Getting Married at Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta: ULTIMATE GUIDE

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Dreaming of a wedding where the lush Sierra Madre mountains meet the sparkling blue of Banderas Bay, all within an elegant all-inclusive setting? Welcome to Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta—a luxurious beachfront oasis nestled against dramatic cliffs, offering a stunning blend of natural beauty, sophisticated design, and world-class service for your special day. With its private beach, multiple pools, and lush tropical surroundings, Hyatt Ziva provides an unparalleled backdrop for your celebration. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony on the sand or a grand reception overlooking the Pacific, this exquisite resort promises a wedding experience as unforgettable as its spectacular sunsets.

Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and premium amenities, Hyatt Ziva seamlessly blends contemporary luxury with authentic Mexican charm. Its exquisite venues—from secluded beach coves to elegant terraces and indoor spaces—are designed to reflect your unique love story, all while showcasing the captivating beauty of Puerto Vallarta. Let the natural splendor and exclusive charm of this resort set the stage for your dream wedding.

Planning your perfect wedding in Puerto Vallarta? Explore some of the best wedding photos in Puerto Vallarta in this stunning destination, showcasing breathtaking moments captured in paradise. 

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Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?

 

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta stands out for its unique cliffside location and exclusive private beach, offering panoramic views of Banderas Bay and the Pacific. As an all-inclusive resort, it provides a seamless and vibrant experience, perfect for destination weddings where guests can enjoy endless dining, drinks, and activities without extra hassle. Couples who appreciate a lively, yet elegant atmosphere with diverse culinary options and a truly private beachfront ceremony will find Hyatt Ziva an ideal choice.

Recent guest surveys indicate that **couples increasingly prioritize a comprehensive guest experience and stunning natural backdrops**. With its striking blend of ocean vistas, lush gardens, and exceptional all-inclusive service, Hyatt Ziva offers a truly distinctive backdrop for your wedding photos and a memorable escape for your guests.

 

How Does a Wedding at Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta Work?

 

Planning your wedding at Hyatt Ziva is designed to be a luxurious and effortless process, backed by the convenience of an all-inclusive experience. Their expert wedding team guides you through every step, ensuring your vision is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail. The resort offers a range of elegant venues and customizable packages that include everything from ceremony setup and gourmet catering to professional coordination and vendor management, often integrating seamlessly with the all-inclusive guest stay.

This dedicated support means you can relax and savor the moments while the resort handles the logistics, allowing you to focus on celebrating your love in a beautiful, stress-free environment.

 

Best Months to Get Married

 

Puerto Vallarta enjoys warm weather year-round, but the best months for a wedding are typically from November to May. This period offers pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The drier season also provides consistent, beautiful natural light for photography.

Marrying during these months ensures optimal weather, while the summer/fall season (June-October) can be more humid and prone to afternoon showers, potentially offering cost savings but requiring stronger backup plans.

 

The Basics of Wedding Packages

 

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta offers thoughtfully designed wedding packages tailored to various styles and sizes. Each package typically includes:

  • Ceremony Setup: Options for private beach, garden, or terrace ceremonies with elegant seating, and romantic décor elements.
  • Reception Venues: Access to sophisticated spaces like oceanfront terraces, elegant ballrooms, or private event areas with stunning views.
  • Catering: Exquisite gourmet menus featuring local and international cuisine, often integrated as part of the all-inclusive experience for wedding events, offered in various formats from plated dinners to elaborate buffets.
  • Decor and Floral Arrangements: Standard decorative elements and floral basics, with opportunities for personalization and upgrades to match your theme.
  • Entertainment: Assistance with coordinating music (live bands, DJs) and other entertainment to create the perfect atmosphere.

These packages serve as a foundation and can be customized extensively to perfectly align with your dream wedding, often with perks tied to guest room bookings.

 

Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?

 

In destination weddings at Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta, typically:

  • The couple covers the primary wedding event costs, such as the specific wedding package, venue rental fees (if applicable beyond the package), and dedicated coordination services for the event.
  • Guests are usually responsible for their all-inclusive room and travel costs, although the resort can often provide group rates or block bookings, simplifying their budgeting for food and drinks during their stay.
  • The couple might choose to host additional private events, like a welcome reception or rehearsal dinner, beyond the standard all-inclusive offerings, covering those specific costs for their guests.
  • Extra expenses for personalized decor, enhanced entertainment, or pre/post-wedding activities outside of standard resort amenities are typically the couple’s responsibility.
  • Gift registries or contributions towards travel/experiences are common, allowing guests to contribute in meaningful ways.

This all-inclusive structure allows the couple to tailor the main event while guests enjoy a comprehensive and worry-free vacation.

 

Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations

 

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta features versatile spaces suitable for various wedding sizes:

  • Private Beach & Terraces: Can accommodate larger groups for ceremonies or receptions, often up to 150-200 guests on the beach or grand terraces.
  • Garden & Poolside Areas: Ideal for more intimate ceremonies, cocktail hours, or smaller receptions, typically suitable for 50-100 guests depending on the specific location.
  • Elegant Ballrooms & Event Rooms: Offer options for larger indoor receptions, especially for late-night celebrations or in case of rain, accommodating several hundred guests.

The resort offers luxurious all-inclusive accommodations ranging from standard rooms to suites with stunning ocean views, providing ample space for guests. Group rates and special blocks can often be arranged, making it convenient for your guests to stay on-site and fully enjoy the wedding festivities and resort amenities.

Ceremony and Reception Logistics

Hyatt Ziva’s wedding team expertly manages the flow of your day from saying “I do” to your final dance. A typical sequence might look like this:

Ceremony on the Private Beach or Cliffside Terrace: Exchange vows with the Pacific Ocean as your stunning backdrop, feeling the sand between your toes or enjoying elevated views.

Cocktail Hour with Ocean Breezes: Guests enjoy drinks and appetizers on a scenic terrace or by one of the resort’s beautiful pools, taking in the vibrant surroundings and sea air.

Reception in an Elegant Space: Move to a dedicated reception area, whether an outdoor terrace, a manicured garden, or an indoor ballroom, for dinner, toasts, and dancing.

Pro tip: Leverage Hyatt Ziva’s unique layout with its secluded coves and elevated terraces. Consider having distinct vibes for each part of your day, perhaps a serene beach ceremony followed by a lively terrace reception, maximizing the visual and experiential variety Hyatt Ziva offers.

What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?

While specific inclusions vary by package, the core wedding package cost at Hyatt Ziva typically includes:

  • Access to Chosen Wedding Venue Spaces: Exclusive use of your selected ceremony and reception areas for the allocated time.
  • Basic Setup: Standard chairs, tables, linens, and some basic décor for the ceremony and reception.
  • Staffing: Professional waitstaff, bartenders, and essential resort personnel to service your event.
  • Basic Audio-Visual: A simple sound system for the ceremony and background music during cocktail hour/dinner.
  • Catering & Beverage: Often includes a dedicated meal and open bar service for the wedding event, separate from guests’ all-inclusive resort stay, depending on the package.

Remember that premium furniture, extensive floral installations, specialized lighting, or upgraded sound/visual equipment are usually additional costs. Be sure to clarify what aspects of food and beverage are included for your wedding event versus your guests’ general all-inclusive stay.

Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies

Puerto Vallarta can experience tropical rain, especially during the wet season (June-October). Hyatt Ziva has established elegant indoor ballrooms and covered outdoor options readily available as a backup. These spaces are designed to be equally elegant and functional, ensuring your celebration remains beautiful and uninterrupted regardless of unexpected weather.

Pro tip: Discuss the backup options during your site visit or initial consultation. Understand where the indoor alternative is located and ensure it aligns with your vision, even if it’s just a contingency plan.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies

Booking your wedding at Hyatt Ziva involves a standard payment structure:

Initial Deposit: A non-refundable deposit, often ranging from $1,000–$5,000 USD (depending on package size and exclusivity), is required to reserve your date and venues.

Scheduled Payments: Further payments are typically scheduled at intervals (e.g., 12, 6, and 3 months prior) to cover estimated costs based on your package and guest count.

Final Payment: The remaining balance is usually due approximately 30-45 days before the wedding date.

Cancellation policies are strict and vary depending on the timing of the cancellation relative to your wedding date. Review your contract carefully and consider wedding insurance to protect your investment against unforeseen circumstances.

On-Site Wedding Coordination and Planning Services

Hyatt Ziva boasts a professional on-site wedding planning team dedicated to making your journey seamless. Their services typically include:

Dedicated Wedding Planner: A main point of contact to guide you through every decision, from venue selection to menu tasting and managing all-inclusive guest group bookings.

Vendor Liaison: Assistance with selecting and coordinating trusted local vendors for photography, music, flowers, and more, who are familiar with the resort’s policies.

Timeline Creation & Management: Developing a detailed schedule for the wedding day and ensuring everything runs on time.

Rehearsal Coordination: Guiding your wedding party through the ceremony rehearsal.

Their expertise in executing luxury all-inclusive events in the tropical setting is invaluable for a stress-free planning experience.

Dietary and Menu Restrictions

Hyatt Ziva’s extensive culinary team is highly capable of accommodating a wide range of dietary needs and preferences across its multiple specialty restaurants. They offer customizable menus for wedding events featuring diverse options, from fresh seafood and traditional Mexican fare to international favorites. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, kosher-style, halal, and allergy-specific meals can all be expertly prepared and served.

Consultations with the chef are usually included for wedding event menus, allowing you to tailor the dining experience precisely. Interactive elements like gourmet food stations, a taco bar, or tequila/mezcal tastings can add a unique local touch to your reception.

Music and Entertainment Restrictions

Hyatt Ziva welcomes various entertainment options, from romantic mariachis and string quartets to lively DJs and live bands. The resort does have regulations regarding noise levels, particularly for outdoor venues and residential areas.

Typically, outdoor music may have a curfew, often around 10:00 or 11:00 p.m. If your celebration is planned to extend late into the night, the wedding team can advise on suitable indoor spaces (like a ballroom) or alternative arrangements to continue the party while respecting resort policies and other guests.

Parking and Guest Logistics

Most guests will arrive via Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), which is conveniently located approximately 25-35 minutes from Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta, nestled on the south side of town near Mismaloya. To facilitate guest transportation:

Airport Transfers: The resort can help arrange private or shared shuttle services from PVR, often with discounted rates for groups, making arrival seamless for all guests staying at the all-inclusive.

On-Site Transportation: As a compact resort, walking is generally easy, though internal shuttles may be available for specific needs or luggage assistance.

Parking: Limited parking is available for guests who choose to rent cars; valet service may also be offered.

Providing guests with clear instructions on airport arrival and recommended transportation options, along with details on booking their all-inclusive stays, well in advance is highly recommended.

Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta

For an average wedding of about 50 guests at Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta, a rough estimate for your budget might be:

  • Wedding Package/Venue Fee: $6,000–$15,000 USD (includes ceremony setup, reception, some decor, basic F&B for the event). This fee covers the exclusive event space and services, separate from guest room rates.
  • Guest All-Inclusive Stays: Guests are responsible for their own room and board, which can range from $200-$400+ USD per person per night, depending on season and room type. This is typically booked directly by guests or through a travel agent coordinating the group block.
  • Additional Food and Beverage (for specific event if not fully covered by package): If your package doesn’t fully cover the entire event’s F&B, additional costs might be $50–$100+ USD per person. For 50 guests, budget $2,500–$5,000+.
  • Entertainment: $1,500–$4,000 USD (live musician, DJ, or band).
  • Photography/Videography: $3,000–$7,000 USD (depends on hours, photographers, and deliverables).
  • Florals and Enhanced Decor: $1,000–$4,000 USD (basic to moderate customization).
  • Taxes and Service Fees: Typically adds 16% VAT plus a 10-15% service charge on top of wedding event services. Budget at least 26% of total wedding event costs for this.

Total estimated *wedding event* costs (excluding guest room costs) could range from $15,000 to $45,000+ USD for a 50-guest wedding, highly dependent on specific package choices, menu selections, and added luxuries. Prioritizing what matters most to you can help manage the budget effectively, noting that guests cover their own all-inclusive stay.

*Please note: These are estimates. Always obtain a customized quote directly from Hyatt Ziva’s wedding team.*

Splurge vs. Save

To save costs, consider a weekday wedding, choosing an all-inclusive wedding package that bundles many services, or simplifying floral and décor elements. Opting for in-house catering and bar packages (as part of the all-inclusive event package) is usually more cost-effective than external vendors. To splurge, consider adding a fireworks display over the ocean, a private pre-wedding catamaran cruise to Los Arcos, a custom lighting package for your reception, or an elaborate multi-course tasting menu with premium wine pairings. Upgrading to a truly premium bar (beyond the standard all-inclusive offerings) can also elevate the guest experience.

Wedding Packages and What’s Included

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta offers a range of wedding packages, often with names reflecting the tropical setting. While details vary, common inclusions are:

  • Ceremony Site Fee: Use of a designated area (private beach, cliffside terrace, garden).
  • Basic Ceremony Setup: White chairs, simple altar/arch.
  • Minister/Officiant: Arrangement of services (symbolic or legal, with legal requiring separate paperwork/fees).
  • Cocktail Hour: Standard open bar and tray-passed appetizers (number/selection varies by package), specifically for your private event.
  • Reception Dinner: Choice of plated, buffet, or station-style dinner from a set menu selection for your private event.
  • Drinks Package: Tiered open bar options (domestic vs. international brands, duration), specific to your private event.
  • Wedding Cake: A basic tiered wedding cake in standard flavors and designs.
  • Wedding Coordinator: Services of an on-site planner to assist with resort arrangements and event execution.

Pro tip: Many Hyatt Ziva packages offer minimum guest counts and include benefits like romantic dinners for the couple, spa credits, complimentary anniversary stays, or even waived wedding package fees if a certain number of guest rooms are booked for a minimum number of nights, adding significant value.

Activities for Other Days

Keep your guests entertained throughout their stay in Puerto Vallarta:

  • Organize a group excursion to downtown Puerto Vallarta to explore the Malecón, Old Town, and local markets.
  • Book a private boat tour to explore Banderas Bay, snorkel at Los Arcos National Marine Park, or look for whales (in season).
  • Arrange a welcome fiesta or casual beach bonfire event at the resort’s private beach.
  • Guests can enjoy the resort’s extensive all-inclusive amenities, including multiple pools, diverse gourmet restaurants, and a world-class spa.
  • Arrange adventurous excursions like jungle canopy tours, ATV rides, or hiking in the nearby Sierra Madre foothills.
  • Explore local art galleries and shops, or take a cooking class focusing on traditional Mexican cuisine.

Three Practical Tips for Brides

1) Embrace the Humidity: Puerto Vallarta can be humid. Discuss humidity-friendly hairstyles and makeup with your stylist during your trial to ensure your look lasts all day.

2) Plan for Sunset: The sunsets over Banderas Bay are spectacular from Hyatt Ziva. Time your ceremony or couple’s portraits to coincide with golden hour for breathtaking, iconic photos against the dramatic cliffs and ocean.

3) Leverage All-Inclusive Perks: Maximize the convenience! Encourage guests to arrive a day or two early to enjoy the resort, and utilize the wedding team’s expertise for everything from welcome bags to post-wedding brunches. Don’t forget to explore the various included dining options during your stay.

Two Bride Reviews

“Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta was beyond perfect for our wedding. The private beach ceremony was so intimate and beautiful, and the cliffside backdrop was just stunning. As an all-inclusive, it made planning so easy, and our guests loved having everything at their fingertips without worrying about extra costs. The food was incredible, and the staff made us feel like royalty. Truly magical!” – Maria S.

“Choosing Hyatt Ziva for our special day was the best decision we made. The resort itself is gorgeous, nestled right into the cliffs, offering unique photo ops. Our wedding coordinator was a dream, handling every detail flawlessly. Our guests raved about the delicious food at all the restaurants and the vibrant atmosphere. It was truly a stress-free and unforgettable celebration for everyone.” – Emily R.

My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Photographer

Having photographed weddings across Mexico, Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta holds a truly unique appeal. The dramatic cliffside setting, combined with its exclusive private beach, offers an incredible variety of backdrops that are a dream to photograph. The resort’s vibrant, modern architecture and lush tropical grounds perfectly complement the natural beauty of Banderas Bay, allowing for everything from intimate beach portraits bathed in golden hour light to grand, sophisticated shots on elevated terraces. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive luxury destination wedding venue that combines breathtaking natural scenery with seamless service and a lively, elegant atmosphere, Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta is an outstanding choice that photographs beautifully from every angle.

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