How to Elope in Cozumel, Mexico: Your Ultimate Dreamy Beach Wedding Guide | Updated for 2024
Plan Your Perfect Wedding in Cozumel, Mexico
Dreaming of a balmy, breezy, blissful elopement on the white-sand beaches of the Caribbean? The breathtaking and super-friendly island of Cozumel provides the perfect respite from the busyness of the world and is an idyllic backdrop for your picture-perfect elopement.
Cozumel has much to offer beyond its serene and sunny beaches. You will find lovely lodging– from exquisite resorts to romantic and cozy VRBOs; fabulous eateries and bars; and just about every adventurous activity you can imagine– from world-class diving to sport fishing to off-roading in a JEEP.
As your Cozumel photographer, I will help you curate the wedding you’ve been dreaming of. My guide has everything you need to know to get started!
Table of Contents
Photos by Andrea Enger unless otherwise credited.
Why Choose a Cozumel Elopement?
Resplendent white-sand beaches; sparkling azure waters; blue, sunny, clear skies; and a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. What more idyllic backdrop can you imagine for exchanging your vows than the lush beach paradise that is Cozumel?
Measuring just 30 miles long by ten miles wild, the island of Cozumel lies a short distance off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, in the pristine aquamarine waters of the Caribbean Sea.
On the western side of the island you will find the biggest and essentially only city, San Miguel… Here is the heartbeat of the island, where, lining the charming thouroughfares, you will find fantastic sidewalk eateries and bars and an array of sherbert-colored storefronts. Raw, rugged beauty defines the eastern side of the island, where there is little to no development or even electricity.
Renowned for its sublime beauty and its friendly, laid-back vibes, Cozumel is the perfect little island spot for your dream elopement.
Legalities To Know About for Your Cozumel Wedding
All of the to-do’s one must consider in the days leading up to the I-do’s can be overwhelming! Here, I have compiled a simple, straightforward list of what you need to know regarding the legalities of your elopement in Cozumel. Keep in mind, these guidelines are only applicable to you if you want to legally get married in Mexico, under Mexican Law.
What many couples I’ve worked with choose to do instead is handle the legalities in the US (or in whichever country they reside in) and solemnize their marriage in a ceremony in the destination of their choosing (Cozumel in this case).
If, however, you choose to legally get married in Mexico, I can help to ensure that you abide by these rules:
Citizens of the U.S. must follow the applicable rules and laws of Mexico.
Only marriages performed by Civil Registry Officials (not religious officials) are considered legal and valid in Mexico.
U.S. Citizens must have a valid Passport, Birth Certificate (with matching name), and visitor’s permit, obtained at your port of entry (usually airport).
You must request from Mexican Immigration a marriage permit.
You need to submit marriage application forms, which can be obtained from the local registry office.
During the legal ceremony, you will need four witnesses present, with valid identification.
If you are divorced or widowed, you must present a Divorce Decree or Death Certificate.
You need to submit Chest X-Ray Plates, to be done in Mexico (if applicable) and Blood Test Results, to be done in Mexico, no more than 14 days before the date of application.
For civil or Catholic ceremony weddings you must arrive 3 business days (Mon-Fri) prior to the ceremony, by 12 PM, in order for the day of arrival to count towards a business working day.
For symbolic ceremonies it is required you arrive 2 business working days prior to the ceremony. You must also arrive by 12:00 PM in order for the day of arrival to count towards a business day.
How to Get to Cozumel
You will find the island paradise of Cozumel about ten miles off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.You can fly direct to Cozumel from select US cities. Otherwise, the closest airport to fly into for your Cozumel wedding is in Cancun. Once you have arrived in Cancun, there are two ways to get from mainland Mexico to your island elopement destination:
By chartering a small private plane from Cancun to Cozumel
Or, by taking a private transfer (through Cancun Airport Transporation Service), shuttle or ADO bus to Playa del Carmen (about 45 minutes away) and then ferrying over to Cozumel (about 45 minutes away). Ferries leave each hour, on the hour, between 8:00 AM and 10 PM.
Wondering how to get around once you have arrived in Cozumel? The downtown area is very walkable and safe. To get to any outlying beaches or VRBOs/hotels, taxis are readily available and straightforward (no haggling!). Bikes and mopeds are also a super fun way to explore all that this island has to offer. If you want a more curated experience, you can always hire one of Cozumel’s many trusted private guides to take you to the sites on your list.
The Best Time of Year to Elope in Cozumel
With pretty much year-round delightfully balmy temperatures, it’s hard to go wrong when deciding on which month to schedule your Cozumel wedding!
The driest months are November to April, with November and December considered by some to be the best months to get married in Cozumel, as the hurricane risk (although always low) has dissipated, and the skies are clear, the humidity is low, and the resplendent Caribbean waters are still warm.
Although there are still many days of sunshine, and the rain typically only lasts one to two hours, if you want to play it safe, you will want to be aware of the rainy season (May-October) and hurricane season (September and October).
Photo by Ibrahim Mushan on Unsplash
The Best Cozumel Elopement Locations and Where to Stay
A hotel wedding package usually includes a photographer to capture your ceremony, couples portraits, and family photos. Then, they will sell you prints after your ceremony in order to obtain your wedding images. Seriously, Andrea? Yes!
Before considering a wedding package at a resort, it's also important to note that outsider photographers often face restrictions and can only capture certain areas. When staying at a private home, you can avoid the resort's rules and take photos on the nearby beaches. Imagine you and your soul mate in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by quiet waters as the sunset commands your attention. Dreamy, right?
For the ultimate, intimate elopement getaway, I recommend booking a private home along one of Cozumel’s many white-sand beaches. There is something for everyone here. You can find a cozy getaway for just the two of you, or go in for one of the many sprawling luxury villas the island boasts, several of which offer amenities such as access to private boats, chefs, and more. As the cherry on top, host an open bar that costs a fraction of what the hotels will charge.
Choosing this type of private accommodation then lends itself perfectly to eloping on a nearby beach– the picture-perfect backdrop to the wedding you’ve been dreaming of. Can you imagine a more sublime landscape to your I-do’s than a pristine, shimmering coastline, with unobstructed views of the sparkling Caribbean sea? Neither can I!
If hotels are more your thing, and you are looking for one of Cozumel’s resort-like, all-inclusive venues for your island wedding, you might consider one of the following hotels (each of them except for one offering custom wedding packages tailored to your needs). Alternatively, you might consider just staying at one, too!
Presidente Intercontinental Cozumel Resort Spa
Located on the largest private beach on the island, this gorgeous, luxury, five-star resort is the perfect place to stay during your wedding in Cozumel. There is an almost-Japanse-Zen feeling to its ocean-facing, well-appointed rooms, which feature lots of wood and glass elements and an understated, but sophisticated, modern-minimalist vibe. There are four lovely on-site restaurants to choose from, featuring different cuisines from around the globe. There are tennis courts, an on-site dive center, pools, a spa… They have it all, including a concierge wedding service to help you craft the perfect Cozumel elopement.
Photo courtesy of Presidente Intercontinental Cozumel’s website
Photo courtesy of Presidente Intercontinental Cozumel’s website
Iberostar Cozumel
Another of Cozumel’s top-ranking hotels is this sustainable, newly-renovated five-star beauty. Iberostar features bungalow-style rooms– picture thatched roofs amongst coconut palms– and a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. There is nightly entertainment and there are five different restaurants, featuring varying cuisines, to choose from. They are located on a private beach, have their own dive center and three pools, and feature a small spa– perfect for a relaxing couples massage. I have stayed here before and my experience was fabulous!
Photo courtesy of Iberostar’s website
Secrets Aura
Consistently ranking as one of Cozumel’s top resorts, Secrets is the ultimate in luxury getaways. It is an adults-only, all-inclusive idyll with intoxicating ocean views and personalized concierge service. Enjoy dining at one of the eight restaurants, drinking at one of the five bars, swimming and lounging at one of the three pools, indulging in one of the 14,000 square-foot-spa’s rejuvenating treatments, and taking advantage of some of the many activities Secrets offers. Secrets also has its own private beach and a charming pier– the perfect vantage point for soaking up one of Mexico’s mesmerizing sunsets. Likewise, I have stayed here (while in Cozumel for a dreamy micro-wedding on the beach) and it, too, did not at all disappoint!
Cozumel Palace
Cozumel Palace is a smaller all-inclusive resort situated on the beach right in the heart of San Miguel. It features colonial-era-inspired guest rooms (think marble floors) and suites, each of which is appointed with a private balcony, and most of which are ocean-facing. There are three pools (including an infinity pool), five on-site restaurants, and a spa. For your Cozumel elopement, they feature three different wedding packages, a wedding gazebo, and several different terraces– all overlooking the Caribbean’s expansive blue waters– to choose from for saying your vows.
Photo courtesy of Cozumel Palace’s website
The Explorean
As its name connotes, this all-inclusive resort is geared toward those who relish adventure and exploration. The rate includes gourmet food at their two excellent restaurants and one daily activity, which are wide-ranging and include things like learning about Mayan traditions; buggy, motorcycle, and sailing tours; sea lion shows; paddleboarding lessons; and a day at the virgin beaches on the island’s east side– drinks and snacks included. (Explorean does not offer wedding packages.)
Photo courtesy of The Explorean’s website
Photo courtesy of The Explorean’s Instagram
Where to Eat in Cozumel
Cozumel is home to a rich and vibrant culinary scene. There really is something for everyone, whether you are looking to indulge in a cozy, romantic dinner for two or just to grab some tortas at a funky dive bar…
Jolly: Coffee and Late Breakfast
Looking for a yummy brunch? This centrally-located trendy spot is a great place to fill up. It blends western fare (think waffles and pancakes) with Mexican-inspired dishes like mole enchiladas and chilaquiles.
Photo courtesy of Jolly’s Instagram
Photo courtesy of Jolly’s Instagram
Aqui+Ahora
This eclectic little spot is located along Cozumel’s boardwalk, overlooking the water. It is a coffee shop, breakfast joint, co-working space, restaurant, and late-night bar all-in-one. Bright, funky art adorns its concrete walls, along which lie low-slung sofas and tables scattered with games. Upstairs you will find a glorious roof-top area surrounded by lush plants and, of course, a spectacular view of the Caribbean.
Alleyway on 10th (El Callejon de la Diez)
This open-air food hall is a super fun and delicious new edition to Cozumel’s food scene. At each of the independently-owned food kiosks, you can explore all different types of Mexican cuisine, and at a totally affordable price. Offers include fresh seafood, Yucatan specialties, and vegan Mexican fare. There is a bar on site, too.
Photo courtesy of Alleyway on 10th’s Instagram
Photo courtesy of Alleyway on 10th’s Instagram
Casa Denis
In a little yellow house right off the main town square, Casa Denis is the oldest restaurant on the island. They serve up delicious Yucatecan favorites like cochinita pibil (spiced pork baked in banana leaves), and simple but tasty empanadas and tacos. Duck in for a laid-back lunch, or make a reservation to eat a cozy dinner in the secluded garden courtyard.
Guido’s
This Swiss-Italian upscale, waterfront restaurant is nestled in the heart of town and boasts a lush, elegant courtyard– perfect for a romantic dinner for two– and impeccable, friendly service. The menu is mostly seasonal and features an abundance of fresh fish, alongside more traditional standbys like lasagna, ossobucco, and wood-fired pizzas.
Photo courtesy of Guido’s Instagram
Photo courtesy of Guido’s Instagram
Le Cocay
Enjoy lunch or dinner in the charming garden setting of this upscale but comfortable Mediterranean restaurant. Select from a variety of beautifully prepared dishes, from steaks to fresh fish and pastas or wood-fired pizzas.
Buccanos at Night
This gem of a restaurant on Cozumel’s north shore is actually a beach club by day and is hailed as one of the best restaurants on the island for its stunning views, its laidback but polished beachy vibe, and, of course, its delicious culinary fare, which is essentially contemporary fusion. Snag a reservation and soak up the sun setting over the sea with your sweetheart while you share what will assuredly be a delectable dinner.
Photo courtesy of Buccanos’ Instagram
Photo courtesy of Buccanos’ Instagram
Ix Kool
This stunning, fine-dining restaurant is considered by many to be the best place to get Mayan fare. The menu offers up an almost-immersive experience, combining culture and tradition in a way that is difficult to find elsewhere. Be sure to try the cochinita pibil, the pork panucho, and other Yucatecan specialties. All of the dishes here are a beauty to behold– bursting with flavor and exalting their rich Mayan heritage.
Photo courtesy of Ix Kool’s website
What to Do for Your Elopement in Cozumel
Enjoy World-Class Diving and Snorkeling
Just off the coastline of Cozumel lies the second-largest barrier reef in the world– teeming with over 500 species of marine life and 70 types of coral. Divers celebrate Cozumel as one of the premier dive sites in the world, where the visibility is crystalline and the mulitudinous variety of marine life is just magnificent. And there are adventures for everyone here, from laid-back snorkeling jaunts to beginner’s discovery dives to advanced drift dives.
Photo by Adiprayogo Liemena on Pexels
Explore the Wild, Eastern Side of the Island
Leave the lush, rainforested and more populated west side of Cozumel, and wander over to the east side of the island to explore its many remote, rugged beaches. Here, you will really feel like you have left the noisyness and busyness of the world behind. Grab a cocktail and some delicious fish tacos in one of the cool local beach bars, or just quietly wander the expansive coastline.
Choose Your Own Adventure
There is no shortage of adventures to choose from: take an E-bike or JEEP tour; try your hand at wind-surfing or paddleboarding; charter a sport fishing trip; take a Mexican cooking class; get out on those sparkling blue waters in a kayak; or play 18 holes on one of Cozumel’s breathtaking golf courses…
Photo by Caleb George on Unsplash
Unwind at a Beach Club
You and your sweetheart can purchase a day-pass to one of Cozumel’s swoon-worthy beach clubs and pass the day lounging, swimming, and eating and drinking to your heart’s content. A perfect way to treat yourselves to a little reprieve and R&R during your wedding getaway!
Immerse Yourself in Mexico’s Ancient Cutlure
The two Mayan ruins most compelling to explore are Chichen Itza (back on the mainland), which was one of the largest Mayan cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The other, on Cozumel, is San Gervasio, where Mayan women paid tribute to the goddess of love and fertility (Ixchel). What better way to commemorate your Cozumel wedding than a visit to her?!
Photo by Marv Watson on Unsplash
Explore Punta Sur Ecological Park
This park on the south end of the island spans over 2,500 acres and is home to myriad wildlife, including crocodiles and sea turtles. You can climb the 133 steps of the Celarain Lighthouse (which doubles as a maritime museum) and take in the stunning views of Cozumel (and if you’re lucky, Cuba) and then amble along beaches here, which some consider to be the best on the island. If you like, you can also book a 40-minute boat tour, which provides a lovely vantage point from which to view the exotic marshlands.
Leave No Trace
Sustainability can’t just be a niche market for photographers. It must be the new normal! As a nature lover, I am dedicated to helping our earth flourish. This is why I practice “Leave No Trace” principles at each and every one of my sessions.
What exactly is Leave No Trace?
It is:
🌿 A set of ethics & best practices we should follow to enjoy and protect the outdoors at the same time
🌿 An access tool to help enjoy public lands responsibly and leave less impact
It isn’t:
🌿 Something to shame other people about or make them feel bad for not knowing
🌿 Something to use to gatekeep and keep others from enjoying the outdoors
Once you’ve booked me as your Cozumel elopement photographer, you’ll receive my full Leave No Trace guide for couples! It’s an easy-breezy workbook designed to help you plan your dream elopement, while being mindful of the beautiful lands upon which you’ve chosen to exchange your vows.
Cozumel Elopement Packages + Pricing
Image courtesy of Slogar’s website
Are you awe-struck by the idea of a Cozumel elopement or micro-wedding? You should be! I love helping engaged couples plan elopements in this dreamy destination. Together, we can plan an adventure that honors your passion for the outdoors and each other. Your wedding day will be unforgettable—and definitely on your terms.
Contact me either through my website, by emailing me directly at andrea@andreaengerphotography.com, or by calling or texting me at (720) 739-0784. I look forward to hearing from you!
Reserve Your Date!
Elopement photographer Andrea Enger (photo by Realm Studios)
Ready to Celebrate Your Day Your Way?
Find out how I can help make that happen!
If you’re ready to get the ball rolling and start making your dreams of a perfect Cozumel elopement a reality, that’s great! Let’s get in touch! You can start by filling out the form below, by emailing me directly at andrea@andreaengerphotography.com, or by calling or texting me at (720) 739-0784. I look forward to hearing from you!
If you’re still in the research phase, I hear ya! Here are some more resources that my couples have found helpful. I hope you do, too!
