Getting Married at Paradisus Los Cabos: ULTIMATE GUIDE

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Imagine celebrating your wedding at a vibrant, luxury all-inclusive resort situated on a beautiful crescent cove with a swimmable beach in Los Cabos. Welcome to Paradisus Los Cabos, a member of Melia Collection, offering a lively atmosphere combined with elegant spaces and attentive service. Set amidst lush gardens and facing the Sea of Cortez, this resort provides a wonderful backdrop for couples seeking a fun, stylish, and convenient destination wedding experience.

Known for its extensive all-inclusive program featuring numerous bars and restaurants, a large free-form pool, dedicated family areas alongside options for adults-only upgrades (like The Reserve), and its prime location on a protected beach, Paradisus Los Cabos caters to a wide range of guests. From romantic beach ceremonies to festive receptions on terraces or in modern ballrooms, the resort offers diverse settings for your special day.

Hosting a wedding here often involves selecting from comprehensive all-inclusive packages, with costs potentially ranging from $15,000 to $40,000+ USD, varying based on guest count, package level, customization, and optional upgrades like ‘The Reserve’ access or specific décor. With experienced wedding coordinators and the ease of all-inclusive planning, your wedding at Paradisus Los Cabos promises a joyful and memorable celebration in a stunning beachfront setting.

Are you dreaming of the perfect wedding day in Cabo? Explore some of the best wedding photos in Cabo in this stunning destination, showcasing breathtaking moments captured in paradise. 

Index

Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?

Paradisus Los Cabos is celebrated for its beautiful location on a safe, swimmable beach, its lively atmosphere, and its comprehensive luxury all-inclusive offerings. Ideal for couples seeking a fun and engaging destination wedding experience that caters well to diverse groups, including families and those seeking adult-only exclusivity via ‘The Reserve’ upgrade, the resort offers lush grounds, multiple pools, and attractive event spaces. If you desire a vibrant setting with the convenience of all-inclusive planning and a great beach, Paradisus Los Cabos is a strong contender.

Guest reviews often highlight the friendly service, the quality and variety of food and drinks within the all-inclusive plan, and the beautiful beach cove, making it appealing for couples who want a hassle-free, enjoyable experience for all their guests.

How Does a Wedding at Paradisus Los Cabos Work?

Weddings at Paradisus Los Cabos are typically organized through their dedicated Romance team, utilizing structured wedding packages designed for ease of planning. The process involves choosing a package that fits your vision and guest count, selecting venues (beach, terraces, ballroom), confirming menus and bar service included in your package, and arranging guest accommodations with potential group rates. The on-site coordinators manage resort logistics, ensure package inclusions are delivered, and can assist with recommendations for external vendors if needed, aiming for a seamless and joyful celebration.

Best Months to Get Married

The climate in Los Cabos is generally favorable year-round. However, the most popular and comfortable months for a wedding at Paradisus Los Cabos are November through May. This period offers warm, sunny days with low humidity and minimal chance of rain, perfect for enjoying the resort’s swimmable beach, pools, and outdoor wedding venues. These months provide pleasant weather for guests and beautiful conditions for photography.

The Basics of Wedding Packages

Paradisus Los Cabos offers several tiered wedding packages (often with romantic names) built around their all-inclusive concept. Common components usually include:

  • Symbolic Ceremony: Includes location setup (beach, gazebo, terrace), chairs, basic altar décor, and symbolic officiant. Legal ceremonies typically incur additional fees and coordination.
  • Cocktail Hour: One hour of service post-ceremony, featuring selected appetizers and standard open bar.
  • Reception: A private dinner event (usually 3 hours) with a set menu (plated or buffet options depending on package), standard open bar, basic table settings, and often includes a wedding cake.
  • Coordinator: Services of an on-site Romance coordinator for resort-related planning.
  • Added Perks: Packages may include benefits like a complimentary suite upgrade (subject to availability), spa discounts, special turn-down service, or late check-out.

Customization is possible through décor upgrades, entertainment additions, and potentially enhanced menus or bar selections.

Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?

For destination weddings at Paradisus Los Cabos:

  • The couple is responsible for the wedding package cost and any additional services, upgrades, or external vendor fees.
  • Guests typically pay for their own travel and all-inclusive stay at the resort. Paradisus offers various room categories, and group rates are often available when booking through the wedding department.
  • Any events or activities outside the wedding package scope are usually paid for by guests, unless the couple decides to host them.
  • Gift registries are commonly used.

The all-inclusive nature significantly simplifies budgeting for guests regarding their on-site expenses.

Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations

Paradisus Los Cabos provides several attractive venues:

  • Beach: The wide, swimmable beach offers ample space for ceremonies and receptions of various sizes.
  • Terraces: Several terraces, some overlooking the pool or ocean, are suitable for ceremonies, cocktails, or smaller receptions (capacities vary).
  • Gazebos: Often located in garden settings or near the beach, ideal for intimate ceremonies.
  • Ballroom: A large, modern indoor space capable of hosting larger receptions or serving as a weather backup (capacity for 200+ guests).

The resort offers well-appointed rooms and suites, with the option of upgrading to ‘The Reserve’ for enhanced amenities and exclusive adults-only areas/services. Room blocks are recommended for wedding groups.

Ceremony and Reception Logistics

Paradisus Los Cabos facilitates a smooth flow for wedding day events:

Ceremony: Exchange vows with your toes in the sand on the beautiful beach or choose a picturesque terrace or gazebo setting within the resort grounds.

Cocktail Hour: Guests can easily move to a designated nearby area – perhaps a terrace or poolside space – for drinks and appetizers included in the package.

Reception: Celebrate with dinner and dancing on the beach under the stars, enjoy an open-air reception on a terrace, or move into the air-conditioned ballroom for a more formal event, all managed by the resort’s team.

Pro tip: The resort’s architecture and lush landscaping offer nice contrasts for photos, in addition to the beautiful beach setting.

What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?

At Paradisus Los Cabos, venue use is typically bundled into the all-inclusive wedding package price rather than being a separate rental fee. The package cost generally covers:

  • Use of Designated Event Locations: Access to ceremony, cocktail, and reception spots for the agreed duration.
  • Standard Furniture & Setup: Includes ceremony chairs, reception tables and chairs, standard linens, china, glassware, and flatware.
  • Food & Beverage: As specified in the chosen package (appetizers, dinner menu, standard open bar, cake).
  • Basic Décor Elements: Varies by package, might include simple centerpieces or ceremony structure décor.
  • Staffing: On-site coordinator, servers, bartenders for the event.

Significant upgrades to décor (florals, lighting, specialty rentals) and entertainment are usually additional costs.

Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies

Paradisus Los Cabos ensures a seamless wedding day by providing an indoor backup location, typically their main ballroom or another suitable function space, for all outdoor events in case of inclement weather. Your Romance coordinator will discuss the specific backup plan and the process for making a weather call.

Pro tip: Familiarize yourself with the backup space during planning and consider simple décor elements that could quickly personalize it if needed.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies

Booking a wedding at Paradisus Los Cabos generally follows this payment structure:

Initial Deposit: A non-refundable deposit (amount varies, e.g., $500 – $1,000 USD) is required to secure the wedding date and time.

Scheduled Payments: Further installments may be required based on the contract, often tied to finalizing details closer to the wedding date.

Final Payment: The remaining balance, based on the final guest count and confirmed services, is typically due 30-45 days prior to the wedding.

Cancellation policies are outlined in the wedding contract, usually involving forfeiture of deposits depending on the cancellation timing. Review these terms carefully.

On-Site Wedding Coordination & Planning Services

Paradisus Los Cabos includes the services of an on-site Romance coordinator:

Resort Expert: Guides you through the resort’s package options, venue choices, menu selections, and internal procedures.

Logistics Manager: Coordinates resort departments (banquet, culinary, A/V) and manages the setup and execution of the wedding events according to the package details.

Vendor Contact: Can provide lists of preferred local vendors and manage their access/setup on the resort property.

The on-site coordinator is focused on delivering the contracted resort services. Couples wanting extensive design work or management of numerous external vendors might also hire an independent planner.

Dietary and Menu Restrictions

The culinary teams at Paradisus Los Cabos are experienced in accommodating dietary needs within their all-inclusive framework:

  • Standard requests like Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free options are typically available.
  • Common food allergies (nuts, dairy, shellfish, etc.) can be managed with proper notification.
  • Other specific dietary requirements should be discussed in advance.

Provide a detailed list of all dietary needs to your coordinator with your final guest information to ensure proper preparation by the banquet team.

Music and Entertainment Restrictions

Paradisus Los Cabos allows typical wedding entertainment, subject to resort guidelines:

  • DJs & Live Bands: Permitted in designated reception venues (ballroom, specific terraces, beach areas).
  • Noise Curfew: Amplified music outdoors generally must end by 10:00 PM or 10:30 PM. Indoor events in the ballroom can usually extend later.
  • Vendor Approval: External vendors usually need approval from the resort and must adhere to their logistical requirements (setup times, insurance, power).

Confirm specific restrictions for your chosen venue and desired timeline with your Romance coordinator.

Parking and Guest Logistics

Guest logistics for Paradisus Los Cabos:

Airport Transfers: The resort is on the tourist corridor, approximately a 25-30 minute drive from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). Guests arrange their own transportation (shuttle services, taxis, private cars). Concierge can assist with recommendations.

Parking: Parking is typically available for guests with rental cars.

Resort Navigation: The resort is well-laid-out, and staff can direct guests to wedding event locations.

Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at Paradisus Los Cabos

For an average wedding of about 50 guests using a mid-tier all-inclusive package, budget considerations might look like:

  • Wedding Package: $10,000 – $25,000 USD (Covering ceremony, cocktail, reception F&B for the event, basic décor, cake, coordinator).
  • Entertainment: $1,500 – $5,000 USD (DJ or local musicians).
  • Photography/Videography: $4,000 – $8,000 USD (Professional external vendor; check resort’s outside vendor policy/fees).
  • Florals & Décor Upgrades: $1,500 – $5,000+ USD (Beyond basic package inclusions).
  • Taxes & Service Charges: Often included in package price for resort services, but verify. External vendors add tax. Potential outside vendor fees may apply.

Total estimated costs commonly range from $18,000 to $45,000+ USD, depending on the package, guest count, and extent of external vendors or upgrades.

Splurge vs. Save

Save: Choose a package that meets most needs to leverage the all-inclusive value. Utilize included décor elements. Keep event durations within standard package times. Consider off-peak dates if available.

Splurge: Opt for ‘The Reserve’ upgrade for enhanced exclusivity and service. Select the highest wedding package tier. Customize menus with premium options. Invest in significant décor and lighting enhancements. Hire premium entertainment. Add extra event hours or ancillary parties.

Wedding Packages and What’s Included

Paradisus Los Cabos typically offers several packages (e.g., “Wish,” “Fantasy,” “Chill Out Chic”) with increasing levels of inclusions:

  • Ceremony: Location, basic setup (chairs, simple altar/gazebo décor), symbolic officiant.
  • Cocktail Hour: One hour, specified number/type of appetizers, standard bar.
  • Reception: 3-hour private dinner, set menu choices (more options in higher tiers), standard bar, basic setup, wedding cake.
  • Coordinator: Romance coordinator services for resort details.
  • Perks: May include basic personal flowers (bouquet/boutonniere), spa discounts, special amenities for the couple, potential for room upgrades or complimentary nights (check specific package details and conditions).

Pro tip: Compare the packages carefully. Look at the specific number of appetizers, menu course options, bar level (standard vs. premium), and included décor elements to determine the best value for your vision.

Activities for Other Days

Guests can enjoy numerous activities at Paradisus Los Cabos:

  • Relaxing by the large main pool or enjoying the swimmable beach.
  • Utilizing the YHI Spa for treatments.
  • Participating in resort-led activities (yoga, water aerobics, cooking demonstrations).
  • Dining and drinking at the various included restaurants and bars.
  • Enjoying nightly entertainment provided by the resort.
  • Booking excursions through the hotel tour desk for snorkeling, diving, golf, fishing, or exploring the local towns.
  • Guests staying in ‘The Reserve’ section have access to exclusive pools, lounges, and concierge services.

Three Practical Tips for Brides

1) Understand the All-Inclusive Scope: Clarify exactly what is included in your wedding package versus the standard guest all-inclusive plan (e.g., premium bar access during events).

2) Leverage the Beach Location: The swimmable beach is a major asset. Plan for photos, the ceremony, or even just encourage guests to enjoy it during their stay.

3) Consider ‘The Reserve’: If seeking a more exclusive or adults-only experience for some guests (or yourselves), inquire about ‘The Reserve’ upgrade options and benefits.

Two Bride Reviews

“Paradisus was amazing for our wedding! The all-inclusive made it so easy for our guests, and the beach is beautiful and actually swimmable. Our coordinator was helpful, and the reception setup on the terrace was perfect. Great value for a luxury experience.” – Danielle S. (Example Review)

“We had a fantastic wedding weekend at Paradisus Los Cabos. The resort is lively and beautiful, the food options were great, and the Romance team handled our wedding day details well. Our guests had a blast enjoying the pools and beach.” – Rachel B. (Example Review)

My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Photographer

Paradisus Los Cabos offers a vibrant and attractive setting for wedding photography, particularly highlighting its prime location on a beautiful, swimmable cove. This beach provides classic, desirable Cabo backdrops with calmer waters than many Pacific-side resorts. The resort’s grounds are lush and well-maintained, offering nice garden settings, and the pool areas are expansive and photogenic. While the architecture might be less distinct than some ultra-luxury properties, it’s modern and clean, providing pleasant backdrops. The variety of terrace options allows for capturing events with elevated ocean views. The all-inclusive nature often leads to a relaxed and festive guest atmosphere, which translates well into candid photos. It’s a solid choice for couples wanting beautiful beach photos combined with the energy and convenience of a luxury all-inclusive resort.

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