Ultimate Wedding Guide: How to Get Married in Puerto Vallarta

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Dreaming of a romantic sunset wedding in Puerto Vallarta? This iconic destination, nestled where the Sierra Madre mountains meet the Pacific, blends historic Mexican charm with modern luxury. Whether you envision a grand resort on the golden sands or an intimate private villa in the exclusive hills of Conchas Chinas, the city offers the perfect backdrop for your love story.

As a premier international wedding destination, budgets typically range from $25,000 to $90,000+ USD. This guide explores exclusive venue options, travel logistics, and authentic local traditions to help you plan. From lush jungle gardens to chic cobblestone streets and luxury resorts, Puerto Vallarta promises an unforgettable celebration. Let’s make your dream wedding a reality.

Are you dreaming of the perfect wedding day in Puerto Vallarta? Explore some of the best wedding photos in Puerto Vallarta in this stunning destination, showcasing breathtaking moments captured.

Index

Why Choose Puerto Vallarta for Your Wedding?

 

Breathtaking Scenery and Luxury Settings

Puerto Vallarta is celebrated worldwide for its dramatic geography, where the lush Sierra Madre mountains meet the sparkling waters of Banderas Bay. Whether you envision a barefoot ceremony on a secluded golden beach, an elegant reception in a cliffside villa in Conchas Chinas, or a grand gala in a luxury resort, the destination offers a magical atmosphere. The region boasts iconic venues ranging from chic, eco-luxury beachfront resorts like Hyatt Ziva and Marriott Puerto Vallarta to exclusive private estates, all offering comprehensive packages to ensure a seamless and visually stunning event.

Diverse Venue Options

The city offers an incredible variety of venues to suit any couple’s unique vision. From art-filled boutique hotels in the heart of the Romantic Zone and serene, boho-chic beach settings at Las Caletas to intimate rooftops with panoramic bay views and sprawling luxury estates, there is something for every taste. Whether you are planning an intimate elopement for two or a vibrant jungle-inspired celebration for two hundred, Puerto Vallarta’s diverse options allow for a perfectly personalized wedding experience that feels distinctly yours.

Dynamic Entertainment and Activities

Puerto Vallarta is famous for its vibrant nightlife, the iconic Malecón boardwalk, and rich cultural entertainment. You can elevate your reception by hiring dynamic DJs, live salsa bands, traditional mariachis, or dramatic fire dancers to entertain your guests. For a truly unique touch, consider hosting a pre-wedding yacht party around Los Arcos or a post-wedding brunch in the historic downtown. Incorporating local talent not only keeps the celebration lively but also immerses your guests in the destination’s festive spirit.

Luxurious Amenities

Weddings in Puerto Vallarta are synonymous with pampering. Venues here are equipped with high-end amenities, including world-class spas for pre-wedding relaxation, infinity pools for sunset cocktails, and fine dining restaurants. Many resorts offer personalized services such as dedicated wedding coordinators and customized catering featuring gourmet Jalisco-style cuisine, ensuring a stress-free planning process and a comfortable, indulgent stay for all your guests.

Easy Accessibility

Puerto Vallarta is incredibly accessible via Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR), a major hub that welcomes direct international flights from many cities in the US and Canada. Once on the ground, the area features well-developed infrastructure and reliable transportation options, including Uber, yellow taxis, and private shuttles, making it convenient for guests to navigate between the airport, their hotels, and local attractions without hassle.

 

How to Plan Your Dream Wedding in Puerto Vallarta

 

Planning a wedding in Mexico involves several key steps to ensure success:

Set a Budget: Begin by allocating funds for major expenses like the venue, catering, and travel. Be sure to research the current exchange rate and include line items for tips, local taxes (IVA), and a contingency fund for unexpected costs.

Hire a Local Wedding Planner: A bilingual planner in Puerto Vallarta is essential for navigating legal requirements, bridging cultural gaps, and handling vendor negotiations. Their local knowledge ensures your vision is executed perfectly and saves you time.

Secure the Venue Early: Popular venues in the Romantic Zone and Conchas Chinas book quickly, particularly during the high season from October to June. It is advisable to reserve your space 12 to 18 months early to guarantee availability and potentially secure better rates.

Coordinate Guest Travel: Assist your guests by providing clear details on flights, accommodations, and airport transport. Creating a wedding website is a great tool for centralizing this information and tracking RSVPs.

Legalize the Marriage: Decide if you want a legal ceremony in Mexico or a symbolic one. If legal, ensure all paperwork—including birth certificates and passports—is in order. A planner can help you navigate the specific civil registry requirements in the state of Jalisco.

Design Your Wedding Theme: Choose a cohesive theme that complements the setting, whether it’s a glamorous beachfront gala, a sophisticated tropical garden party, or a colonial-style hacienda wedding.

Book Key Vendors: Secure high-priority vendors like photographers, videographers, and entertainment early. Review portfolios carefully and interview vendors to ensure their style matches your vision.

Plan the Ceremony and Reception Details: Outline the flow of events, from the ceremony entrance to the reception speeches. Consider the sunset time—the Puerto Vallarta sunset is world-famous—when planning your timeline to maximize the golden hour for photos.

Send Invitations: Send Save-the-Dates and invitations well in advance (6-12 months) so guests can arrange time off and travel. Include all venue and accommodation details to help them plan.

 

Top Wedding Venues in Puerto Vallarta

 

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta

Located on a secluded beach cove known as Las Estacas, Hyatt Ziva offers an all-inclusive luxury experience. The resort features stunning oceanfront views, multiple ceremony locations, and customizable wedding packages. With its private beach and exceptional service, it is a top choice for couples seeking a worry-free tropical celebration.

Hacienda San Angel

For those seeking romantic colonial charm, Hacienda San Angel is a boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Puerto Vallarta. It offers lush gardens, intricate architecture, and panoramic views of the Banderas Bay and the iconic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe from its rooftop.

Additional Notable Venues

Las Caletas: An exclusive beach hideaway accessible only by boat. Once the private home of film director John Huston, it is now one of the most romantic and secluded wedding venues in Mexico.

The Westin Resort & Spa: Ideally located in the Marina area, this resort offers expansive garden settings with hundreds of palm trees and elegant ballroom options for larger parties.

Casa Kimberley: The former home of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, this boutique hotel offers a legendary love story backdrop, sophisticated luxury, and incredible views of the city.

Conchas Chinas Private Villas: The “Beverly Hills of Puerto Vallarta” offers ultimate privacy and bespoke experiences in cliffside villas, allowing you to control every aspect of your event with the ocean as your backdrop.

Yachts & Catamarans: Perfect for unique ceremonies or welcome parties, chartering a boat allows you to celebrate on the water against the backdrop of the iconic Los Arcos Marine Park.

Vallarta Botanical Gardens: Located south of the city, these gardens offer a unique blend of mountain nature and floral sophistication for a lush, “jungle-chic” wedding.

 

Best Time of Year to Have a Wedding in Puerto Vallarta

 

The ideal window for a wedding in Puerto Vallarta is from October to June. During these months, you can expect dry, sunny days, low humidity, and mild evenings, ensuring the most stable weather for outdoor events and comfortable temperatures for your guests.

The period from late July to early October is considered the rainy season. This time brings higher humidity and frequent afternoon or evening showers. While the landscape is incredibly lush and green, it requires solid contingency plans. However, the rain is usually brief and intense, often clearing up in time for a beautiful, fresh evening.

What if It Rains?

If you are planning your wedding during the rainy season to take advantage of lower rates and fewer crowds, ensure your venue has covered patios or indoor ballrooms. Many Puerto Vallarta resorts offer flexible arrangements to switch settings at the last minute without extra cost. Scheduling ceremonies for the morning or early afternoon also significantly reduces the risk of rain interrupting your vows.

 

How to Get a Marriage License in Puerto Vallarta

 

To marry legally in Mexico (Civil Ceremony), you must fulfill strict bureaucratic requirements in the state of Jalisco:

Birth Certificates: You must provide certified copies of your birth certificates, which need to be translated into Spanish by a certified translator and apostilled in your home country.

Passports: Valid passports are required for both the bride and groom, along with copies of your tourist visas (received upon entry at PVR).

Marriage Application: A completed application form must be submitted to the local Puerto Vallarta Civil Registry, containing all personal data and venue details.

Blood Tests: Couples must undergo mandatory blood tests performed in Mexico within a specific window before the wedding (usually within 15 days) to screen for blood type and specific health certifications required by law.

Divorce or Death Certificates: If either party has been married before, you must present apostilled and translated divorce decrees or death certificates.

Witnesses: You typically need four witnesses with valid ID (passports for foreigners) to sign the marriage license during the ceremony.

After the wedding, remember to request an apostilled copy of your marriage certificate to ensure the union is legally recognized in your home country.

 

Puerto Vallarta Wedding Vendors

 

Florists: These creative professionals source fresh tropical blooms and native greenery to design breathtaking arrangements that reflect the Pacific coast landscape and your color palette.

Photographers: Local experts are essential as they are familiar with the best lighting times and hidden locations, capturing your day against iconic backdrops like the Malecón, the pier, and sunset beaches.

Caterers: Talented chefs who offer authentic Jalisco cuisine, fresh seafood catches from the bay, and international fusion, tailoring menus to your specific tastes and dietary needs.

Entertainment: Options range from club-style DJs and acoustic live bands to traditional mariachis (which originated in this region) and dramatic fire dancers.

Event Decorators: Skilled designers who transform spaces with personalized lighting, custom furniture rentals, and themed decor to bring your mood board to life.

Transportation Services: Essential for logistics, these companies move guests comfortably between hotels and venues via luxury shuttles, sprinter vans, or even fun “tropical-style” open-air buses.

Wedding Planners: Experienced Puerto Vallarta coordinators who act as your boots on the ground, handling everything from local permits and timelines to vendor management.

 

Puerto Vallarta Wedding Activity Ideas

 

Yacht or Catamaran Cruises: Treat your guests to a private sunset cruise around Banderas Bay, offering panoramic coastline views, open bars, and incredible photo opportunities.

Snorkeling at Los Arcos: Organize a group excursion to Los Arcos Marine Park to explore the vibrant marine life and iconic rock formations.

Stroll the Malecón: Encourage guests to walk the famous boardwalk, view the sculptures, and enjoy the local street food and performers.

Spirit Tastings: Immerse your group in Mexican culture with expert-led tastings of Tequila, Mezcal, and the local regional spirit, Raicilla.

Spa Days: Relax before the big day with holistic treatments, hydrotherapy circuits, and massages at one of the city’s world-class resort spas.

Rhythms of the Night: A popular excursion for wedding groups, featuring a sunset cruise, dinner under the stars, and a spectacular contemporary dance performance at Las Caletas.

Exploring the Romantic Zone: Encourage guests to visit the cobblestone streets of Old Town, shop for artisan crafts, and dine at world-class “Restaurant Row.”

 

Typical Food and Dishes from Puerto Vallarta

 

Pescado Zarandeado: The region’s signature dish; a whole fish is butterflied, marinated in a chili-garlic-soy paste, and slow-grilled over wood coals for a smoky flavor.

Birria: A savory, spicy stew traditionally made with goat or beef, slow-cooked until tender and served with tortillas, onions, and lime—a Jalisco staple.

Ceviche Vallarta: Unlike other styles, PV ceviche often features finely chopped fish mixed with grated carrots, onions, and cilantro, served on crispy tostadas.

Pozole: A traditional hearty soup made with hominy corn and pork, garnished with shredded lettuce, radishes, and chili—perfect for a late-night wedding snack.

Fresh Seafood: Being a coastal destination, grilled lobster, shrimp aguachiles (spicy raw shrimp), and the catch of the day are menu staples.

Fish Tacos: A local favorite, featuring battered or grilled mahi-mahi in soft tortillas topped with cabbage slaw and creamy chipotle sauce.

Guacamole and Salsas: Essential table accompaniments made fresh daily with local avocados, tomatillos, and roasted chilies.

Agua Frescas: Refreshing non-alcoholic drinks made from fresh fruits like hibiscus (jamaica), tamarind, and horchata.

Spirits: No celebration is complete without premium Tequila, smokey Mezcal, and the locally produced agave spirit, Raicilla, which is native to the mountains surrounding Puerto Vallarta.

How Much Does It Cost to Have a Wedding in Puerto Vallarta?

 

The average cost of a destination wedding in Puerto Vallarta typically ranges from $25,000 to $85,000+ USD. While costs vary based on your vision, the region offers everything from ultra-luxury villas in Conchas Chinas to all-inclusive resorts in the Hotel Zone. Puerto Vallarta remains a premier choice, hosting thousands of weddings annually due to its stunning combination of the Sierra Madre mountains and the ocean, offering competitive value compared to U.S. pricing.

Key budget factors include:

Venue: Luxury beachfront resorts and cliffside private villas range from $8,000 to $40,000+ USD for site fees and minimum spends. Alternatively, charming boutique hotels in the Romantic Zone or garden spaces offer more accessible rates between $3,500 to $15,000 USD, providing an authentic Mexican atmosphere.

Catering: Food and beverage costs average $85 to $300+ USD per person. This price fluctuates depending on menu complexity—such as plated dinners featuring local catch versus buffets—and the tier of the open bar (premium tequila and mezcal significantly impact the total).

Guest Count: The size of your guest list is the biggest budget driver. A 75-guest wedding typically costs $20,000 to $50,000 USD, while a larger 150-guest celebration ranges from $50,000 to $100,000+ USD requiring larger venue spaces and more staff.

Travel and Accommodation: If you plan to subsidize guest rooms, this will increase budgets. Group rates in Puerto Vallarta range from $180 to $800+ USD per night, depending on whether you choose a high-end all-inclusive or a traditional European-plan hotel.

Decorations and Rentals: To achieve an elaborate boho-chic or lush tropical aesthetic, budget approximately $4,500 to $25,000 USD. This covers tropical florals, specialized lighting for evening receptions, and furniture rentals suitable for beach or cobblestone settings.

Photography and Videography: Professional coverage ranges from $2,500 to $20,000 USD. Top-tier packages often include drone footage of the bay, second shooters, and sunset sessions at iconic locations like Los Arcos.

Entertainment: Music sets the mood. Live bands cost between $1,500 to $15,000 USD depending on the number of pieces, while professional DJs range from $600 to $5,500 USD. Don’t forget to budget for local touches like a Mariachi band for the cocktail hour.

Wedding Planner: Professional fees are typically 10% to 20% of the overall budget. A local PV planner is invaluable for navigating the area’s logistics and negotiating contracts with local vendors.

Elopements: For couples seeking privacy, intimate weddings often range from $10,000 to $30,000 USD, usually covering a cliffside ceremony, a romantic dinner, photography, and luxury accommodation.

Create a detailed budget early and diligently track expenses. This helps you prioritize what matters most—be it the food, the photos, or the party—while staying within your financial limits.

 

Puerto Vallarta Wedding Timeline Example

 

9:00 AM: Hair and Makeup Begins. Start early to allow for a relaxed morning, especially if you have a large bridal party and want to enjoy the resort views.

11:00 AM: Photographer Arrives for Pre-Wedding Photos. Capture the “getting ready” details, the dress, and candid moments against the backdrop of colonial architecture or the ocean.

1:00 PM: Groom and Groomsmen Prepare. A lighter timeline for the guys, usually involving a toast with local raicilla or tequila.

2:00 PM: Guests Arrive (Welcome refreshments). Offering chilled coconut water or a hibiscus margarita is crucial in the PV heat while they find their seats.

3:00 PM: Ceremony Begins. Afternoon light is bright, but this timing ensures you catch the famous golden hour for portraits afterward.

4:00 PM: Cocktail Hour with Live Music. While the couple takes sunset photos on the beach or Malecon, guests enjoy canapés and a Mariachi trio.

6:00 PM: Reception Dinner. As the spectacular Pacific sunset occurs, dinner service begins, taking advantage of the cooler evening breeze.

7:30 PM: Speeches and Cake Cutting. Keep toasts scheduled tightly to ensure the momentum moves toward the fiesta.

8:30 PM: Dancing Begins. The DJ or band kicks off the festivities; this is the time to bring out glow sticks or party props.

10:30 PM: Grand Send-Off (Fireworks or Sparklers). End the night on a high note with cold sparks or a fireworks display over the Bay of Banderas.

Tips: Always include buffer time for travel, especially if moving between the Romantic Zone and the Hotel Zone. Traffic can be heavy. Arrange transportation for key parties and clearly communicate the schedule so no one misses the shuttle.

 

Travel Logistics and Tips for Guests

 

Flights: Fly into Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). It is located right in the city, with short transfer times to most hotels. Advise guests to book early for the best rates.

Airport Transportation: Pre-book private shuttles to avoid chaos. Note: Ignore the timeshare salespeople in the “Shark Tank” hall after customs; look straight ahead and proceed directly outside to your pre-arranged transport.

Local Transportation: Uber is safe and widely available in Puerto Vallarta. For moving large groups between the Marina and the South Shore, private vans or resort shuttles are recommended.

Language: English is widely spoken throughout Puerto Vallarta, but locals appreciate basic Spanish greetings. Consider using translation apps or hiring bilingual staff for the wedding events.

Documents: Ensure passports are valid for at least six months beyond the travel dates. Check specific visa requirements depending on your guests’ country of citizenship.

Currency: Local currency is the Mexican Peso. While US dollars are accepted, you’ll get better exchange rates using Pesos. ATMs are widely available in the city, and credit cards are accepted at most businesses.

 

Accommodations for Family and Friends

 

Luxury Hotels ($450–$1,200+ USD): Properties like Hotel Mousai, Garza Blanca Preserve, or Casa Velas offer world-class service, stunning architecture, and all-inclusive luxury options.

Boutique Hotels ($250–$550 USD): For a historic feel, places like Hacienda San Angel, Casa Kimberly (Elizabeth Taylor’s former home), or Villa Premiere offer unique charm in the heart of town.

Mid-Range Hotels ($150–$350 USD): Reliable options like Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa or Sheraton Buganvilias provide excellent comfort, pools, and central locations at a good price point.

Vacation Rentals ($300–$2,500+ USD): Renting large villas via Airbnb or Vrbo in the exclusive Conchas Chinas neighborhood is fantastic for families or bridal parties wanting privacy and epic views.

Budget-Friendly ($70–$180 USD): Clean and colorful hotels in the Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica) are perfect for guests prioritizing nightlife, culture, and proximity to the beach over luxury amenities.

Provide a curated list with booking links or group codes on your wedding website to help guests find the best fit for their budget.

 

Health and Safety Considerations

 

Hydration: Puerto Vallarta is tropical and humid. Encourage constant water consumption and remind guests to alternate alcohol with water to avoid heat exhaustion.

Insurance: Strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance. This protects against flight cancellations, lost luggage, and unexpected medical emergencies while abroad.

Medical Facilities: Familiarize yourself with top-tier hospitals in PV (e.g., Hospital CMQ Premiere, San Javier) and pharmacies, just in case a guest needs attention.

Food/Water: Drink only bottled or purified water. Established restaurants use purified water for ice and cooking, but caution with street food stalls is advised for those with sensitive stomachs.

Accessibility: The “Old Town” area has uneven cobblestone streets and high curbs. Confirm venue accessibility and arrange drop-offs close to entrances for elderly guests or those with mobility issues.

 

Enhancing Guest Experience

 

Welcome Bags: Start the trip right by placing welcome bags in rooms containing local treats (like Mexican chocolate), bottled water, sunscreen, and a guide to the best tacos in town.

Transportation: Remove travel stress by organizing round-trip shuttles for the wedding day, especially if the venue is a villa on the South Shore or outside the main hotel zone.

Info Station: Setup a dedicated wedding website with venue maps, dress codes, and local recommendations (Malecon art walk, hidden beaches) to keep guests informed.

Guest Book: Try a fun interactive element like a Polaroid photo booth, or an audio guestbook where guests can leave messages over a vintage telephone.

Entertainment: Go beyond a DJ; consider local cultural acts like folkloric dancers, a churro cart for late-night snacks, or a sunset cruise to Los Arcos for the group.

Comfort: Anticipate the elements by providing parasols or hand fans for the ceremony heat, and pashminas for the ocean breeze once the sun goes down.

 

Attire and Dress Code

 

Couple: Choose breathable fabrics like linen or light silk. Styles should match the aesthetic—think lighter suits for him and flowy, airy silhouettes for her to manage the humidity.

Guests: Be specific with your dress code, using terms like “Tropical Formal” or “Puerto Vallarta Chic” (linen suits, maxi dresses). Encourage bright colors to match the vibrant town.

Footwear: Block heels, wedges, or dressy sandals are essential. Explicitly advise against stilettos due to the sand at beach venues and the famous cobblestone streets in town.

Weather: While days are warm, evenings (especially winter/spring) can be breezy near the water. Suggest layers or light jackets for the reception.

Accessories: Encourage guests to embrace the destination with floral prints, statement earrings, or fedoras to match the festive, tropical theme.

Bride Reviews

 

Elena & Thomas: “Getting married in Puerto Vallarta was a dream. The mix of the jungle mountains and the ocean provided the most dramatic backdrop. Our villa in Conchas Chinas was perfect, and the local food was the highlight of the night!”

Sarah & Miguel: “We loved the charm of the Old Town for our photos. The vendors were amazing at navigating the logistics, and our guests are still raving about the sunset fireworks over the bay. It was the perfect blend of romance and a great fiesta.”

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Do I need to be a Mexican citizen to get married in Puerto Vallarta?

No, you do not need to be a Mexican citizen. However, you must provide specific documents, such as valid passports and translated, apostilled birth certificates. Working with a local planner helps ensure all legal requirements for the state of Jalisco are met.

How long does it take to obtain a marriage license in Puerto Vallarta?

Obtaining a license typically takes one to two weeks, including required blood tests (which must be done locally). This timeframe varies depending on the season and how quickly you submit the necessary documents to the Civil Registry.

Are there any restrictions on the type of ceremony I can have?

Puerto Vallarta offers many options, from legally binding civil ceremonies to religious services in iconic churches and symbolic events on the beach. You can choose the style that fits your preferences, but be sure to discuss specific requirements with your planner.

Can I have an outdoor wedding in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, there are many beautiful outdoor venues like private villas, beaches, and garden terraces. However, a backup plan (such as a covered area) is highly advisable in case of unexpected weather, especially during the rainy season (June to October).

How can I accommodate guests traveling from different countries?

Provide detailed travel info on your wedding website, including flight options to Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) and airport transfer tips. Consider organizing group transportation and securing discounted hotel rates to make their travel experience smooth.

 

Final Thoughts as a Wedding Pro

 

Puerto Vallarta offers an unparalleled blend of colonial charm and natural splendor. Its unique backdrops—from the iconic Los Arcos marine park to cobblestone streets and lush tropical landscapes—create unforgettable photo opportunities that capture the true essence of your special day.

Embrace the destination by incorporating its stunning nature and vibrant local flair into your wedding. The interplay of the Pacific Ocean, the Sierra Madre jungle, and luxury architecture provides endless inspiration for meaningful photography. Trust local vendors to bring your vision to life and document every detail.

Moreover, the hospitality of the local people adds an extra layer of magic. Whether it’s the welcoming smiles, lively Mariachi music, or the serene beauty of a golden sunset, the area’s allure enhances every moment.

Savor your day knowing that the destination’s dynamic energy and breathtaking visuals will create lasting memories. From the first look to the final dance under the stars, Puerto Vallarta provides the perfect canvas for your love story.

 

Puerto Vallarta Wedding Photography Packages

Ready to preserve your Puerto Vallarta wedding? Explore my photography packages, designed to suit your preferences and budget. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a lavish celebration, I’ll capture your love story with artistry. Take a look at our packages!

Pin for Later

I hope you found this guide useful! Be sure to save these graphics to your Pinterest board so you can easily revisit this guide throughout your planning journey.

Want to get in touch?

Click here!