When I *finally* got engaged, I made a vow to plan a wedding that my partner and I actually wanted — not what everyone else thought we should do. But as any bride knows, the second that ring’s on your finger, people start coming out of the woodwork with their “helpful” advice on your big day. From your future mother-in-law trying to redo the guest list to your uncle’s cousin’s brother’s girlfriend already complaining about needing a passport, the peanut gallery is loud. But let’s get one thing straight: The only opinions that should freaking count are yours… and your partner’s, I guess.
For me, it was all about keeping things fun and stress-free (or else I’d lose my mind lol). My wedding checklist was simple: good drinks, good food, and good vibes. That’s all I wanted. So, when I got the chance to scope out Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya, I knew I’d found a place that gets it.
Not only does this all-inclusive resort offer bucket list-worthy options like a sky wedding on a rooftop terrace, but they have enough packages and add-ons to suit any couple’s vibe and budget.
Here are a few of the best highlights, IMO:
A Beach Wedding Without the Sand
Yup, you read that right. If your wedding vision includes saying “I do” with an ocean backdrop — but without the sand in your shoes (or Spanx) — Margaritaville Island Reserve has you covered. They’ve got a sky terrace overlooking the Caribbean, where you can get married with panoramic views of the ocean — and zero risk of tripping in flip-flops. There are also gorgeous indoor options, like a spacious ballroom, or even a floating platform in the pool, so you can literally walk on water down the aisle. Iconic.
A Brewery With a View
Beers on the beach? Say less. Margaritaville is home to Mexico’s first Landshark Brewery, so you can kick off your ceremony with craft beer for all your guests and get married in a literal brewery. To top it all off, you can even work with the resort team to create your own signature wedding brew in a customized growler, which doubles as a pretty epic wedding favor. The brewery also is such a fun spot for after the ceremony for drinks and dancing (trust me, my thighs hurt from dropping it low all night).
While the resort is adults-only, Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun is Riviera Maya’s family-friendly sister resort, so your family and friends with kids can still come for the wedding and stay just a short drive away.
A Taco Boat for the Bridal Party (Obviously)
This might be my favorite perk (if you know, you know). Margaritaville offers the ultimate taco boat experience for your bridal party: Imagine lounging in the pool, sipping margaritas, and having a literal boat filled with tacos, guac, chips, and ceviche floating around. You’ll get about 65 photos for your Instagram, 3 TikToks, and your bridal party will love you forever. It’s big enough to serve around seven people (and took three staff members to haul into the water!). Perfect for a full day of bachelorette fun, if you ask me.
Wedding Packages Galore
Margaritaville Island Reserve is all about making your day special, which is why they host only one (!!) wedding per day. This allows you to work closely with their team to create a personalized package that reflects your vision and keeps the focus on you.
And if you’re not tying the knot but still want to celebrate, they offer custom packages for bach parties, vow renewals, honeymoons, symbolic ceremonies, and more. Just imagine a private four-course candlelit dinner on the beach. (Yes, please.)
