Mexico feels like an old friend of mine at this point. I find myself in Mexico pretty much every year without fail, soaking in the sun and the culture, relaxing on gorgeous beaches, and alternating my time between beautiful hikes and getting out on the water. Even 300+ elopements in and 41+ countries deep into my decade of wedding photography, this is a place I’m excited to go back to again and again.
When it comes to elopements, I’d highly recommend the Riviera Maya just outside of Cancún. This stretch of coastal Yucatán has so many cenotes that you can explore as part of your elopement day alongside gorgeous towns like Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Get married here for that “in paradise” vibe!
At the same time, though, it’s no secret that Mexico is huge and has a ton of diversity within it, which means there’s way more to explore here outside of resort towns. The cities, mountains, and rainforests here shouldn’t be overlooked when you’re considering places to have your wedding day! Don’t worry though—I’ve got you. I have a list of curated recommendations for you below!
(Or—want to take matters into your own hands? I have hundreds of locations waiting for you in my interactive map! Filter away to find your ideal elopement location. Click here to check it out!)
Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Just south of Cancún on the northeastern Yucatán Peninsula, the Riviera Maya is a gorgeous stretch of coast known for its amazing resorts, beautiful blue waters, and soak-ready cenotes. This is right outside of one of the biggest airports in Mexico, which makes getting there a breeze for visitors that are flying in. Balance exploring caves and hidden coves with relaxing oceanside in well known spots like Tulum and you’ll have a balanced elopement that leaves you feeling rejuvenated in every way.
Best for: Coast, Beaches, Islands, Forest, Cities and Cenotes
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating, Snorkeling, Swimming, Diving
Copper Canyon, Chihuahua, Mexico
The area known as Copper Canyon is actually a series of 6 canyons along the Rio Fuerte. Which means there’s dozens of ways to enjoy this super beautiful natural area! In the largest canyon you can even take a train through the countryside and weave in and out of rock tunnels while you look out at the valley below from a dinner or panoramic view car. This area is sometimes compared to the Grand Canyon in the United States, but it actually takes up even more distance! There is so much here to explore and it’s a great place to start for getting a taste of Mexican wilderness.
Best for: Desert, Canyon, Forest and Mountains
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Train, Jeep/4×4, Hiking
Mexico City, State of Mexico, Mexico
At over 7,000 feet in elevation, Mexico City (or CDMX) sits higher than the city of Denver! This is the capital of Mexico and it has the cultural scene to match. The city is made up of dozens of super unique neighborhoods, from the historic center to pedestrian districts like Regina to areas that are thousands of years old like Cualhuacan. It doesn’t really matter here if you’re taking an architecture walking tour, hopping from restaurant to restaurant, doing a deep dive into a city museum, or visiting unique spots like the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco… it’s going to feel like you have the world at your fingertips.
Best for: City, History, Food
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking
Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico
As the far southern end of Baja California, Los Cabos is an area that, while technically being drivable from the United States, feels worlds away. The most dominating portion of the scenery here is the large, rocky cliffs that jut out of the sea, forming impressive arches to explore and provide extra stunning scenery even on things like golf courses. You can also find the popular town of Cabo San Lucas here, which is packed with things to do, beautiful beaches, and a protected harbor. Resorts are plentiful here, giving you your pick of spots to feel pampered while looking out at jaw-dropping “I can’t believe this is real” scenery.
Best for: Mountains, Desert, Coast, Islands and Beaches
Best months to get married here: May to September
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating, Swimming, Snorkeling, Diving
Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Tulum is a destination with a reputation for cool. This is a city made up of balances—Mayan ruins next to all-inclusive resorts, small enclosed cenotes nearby to large expanses of beach, remote hikes in the jungle that you can do after getting lunch at a Michelin Guide featured restaurant. This blend means that you can actually have it all on your elopement day, no matter what you’re after. Tulum has serious staying power in the global imagination, and after a stay here, you’ll understand why.
Best for: Beach, History, City, Cenotes and Forest
Best months to get married here: Year Round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Diving
Samalayuca Dune Field, Chihuahua, Mexico
The Samalayuca dunes are embedded in a remote part of the Chihuahuan Desert, only about a 4 hour drive from El Paso, Texas. 4X4 tours are a great way to get out and see these secluded white sand dunes, especially at sunset when they shift colors with the light. Bring along a board so that you can hop out when you see a dune that makes you want to grab your spouse’s hand and sled down! There are lots of all-inclusive tours in this area that also will give you things like picnic opportunities or a chance to get out under the stars at night.
Best for: Sand Dunes and Desert
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Stargazing, Jeep/4×4
Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Cancún is one of the most famous spots in Mexico, and it’s not without reason. Its absolutely crystal clear waters, bright white sand beaches, and plethora of spas and resorts make enjoying yourself here an easy ask. This would be a great pick for an elopement where you don’t want to think too much about getting to or from any location and want your pick of stays and activities. Visit over the winter for low risk of severe weather, mild temperatures, and reduced crowds.
Best for: Beach, City and Coast
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating, Paddleboarding, Kayaking
Punta Mita, Nayarit, Mexico
Luxury resorts are the name of the game in Punta Mita, as this private peninsula is only open to those staying on it or who live there year round. What that means for you, is your elopement here would be totally one of a kind, full of only the activities you wanted and nothing else. Go windsurfing or snorkeling in the morning, spend your afternoon lounging seaside on the beach, and then head out to be part of the epic nightlife to celebrate your wedding. This is a spot to feel completely pampered and full of those got-married-and-had-my-honeymoon-all-at-once vibes.
Best for: Beach & Coast
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating
Cozumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Cozumel is an island off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula famous for its coral reefs and world-class scuba diving. Many of the best spots lie on the protected portion of the coast in the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park. Because so much of the environment is untouched here, you can find thriving communities of fish and sea turtles! Come here for crystal clear waters on white sands, great chances to see nature at work, and plenty of all-inclusive resort options for you to choose from.
Best for: Beach, City and Coast
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating, Diving, Snorkeling
Balandra Beach, Baja California Sur, Mexico
This beach sits along a sheltered cove on western Baja California, giving you calm waters and the perfect picturesque enclave to say your vows. Balandra Beach would be a good fit for elopers looking for a tropical vibe not far from the capital of La Paz. They let folks in in time slots here—snag the morning one for better tides. You can also rent paddleboards and snorkels here to make the most of the water!
Best for: Beach and Coast
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Kayaking
Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Situated between Cancún and Tulum along the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen is a great homebase if you’re looking for a more natural approach to the area and want to avoid some of the crowds. That being said, the resort options here are still plentiful! You can find tons of adventures for your elopement day here—like soaking in cenotes, exploring ruins, and getting a dose of adrenaline at local adventure parks. Afterwards, you can unwind on the sand after a full day taking it all in.
Best for: Beach, City, Cenotes and Coast
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating, Diving
Oaxaca City, Oaxaca, Mexico
The city of Oaxaca is in southern Mexico, about 8 hours directly south from Mexico City. This is a great pick in Mexico for folks who want a little bit of everything, from thrumming outdoor markets, to rich Mayan and Aztecan history like Monte Albán, to foundational culinary experiences like mezcal and moles made with local chocolate. There is also a super vibrant arts and culture scene here, giving you lots of opportunities for fun classes and art appreciation during your elopement.
Best for: City and History
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Markets
La Paz and Isla Espiritu Santo, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Picture spending your elopement day on an uninhabited island that doubles as a wildlife reserve, where you can swim with sealife and gaze out from some world-class beaches. That’s what your day could look like if you choose Isla Espiritu Santo! Because the wildlife here are so protected—from sea lions, to turtles, to dolphins, and more—you’ll want to make sure you choose a licensed guide to take you out here. But you’re pretty much guaranteed to get memories that will last a lifetime in exchange.
Best for: Beach, Coast and Wildlife
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating, Kayaking
Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico
Along the central western coast of Mexico, Sayulita is a haven for surfers. If you and your partner have a love of the waves, this would be an *epic* place to elope. But even if you’ve never touched a surfboard in your life, there’s so much to love about Sayulita—like colorful town squares, pristine beaches with beautiful rock formations, fresh fish tacos, and private sailboat charters. The vibe here is extremely easygoing and laid back while still having great options for things to do and nightlife!
Best for: Beach, City and Coast
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Surfing
Sumidero Canyon, Chiapas, Mexico
Sumidero Canyon runs along the river of the same name, sitting directly north of the city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez deep in southern Mexico. This national park genuinely looks like a location from a fantasy novel—voyage out on the river on a kayak or guided boat tour and you’ll see what I mean. The river is wide and strong and you’re surrounded on either side by steep canyon faces, sheer rock dotted with green vegetation and tall waterfalls. There are plenty of great hikes and wildlife in this area, too, and incredible vistas you can stop at to say your vows while looking over all of it.
Best for: Canyon, Waterfalls and River
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating, Kayaking
Islas Marietas National Park, Nayarit, Mexico
This national park off the coast of central Mexico isn’t far from Puerto Vallarta but still manages to feel worlds away from anything. If you’re wanting to spend your elopement day out on the water, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, diving, or swimming, this is a perfect spot. The two islands that make up the park are both uninhabited, so there’s nothing standing between you and your partner enjoying the natural beauty here to its fullest. If you want to add something extra special to the trip, there are lots of guided tours and boat excursion options here that will take you through the most beautiful parts of the island while you relax and take it all in.
Best for: Beach and Coast
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkeling, Diving
Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo, Mexico
For a chill island vibe to your wedding day that has both great amenities and a ton of wildlife, Isla Holbox is a great pick. Enjoy white sand beaches and waterfront eco lodges or lounge in hammocks resting just above the water. If you’re a shark lover, this is also an excellent spot to snorkel with the notoriously gentle whale shark. If you’re here in the summer, you can even catch bioluminescence at work! Overall, the vibe here is very relaxed and full of truly incredible nature while still feeling special and elevated.
Best for: Beach and Coast
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkeling
Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico
Along the central western coast of Mexico, Sayulita is a haven for surfers. If you and your partner have a love of the waves, this would be an *epic* place to elope. But even if you’ve never touched a surfboard in your life, there’s so much to love about Sayulita—like colorful town squares, pristine beaches with beautiful rock formations, fresh fish tacos, and private sailboat charters. The vibe here is extremely easygoing and laid back while still having great options for things to do and nightlife!
Best for: Beach, City and Coast
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Surfing
Hierve el Agua, Oaxaca, Mexico
Aside from two pools at the top, you won’t find water at these “waterfalls.” That’s because the Hierve el Agua is actually a rock formation made out of calcium deposits that have formed what looks like a roaring waterfall frozen in mid-air. Its location right outside of Oaxaca makes it easy to get to and you have the option of going yourself or embarking on a guided tour of the area. From the top, you have a great view of the rolling hills of the valley below, giving you a sweeping vista to take in with your partner during your elopement. What better place to say your vows than an eternal waterfall? Come early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Best for: Mountains, Forest and ‘Waterfall’
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking
San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico
This is a small town with massive charm. San Miguel de Allende is a town in central Mexico made up of cobblestone streets, historic baroque architecture, and papel picado draped between colorful buildings. This is an incredibly romantic place to elope. Spend time with just the two of you as you go on architecture tours and wine tastings, relax in hot springs and manicured gardens, and take in views of the city from rooftop terraces. It’s not hard to be in the mood to get married here.
Best for: City
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking
Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California Sur, Mexico
This is THE Mexican wine destination. Valle de Guadalupe is the hub for around 70% of the country’s wine production, meaning there’s no better place to look if you want to make sure your elopement includes a lot of wine tastings or you’re looking to stay on a vineyard. This valley is only about 45 minutes outside of Ensenada, meaning you can also say your vows by the sea and then go have a private toast with the regions best wine afterward.
Best for: City and Vineyards
Best months to get married here: April, May, October, November
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Wine Tasting
Need more options? Check out my searchable location database! I’ve stocked this map with nearly 600 personal favorites from all over the world and equipped it with filters so that you can see recommendations based on season, activities available, and your desired scenery. Consider this your shortcut to hacking the brain of an experienced elopement photographer!
Or, when in doubt, you can always consult the photographer herself! I help my couples through every step of the process by giving you personalized location recommendations, custom crafted timelines, expert travel and permit advice, unlimited calls for all of your questions, planning guides, packing lists, and bespoke album services… all on top of joyful, experience-based photography on your actual wedding day. Because I want every step of this process to feel good.
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