Types of Destination Wedding Venues at All-Inclusive Resorts
- Jodi Schlichting
- Oct 4, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
When you close your eyes and think about your wedding day, what do you see?
Are you standing on a beautiful beach with the waves crashing behind you or are you in a picturesque gazebo surrounded by lush tropical gardens?
With so many extraordinary wedding venue options at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean, you're sure to find exactly what you're looking for to bring your vision to life.
Hi, I'm Jodi—a destination wedding travel agent who helps couples like you take the guesswork out of planning a celebration at an all-inclusive resort.
If you’re just starting your planning journey, this guide will walk you through the different types of resort wedding venues to help you picture what’s possible, understand what to consider with each one, and discover what feels right for your big day.
Overview of Destination Wedding Venue Types
Below are some of the most popular destination wedding venue types you'll find at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. Each one offers its own vibe, advantages, and things to consider—so you can choose the setting that fits your wedding vision best.
Not every resort offers every type of venue, and details like capacity, fees, and availability vary quite a bit—which is why working with someone who knows the ins and outs of each resort (like me!) can make the process so much easier.
BEACH Destination Wedding Venue Type
Perfect for: Couples envisioning a laid-back, barefoot ceremony with ocean views and a gentle sea breeze.
If your ideal wedding day includes walking barefoot down an aisle of soft white sand, a beach ceremony might be calling your name. These venues deliver stunning ocean backdrops, a relaxed tropical vibe, and that effortlessly romantic feeling that so many couples are drawn to.
What to know:
Amazing natural scenery for photos, especially at golden hour
Most exposed to the sun because shade is minimal
Often breezy or windy, which may affect hair, decor, or sound
Least private venue type (resort guests may be nearby)
Typically no venue fee for a beach ceremony
Accommodates groups of all sizes
Great option if you want that classic "destination wedding" feel
ROOFTOP Destination Wedding Venue Type
Perfect for: Couples who want a modern, open-air ceremony space with wow-worthy views and more privacy.
Rooftop venues are a favorite for their elevated ocean views, trendy vibe, and secluded setting. They’re often located above the resort with sweeping scenery and a feeling of exclusivity that sets the tone for a stylish celebration.
You can click here to see a list of the best rooftop wedding venues in the Riviera Maya, Mexico.
What to know:
One of the most private venue options
Typically requires an additional venue fee
Some rooftops have partial or full shade, others are fully open
Usually best for small to medium groups, though some can host larger parties
Offers dramatic photo opportunities with panoramic views
GAZEBO Destination Wedding Venue Type
Perfect for: Couples who want a picturesque ceremony setting with a built-in structure—often set in a tropical location that’s not on the beach.
Gazebo venues offer a beautiful focal point for your ceremony. You’ll find gazebos in a range of styles—rustic, elegant, modern—situated in gardens, near the beach, or even poolside.
You can click here for a list of the best non-beach wedding venues in the Riviera Maya, Mexico.
What to know:
Some are semi-covered which can provide a bit of shade
Permanent structure means no need to pay for a ceremony arch
Often best suited for smaller guest counts but some can accommodate larger groups
Great for couples who want something more private than the beach
Can vary widely in location and style depending on the resort
GARDEN Destination Wedding Venue Type
Perfect for: Couples who want a lush, nature-filled backdrop that feels peaceful and romantic.
Garden venues give you that secret-garden vibe—surrounded by tropical flowers, greenery, and sometimes tucked away for extra privacy. They’re a beautiful alternative to beach settings and can feel both whimsical and intimate.
You can click here for a list of the best non-beach wedding venues in the Riviera Maya, Mexico.
What to know:
May be located in a central lawn area or a quiet, secluded spot
Venue capacity varies depending on the layout of the specific venue
A great choice for romantic or floral-forward wedding decor
Often features natural greenery that reduces the need for extra decor
Can feel more private than beachfront settings
OVERWATER Destination Wedding Venue Type
Perfect for: Couples who want an ultra-scenic, one-of-a-kind ceremony space that feels dramatic and unforgettable.
These venues—ranging from glass-floor chapels to piers to clear platform setups over resort pools—make it feel like you’re walking on water. Whether you're suspended above the ocean or hovering over turquoise pool water, this type of setting offers a wow-worthy experience.
What to know:
Typically requires an additional venue fee
Best suited for smaller guest counts due to space
Glass-floor chapels are only available at select resorts
Visually striking setting that adds a dramatic touch to your ceremony photos
Ideal for couples who want a jaw-dropping “wow” moment
CHAPEL Destination Wedding Venue Type
Perfect for: Couples wanting a Catholic ceremony or an enclosed, weather-proof space with a traditional feel.
Chapels at all-inclusive resorts vary from sleek and modern to ornate and classic. Whether you're having a religious ceremony or simply want a more formal option, most chapels offer the comfort of air conditioning in a beautiful, formal space.
What to know:
Most are enclosed and air conditioned
A great option for religious or legal ceremonies
Typically limited to small or medium guest counts
Often requires additional fees or special approvals
Not all resorts have chapels, so options may be more limited
BALLROOM Destination Wedding Venue Type
Perfect for: Couples who want a fully private, indoor space with comfort and no weather worries.
Ballrooms provide a classic reception-style setup that’s great for large guest counts, late-night dancing, or couples planning a wedding during the rainy season. These versatile spaces can be personalized with draping, lighting, and decor to match your style—giving you full control over the look and feel of your celebration.
What to know:
Air conditioned and completely protected from weather
Ideal for large weddings or formal receptions
Fully private space reserved exclusively for your event
Allows you to keep the party going later than other venue types
Great for couples prioritizing comfort and customization
UNIQUE Destination Wedding Venue Type
Perfect for: Couples who want a setting that's truly different from anything they've seen before.
Want to get married at a Tuscan-style villa in Mexico or at the base of a historic aqueduct in Jamaica? These out-of-the-box venues offer an unforgettable experience for you and your guests—something you simply won’t find at every resort.
What to know:
While some of these venues are located directly on resort grounds, others are at offsite venues and require setting up transportation to/from your event
Often involve additional coordination and fees
Space and accessibility vary depending on location
Loving the venue ideas...but not sure what comes next?
Once you have a vision for your ceremony, the next step is finding a resort that offers that setting and fits your guest needs, budget, and travel plans.
I help couples match their vision with the right all-inclusive resort—and take care of the logistics like room blocks and guest travel support—so the planning process feels less stressful and a lot more exciting.
I work with a limited number of couples each year so I can give each destination wedding the personalized attention it deserves.
Two ways to get started:
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