Getting Married at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos: ULTIMATE GUIDE

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Planning a destination wedding where fun, convenience, and activities for all ages meet beautiful beachfront scenery? Welcome to Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, a premier family-friendly all-inclusive resort located in the heart of San José del Cabo’s hotel zone. Offering stunning views of the Sea of Cortez, expansive facilities, and the reliable service associated with the Hyatt brand, this resort is perfect for couples seeking a vibrant, inclusive, and hassle-free wedding celebration.

Known for its multiple swimming pools (including a kids’ water park area and an adults-only pool), diverse dining options across numerous restaurants and bars, engaging activities and entertainment schedule, KidZ Club, and spacious suites, Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos ensures guests of all ages have an enjoyable stay. From picturesque ceremonies on the beach or garden gazebos to lively receptions in elegant ballrooms or on ocean-view terraces, the resort offers plenty of options for your special day.

Hosting a wedding here typically involves choosing from comprehensive all-inclusive packages designed to simplify planning, with costs potentially ranging from $12,000 to $35,000+ USD. This varies based on the package selected, guest count, and any customizations or upgrades. With dedicated wedding specialists and the ease of an all-inclusive format, your wedding at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos promises a fun-filled and memorable celebration for everyone.

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. 

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Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?

Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is celebrated for its extensive all-inclusive offerings, beautiful beachfront location in San José del Cabo, and excellent amenities designed for guests of all ages. Ideal for couples seeking a vibrant, family-friendly destination wedding where convenience and fun are key priorities, the resort boasts multiple pools, diverse restaurants, entertainment options, and dedicated kids’ facilities. With versatile event spaces ranging from beach setups and gazebos to large ballrooms, it caters well to various wedding sizes and styles.

The resort’s appeal lies in its ability to offer a high-quality all-inclusive experience suitable for everyone from children to adults, combined with beautiful grounds and reliable Hyatt service. If ensuring your guests have plenty of activities and dining options within an upscale beachfront setting is important, Hyatt Ziva is a strong choice.

How Does a Wedding at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos Work?

Weddings at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos are typically planned using their structured all-inclusive wedding packages, managed by their on-site wedding coordination team. The process focuses on simplifying choices for the couple: selecting a package tier (often including ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, and basic decor), choosing preferred venues from the resort’s options, confirming menus within the package framework, and coordinating guest accommodations via room blocks. The Hyatt team manages the execution of all resort-provided services, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable celebration.

Best Months to Get Married

While Los Cabos enjoys sunny weather most of the year, the most popular and comfortable months for a wedding at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos are November through May. This timeframe avoids the most intense summer heat and the brief hurricane/rainy season, offering pleasant conditions for outdoor events on the beach, terraces, or gardens. Guests can comfortably enjoy the resort’s extensive pool areas and beachfront location during these months.

The Basics of Wedding Packages

Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos offers a range of all-inclusive wedding packages (often with tiers like “Intimate Elegance,” “Lavish & Opulent,” etc.) designed for convenience. Common inclusions usually feature:

  • Symbolic Ceremony: Includes location setup (beach, gazebo, terrace), chairs, basic décor, symbolic officiant. (Check fees for legal ceremonies).
  • Cocktail Hour: Typically one hour post-ceremony with appetizers and standard open bar.
  • Reception Dinner: A private event (usually 3 hours) with a set menu (plated or buffet), standard open bar, basic table settings, and often a wedding cake.
  • Coordinator: Services of an on-site Hyatt wedding specialist.
  • Basic Perks: May include a complimentary room for one night for the couple, sparkling wine toast, simple floral elements, late check-out (subject to availability).

Packages provide a foundation, with options for customization through décor vendors, entertainment choices, and potential menu/bar upgrades.

Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?

For weddings at the all-inclusive Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos:

  • The couple typically pays for the chosen wedding package and any additional services or upgrades beyond the package inclusions (e.g., external vendors, elaborate décor).
  • Guests are responsible for their travel expenses and their all-inclusive stay at the resort. Booking through a group room block arranged by the couple is common and may offer better rates.
  • Activities or meals outside the wedding events are typically guest expenses.
  • Gift registries are standard.

The all-inclusive model greatly simplifies budgeting for guests’ on-site food and beverage costs.

Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations

Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos offers various event spaces:

  • Beach Areas: Sections of the wide beach are available for ceremonies and receptions, offering classic oceanfront settings.
  • Gazebos: Located in garden areas or near the beach, suitable for more intimate ceremonies.
  • Terraces: Several outdoor terraces overlooking pools or the ocean can host ceremonies, cocktails, or smaller receptions.
  • Grand Theater & Ballrooms: Large indoor, air-conditioned spaces capable of hosting sizable receptions with staging and dance floors.

The resort features numerous spacious suites, including swim-up suites and oceanfront options, catering well to families and groups. Arranging a room block is highly recommended.

Ceremony and Reception Logistics

Hyatt Ziva ensures a smooth flow for wedding day events within its expansive property:

Ceremony: Exchange vows on the sandy beach facing the Sea of Cortez, or choose a garden gazebo or ocean-view terrace for your ceremony.

Cocktail Hour: Guests can easily move to a nearby terrace, poolside area, or pre-function space for drinks and appetizers included in the package.

Reception: Celebrate with a fun beachfront party, a dinner on an open-air terrace, or move inside to one of the large ballrooms for a climate-controlled reception with dinner and dancing.

Pro tip: Utilize the resort’s large scale and multiple pool areas for diverse photo backdrops. Be mindful of distances between potential ceremony/reception sites when planning guest flow.

What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?

At Hyatt Ziva, venue usage is typically included within the price of the selected all-inclusive wedding package. The package cost generally covers:

  • Use of Event Venues: Access to contracted ceremony, cocktail, and reception locations for the specified time.
  • Standard Setup: Includes resort’s standard chairs, tables, basic linens, china, glassware, and flatware.
  • Food & Beverage: As per the selected package (appetizers, dinner menu, standard bar, cake).
  • Basic Décor: Package-specific ceremony structure/décor and potentially simple centerpieces.
  • Staffing: On-site coordinator, banquet servers, bartenders.

Custom florals, upgraded décor, specialty lighting, external entertainment A/V, and vendor services beyond package inclusions are additional costs.

Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies

Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos provides indoor backup locations, typically their ballrooms or designated function rooms, for outdoor wedding events in case of inclement weather. The on-site wedding coordinator will confirm the specific backup space and the decision-making protocol with you during planning.

Pro tip: View the potential backup spaces and discuss basic décor options that could be implemented quickly if a move indoors is necessary.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies

Booking a wedding at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos generally involves:

Initial Deposit: A non-refundable deposit (amount varies, often based on package or estimated guest count) is required to secure the date.

Payment Schedule: Contracts typically outline a schedule for subsequent payments, often due several months prior and closer to the event date.

Final Payment: The final balance, based on the guaranteed guest count, is usually due 30-45 days before the wedding.

Cancellation Policy: Specifies non-refundable deposit amounts based on how far out the cancellation occurs. Review these terms in the contract carefully.

On-Site Wedding Coordination & Planning Services

Hyatt Ziva provides on-site wedding coordinators included with their packages:

Resort Experts: Knowledgeable about Hyatt Ziva’s venues, packages, menus, policies, and capabilities.

Logistics Management: Handle booking venues, coordinating resort F&B, managing basic setup according to package, liaising with internal departments, and overseeing the event day from the resort’s perspective.

Vendor Guidance: Can provide a list of approved or preferred local vendors familiar with the resort.

The on-site team focuses on delivering the contracted package elements. Couples often hire external planners for more personalized design, extensive vendor management, or complex logistical needs.

Dietary and Menu Restrictions

Hyatt Ziva’s culinary team is experienced in handling dietary needs for large groups within their all-inclusive framework:

  • Common requests like Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free can usually be accommodated.
  • Allergies are managed when information is provided clearly and well in advance.

Ensure you submit a detailed list of all dietary requirements for your guests to your coordinator by the specified deadline (typically 30-45 days prior).

Music and Entertainment Restrictions

Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos accommodates typical wedding entertainment:

  • DJs & Live Bands: Permitted in appropriate event venues (ballrooms, designated outdoor areas).
  • Noise Curfew: Outdoor amplified music generally needs to end by 10:00 PM or 10:30 PM. Indoor events can continue later.
  • Vendor Policy: External entertainment vendors usually require resort approval and must coordinate their technical needs and setup/breakdown times with the resort team. Potential fees for external vendors may apply.

Discuss your entertainment choices and desired schedule with the wedding coordinator early on.

Parking and Guest Logistics

Guest logistics for Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos:

Airport Transfers: Located in the San José del Cabo hotel zone, the resort is about 20-25 minutes from SJD airport. Guests arrange their own transfers (shuttle, taxi, private car).

Parking: Parking is available for guests who choose to rent vehicles.

Location: Situated directly on the beach, within easy reach (short taxi ride or longer walk) of downtown San José del Cabo’s historic center and art galleries.

Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos

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

  • Wedding Package: $10,000 – $25,000 USD (Covers standard ceremony, cocktail, reception elements).
  • Entertainment: $1,500 – $5,000 USD (DJ or local band).
  • Photography/Videography: $4,000 – $8,000 USD (External professional).
  • Florals & Décor Upgrades: $1,500 – $6,000+ USD (Beyond basic package inclusions).
  • External Vendor Fees (if applicable): Some resorts charge fees for using non-preferred vendors; check Hyatt Ziva’s current policy.
  • Taxes & Service Charges: Often included in package prices for core resort services, but verify inclusions and costs for add-ons.

Total estimated costs typically range from $18,000 to $45,000+ USD, depending on the chosen package, guest count, and level of external vendor involvement or upgrades.

Splurge vs. Save

Save: Select a comprehensive package that meets most needs to maximize the all-inclusive value. Utilize the standard décor options. Choose buffet over plated if costs differ significantly. Keep event timings within package limits.

Splurge: Opt for the highest package tier with premium inclusions. Upgrade bar service and menu choices. Invest in custom floral design, lighting, and rentals. Hire premium entertainment. Host additional events like a welcome beach party or farewell brunch.

Wedding Packages and What’s Included

Hyatt Ziva offers tiered packages (examples might include “Just for the Two of You,” “Intimate Elegance,” “Lavish & Opulent”) providing increasing levels of service and inclusions:

  • Ceremony: Location, basic setup, symbolic officiant, simple floral décor may be included.
  • Cocktail Hour: Duration (usually 1 hour), type/number of appetizers, standard bar service.
  • Reception: Duration (usually 3 hours), private location, menu (plated/buffet options vary), standard bar, basic tablescape, wedding cake.
  • Coordinator: Hyatt wedding specialist.
  • Perks: May include sparkling wine, special turndown service, room discounts/upgrades (check conditions), spa discounts.

Pro tip: Carefully examine the details of each package – guest counts covered, specific menu options, bar brands included, hours of service, and exact décor items provided – to make an informed choice.

Activities for Other Days

Guests at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos have plenty to do:

  • Enjoy the multiple pools, including adults-only pools and a kids’ water park area.
  • Relax on the wide beach (swimming conditions vary, often calmer than Pacific side but still exercise caution).
  • Participate in daily activities and sports organized by the entertainment team.
  • Utilize the KidZ Club and Teen Club facilities.
  • Dine and drink at the numerous themed restaurants and bars included in the all-inclusive plan.
  • Visit the Zen Spa for treatments.
  • Take a short taxi ride or walk to explore the charming downtown San José del Cabo.

Three Practical Tips for Brides

1) Leverage Family-Friendly Amenities: If inviting guests with children, highlight the KidZ Club, water park, and family pool areas as major benefits of the resort.

2) Understand Beach Conditions: While beachfront, the ability to swim directly in front of the resort can vary with conditions. Set appropriate expectations for guests.

3) Clarify Package Details: With multiple packages offered, ensure you fully understand exactly what is included in yours regarding décor, menu choices, bar levels, and timings to avoid surprises.

Two Bride Reviews

“Hyatt Ziva was the perfect choice for our family-friendly wedding! There was something for everyone, the kids loved the water park, and the adults enjoyed the pools and bars. The wedding itself was beautiful on the beach, and the planning was made easy by the package options.” – Megan P. (Example Review)

“We had a wonderful wedding at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos. The resort is beautiful, clean, and has great food variety. Our coordinator was helpful, and the all-inclusive aspect was super convenient for all our guests. A great place for a fun destination wedding.” – Laura C. (Example Review)

My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Photographer

Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos provides a vibrant, clean, and expansive setting for wedding photography. The resort’s large scale, multiple pools with interesting shapes, and well-maintained grounds offer diverse backdrops. The beachfront location in San José del Cabo provides beautiful views of the Sea of Cortez, often with softer light compared to the Pacific side sunsets. Capturing the energy of the resort alongside the couple’s celebration is key. Venues like the beach, gazebos, and terraces offer classic destination wedding looks. While perhaps less architecturally unique than some boutique resorts, Hyatt Ziva delivers consistently beautiful settings, good lighting opportunities (especially around the pools and beach at golden hour), and a lively atmosphere that translates well into joyful, colorful wedding photos catering to a broad range of guests.

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