Destination Mexico: The Baja Peninsula

Aug 29, 2022

Despite what Alanis Morissette's infamous song states, rain on your wedding day isn't ironic - it's just plain bad luck. When it comes to planning your nuptials, counting on luck seems awfully apathetic, reserved for those with an easygoing, carefree nature who follow the live-and-let-live school of thought. If that isn't how you anticipate feeling on your special day, don't panic - the odds are in your favor when you tie the knot in Los Cabos, a postcard-worthy place where the sun shines for an average of 350 days a year.

Though same-sex marriage is legal in the state of Baja California Sur, planning a destination wedding remains a stressful feat. For this reason, we have put together this foolproof guide covering everything from the lay of the land to tips on venues, vendors, accommodations, and more.

Los Cabos

With world-class cuisine, remarkable villa venues adorned with intoxicating views, and over 100 miles of gorgeous golden sand beaches perfect for outdoor ceremonies, it comes as no surprise that Los Cabos is one of the destination wedding capitals of North America. That being said, the region is yet to garner the same gay-friendly reputation as the one fellow resort getaway Puerto Vallarta has nurtured over a decades-long span. But as evidenced by the increasing number of same-sex marriages taking place there, Los Cabos has made its commitment to promoting inclusivity to all abundantly clear.

Collectively known as Los Cabos, it is important to note that star-studded Cabo San Lucas and its charming counterpart, San José del Cabo, are actually two separate cities located at the tip of the Baja Peninsula. Are you a couple who wants to spend their days by the water and their nights out on the town? If so, opt for Cabo San Lucas. If you and your partner prefer much-publicized metropolises with a bona fide down-to-earth feel, consider San José del Cabo. Can't choose? There is a sprawling resort zone found between the two cities, the perfect option for any indecisive lovebirds hoping for the best of both worlds.

Photo Credit: Mario Mendez

Though the Baja Peninsula is blessed with not one but two incredible seaside destinations, there isn't a wrong choice to be made. While the oft-talked-about Cabo San Lucas is beloved by spring breakers and A-List Celebrities alike, the quieter San José del Cabo is brimming with that traditional Mexican charm and is equally as spectacular in its own way. Altogether the decision comes down to personal preference, as both towns are graced with over-the-top hotel venues and all the advantages that go with them. Don't get too comfortable though, between the two coastal cities there is no shortage of streets to wander and natural wonders to explore.

Photo Credit: Max Bohme

Activities & Excursions:

With planning a destination wedding comes the stress of trying to figure out how to keep your guests entertained throughout your wedding weekend. On one hand, your primary focus should be on you and your partner, but on the other, a destination wedding also gives your guests and chance to have a vacation. Thanks to the multitude of activities available in the area, guests of all ages are sure to enjoy themselves to the fullest.

The golf courses, for instance, are among the most celebrated in the world while the vast waters bring about an abundance of fish including marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi, making it the perfect place for sport fishing as well. If you are expecting a lot of aqua-holics to arrive, the Sea of Cortez gives way to many opportunities to go kayaking, snorkeling, whale watching, jet skiing, and so much more. If you want to take your destination wedding up a notch, booking a luxury yacht charter gives you and your loved ones an incomparable way to experience the spectacular coastline of Los Cabos.

Photo Credit: Visit Los Cabos

Venues & Accommodations

Say "I do" with a magical outdoor wedding ceremony at the JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa. Situated right on the shores of the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean, this venue offers a one-of-a-kind ceremony as well as inclusive packages that offer provisions for wedding planning, decor, catering, and entertainment. A more intimate part of the property with luxury amenities such as butler service, cabanas, and private beach and pool access, Casa Maat at JW Marriott Los Cabos is a serene sanctuary and guaranteed to deliver an unforgettable wedding. On top of that, the hotel even has a team of Marriott Certified Wedding Planners on staff who will be ecstatic to put on the perfect celebration and the spectacular spa serves as a terrific way to treat your wedding party to a day of leisure. Nestled between the desert and sea, Zadún, A Ritz Carlton Reserve is a premier wedding venue in San José del Cabo that welcomes lovebirds of all backgrounds embarking on a journey of love and commitment. Beyond the beautiful backdrop adorned with white sand and blushing sunsets, Zadún even provides a skilled event planner who can help you mark the beauty of life itself with a wedding to remember.