Choosing The Best Wedding Venues in Careyes, Jalisco

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Careyes, Jalisco—nestled along the pristine Costa Alegre coastline south of Puerto Vallarta—is a vibrant, exclusive retreat unlike any other. Renowned for its colorful architecture, secluded coves, artistic community, and lush tropical landscape meeting the Pacific Ocean, Careyes offers a wedding experience defined by privacy, luxury, and bohemian flair. Beyond its stunning natural beauty, Careyes is a collection of iconic villas, casitas, and castles perched on hillsides or tucked into private bays, creating an intimate and visually spectacular backdrop for a destination wedding.

Whether you dream of exchanging vows in a cliffside castle overlooking the vast Pacific, hosting a vibrant reception at a stylish beach club, or celebrating with loved ones in a private villa with staff catering to your every need, Careyes caters to couples seeking something truly unique and unforgettable. Its charm lies in its carefully curated exclusivity, offering a high level of service and privacy away from typical tourist crowds.

Ready to see the vibrant beauty of Careyes captured through the lens? Explore some of the best wedding photos in Careyes in this stunning destination, showcasing breathtaking moments captured amidst the unique architecture and natural beauty. 

Index

 

Key Factors in Choosing a Careyes Venue

 

Planning a wedding in Careyes means embracing its unique character—focused on privacy, artistic expression, and integrated luxury. Here are essential points to consider:

Guest Count & Venue Capacity. Careyes is best suited for more intimate to mid-sized weddings. Most villas accommodate 20–80 guests for events comfortably, while larger parties (up to 150+) might require renting multiple properties or utilizing specific communal areas. Have a clear idea of your guest list size to find suitable options, keeping in mind that guest accommodation usually involves booking multiple villas/casitas or rooms at The Residences.

Preferred Setting & Style. Careyes offers striking cliffside villas, serene beachfront casitas, and properties surrounded by lush jungle. Are you drawn to the dramatic architectural statements of a castle, the vibrant colors of a casita village, or the laid-back luxury of a bayfront home? Your style will dictate the ideal setting. Careyes is less about traditional resorts and more about curated private environments.

Budget & Inclusion Level. Careyes is a high-end destination. Wedding costs are often driven by villa rental fees (which usually have multi-night minimums) plus separate event fees. Per-person catering and staffing costs for private villas can also be significant due to the level of service. You’ll likely be working with a blend of included villa staff and external vendors, requiring more hands-on planning or a dedicated local planner compared to an all-inclusive resort package.

Climate & Season. Located on the Pacific coast, Careyes experiences a tropical climate. The dry season (roughly November to May) offers warm, sunny days and cooler evenings, ideal for outdoor events. The rainy season (June to October) can bring afternoon showers or thunderstorms, especially in late summer/early fall. Always confirm your venue’s rain plan and consider the humidity levels during warmer months.

Local Vibe & Exclusivity. Careyes thrives on its exclusive, artistic, and private atmosphere. It’s a place to disconnect and immerse yourself in beauty and tranquility. If you and your guests value privacy, unique architecture, and a serene environment over bustling nightlife or extensive public amenities, Careyes fits perfectly. The vibe is bohemian luxury, not a party town.

 

Areas & Surroundings

 

Careyes isn’t structured like a traditional town or resort corridor. It’s a collection of distinct areas, each with its own charm and types of properties:

Plaza de los Caballeros & Surrounding Hillsides. This is the “heart” of Careyes, featuring the iconic brightly colored *Casitas* perched on hillsides overlooking the bay and the Pacific. The Plaza itself has restaurants and a central energy. Nearby hills are home to numerous stunning villas offering incredible views. Ideal if you want proximity to the few communal amenities while staying in a private villa or casita.

Playa Careyes & Playa Rosa. Playa Careyes is the main bay where many *Casitas* and *Casitas* are located, often with direct beach access or just steps away. Playa Rosa is a famous, picturesque cove with the Playa Rosa Beach Club—a central hub for dining and activities. Properties here offer beachfront convenience and access to the water, perfect for ceremonies on the sand or casual receptions.

The Castles (Castillos). Perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the ocean, the Castillos are the most iconic and exclusive properties in Careyes. These multi-suite estates (like Castillo Sol de Oriente and Castillo Sol de Occidente) offer unparalleled privacy, expansive grounds, and breathtaking views. Hosting a wedding here is the epitome of Careyes luxury and requires renting the entire property, often with minimum stays.

Playa Teopa & Southern Areas. South of the main bay, you find larger, more secluded estates and the polo fields. This area is ideal for couples seeking even greater privacy and expansive grounds, perhaps integrating equestrian themes or simply wanting to be surrounded by untouched nature and coastline. Logistics for guests might require more coordination here.

 

Iconic Villas & Castles

 

The soul of Careyes weddings lies in its extraordinary private homes. Renting a villa or castle provides unparalleled privacy, stunning architecture, and the ability to curate a truly personalized event. Be prepared for luxury pricing and coordinating various elements:

Castillo Sol de Oriente / Sol de Occidente. These side-by-side architectural masterpieces sit on a cliff overlooking the Pacific. Renting one or both provides exclusive use of sprawling grounds, multiple suites, pools, and staff. Event capacity can range from 50 to 150+ guests, depending on the area used. Expect nightly rental rates from $5,000 to $25,000+ USD (with multi-night minimums), plus event fees and costs for additional staff/vendors. Ideal for couples desiring a truly dramatic, private, and visually stunning backdrop.

Various Private Villas (e.g., Casa La Luna, Casa Tres Soles). Numerous private villas are available for rent throughout Careyes, varying in size, style, and location (cliffside, hillside, bayfront). These offer a range of aesthetics from traditional Mexican to modern minimalist, often with dedicated staff (chef, housekeepers, butler). Rental rates vary from $1,000 to $8,000+ per night, with event fees often applied based on guest count (ranging from $1,000 to $5,000+). Suited for weddings of 20 to 80 guests seeking privacy and curated luxury.

Casitas de Las Flores. These iconic, colorful studio and one-bedroom units are scattered on the hillside, offering charming accommodations and stunning views. While individually smaller, renting a block of casitas can work for guests, and some larger casitas or nearby villas can host events. Event planning here often involves using a larger nearby property or the Playa Rosa Beach Club for the main reception, combining private stays with communal event spaces. Price is usually per casita night, starting around $300-$600.

 

Coastal Estates & Beachfront Properties

 

For couples dreaming of sand between their toes or the constant sound of waves, Careyes offers beautiful properties right on or near its protected bays. These often provide easier beach access for ceremonies:

Properties directly on Playa Careyes or Playa Rosa. Certain villas and casitas sit directly on or steps away from the sand of these main bays. This allows for seamless transitions from a beach ceremony to a reception on a villa’s terrace or garden overlooking the water. Event capacity depends on the specific property but is often suited for 30 to 100 guests. Rental costs are similar to other villas, factoring in their prime location.

Secluded Bay Villas. Beyond the main bays, Careyes has properties tucked into smaller, more private coves. These offer ultimate seclusion and untouched natural beauty. Logistics might be slightly more complex, but the reward is a truly private beachfront experience. These are ideal for intimate weddings or elopements, with capacity often limited by the property size (e.g., 20 to 50 guests for an event).

 

Boutique Hotels & Residences

 

While villas dominate, Careyes does offer options for couples who prefer a hotel structure or a blend of private and communal lodging. El Careyes Club & Residences is the primary example:

El Careyes Club & Residences. This property features suites and residences within a club setting, offering hotel-like amenities like a main pool, restaurants, and structured services, alongside larger private units. They have spaces suitable for weddings, including terraces and potentially beach areas. It provides a good option for guests who prefer traditional hotel stays. Event packages or site fees here might range from $80 to $200+ USD per person for food and beverage, plus site fees depending on the scale. Suitable for 50 to 150 guests who want access to shared amenities and a more streamlined planning process than a full villa rental.

 

Unique Locations & Experiences

 

Careyes’ charm lies also in its specific landmarks and community spaces that can host unique events:

Playa Rosa Beach Club. A vibrant and stylish hub directly on Playa Rosa. This can be rented out partially or fully for wedding receptions, welcome parties, or rehearsal dinners. It offers a lively, yet refined, beachfront atmosphere with excellent catering. Buyout fees or minimums can range from $5,000 to $20,000+ depending on the season and day, plus per-person food and drink costs (e.g., $80 to $150+ USD). A great spot for a beach party vibe that’s more upscale than a casual beach bar.

La Copa del Sol. While not typically rented for full weddings (it’s an artistic landmark), this iconic, massive concrete cup overlooking the ocean is an unparalleled spot for a symbolic ceremony or breathtaking photo session. Planning logistics here requires special permission and is usually limited to small groups for short periods. The cost would be associated with specific permits and potentially community fees.

Polo Club Area. For couples with an equestrian interest or who love expansive, manicured grounds, hosting an event near the Careyes Polo Club offers a different landscape. While not a traditional wedding venue, private parties or events could potentially be arranged with the right coordination, perhaps involving temporary structures. This is a niche option suited for specific visions and likely requires significant custom planning.

Budget & Cost Considerations

Careyes is known for its exclusivity and high level of service, which translates into a premium price point. Understanding where costs arise is key:

Venue Rentals & Event Fees. This is often the most significant cost. Villa rentals range widely but are typically $1,000 – $25,000+ USD per night, often with multi-night minimums (3-7 nights is common). Event fees for hosting a wedding, beyond just staying at the villa, can add another $1,500 to $10,000+ depending on guest count and property. Beach club buyouts or minimums range from $5,000 to $20,000+.

Catering & Drinks. For private villas, you often hire a private chef and staff, or bring in a catering company. High-quality catering can cost $100 to $300+ per person, depending on menu complexity (multi-course meal, live stations, etc.) and beverage package (premium open bar). Service staff costs are often separate. At El Careyes Club or Playa Rosa Beach Club, per-person food and beverage packages are more common, ranging from $80 to $200+.

Diverse Décor & Rentals. Bringing in specific furniture, lighting, floral arrangements, or temporary structures (like tents) can be costly, especially if items need to be transported from Puerto Vallarta or Manzanillo. Budget $5,000 to $15,000+ depending on your vision and reliance on rentals. Villas often have beautiful existing decor, but large events require supplementary items.

Hidden Fees & Vendor Policies. Be aware of potential fees for outside vendors (less common at private villas but possible at El Careyes Club). Transportation costs for vendors coming from outside Careyes (Puerto Vallarta is ~2.5-3 hours away, Manzanillo is ~1.5-2 hours) will add up. Ensure contracts clearly state what’s included (staff hours, utilities, etc.).

Practical Logistics

Careyes is more remote than typical resort towns, requiring careful planning for guests and vendors:

Arrival & Flights. The closest major airports are Manzanillo (MLO), about 1.5-2 hours drive south, and Puerto Vallarta (PVR), about 2.5-3 hours drive north. MLO is usually the most convenient. Guests will need to arrange private transfers or rental cars from the airport to Careyes. Coordinate transportation options and share recommendations well in advance.

Accommodations. Accommodating all guests can be the primary logistical challenge. Options include renting multiple villas/casitas or booking rooms/residences at El Careyes Club. There are also smaller hotels or rental properties in nearby towns like La Manzanilla (about 20-30 mins away), which could be more budget-friendly but require daily transport to Careyes events. Start securing accommodations early, especially for peak season.

Vendor Coordination. A highly experienced local wedding planner is invaluable in Careyes. They will have established relationships with vendors (caterers, florists, musicians, hair/makeup artists) who are willing and able to travel to Careyes, or know the limited local options. Coordinating logistics, contracts, and schedules from afar without a local expert is significantly more challenging given the location’s nature.

Getting Around Careyes. Once in Careyes, getting between villas, beaches, and the Plaza might require walking (if close), using rental cars, or arranging local taxis/transportation services within the community. If guests are spread across different properties, coordinating transport for wedding events is crucial.

Designing the Careyes Wedding Experience

Careyes provides an incredible canvas for creativity. Infuse your wedding with its unique spirit:

Careyes-Inspired Décor & Theme. Embrace the vibrant colors! Integrate elements that echo the iconic architecture—bold hues, geometric shapes, smooth stucco textures. Incorporate lush tropical flowers, local greenery, driftwood, and natural elements from the coastline. The style can be bohemian luxury, artistic, or elegantly modern, reflecting the property you choose.

Jalisco Cuisine & Local Specialties. Jalisco is the birthplace of tequila and mariachi! Feature these elements. Offer fresh Pacific seafood – grilled fish, ceviche, shrimp. Incorporate regional dishes. Work with your chef to create a menu using fresh, local ingredients, perhaps highlighting unique Mexican flavors in a refined way. A premium tequila or mezcal tasting can be a sophisticated touch.

Music & Entertainment. Consider bringing in a high-quality band or DJ from Puerto Vallarta for dancing. Live acoustic musicians or a solo guitar player can be perfect for ceremonies or cocktail hours overlooking the ocean. Given the private setting, you might have more flexibility with music timing than in a dense hotel zone, but always confirm with the property management.

Group Activities & Excursions. Encourage guests to enjoy Careyes. Organize a welcome party at Playa Rosa Beach Club, a sunset sail, paddleboarding or snorkeling in the bay, a group yoga session overlooking the ocean, or explore the art installations and unique architecture. For equestrian enthusiasts, arranging something at the Polo Club could be a memorable pre-wedding event.

FAQs

1. Which months are ideal for a Careyes wedding?

The dry season from November to May offers the most reliable weather with warm, sunny days. December to April is peak season with pleasant temperatures. The rainy season (June to October) can be hot and humid with potential for afternoon showers, but offers lush landscapes and potentially lower rates. November and May are often great shoulder months.

2. How soon should I reserve my venue?

Iconic villas and castles, especially, book up *very* far in advance, sometimes 18-24 months ahead for peak dates. Private villas and popular weekends should be booked 12-18 months out. El Careyes Club might have more flexibility but still recommend booking at least 9-12 months ahead for a specific date and block of rooms.

3. Are vendor restrictions common in Careyes?

Less so at private villas, where you’re expected to bring in your own team (caterers, decorators, etc.). However, you *must* work with vendors experienced in the logistics of working in Careyes. El Careyes Club might have a preferred vendor list or charge fees for outside vendors, similar to resorts elsewhere. Always clarify vendor policies upfront.

4. Do I need a local wedding planner in Careyes?

Yes, highly recommended. Given the logistics of coordinating accommodations across properties, managing vendors traveling from other cities (PV/Manzanillo), and navigating the unique Careyes community, a planner with local expertise is almost essential for a smooth wedding experience.

5. What about fireworks or beach bonfires?

Policies vary by specific property and community regulations. Fireworks are generally permitted only with special permits and professional handling. Beach bonfires may be restricted due to environmental concerns or property rules. Discuss any desired special effects (like fireworks or wish lanterns) with your venue and planner early to ensure compliance.

Final Thoughts as a Wedding Photographer

Careyes is a photographer’s paradise, offering a unique blend of architectural marvels and stunning natural landscapes. The vibrant colors of the casitas and castles against the deep blue Pacific and lush green jungle create visually dynamic backdrops. The light, especially during the “golden hour” before sunset, is simply magical, illuminating the colorful walls and the natural surroundings beautifully.

From a photography perspective, leverage the distinct locations: capture stunning portraits within the unique shapes and colors of a villa, use the vast ocean views from a cliffside castle as your backdrop, or embrace the laid-back vibe of a beach ceremony at Playa Rosa. Don’t forget the charm of the Careyes Plaza for some cultural immersion shots. For adventurous couples, a “trash-the-dress” session in a secluded cove or utilizing the bold architecture offers spectacular, artistic results.

Careyes is about capturing an *experience*—the feeling of exclusive privacy, the vibrant artistic energy, the connection to nature, and the sheer beauty of a place where the jungle meets the sea in technicolor. Plan your photo timeline to include the best light and to move between the different, stunning environments Careyes offers. The result will be a wedding album that is as unique and captivating as the destination itself.

Careyes Wedding Photography Packages

Ready to preserve every vibrant and intimate moment of your Careyes wedding? Explore my photography packages, designed to perfectly suit your preferences and the unique setting of Careyes. Whether you’re planning a celebration in a private villa, a castle, or on a secluded beach, I’ll be there to capture your love story with artistry and a deep appreciation for this extraordinary location. Take a look at our packages!

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