Mexico’s Average Destination Wedding Cost

When it comes to planning a wedding, one of the biggest questions is also the simplest: how much is this actually going to cost? For couples wanting to say “I do” under palm trees instead of chandeliers, understanding the average cost of a destination wedding is the first step toward confident planning.

While traditional weddings in the U.S. can easily soar past $33,000, destination weddings offer a surprisingly competitive (and often lower) price point—with more built-in perks. From all-inclusive food and drinks to private beach venues and on-site coordinators, you’re often getting more value for your money.

In this updated 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through real pricing across Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic. We’ll compare resort tiers like RIU vs. Secrets vs. Hyatt Ziva, include a cost-per-guest breakdown, and explain why destination weddings can actually save you money compared to local celebrations.

Wondering how far your budget will go in paradise? Let’s find out. 

Destination Wedding Costs by Location

Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic

If you’re planning a wedding abroad, your choice of destination plays a big role in your overall budget. While all-inclusive packages help simplify things, pricing can still vary significantly depending on where you’re headed—and what kind of resort experience you’re after.

Here’s a look at the average cost of a destination wedding across three of the most popular locations:

1. Mexico

Mexico continues to be one of the most affordable and flexible destinations for weddings, thanks to its wide range of resorts and high competition across Cancun, Riviera Maya, Cabo, and Puerto Vallarta.

• Average wedding cost: $6,500 – $15,000
• Guest count range: 30–60
• Best value resorts: RIU Palace Riviera Maya, Dreams Vista Cancun
• Packages include: Ceremony setup, officiant, bouquet & boutonniere, semi-private or private reception, wedding cake, sparkling wine, honeymoon perks
• Cost-saving perks: Many resorts offer free wedding packages when you book 5–10 rooms for 3+ nights

Planning tip: Mexico often offers the widest range of complimentary packages, especially for smaller groups under 40.

2. Jamaica

With lush tropical landscapes and a laid-back feeling, Jamaica is a strong contender for couples who want a more intimate and music-filled celebration. Resorts often emphasize culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

• Average wedding cost: $10,000 – $17,000
• Guest count range: 10–80
• Best value resorts: Royalton Blue Waters Montego Bay, Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall
• Packages include: Wedding coordination, ceremony setup, beach or garden venues, cocktail hours, plated dinners, spa discounts
• Cost-saving perks: Upgrades like live music, private dinners, or honeymoon experiences can be rolled into bundled rates

Planning tip: Opt for shoulder season dates (like May or early December) to snag better rates.

3. Dominican Republic

Known for its value-packed resorts and white-sand beaches, the DR is ideal for larger wedding groups. Punta Cana, in particular, is famous for resort variety and generous wedding inclusions.

• Average wedding cost: $2,500 – $13,000
• Guest count range: 1–100+
• Best value resorts: Royalton Punta Cana, Majestic Elegance
• Packages include: Full ceremony and reception, DJ, private venues, multiple event hours, full decor packages
• Cost-saving perks: DR often has the lowest cost-per-guest ratio when you go above 50 guests

Planning tip: September–November can offer huge savings due to off-season pricing—just be mindful of weather risk.

Updated Price Ranges for 2025 in Mexico, Jamaica and the DR

1. Dreams Vista Cancun

• Starting wedding package from: about US$1,499
• Venues: Six indoor/outdoor sites—from beach gazebos to rooftop terraces
• Inclusions: Symbolic ceremony, bouquets, cake, toast, coordinator, pre-ceremony attire prep, turndown service, spa discount
• Highlights: Panoramic ocean views, swim-up bars, infinity pools, spa with rooftop rooftop pool lounge

2. Hard Rock Los Cabos

• The basic wedding package is FREE, but for any additions it can go to approximately US$3,500 (“Free Spirit” symbolic package)
• Venues: Up to 16 indoor/outdoor event spaces, including beachfront decks and ballrooms
• Inclusions: Arch décor, bouquets, live soloist music, 2-tier wedding cake, minister, sparkling wine, coordinator, complimentary honeymoon package
• Highlights: 60,000 sq ft event space, five pools, mini‑golf, bowling alley, rock-themed spa & entertainment

3. Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos

• Starting wedding package from: roughly US$2,239 for “Lavish & Opulent” symbolic ceremony
• Venues: Six venues—beachfront gazebo, pool terrace, lush garden settings
• Inclusions: Officiant, bridal bouquet & boutonniere, cake, champagne toast, wedding décor, reception, spa/massage for couple, hair & makeup, online registry, coordinator
• Highlights: Seven restaurants, six bars, infinity pools, spa, kids’ club, oceanfront ambiance

4. Riu Palace Riviera Maya

• Starting wedding package from: US$1,699 (“Indulgence Wedding Collection”)
• Venues: Two beachfront settings—gazebo and treed garden
• Inclusions: Symbolic ceremony with minister, bouquet, boutonniere, ceremony music, four-hour reception, cake, sparkling wine, DJ—even includes anniversary night, room upgrade, turndown service, spa discount
• Highlights: Upscale restaurants/bar, spa, large pools, proximity to Playa del Carmen

5. Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun

Highlights: Water park, surf simulator, splash pads, multiple restaurants & bars

Starting wedding package from: US$999+, up to US$11,999 (“Exclusive Wedding” for large events)

Venues: Six sites—including beachfront terrace, pool area, private lawn

Inclusions: Coordinator, ceremony setup, bouquets, ceremony music, sparkling toast, multi-course reception with open bar, DJ, live solo musician, room upgrade, spa discount

Resort Tier Breakdown—RIU vs. Secrets vs. Hyatt Ziva

Not all all-inclusive resorts are the same. Here’s a quick comparison of how wedding costs (and inclusions) differ across budget, mid-tier, and luxury resort brands. 

1. RIU Resorts (Budget-Friendly Tier)

Great for couples who want value without sacrificing style. RIU resorts typically offer straightforward packages with important wedding elements, perfect for medium-sized groups.

• Average wedding cost: $6,000 – $9,000
• Example: RIU Palace Riviera Maya
• Inclusions: Symbolic ceremony, bouquet & boutonniere, semi-private dinner, basic decor, honeymoon package
• Perks: Often includes free packages with group bookings
• Ideal for: Guest counts of 20–50, and budget-focused weddings with modern aesthetics

2. Secrets Resorts (Mid-Tier Adults-Only)

Secrets strikes a balance between romantic luxury and value. These resorts are 18+, offering serene beachfront venues and elegant extras.

• Average wedding cost: $9,000 – $13,500
• Example: Secrets Maroma Beach
• Inclusions: Ceremony, reception with private dinner, cocktail hour, decor, wedding cake, spa discounts
• Perks: More customizable experiences, larger venue choices, and upgraded honeymoon inclusions
• Ideal for: Adults-only groups and couples who want a polished vibe without going ultra-luxury

3. Hyatt Ziva (Luxury Family-Friendly)

For couples who want full-blown elegance and top-tier inclusions. Hyatt Ziva resorts shine in service, food, and fully private wedding events.

• Average wedding cost: $12,000 – $18,000
• Example: Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos
• Inclusions: Symbolic ceremony, private reception with open bar, custom florals, live music, spa packages, upgraded decor
• Perks: Larger guest capacity, venue exclusivity, and premium dining/wedding planning support
• Ideal for: Large weddings or couples seeking luxury without going fully bespoke

Cost Per Guest Breakdown by Resort

Resort Name	Destination	Wedding Package Starting Price	Guest Count Example	Estimated Total Cost	Estimated Cost Per Guest
Dreams Vista Cancun	Cancun, Mexico	$999 (Free w/ booking)	30 guests	$7,500 – $12,000	$250 – $400
Hard Rock Los Cabos	Los Cabos, Mexico	$3,500	40 guests	$15,000 – $20,000	$375 – $500
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos	Los Cabos, Mexico	$6,409	50 guests	$20,000 – $25,000	$400 – $500
Riu Palace Riviera Maya	Riviera Maya	$1,699	30 guests	$8,000 – $10,000	$265 – $333
Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun	Riviera Maya	$11,999	60 guests	$25,000 – $30,000	$417 – $500

What Makes a Destination Wedding Cheaper Than Local?

It may sound surprising, but a destination wedding can often cost significantly less than hosting a traditional wedding at home. Here’s why couples are trading banquet halls for beach venues—and seeing the savings add up.

1. Smaller Guest Lists = Lower Costs

When you’re hosting a wedding abroad, it naturally limits your guest count to those closest to you. Fewer guests mean lower catering costs, fewer tables to decorate, and less stress managing a large crowd. Instead of 150 people at a local venue, many destination weddings average 30–60 guests—making your budget stretch further while keeping the event intimate.

2. All-Inclusive Packages

Many all-inclusive resorts—especially in destinations like Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic—offer wedding packages that bundle everything from ceremony setup to catering, flowers, and even live music. These packages often start under $2,000—or are complimentary with a certain number of room nights booked. That’s hard to beat compared to piecing together vendors individually at home.

3. Built-In Decor & Venues

Destination weddings typically take place in visually stunning environments—beaches, gazebos, garden terraces—so you won’t have to spend thousands on transforming a blank event space. The natural beauty of your location becomes the ultimate backdrop, reducing the need for elaborate floral installs or lighting.

4. Fewer Separate Events

Many couples use their destination setting to combine the rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception, and even honeymoon into one trip. That’s fewer venue bookings, less travel, and fewer days paying for vendors and entertainment.

5. Group Perks & Free Nights

Booking a block of rooms for your guests can unlock special group perks—like room upgrades, free wedding packages, or even bonus honeymoon nights. These perks often don’t exist with traditional venues back home.

Curious how much you’d save? Our wedding cost calculator can help you compare scenarios and estimate costs across different destinations and guest counts.

It’s Time To Plan With Confidence

The average cost of a destination wedding in 2025 offers more flexibility—and more value—than most couples expect. With all-inclusive resorts streamlining expenses, customizable packages for every budget, and unforgettable settings from Mexico to Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, it’s no wonder more couples are choosing to take their celebration abroad.

If you’re dreaming of a beachfront bash with 100 guests or an intimate gathering in a tropical garden, destination weddings allow you to personalize your experience without the runaway costs of a traditional local wedding. 

Add in expert wedding planners, bundled perks, and unforgettable views, and it’s obvious: a destination wedding is the smarter choice.

Ready to see what your perfect wedding could cost?

Explore our Top Destination Wedding Resorts or reach out to the Destify team to start planning your big day with ease.