Why Mayakoba Should Be on Your Destination Wedding Shortlist
- May 6
- 6 min read
Imagine barefoot luxury, romantic boat rides through emerald lagoons, and a charming village chapel that feels like something out of a fairytale. Welcome to Mayakoba—a hidden gem on Mexico’s Caribbean coast that blends eco-conscious sophistication with rich cultural flavor. Whether you’re planning a destination wedding, vow renewal, or honeymoon, this one-of-a-kind enclave offers everything from soul-stirring nature to five-star indulgence.
Let’s explore why Mayakoba is one of the most romantic—and meaningful—places to say “I do.”
Why Mayakoba is Made for Romance
More than just a luxury resort complex, Mayakoba is an intentional community built on sustainability and serenity. Set across 500+ acres of preserved jungle, coastline, and freshwater canals, its master plan weaves nature, culture, and privacy into every stay.
But what truly sets it apart is El Pueblito—a charming replica of a traditional Mexican village. Here, cobblestone paths, artisan shops, and colorful facades transport you to a place where time slows down. It’s the soul of Mayakoba, perfect for guests craving authenticity alongside luxury. Think:
Cooking classes with local chefs
Artisan markets and tequila tastings
Birdwatching amid tranquil plazas
The Capilla de Todos los Ángeles, a storybook-style consecrated chapel with handcrafted stonework and a bell tower that’s ideal for religious ceremonies.
El Pueblito adds warmth and heritage to your wedding weekend, grounding your celebration in culture and charm that typical beachfront venues often miss.
Why Couples Love Getting Married in Mayakoba
Each of Mayakoba’s luxury resorts is designed to offer maximum privacy and romance. They’re connected by water canals and walking paths, yet each maintains its own identity, vibe, and specialty wedding venues.
Whether you prefer a barefoot ceremony on the beach, a candlelit garden affair, or a chapel service in El Pueblito, Mayakoba delivers. The resort-wide coordination makes it easy to host guests across different properties, with shared access to El Pueblito for gatherings, welcome dinners, or ceremonies.
Where to Stay in Mayakoba
Rosewood Mayakoba
Rosewood Mayakoba blends timeless elegance with a deep respect for its natural surroundings. Its low-rise architecture features handcrafted stone, reclaimed wood, and stucco finishes inspired by Mayan tradition. Suites are carefully integrated into the landscape, many flanking the serene lagoons or tucked into tropical gardens. Interiors are open and fluid, with large terraces, floor-to-ceiling glass, and spa-like bathrooms. It’s the most refined of the Mayakoba resorts—ideal for couples who want white-glove luxury in a lush setting.
Amenities:
Private boat arrival and lagoon tours directly from the resort dock
In-suite plunge pools with lagoon or beachfront views
Customizable beachfront or garden wedding venues
Exclusive couples spa rituals and beachfront massage setups
Personal butler service for curated romantic experiences
Private rooftop terraces with outdoor soaking tubs
Gourmet dining with private chef options and candlelit beach dinners
Bespoke proposal or anniversary planning by onsite concierge
Adults-only pool area for serene escapes
Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Perfect for: Couples who want serene, understated luxury
Banyan Tree Mayakoba
A harmonious blend of Asian minimalism and Mexican craftsmanship, Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers a peaceful escape framed by water and jungle. Villas are freestanding and secluded, designed with warm woods, natural stone, and floor-to-ceiling windows that connect guests to their surroundings. The ambiance is both grounded and ethereal, inviting couples to slow down and breathe. It’s an ideal choice for intimate weddings, wellness escapes, and holistic romance.
Amenities:
Freestanding villas with private pools and enclosed courtyards
“Saffron on the Lagoon” dining — romantic Thai cuisine on floating decks
Banyan Tree Spa Romance Rituals, combining Asian wellness with Mayan touches
Lagoon or beachfront wedding platforms with tropical floral setups
Private moonlit boat rides and lantern-lit dinners
Open-air yoga classes for couples
Intimate elopement and vow renewal packages
Complimentary bicycles for exploring secluded resort paths together
Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel Credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full) with possibility of higher credit amount for higher villa categories
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Perfect for: Spiritual romantics and wellness-minded couples
Alila Mayakoba
Alila Mayakoba is modern, tranquil, and inherently sustainable. Designed to coexist with the natural environment, its architecture features minimalist geometry, clean lines, and organic materials that reflect the region’s biodiversity. Interiors channel calm luxury through linen textiles, local ceramics, and subtle earth tones, making it an ideal retreat for couples who value simplicity and connection. Formerly Andaz Mayakoba, the resort is currently closed for an extensive renovation and rebranding and is expected to reopen in late 2025, with some sources noting reservations may begin as late as June 2026. Upon reopening, guests can expect wellness-focused accommodations, expansive gardens, an upgraded spa with outdoor hydrotherapy amenities, and a traditional Temazcal for spiritual and physical renewal, making Alila one of the most anticipated romantic escapes in the Riviera Maya.
Amenities:
Eco-conscious suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces
Rooftop plunge pools in select suites for sunset views
“Floating” spa experiences in mangrove-surrounded wellness pavilions
Organic, locally sourced candlelight dining under the stars
Private cenote excursions and beachfront photo sessions
Lagoon-side ceremony spaces and minimalist design wedding setups
Guided couples’ meditation and sound healing sessions
Personalized honeymoon packages focused on wellness and seclusion
Perks:
Welcome letter from hotel leadership on behalf of the travel advisor and their agency.
Welcome amenity provided to guests upon arrival.
Daily complimentary full breakfast at a hotel restaurant for up to two guests.
Property credit (value varies by property).
Priority for room upgrade (response within 24 hours of booking, subject to forecasted occupancy).
Early check-in/late check-out/connecting rooms (response within 24 hours of request, subject to forecasted occupancy).
Perfect for: Couples seeking healing, intimacy, and nature-forward luxury
Fairmont Mayakoba
Fairmont Mayakoba offers a sophisticated blend of traditional Mexican architecture and family-friendly luxury. The property is arranged like a village, with pastel-toned casitas and courtyards woven through the jungle and along wide stretches of beach. Renovated with a contemporary touch, rooms now feature marble floors, light-wood accents, and curated artwork. Its expansive grounds and varied offerings make it ideal for larger celebrations, romantic vacations with extended family, or simply soaking up the Riviera Maya with five-star ease.
Amenities:
Oceanfront casitas with outdoor rainfall showers and hammocks
Curated “Romance Under the Stars” beachfront dining experiences
Full wedding coordination with indoor and outdoor venue options
Couples’ spa treatments featuring Le Labo products
Romantic catamaran tours or private sunset cruises from the marina
In-room breakfast with Champagne and local delicacies
Horse-drawn carriage experiences within the property for special events
Honeymoon welcome amenities like rose petal turndown and chocolate truffles
Perks:
Daily complimentary breakfast for 2, per room
VIP Welcome
$100 USD credit to be spent on property (conditions defined at check-in)
Early check-in & late check-out (upon availability)
Upgrade at time of check-in (upon availability)
Perfect for: Larger weddings or multi-generational celebrations
Couple Experiences to Fall in Love With
From floating breakfasts to moonlit spa rituals, Mayakoba resorts curate romance with heart. Some of our favorite couples' experiences include:
Private dining on the sand or over the water
Floating breakfasts and in-villa chef experiences
Couples’ spa rituals using regional botanicals
Guided explorations of cenotes and Mayan ruins
Sunrise paddleboarding and sunset yacht charters
Custom-curated proposal, engagement, or anniversary celebrations
Getting to and Around Mayakoba
Getting There:
Cancún International Airport (CUN) serves as the closest major airport, with nonstop flights from cities across the U.S. and Canada. Mayakoba is located approximately 40–45 minutes south of the airport via private transfer, rental car, or hotel-arranged transportation.
On-Site Transportation:
Complimentary golf carts and electric shuttles at each resort
Eco-lanchas (electric boats) that ferry guests through lagoons
Bikes and pedestrian trails connecting each resort and El Pueblito Village
Speak the Language of Love
While English is widely spoken throughout Mayakoba’s resorts, using Spanish adds warmth and connection. Here are a few romantic phrases to know:
English Phrase | Spanish Equivalent |
I love you | Te amo |
You are beautiful | Eres hermosa / Eres hermoso |
My love | Mi amor |
A kiss, please | Un beso, por favor |
Will you marry me? | ¿Quieres casarte conmigo? |
Forever together | Juntos para siempre |
Even a whispered “Mi amor” under the stars can make your moment more magical.
Final Thoughts: Is Mayakoba the One for You?
Mayakoba is more than a luxury resort—it’s a storybook setting where nature, tradition, and romance intertwine. Whether you're dreaming of a serene elopement, a culture-rich wedding weekend, or a tranquil honeymoon, this lush enclave delivers intimacy, elegance, and soul.
From lagoon-front vows to village square soirées, Mayakoba isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. One that stays with you, long after you return home.
Ready to discover more romantic escapes like this? View other hidden gems on our blog.
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