Tropical and easy to get to- Los Cabos! Here is some favorite hotels in the area, some modern and classy, while some more natural with jungle vibes. What you decide on, will make for a magical Mexican wedding. Here are some recommendations from a Cabo wedding photographer.
What’s not to like about Mexico- endless sunshine, tacos and margaritas. We often forget that Baja is a few hours drive south from San Diego; a fun weekend getaway to tie the knot! For those open to flying, Cabo San Lucas is a short 2 hour plane ride, perfect for a destination elopement. As a photographer that has shot in Mexico, here are some recommendations.
Favorite Vendors in Cabo
- Event Planning: BAJA EVENTS + EVENTS BY BLISS
- Florals: PINACATE 0202
- Hair/ Make-up: LOS CABOS MAKEUP
- Rentals: WAREHOUSE RENTALS
Favorite Wedding & Elopement Venues in Cabo
Acre Baja
A desert chic oasis, Acre Baja is a 24 acre area of farmland, restaurant, cocktail bar, event space and twelve treehouses! The hotel features stunning gardens, and stunning photo opportunities for a small destination wedding. Acre also has a petting zoo with cute goats and donkeys. For a bigger celebration, head to Flora Farms for a fun evening filled with delicious food and drinks.
Drift Hotel
A modern Baja ranch style hotel. The Drift Hotel was designed with the idea of connecting with like-minded travelers and gathering together; ideal for an elopement or small wedding. It is located in the city, steps away from hip cafes and cool bars; for authentic eats and culture, this is the place to be. Plus, their curfew is midnight, which means you can party around that crackling bonfire in the communal part of the hotel.
Hotel San Cristobal, Todos Santos
Mexican style elopement, with a laid back feel, head to Hotel San Cristóbal in Todos Santos, an hour north of Cabo. Down a dirt road, is a boutique oasis that lies on the Pacific coast of Baja.The intimate, non-corporate resort sits on 15 acres, and makes you feel like you found your own hidden gem; ideal for a weekend elopement or destination mexico wedding. For those who want an adventure, head to the town of Todos Santos, which has a rich history that dates all the way back to 11,000 BC.
The Cape Hotel
Overlooking the Sea of Cortez, is the stunning The Cape, a Thompson Hotel. The hotel features a stunning view of the Cabo’s most recognized destination El Arco– granite carved into an arch by centuries of sea and wind exposure. Imagine getting married here, what a dream! The hotel offers several options for ceremonies and celebrations; as well as several restaurants. The white sands of Monuments Beach, will make for a romantic, natural backdrop for wedding photos.
Further & Closer into Mexico…
Las Gaviotas
A popular hidden gem for San Diego locals, so why not elope here!? Located just 45 minutes south of the Mexican border, Las Gaviotas is an fun spot with its affordable rentals and closeness to all of Southern California for a quick trip away. The drive is pleasant, with views of the coast. It is also surfers paradise. Once there, you can rent an ocean view villa in the gated community to enjoy the sunsets. Of course, there is a private beach and pool.
Valle De Guadalupe
More into the mountain and vineyard, head to Valle in Mexico. Views of rolling vineyards and mountains, and fresh local food can be found here. A two hour drive south, this is a popular weekend getaway. The area features modern, hip hotel such as Bruma, which was built around a 300 year old tree, perfect for a ceremony. Another popular hotel is La Villa del Valle, which has a rustic-chic style, on 70 acres of vineyards, olive groves, lavender and mountains. Perhaps something more intimate, and smaller? Plan a small dinner at Fauna Restaurante. For more ideas on locations, check out VenueReport’s article on Valle De Guadalupe
Sayulita
Just north of Puerto Vallarta, lies the hippy-chic coastal town, Sayulita, mixed Mexico country culture with Pacific surf, with stylish boutique hotels and cool bars. It is a popular destination for surfers, and weddings. Super cute colorful backdrops and stunning oceans views, make for great wedding photos. Located in the north part of town is Villa del Oso, which offers breathtaking ocean views and open gardens. Another stunning location for a Sayulita wedding, is Teitiare Estate, which is an estate surrounded by lush foliage. Another stunning venue is Don Pedro’s Palapa, which overlooks the ocean.
Hotel Maraica, San Pancho
Slowly becoming the new Sayulita, just north of the small town is San Pancho— and Hotel Maraica. It has a similar slow vibe of Sayulita, yet more off the grid. Beautiful architecture, and jungle vibes are throughout Hotel Maraica. If youre looking for a small, surf town vibe wedding elopement. This is it!
Hope you find this guide helpful, in your Mexico elopement or wedding planning. Has the pleasure to travel (and photograph) at many of the these venues and we highly recommend them.
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