo rarely gets hit directly. It's more about heat and humidity. If you're on a budget, summer weddings can save you 30-40% on venue costs.

December and January are peak season, so expect higher prices but guaranteed gorgeous weather.

Food, Drinks, and Entertainment

Mexican cuisine at weddings here goes way beyond resort buffets. Work with venues that can do authentic local dishes alongside international options.

The tequila and mezcal selections in Cabo are incredible. Consider doing a tasting during your welcome party. It's a fun way to introduce guests to local culture.

For entertainment, mariachi bands are classic for a reason. But we've also seen great DJ sets, acoustic guitarists during ceremonies, and even traditional Mexican dancers for reception entertainment.

Photography and Memories

The light in Cabo is magical, especially during golden hour. Work with photographers who know the area and can suggest the best locations and timing.

Destination wedding photography packages here typically run $2,500-$8,000. It might seem like a lot, but these photos will be your main keepsake from the entire experience.

Ask to see full wedding galleries, not just highlight reels. You want someone who captures both the big moments and the small details that made your cabo san lucas wedding special.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't underestimate travel time for guests. Give people at least 6-8 months notice, especially if you're planning for peak season.

Okay so here's something nobody tells you: resort wedding packages often have hidden costs. Read the fine print on things like upgraded linens, premium bar options, and overtime charges.

Weather backup plans are crucial, even in Cabo. Make sure your venue has indoor options or covered areas.

And please, please don't skip the rehearsal. Even simple ceremonies benefit from everyone knowing where to stand and when to walk.

FAQ

How much does a Cabo San Lucas wedding cost?

Most couples spend between $15,000-$35,000 for a cabo destination wedding with 30-50 guests. Budget weddings can be done for $10,000, while luxury celebrations can easily exceed $50,000.

What's the best time of year for a cabo wedding?

October through May offers the best weather with minimal rain and comfortable temperatures. Peak season (December-January) has perfect weather but higher prices.

Do I need a wedding planner for my Cabo wedding?

While not required, local planners are incredibly valuable for destination weddings. They handle language barriers, know reliable vendors, and can manage day-of logistics while you focus on enjoying your celebration.

Can guests easily travel to Cabo for my wedding?

Yes, Los Cabos International Airport has direct flights from most major US cities. The resort area is only 20-45 minutes from the airport, making it convenient for guests.

What's included in typical cabo wedding packages?

Most packages include ceremony setup, basic floral arrangements, officiant, music system, and reception dinner. Photography, upgraded decor, premium bars, and additional events usually cost extra.

Planning your cabo san lucas wedding should be exciting, not stressful. Take your time choosing the right venue and vendors, but don't get caught up in perfectionism. At the end of the day, you're marrying your best friend in paradise. Everything else is just details.

Ready to start planning your dream Cabo wedding? Contact our team for personalized venue recommendations and planning assistance. We'll help you create the perfect celebration that fits your style and budget.