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Best Rooftop Wedding Venues in the Riviera Maya, Mexico

  • Writer: Jodi Schlichting
    Jodi Schlichting
  • Dec 14, 2025
  • 12 min read

Updated: Jan 4

If the idea of a destination wedding in Mexico makes your heart happy, but you’re not totally sold on saying your vows right in the sand, you’re not alone.


A lot of my couples love the ocean views and tropical setting, but want more privacy, less foot traffic, and a solid surface that the beach can't provide.

 

That’s where rooftop wedding venues really shine.




Bride and groom kissing under modern arch at Sky Gazebo ceremony venue at Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres resort.
Photo Credit: Core Films

 When you start searching for rooftop wedding venues in Mexico, you’ll see a lot of pretty photos and “best of” lists online. What you’re reading here is different.


This guide is based on my firsthand experience—touring these resorts in person, walking the venues, and talking directly with the wedding teams about what actually works well for real couples and their guests.

 

I’ve also filtered this list to focus on resorts that not only have great rooftop spaces, but also have solid wedding teams, clear communication, and a good track record with group events. A rooftop may look amazing in photos, but if the planning support or guest experience isn’t there, it’s not going to feel amazing in real life.

 

Keep in mind that the venue itself is important, but it’s just one piece. It also has to be at a resort that fits your guest count, budget, accessibility needs, and overall vibe; otherwise, you end up loving a rooftop that doesn’t really work for your group.

 

I’m Jodi Schlichting, a destination wedding travel specialist who focuses on all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. My job is to help couples look beyond the photos and choose resorts and venues that actually match their overall vision for their celebration experience.

 

In this guide, I’m rounding up some of my favorite rooftop wedding venues in the Riviera Maya area of Mexico. These are all at all-inclusive resorts, and every one of them gives you the kind of view you fly to Mexico for, without having to worry about crowds walking behind your ceremony photos.



"Jodi is absolutely amazing to work with! She made planning our destination wedding in Mexico a breeze." - Rayanne & Matt



Why Rooftop Wedding Venues Work So Well at All-Inclusive Resorts

Rooftop venues have become some of the most requested ceremony locations among my couples, and it’s not hard to see why.

 

1) More privacy than the beach

 At most all-inclusive resorts:

  • Rooftops are usually among the most private venues on property.

  • The beach is usually the least private.


When you choose a rooftop, you’re above where most guests are hanging out. You're not going to have strangers in swimsuits wandering through the background of your photos, and the focus stays on you and your guests.

 

2) Big views without being in the sand

 Rooftops give you:

  • Elevated views of the ocean and/or coastline

  • A clear horizon in your photos

  • A nice breeze without worrying about sinking into the sand with your heels


For couples who want a “tropical wow factor” without a sandy aisle, rooftops are a great middle ground.

 

3) Built-in atmosphere

Rooftop spaces often have:

  • Clean lines (wood decking, glass railings, simple structures)

  • A natural focal point for an arch or floral installation


You don’t have to go overboard on décor for it to feel special—the views and elevated setting of a rooftop venue already create a memorable atmosphere.

 

4) Easy flow for cocktail hour and reception

In some cases, you can:

  • Hold your ceremony and reception at the rooftop venue

  • Keep your group together without moving everyone across the resort


That kind of setup makes the evening feel seamless and is especially helpful if you have older guests, kids, or anyone with mobility concerns.


 

 


Important Things to Know About Rooftop Venues

Before you fall in love with a particular rooftop in photos, there are a few practical details to keep in mind. This is the type of information I walk through with my couples during the planning process.

 

1. Venue fees and minimums

Rooftops are often considered premium venues, which can mean:

  • A separate venue fee 

  • A minimum guest count requirement

  • Penalties or venue changes if those minimums aren’t met


In the venue details below, I’ve included the latest fee and minimum information for each venue. Keep in mind that pricing and policies can change, so it’s always smart to re-check before you sign a contract.

 

2. Accessibility (elevators, stairs, and restrooms)

Not all rooftop venues are created equal when it comes to accessibility:

  • Some rooftops have elevator access, while others only have stairs.

  • Restrooms may be on a different level, which is worth noting if you have older guests, young kids, or anyone with mobility challenges.


If accessibility is important for your group, you’ll want to confirm:

  • Whether there’s elevator access to the rooftop

  • Where the nearest restrooms are located

  • How far guests need to walk from the lobby or main paths

 

3. Weather, wind, and sun

Because rooftops are exposed, you’ll want to think about:

  • Wind: It can be breezier up high, which is great for comfort but can impact your hair, veil, decor and floral arrangements (especially tall ones).

  • Sun: Many rooftops are ideal for late afternoon or sunset ceremonies. Earlier in the day, there may be little to no shade.

  • Back-up plans: Resorts typically specify a covered or indoor space they’ll use if weather doesn’t cooperate.

 

I always recommend asking the resort:

  • What ceremony times they allow on that rooftop

  • Where the backup location would be if it rains

  • How they typically handle wind, décor, and sound at that specific venue


 Insider Tip: Rooftop venues are often some of the first ceremony spaces to book up at resorts. If a specific rooftop is on your must-have list, it’s smart to lock in your date earlier rather than later.



How I Chose These Rooftop Wedding Venues

There's a big difference between how a venue looks in a marketing photo and how it actually works for a real wedding group.


This list is based on a combination of:

  • My firsthand resort visits and site inspections in the Riviera Maya region

  • Feedback from real couples I’ve worked with

  • Direct communication with resort wedding teams about capacities, fees, and logistics

 

The focus here is on rooftop or elevated terrace venues at all-inclusive resorts that:

  • Work well for destination wedding groups

  • Offer strong overall guest experience (not just a nice ceremony photo)

  • Provide a clear sense of privacy and atmosphere


Now, let's get into the venues.


"After sharing our list of "must-haves," Jodi suggested the perfect resort for our wedding, which both we and our guests absolutely loved!" - Karin & Randy

Sky Wedding Gazebo venue at Secrets Moxche with colorful circular floral arch.
Photo Credit: Adventure Photos

Sky Wedding Gazebo Venue at Secrets Moxché 

This is one of the most dramatic rooftop venues in the Riviera Maya. Set high above the resort, it combines a modern wooden arch structure with panoramic ocean views. The glass railing keeps the view open, and the space has a very polished, "wow" factor for ceremonies.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Adults-only resort

Resort Location: Riviera Maya (15 min north of Playa Del Carmen)

Distance From Cancun Airport: 50 min

Ceremony Max: 150 guests (80 guests for reception at adjacent Sky Salon venue)

Ceremony Min Requirement: None

Venue Fee: $3250 for 2026, $3575 for 2027

Privacy Level: Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: Gazebo

Accessibility: Elevator available and bathrooms are located next to the venue.

NOTE: There is an additional $600 fee for all Sunday weddings.



Romantic Sky Gazebo ceremony venue with ocean views at Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres.
Photo Credit: Core Films

Sky Gazebo Venue at Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres

This sky terrace venue feels like a modern chapel in the sky. The light-colored arch structure frames beautiful Mexican Caribbean views, and the raised platform gives you that “floating above the ocean” feeling. It’s a great fit for couples who want a clean, minimalist backdrop and a stunning view without being in the sand.


You can click here to see an Instagram reel I posted of this venue, and you can also click here to read a blog I wrote about this resort based on my personal stay.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Family-friendly resort with adults-only areas for Elegance Club guests

Resort Location: Costa Mujeres

Distance From Cancun Airport: 40 min

Ceremony Max: 100 guests

Ceremony Min Requirement: None

Venue Fee: $1700 (can also include the use of the adjacent Sky Terrace venue for your cocktail hour and/or Sky Lounge venue for your reception)

Privacy Level: Semi-Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: Arch

Accessibility: No elevator access and bathrooms are located downstairs by the Sky Lounge.



Oceana Terrace wedding venue at Dreams Riviera Cancun resort in Mexico with wood chairs and a wooden circle arch.
Photo Credit: Adventure Photos

Oceana Terrace Venue at Dreams Riviera Cancun

While not technically labeled a rooftop per se, this venue has the same elevated, hard-surface feel that many couples are looking for when they ask about rooftop weddings. It sits above the sand with swaying palms and the ocean right in front of you, creating a picturesque backdrop without being directly on the beach.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Family-friendly resort with an adults-only restaurant

Resort Location: Riviera Cancun (in between Cancun and Playa Del Carmen)

Distance From Cancun Airport: 25 min

Ceremony Max: 120 guests

Ceremony Min Requirement: None

Venue Fee: None

Privacy Level: Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: None



Sky Rooftop venue at Dreams Sapphire with white chairs and white drapery over ceremony arch.
Photo Credit: Adventure Photos

Sky Rooftop Venue at Dreams Sapphire

This venue is located on the 13th level of the resort’s Indigo section. You're surrounded by open sky with the ocean stretched out in front of you, and the deck is large enough to comfortably seat a bigger group while still feeling intimate.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Family-friendly resort with an adults-only pool for Preferred Club guests and an adults-only rooftop pool and sky bar for Indigo Preferred Club guests

Resort Location: Riviera Cancun (in between Cancun and Playa Del Carmen)

Distance From Cancun Airport: 25 min

Ceremony Max: 180 guests

Ceremony Min Requirement: None

Venue Fee: $3000

Privacy Level: Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: None



El Cielo Terrace Venue at Atelier Playa Mujeres

This stylish rooftop venue feels like a sleek rooftop lounge that's designed for weddings. Ocean views, contemporary architecture, and a more boutique feel make this a favorite for couples who want a modern look for their ceremony.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Adults-only resort (allow guests 16+ years old)

Resort Location: Playa Mujeres (gated community)

Distance From Cancun Airport: 40 min

Ceremony Max: 90 guests (venue can only accommodate up to a max of 50 guests if you're planning to have both your ceremony and cocktail hour here)

Ceremony Min Requirement: 50 guests (25 rooms staying at least three or four nights, depending on the season)

Venue Fee: $6000 for 2026, $8000 for 2027

Privacy Level: Semi-Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: None

Accessibility: Elevator available and bathrooms are located next to the venue.


"Jodi was absolutely wonderful throughout the entire process of planning our destination wedding! She made the whole thing so effortless and we had the BEST time." - Abby & Jason

Egos Terrace Venue at Live Aqua Cancun

Technically an elevated terrace with rooftop-style views, this venue sits above the main level of the resort near the lobby, with palm trees and ocean views as the backdrop. It has a simple, modern layout with a glass railing and hard surface, so it feels clean and streamlined without needing a lot of décor.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Adults-only resort

Resort Location: Cancun Hotel Zone

Distance From Cancun Airport: 25 min

Ceremony Max: 70 guests

Ceremony Min Requirement: None

Venue Fee: None

Privacy Level: Semi-Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: None



Sky Gazebo Venue at Majestic Mirage Costa Mujeres

With three crisp white arches framing the view, the Sky Gazebo feels modern, airy, and elegant. Since it’s set on a raised terrace, you get uninterrupted ocean views without dealing with the sand.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Family-friendly resort with adults-only areas for guests 18+

Resort Location: Costa Mujeres

Distance From Cancun Airport: 40 min

Ceremony Max: 300 guests

Ceremony Min Requirement: None

Venue Fee: $1900 (can also include the use of the adjacent Sky Terrace venue for your cocktail hour and reception)

Privacy Level: Semi-Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: Arch

Accessibility: No elevator access and bathrooms are located downstairs by the Sky Terrace.



Rectangular arch with white drapery and pink flowers at the Xcelerate Rooftop Venue at Breathless Cancun Soul.
Photo Credit: Adventure Photos

Xcelerate Rooftop Venue at Breathless Cancun Soul

This oceanfront venue sits on the fourth level and looks straight out over the ocean. A slim glass railing keeps the view open, and a pair of palm trees frame the ceremony space without blocking the water.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Adults-only resort

Resort Location: Cancun Hotel Zone

Distance From Cancun Airport: 30 min

Ceremony Max: 200 guests

Ceremony Min Requirement: None

Venue Fee: No fee for weddings Mon-Thu, no fee for weddings with at least 61 guests Fri-Sun, $4000 fee for weddings with 60 guests or less Fri-Sun

Privacy Level: Semi-Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: None

Accessibility: Elevator available and bathrooms are located next to the venue.

NOTE: This venue is only available for ceremonies starting at 5:00 p.m., 5:30 pm., or 6:00 p.m. depending on the time of the sunset.



Preferred Deck wedding venue at Dreams Vista Cancun in Mexico.
Photo Credit: Adventure Photos

Preferred Deck Venue at Dreams Vista Cancun

This rooftop terrace venue sits on the ninth floor at the top of the resort with a modern, slightly urban feel. Wood decking and glass railings keep the lines clean, and you can see both the ocean and the Cancun skyline in the distance.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Family-friendly resort with an adults-only pool & bar for Preferred Club guests

Resort Location: Puerto Cancun (about 30+ min north of Cancun Hotel Zone)

Distance From Cancun Airport: 30 min

Ceremony Max: 60 guests

Ceremony Min Requirement: None

Venue Fee: None

Privacy Level: Semi-Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: None

Accessibility: Elevator available and bathrooms are by the elevator inside the spa.



Cobalt Rooftop Deck ceremony venue at Hyatt Vivid Grand Island all-inclusive resort in Mexico.
Photo Credit: Adventure Photos

Cobalt Rooftop Deck Venue at Hyatt Vivid Grand Island

This venue is all about drama: a sleek deck next to a rooftop pool with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Nichupté Lagoon and city skyline on the other. It feels a bit like a city rooftop bar transplanted to the Mexican Caribbean, which is ideal if you’re drawn to a more modern, high-energy aesthetic.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Adults-only

Resort Location: Cancun Hotel Zone

Distance From Cancun Airport: 20 min

Ceremony Max: 60 guests

Ceremony Min Requirement: 30 guests

Venue Fee: $1000

Privacy Level: Semi-Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: None

NOTE: This resort is not a beachfront property, but guests have full access to Ennea Beach Club via free transfers only 10 minutes away.



Sunset Rooftop Terrace wedding venue at Dreams Tulum resort in Mexico.
Photo Credit: Photodreams

Sunset Rooftop Terrace Venue at Dreams Tulum

This rooftop terrace is an elevated, ocean-facing venue with wood-plank flooring, simple lines, and a few palms that soften the space. The ocean view here is a real highlight—you’re high enough for uninterrupted views, but still close enough to feel connected to the ocean.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Family-friendly resort with an adults-only restaurant and an adults-only rooms section in a secluded garden area

Resort Location: Riviera Maya (located 20 minutes north of Tulum)

Distance From Cancun Airport: 1 hr 30 min (or about an hour from Tulum airport)

Ceremony Max: 150 guests

Ceremony Min Requirement: None

Venue Fee: $500

Privacy Level: Semi-Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: None



Photo Credit: DreamArt Photography
Photo Credit: DreamArt Photography

Portofino Rooftop Venue at Secrets Playa Blanca

This elevated, open-air venue features warm wood decking and plenty of space for your ceremony setup. The backdrop is mostly greenery and the resort grounds, with glimpses of the ocean in the distance.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Adults-only resort

Resort Location: Costa Mujeres

Distance From Cancun Airport: 50 min

Ceremony Max: 100 guests

Ceremony Min Requirement: 50 guests

Venue Fee:  None (penalty if min guest requirement isn't met: $3500)

Privacy Level: Semi-Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: None

Accessibility: No elevator access and bathrooms are located downstairs at the Manatee Bar.



Purple Terrace wedding venue at Breathless Riviera Cancun with colorful flowers and golden hexagon arch.
Photo Credit: Adventure Photos

Purple Terrace Venue at Breathless Riviera Cancun

The Purple Terrace is a stylish rooftop ceremony venue overlooking the resort grounds, with beautiful ocean views as the backdrop. Surrounded by contemporary architecture and tropical scenery, it creates an effortlessly chic atmosphere for your wedding.


All-Inclusive Resort Type: Adults-only resort (guests can also stay at Secrets Riviera Cancun next door which has full access to Breathless Riviera Cancun)

Resort Location: Riviera Cancun (in between Cancun and Playa Del Carmen)

Distance From Cancun Airport: 25 min

Ceremony Max: 100 guests

Ceremony Min Requirement: 30 guests

Venue Fee: None

Privacy Level: Private

Permanent Arch/Gazebo: None

Accessibility: No elevator access and bathrooms are located downstairs.



So Many Rooftop Venues — How Do You Choose?

The hard part isn’t finding a pretty rooftop in the Riviera Maya area of Mexico. It’s choosing a resort and venue combination that actually fits all of your must-haves:

  • Your guest count and budget

  • The vision you have for your ceremony

  • The resort's vibe, size/layout, and overall aesthetic

  • Quality of service, food, and drinks

  • Nightlife and night-time entertainment options

  • Daily activities available and proximity to excursions

  • Distance from the airport

  • And so on...


A rooftop that looks stunning in photos can be the wrong fit if:

  • The required minimums don’t match your guest list

  • The wedding packages don't align with your budget

  • There’s no elevator and you have guests with mobility concerns

  • The resort’s overall vibe doesn’t align with what you want

  • The wedding team doesn't provide a high-quality planning experience


That’s where I come in.


As a destination wedding travel specialist, I help couples look beyond the surface and match them with the right all-inclusive resort and venue combination for their wedding. I also handle the travel side of things: group room blocks, guest bookings, airport transfers, and troubleshooting along the way so you’re not fielding travel questions from 60 different people.


"Jodi helped us pick the perfect venue that fit our needs and was extremely helpful for our entire wedding process! Everything worked out flawlessly, and our guests are still saying this was the best wedding they've been to by far." - Bailey & Gage

Ready to Find The Right Rooftop Venue for Your Destination Wedding?

If you’re drawn to the idea of a rooftop ceremony and want help narrowing down the options, I’d love to chat. We’ll talk through all the details of what you're looking for on the wedding side as well as the resort experience, and then I'll use that info to recommend a short list of resorts and rooftop venues that fit your priorities.


I’m here to be your guide so you're not trying to sort through dozens of options on your own, and I’ll walk you through each step of the process so you can feel confident from start to finish.


Two ways to get started:

or



More Helpful Reads

Explore real weddings from couples I've worked with.

Dive into detailed resort reviews from my personal stays.

Get tips and advice to make destination wedding planning easier.

 
 

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Planning guide created by destination wedding travel agent in Rogers, MN.
Planning guide created by destination wedding travel agent in Rogers, MN.
Planning guide created by destination wedding travel agent in Rogers, MN.
Planning guide created by destination wedding travel agent in Rogers, MN.

Don't know where to begin? Just start here - I poured all my best destination wedding planning tips into this 13-page step-by-step guide for you!

Destination Wedding Guide

You're in love with the most amazing partner—and you're so ready to celebrate your love with an ultra romantic, utterly indulgent destination wedding shared with your family and friends.

What you're not so in love with? Just how dang hard it is to plan the "I Do" escape of your dreams.

Destination Wedding Travel Agent Jodi Schlichting.

Hi!

I'm Jodi Schlichting

YOUR ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS DESTINATION WEDDING TRAVEL AGENT.

I started EverAfter Travel to help more couples plan their dream destination weddings to the Caribbean and Mexico with total ease (can you feel yourself saying ahhh already?).

In fact, I only take on a limited number of clients at a time, so I can ensure every couple I work with gets the individualized attention they deserve—because that’s what leads to a dream-come-true “I Do”!

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