YESS, you’re planning to elope in Mexico, and this guide is going to tell you everything you need to know! As an elopement photographer, Mexico is one of my all-time favorite destinations for couples to tie the knot. It’s filled with culture, beauty, and tons of fun things to do!

In this guide, I’ll share the legal details of getting married in Mexico, when to elope, the best locations, and other helpful tips!

You might also be interested in reading: How to Tell People You’re Eloping

Can US Citizens Get Married in Mexico?

Yes, US citizens with a valid passport can get married in Mexico. That said, most couples who elope in Mexico do the legal stuff at home and have their ceremony in Mexico. This is because there are a lot of hoops to jump through to legally get married in Mexico.

If you decide to get married in Mexico, you need various documents, two witnesses for each marriage application, a medical exam, and more. The civil registry of the local municipality of Mexico must also officiate your wedding.

The good news? If you’re planning ahead, you can get it done. It’s also easy to legally get married at home, then have an unforgettable symbolic ceremony in Mexico with your love!

How Do You Plan an Elopement in Mexico? 

If you want to plan an incredible Mexico elopement experience, you might work with someone who can help you plan and execute your dream day. In fact, many elopement photographers (like me!) will not only capture your big day but also help you pick your location and plan.

Follow these steps to plan your Mexico elopement:

• Envision what you want your elopement experience to be like.
  Narrow down when and where you want to elope.
• Book your vendors.
• Book travel arrangements. 
• Decide what to wear. 
• Figure out the logistics, like accommodations, experiences, etc.
• Apply for permits, if needed.
• Figure out your elopement timeline.
• Do the legal stuff.

Read more: How to Plan an Elopement (A Step-by-Step Guide)

When to Elope in Mexico

The best time to elope in Mexico depends on what you’re looking for, but most couples prefer the dry season, between December and April. This time of year also offers mild temperatures and fewer crowds. 

The peak season is during summer, so this is the perfect time for couples looking for the warmest weather and a more lively experience. 

If I’m being honest, I think any time of year is incredible to elope in Mexico! You might also want to pick your location, then look at weather trends for that area to pick your ideal time of year.

Where to Elope in Mexico

Mexico is one of the best destinations for an elopement because it’s cultural, beautiful, and filled with fun activities! Best of all, there are so many amazing locations in Mexico that there’s something for everyone.

Here’s a quick rundown of where to elope in Mexico, and below I’ll share more details!

• Cabo: for a luxury seaside elopement
• Todos Santos: for an artsy, relaxed vibe
• Isla Mujeres: a tranquil slice of paradise
• Tulum: for nature lovers looking for something different
• Mexico City: a foodie’s paradise and a festive vibe
• Puerto Vallarta: a less touristy resort town
• Playa del Carmen: for a place that has it all 

Related read: Where to Elope: Tips for Choosing the Perfect Place to Elope

Cabo

a luxury seaside elopement

Cabo San Lucas, or Cabo, is a popular resort town on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. It’s a fantastic place to elope in Mexico if you want a luxurious and relaxing experience. There’s so much to love about Cabo, including its breathtaking scenery, white sandy beaches, charming seaside villas, and inclusive resorts. 

The many resorts in Cabo offer stunning locations to have your elopement ceremony, including private beaches and poolside spots. Not only are there countless elopement locations, but there are also so many activities to make new memories with your love. From dining to spa days and water activities to nightlife, Cabo just about has it all! 

Todos Santos

an artsy, relaxed vibe

About an hour north of Cabo is Todos Santos, a quaint coastal town nestled on the Pacific coast of the Baja California Peninsula. Although it’s most known for its artsy, relaxed vibe and surf culture, Todos Santos also has picture-perfect scenery and a downtown area with cobblestone streets, both of which make for incredible elopement photo-ops!

Todos Santos is filled with aesthetic boutique hotels, which are ideal for an intimate elopement ceremony. Of course, the beaches are a beautiful place to say “I do.” There are also amazing locations in the mountains and desert nearby.

Isla Mujeres

a tranquil slice of paradise

Isla Mujeres is a Mexican island in the Caribbean Sea, just off the coast of Cancun. If you’re dreaming of tying the knot in a paradise-like destination, this is it! Isla Mujeres boasts magical beaches with blue waters and beautiful resort hotels. A historic Mayan temple and a sea turtle sanctuary also offer unique experiences on Isla Mujeres.

While beach wedding ceremonies are a go-to on Isla Mujeres, there are also other incredible options. One of the most popular attractions in Isla Mujeres, Garrafon Park, is a theme park and epic place to elope with adventure opportunities like zip lining, kayaking, and snorkeling. Panta Sur, a seaside preserve, is another breathtaking place to exchange your vows.

Tulum

For nature lovers looking for something different

Tulum is the perfect location to elope in Mexico if you love nature and crunchy vibes! It’s most known for its beautiful beaches and yoga retreats, but Tulum is also home to lush jungles, sacred cenotes, and nature reserves abundant with wildlife.

Recommendations: If you’re planning a beach wedding, avoid Tulum in summer when sargassum is prevalent.

Although Tulum’s accommodations and activities are relatively pricey, many couples find it well worth it! Some awesome Airbnbs even offer the perfect atmosphere for your elopement ceremony. You can also change things up and elope in the jungle or cenote!

Mexico City

a foodie’s paradise and a festive vibe

If you and your partner want a diverse city vibe and love food and art, you’ll love Mexico City! This is Mexico’s capital and largest city, and it has so much to offer, including history, delicious food, and iconic art.

Couples love an elopement adventure through Mexico City, posing for photos in the streets with historic buildings as backdrops. The Chapultepec Park, the oldest and largest park in Latin America, is also a fantastic place to say “I do!”

Puerto Vallarta

a less touristy resort town

Puerto Vallarta is similar to Cabo, with gorgeous seaside resorts, beaches, and water activities. However, it’s less touristy and still has a local feel. This fun resort beach town has stunning beaches with mountain views, incredible food, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Just north of Puerto Vallarta is Sayulita, a hidden gem and peaceful fishing village perfect for couples who want to enjoy Mexico’s vibes off the beaten path. Also slightly north of Puerto Vallarta is Punta Mita, a large private peninsula home to the Four Seasons, which offers an amazing experience for couples who want to elope in Mexico.

Playa del Carmen

for a place that has it all 

If choosing just one spot for your Mexico elopement is too tricky, Playa del Carmen could be the best location for you! This coastal resort town is a good mix of many other Mexico destinations. It boasts gorgeous beaches and landscapes, caters to tourists without being too touristy, has a relaxed atmosphere, and is home to lively nightlife spots. 

Couples especially love this stretch of the Caribbean coastline, known as the Riviera Maya, for its magical elopement setting. The Banyan Tree Mayakoba in Playa del Carmen is an incredible resort with a private pool villa, beach access, and lush mangrove forests, offering an unforgettable elopement experience!

Mexico Elopement Packages

As an elopement photographer, I help couples’ elopement dreams become a reality! My Mexico elopement packages include everything you need for a low-stress, big adventure, perfectly you elopement.

Here’s the process for Wild Aisle Photography elopement packages:

1. We chat about what you envision for your elopement experience.
2. I use my travel and elopement expertise to help you plan the best elopement ever. I’ll share secrets, resources, and helpful tips and tricks.
3. You’ll do the thing! Explore, have your ceremony, and celebrate. Meanwhile, I’ll be there to help and capture all the special moments.
4. I’ll send over your gallery so you can remember your big day and share the memories with your loved ones.

Check out Wild Aisle Photography’s elopement packages!

Elope in Mexico: Final Thoughts

I hope this guide has helped you get ready for the day of your dreams! Mexico is one of the all-time best elopement destinations for any couple who loves natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and fun activities. You’re sure to have an epic experience!

Ready to plan and capture your big day? Contact Wild Aisle Photography!