Getting Married at Secrets Bahia Mita: ULTIMATE GUIDE

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Dreaming of a wedding where modern luxury meets breathtaking natural beauty on the Pacific coast? Welcome to Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort in Riviera Nayarit—an exquisite, all-inclusive haven that offers an unparalleled setting for your special day. Nestled between the majestic Sierra Madre mountains and the sparkling Banderas Bay, Secrets Bahia Mita provides a stunning blend of sophisticated design, world-class amenities, and the brand’s signature “Unlimited-Luxury” experience. Whether you envision a romantic ceremony overlooking the ocean, a vibrant reception on a lush terrace, or an intimate gathering by one of its stunning pools, this resort promises a wedding experience as unforgettable as its spectacular sunsets.

Renowned for its sleek, contemporary architecture, diverse gourmet dining, and tranquil atmosphere, Secrets Bahia Mita seamlessly blends modern elegance with authentic Mexican charm. Its exquisite venues—from expansive oceanfront terraces to chic ballrooms and secluded beach areas—are designed to reflect your unique love story, all while showcasing the captivating beauty of the Punta Mita peninsula. Let the natural splendor and exclusive, all-inclusive charm of this resort set the stage for your dream wedding.

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

Index

Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?

 

Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort in Riviera Nayarit (Punta Mita) stands out for its contemporary, sophisticated atmosphere and its signature “Unlimited-Luxury” concept. Perched on a hillside with panoramic views of Banderas Bay, the resort offers stunning infinity pools, diverse gourmet dining options, and a tranquil spa, making it ideal for couples seeking an upscale, all-inclusive destination wedding. Couples who appreciate modern design, a vibrant yet relaxed ambiance, and comprehensive amenities will find Secrets Bahia Mita provides a picturesque and effortless setting.

Recent guest surveys indicate that **couples increasingly prioritize unique natural settings and high-quality guest experiences**. With its striking blend of ocean and mountain vistas, and exceptional all-inclusive service, Secrets Bahia Mita offers a truly distinctive backdrop for your wedding photos and a memorable escape for your guests.

 

How Does a Wedding at Secrets Bahia Mita Work?

 

Planning your wedding at Secrets Bahia Mita is designed to be a luxurious and effortless process, powered by their “Unlimited-Luxury” 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 comprehensive, customizable all-inclusive wedding packages that include everything from ceremony setup and gourmet catering to premium drinks, professional coordination, and vendor management.

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 where nearly everything is covered.

 

Best Months to Get Married

 

Riviera Nayarit 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

 

Secrets Bahia Mita offers thoughtfully designed all-inclusive wedding packages tailored to various styles and sizes, including popular options like the “Secrets of Love” and “Secrets Ultimate” packages. Each package typically includes:

  • Ceremony Setup: Options for beachfront, terrace, or garden 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.
  • Gourmet Catering: Exquisite gourmet menus featuring international and local cuisine, offered in various formats from plated dinners to elaborate buffets, always paired with premium drinks.
  • 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, often including basic sound equipment.
  • Dedicated Wedding Coordinator: A professional on-site planner to manage all resort-related details.

These packages serve as a foundation and can be customized extensively to perfectly align with your dream wedding, leveraging the “Unlimited-Luxury” concept.

 

Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?

 

In destination weddings at Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort, typically:

  • The couple covers the primary wedding package costs, which often include the venue use, all-inclusive food and beverage for a set number of guests, and coordination services.
  • Guests are usually responsible for their own travel and their all-inclusive accommodation, although the resort can often provide discounted group rates or block bookings.
  • The couple might choose to host additional events, like a welcome reception or rehearsal dinner, covering those costs (often a per-person charge added to the all-inclusive rate) for their guests.
  • Extra expenses for personalized decor upgrades, enhanced entertainment, or pre/post-wedding activities beyond the package inclusions are typically the couple’s responsibility.
  • Gift registries or contributions towards travel/experiences are common, allowing guests to contribute in meaningful ways.

This structure allows the couple to tailor the main event while guests manage their personal travel and stay arrangements within the comprehensive all-inclusive resort.

 

Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations

 

Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort features versatile spaces suitable for various wedding sizes, leveraging its expansive property:

  • Oceanfront Terraces & Ballrooms: Can accommodate larger groups, often up to 150-250 guests for receptions with dancing space, offering incredible bay views.
  • Beachfront & Garden Areas: Ideal for more intimate ceremonies or cocktail hours, typically suitable for 50-100 guests depending on the specific location and setup.
  • Sky Wedding Venues: Unique rooftop or elevated terraces offering panoramic views, perfect for medium-sized ceremonies and receptions.

The resort offers luxurious, modern accommodations ranging from suites with ocean views to swim-out options, providing ample space for guests within their “Unlimited-Luxury” concept. 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

Secrets Bahia Mita’s wedding team expertly manages the flow of your day from saying “I do” to your final dance, ensuring a seamless experience. A typical sequence might look like this:

Ceremony with Ocean or Mountain Views: Exchange vows on a stunning oceanfront terrace, a secluded beach area, or a unique Sky Wedding location with Banderas Bay as your breathtaking backdrop.

Cocktail Hour amidst Luxury: Guests enjoy premium drinks and gourmet appetizers on a vibrant poolside terrace or chic garden space, taking in the resort’s modern aesthetic.

Reception in an Elegant Space: Move to a dedicated reception area, whether an expansive outdoor terrace with ocean breezes or a stylish indoor ballroom, for a gourmet dinner, heartfelt toasts, and dancing late into the night.

Pro tip: Leverage the resort’s multi-level layout and diverse modern landscapes. Consider having distinct vibes for each part of your day, perhaps a serene Sky Wedding ceremony followed by a lively beach reception, maximizing the visual and experiential variety Secrets Bahia Mita offers.

What’s Included in the Wedding Package?

Unlike traditional venues with separate rental fees, Secrets Bahia Mita offers comprehensive wedding packages where the venue use, setup, food, and premium beverages are largely bundled. While specific inclusions vary by package, core elements typically include:

  • Access to Chosen Wedding Venues: Exclusive use of your selected ceremony and reception areas for the allocated time, within the package structure.
  • Basic Setup & Décor: Standard elegant chairs, tables, linens, and some basic decorative elements for both ceremony and reception.
  • Staffing: Professional waitstaff, certified bartenders, and dedicated resort personnel to service your event.
  • Premium Food & Beverage: Gourmet catering and an open bar with top-shelf spirits as part of the “Unlimited-Luxury” experience.
  • Basic Audio-Visual: A simple sound system for the ceremony and background music during cocktail hour/dinner, often included.
  • On-Site Wedding Coordinator: Dedicated professional assistance with all resort-related wedding arrangements.

Remember that extensive floral installations, specialized lighting, or upgraded sound/visual equipment, and additional guest meals beyond the package’s included count, are usually additional costs.

Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies

Riviera Nayarit can experience tropical rain, especially during the wet season (June-October). Secrets Bahia Mita has excellent indoor and covered outdoor options readily available as a backup. These spaces are designed to be equally elegant and functional, such as chic ballrooms or covered terraces, 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, giving you peace of mind.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies

Booking your wedding at Secrets Bahia Mita involves a standard payment structure typical for all-inclusive resorts:

Initial Deposit: A non-refundable deposit, often ranging from $500–$2,000 USD (depending on the package and scale), is required to reserve your date and selected 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 chosen 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

Secrets Bahia Mita boasts a professional on-site wedding planning team as a core part of their “Unlimited-Luxury” offerings. Their services typically include:

Dedicated Wedding Planner: A main point of contact to guide you through every decision, from package selection and venue layout to menu tasting and vendor recommendations.

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

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

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

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

Dietary and Menu Restrictions

Secrets Bahia Mita’s renowned culinary team, integral to their “Unlimited-Luxury” concept, is highly capable of accommodating a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. They offer customizable gourmet menus featuring diverse options from fresh seafood and traditional Mexican fare to international favorites from their various à la carte restaurants. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and allergy-specific meals can all be expertly prepared and served.

Consultations with the chef are usually included in higher-tier packages, allowing you to tailor the menu precisely. Interactive elements like ceviche stations, taco bars, or premium tequila/mezcal tastings can add a unique local touch and enhance the guest experience at your reception.

Music and Entertainment Restrictions

Secrets Bahia Mita 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, to ensure comfort for all guests.

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 ballrooms or designated nightlife venues (e.g., a resort nightclub) where the party can continue while respecting resort policies and other guests. Many packages include basic sound equipment for the ceremony and reception.

Parking and Guest Logistics

Most guests will arrive via Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), which is conveniently located about 30-45 minutes north of Secrets Bahia Mita (depending on traffic and specific resort tower). To facilitate guest transportation:

Airport Transfers: The resort can help arrange private or shared shuttle services from PVR, often with discounted rates for wedding groups. This is highly recommended for an all-inclusive experience.

On-Site Transportation: Given the expansive nature of the resort, golf carts or internal shuttles are available and frequently used for moving guests around the property.

Parking: Limited parking is available for guests who choose to rent cars; valet service may also be offered. However, for an all-inclusive, most guests will not need a car.

Providing guests with clear instructions on airport arrival and recommended transportation options well in advance is highly recommended to ensure a smooth start to their stay.

Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at Secrets Bahia Mita

For an average wedding of about 50 guests at Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort, as an all-inclusive property, a rough estimate for your budget might be structured differently:

  • Wedding Package Fee: $3,000–$15,000+ USD (This is the *base* package price, which often includes the venue, ceremony setup, basic decor, specific number of guests for catering/bar, cake, and coordinator services. The higher tier packages offer more inclusions and greater guest counts.)
  • Additional Guest Fee (per person beyond package count): $80–$150+ USD per person (This fee covers the enhanced food & beverage and specific wedding services for guests *not included* in the base package. Your guests’ accommodation cost is separate and covers their *daily* all-inclusive rate). For 50 guests, if your package includes 20, you’d budget for 30 additional guests: $2,400–$4,500+.
  • Entertainment: $1,500–$5,000 USD (live musician, DJ, or band, often including sound equipment).
  • Photography/Videography: $3,000–$7,000 USD (depends on hours, number of photographers, and deliverables, often required from their preferred vendor list).
  • Florals and Enhanced Decor: $1,000–$5,000 USD (basic to moderate customization and upgrades beyond package inclusions).
  • Taxes and Service Fees: Typically adds 16% VAT plus a 10-15% service charge on top of *additional* services not bundled into the all-inclusive rate. Budget at least 26% of these extra costs.

Total estimated costs could range from $15,000 to $45,000+ USD for a 50-guest wedding, highly dependent on specific package choices, customization, and added luxuries. The key benefit is that a significant portion of food, drink, and basic services are already covered by the package and guest room rates. Always obtain a customized quote directly from Secrets Bahia Mita’s wedding team.

*Please note: These are estimates. All-inclusive resort wedding pricing is highly dynamic based on package, guest count, and room night minimums.*

Splurge vs. Save

To save costs, consider a weekday wedding, choosing a package that becomes “free” with a certain number of room nights booked, or simplifying floral and décor elements. Opting for in-house catering and bar packages (as they’re already part of the all-inclusive) is always the most cost-effective approach. To splurge, consider adding a private fireworks display over the ocean, a pre-wedding catamaran cruise (often offered by resort partners), a custom lighting and dance floor package, or an elaborate multi-course tasting menu with premium wine pairings. Upgrading to a “Preferred Club” or a specific “Secrets Ultimate” package can also elevate the couple and guest experience significantly.

Wedding Packages and What’s Included

Secrets Bahia Mita offers a range of wedding packages designed to maximize the “Unlimited-Luxury” experience. Popular options include:

  • “Wedding in Paradise” (Often Complimentary): Typically free if a minimum number of room nights are booked. Includes basic ceremony setup, sparkling wine toast, wedding cake, special turn-down service, and romantic dinner for the couple. Ideal for smaller, intimate weddings or elopements.
  • “Secrets of Love” / “Love Story”: Mid-tier package with more inclusions like a cocktail hour, private dinner reception, upgraded decor, more cake options, and often a romantic couples massage or spa credits. Includes a higher number of guests.
  • “Secrets Ultimate” / “Beyond Memorable”: The most comprehensive package, offering extensive decor, a larger private reception, premium open bar, cocktail hour, live music options, a longer list of included guests, and often additional benefits like complimentary room nights for the couple’s anniversary, spa benefits, and room upgrades.
  • Ceremony Site Fee: Use of a designated area (beach, terrace, Sky Wedding).
  • 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 with premium brands and tray-passed appetizers (number/selection varies by package).
  • Reception Dinner: Choice of plated, buffet, or station-style gourmet dinner from a set menu selection.
  • Drinks Package: Premium open bar throughout the event, as part of “Unlimited-Luxury.”
  • Wedding Cake: A basic tiered wedding cake in standard flavors and designs, customizable with upgrades.
  • Wedding Coordinator: Services of an on-site planner to assist with all resort arrangements.

Pro tip: Many packages offer minimum guest counts and include benefits like romantic dinners for the couple, spa credits, room upgrades, or complimentary anniversary stays, adding significant value and enhancing the overall experience.

Activities for Other Days

Keep your guests entertained throughout their stay at the “Unlimited-Luxury” Secrets Bahia Mita:

  • Guests can enjoy the resort’s extensive amenities: multiple infinity pools, a pristine beach, daily activities (yoga, water aerobics), non-motorized watersports.
  • Organize a group visit to nearby charming towns like Sayulita or San Pancho for bohemian vibes and artisan shops.
  • Book a private boat tour to explore Banderas Bay, snorkel at the Marietas Islands, or look for whales (in season).
  • Arrange a welcome fiesta or casual beach bonfire event at the resort’s private event spaces.
  • Guests can indulge in treatments at the world-class Secrets Spa by Pevonia®.
  • Arrange adventurous excursions like jungle canopy tours, ATV rides, or hiking in the Sierra Madre foothills.
  • Explore local art galleries and shops in Puerto Vallarta or Bucerías, just a short drive away.

Three Practical Tips for Brides

1) Leverage Unlimited-Luxury: Utilize all the included amenities like gourmet dining, premium drinks, and entertainment for pre- and post-wedding celebrations. It simplifies guest planning significantly.

2) Plan for Sunset Photos: The sunsets over Banderas Bay are spectacular from Secrets Bahia Mita. Time your ceremony or couple’s portraits to coincide with golden hour for breathtaking photos against the ocean and mountain backdrop.

3) Hydrate and Sun Protect: The heat and humidity, combined with celebratory drinks, mean staying hydrated and using strong sun protection is key for everyone’s comfort and well-being in the tropical climate.

Two Bride Reviews

“Secrets Bahia Mita was absolutely perfect for our wedding! The modern, chic vibe was exactly what we wanted, and the ‘Unlimited-Luxury’ made everything so easy for us and our guests. The food was incredible, the views from the Sky Wedding venue were breathtaking, and our coordinator was a dream. It truly felt like a fairytale, and our guests are still raving about the experience.” – Olivia G.

“Choosing Secrets Bahia Mita for our special day was the best decision we made. The resort itself is stunning, with endless pools and delicious dining options. The wedding team handled every detail flawlessly, allowing us to relax and enjoy every moment. From the welcome party to the reception, the staff went above and beyond. We wanted a luxurious and fun all-inclusive wedding, and Secrets delivered beyond expectation.” – Isabella M.

My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Photographer

Having photographed weddings across Mexico, Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort in Riviera Nayarit holds a truly unique appeal. Its sleek, modern architecture, combined with the dramatic natural setting where mountains meet the Pacific, creates a dynamic and sophisticated backdrop for photography. The infinity pools cascading towards the ocean, the vibrant lounge areas, and the stunning oceanfront terraces offer incredible versatility for capturing every moment – from romantic couple’s portraits bathed in golden hour light to lively reception shots against a chic, contemporary backdrop. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive luxury destination wedding venue that offers impeccable service, diverse gourmet dining, and a visually striking aesthetic, Secrets Bahia Mita is an outstanding choice that photographs beautifully and provides an unforgettable experience for both the couple and their guests.

Want to get in touch?

Click here!