Hey, lovebirds! If you’re dreaming of a romantic elopement destination, let me introduce you to why Los Cabos should be right at the top of your list! As a seasoned photographer who has had the privilege of capturing countless intimate moments in this mesmerizing location, I can vouch for its unparalleled beauty and magic. Here’s why saying “I do” in Los Cabos promises an unforgettable elopement experience.
Why Elope in Los Cabos?
The Most Stunning Coastal Landscapes in Mexico
Los Cabos boasts some of the most breathtaking coastal landscapes in Mexico, with golden sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and the meeting of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez creating an enchanting backdrop for your elopement. As a photographer, I can assure you that your elopement photos will be absolutely mesmerizing against this natural canvas of beauty.
Ideal Coastal Locations Year-Round
Whether you’re planning your elopement for the warm summer months or the mild, sunny days of winter, Los Cabos offers stunning coastal settings that are perfect for your special day. Its coastal allure remains unparalleled throughout the year, allowing you to choose your elopement date without worrying about unpredictable weather.
Abundance of Activities
Beyond exchanging vows in paradise, Los Cabos offers an array of activities to enhance your elopement experience. From snorkeling alongside vibrant marine life and sailing on luxury yachts to indulging in world-class dining and experiencing vibrant nightlife, there’s something for every couple to enjoy during their stay.
Convenience for International Couples
Los Cabos is an accessible destination for couples traveling from out of state or abroad. With direct flights to Los Cabos International Airport and a short drive to the city, you’ll find yourselves in elopement bliss in no time.
How to Elope in Los Cabos: The Ultimate Checklist
Step 1: Choose Your Elopement Location: Los Cabos offers numerous romantic spots for exchanging vows, from secluded beaches to dramatic cliffside venues. Take your time to explore and find the perfect location that resonates with your hearts.
Step 2: Select the Time of Year: Consider factors like weather, crowd levels, and budget when choosing the best time to elope in Los Cabos. Peak season (November to April) offers ideal weather conditions, while shoulder seasons may provide lower prices and fewer tourists.
Step 3: Book Your Travel: Once your elopement date is set, arrange your travel details including flights, accommodations, transportation, and activities well in advance to minimize last-minute stress.
Step 4: Obtain Your Marriage License and Permits: Ensure all necessary paperwork, including your marriage license and any required permits for your elopement location, are in order before the big day.
Step 5: Hire Your Vendors: From photographers capturing the essence of Baja to florists arranging stunning local blooms, Los Cabos boasts a talented pool of vendors ready to bring your elopement vision to life. Choose professionals whose style and expertise align with your preferences.
Step 6: Tie the Knot: Finally, it’s time to say “I do” in Los Cabos! Take a moment to breathe, soak in the beauty of your surroundings, and cherish every precious moment as you begin your journey as a married couple.
Best Locations to Elope in Los Cabos
Searching for the perfect spot for your Los Cabos elopement? Look no further! Los Cabos offers a variety of stunning locations, from secluded beaches to breathtaking cliffs, ensuring there’s something to suit every couple’s style and preference.
1. Nobu Hotel Los Cabos: Perched on the Baja Peninsula’s tip, Nobu Hotel offers stunning ocean vistas, luxurious accommodations, and beachfront dining, making it an ideal elopement venue. Its blend of Japanese simplicity with Cabo’s charm ensures an unforgettable ceremony with various complementary elopement packages to suit your needs. Location.
2. Flora Farms: Set in a 25-acre organic farm amidst the Baja desert, Flora Farms provides a bohemian elopement dream with picturesque settings, including a beautiful barn in the Mango Grove and an open-air amphitheater with panoramic mountain and ocean views. Location.
3. Esperanza, an Auberge Resort: Nestled between scenic bluffs overlooking the Sea of Cortez, Esperanza Resort offers 14 event spaces and 11 outdoor venues, providing endless options for elopements. From intimate gatherings to renting the entire resort for privacy, Esperanza ensures VIP treatment with its unparalleled amenities and services. Location.
4. Acre Resort: A lush sanctuary spread across 25 acres, Acre Resort offers elegant treehouses, organic farms, and multiple event spaces for elopements of any size. With customizable elopement packages and a seasoned planning team, Acre ensures a unique and memorable celebration amid abundant greenery. Location.
5. One & Only Palmilla: Frequented by Hollywood’s elite, One & Only Palmilla features various indoor and outdoor venues, including a whitewashed Mexican chapel overlooking gardens and coastline. With its majestic ambiance and Mexican hospitality, it’s a perfect choice for intimate ceremonies or grand outdoor celebrations. Location.
6. Marquis Los Cabos: Overlooking the Sea of Cortez, Marquis Los Cabos offers a romantic ambiance and customizable elopement packages. With a dedicated Getting Ready Room and services catering to all styles and budgets, it’s an inclusive destination for couples to celebrate their love authentically. Location.
7. Viceroy Los Cabos: Designed for modern luxury, Viceroy Los Cabos offers jaw-dropping views and stylish accommodations. With indoor and outdoor spaces accommodating both intimate and grand elopements, it’s a versatile venue complemented by six restaurants, a rooftop bar, and a holistic spa.
8. Baja Luna: Situated on a mango farm, Baja Luna offers open-air venues for elopements amidst sustainability practices. With customizable event flows and a commitment to zero-waste cooking, it ensures a beautiful and eco-conscious experience for couples and guests. Location.
9. Chileno Bay Resort & Residences: Set on a swimmable beach, Chileno Bay Resort offers contemporary luxury and stunning event spaces. Whether hosting a beachfront celebration or intimate gathering, it provides the ideal backdrop with exclusive restaurants and serene beach settings. Location.
10. Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos: A modern beach haven on the Sea of Cortez, Four Seasons offers endless elopement possibilities, from beach ceremonies to grand ballroom receptions. With in-house professional wedding planners, it ensures a seamless and sophisticated start to a new journey together. Location.
Whether you’re envisioning an intimate gathering or a lavish celebration, Los Cabos offers the ideal setting for your love story to unfold. Explore our elopement photography portfolio and discover the perfect venue for your dream elopement in this vibrant coastal paradise!
Best Time of Year for Eloping in Los Cabos
When it comes to choosing the perfect time for your Los Cabos elopement, March and October stand out as prime options. These months boast delightful weather conditions, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. Opting for these months allows you to avoid the peak tourist season, ensuring a more intimate experience for you and your partner.
Rainy Day Contingency Plans
While the prospect of rainy weather on your elopement day may seem daunting, fret not! Los Cabos’ desert climate often brings passing showers that quickly give way to sunshine. Nonetheless, it’s wise to have a backup plan in place. Consider securing a venue with indoor options or bringing along stylish umbrellas for impromptu rainy-day photo shoots.
How to Get a Marriage License in Cabo
In Mexico, only civil marriages are legally recognized universally. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Los Cabos, here’s what you’ll need at the Civil Registry office:
Application Form: Obtain an application form from the Mexican Registry Office, which will inquire about the division of assets between you and your partner.
Passport: Ensure you have your passport along with the necessary Migratory Form, demonstrating your legal presence in Mexico.
Birth Certificate: Present a certified copy of your Birth Certificate, stamped by the appropriate Mexican Consular Office.
Proof of Single Status: If either of you has been previously married, provide evidence such as a certified copy of the Divorce Decree, endorsed by a Mexican Consulate, or a Death Certificate if applicable, similarly approved.
Medical Certificate: Provide a medical certificate from a licensed Mexican physician confirming the absence of any contagious diseases.
Witnesses: Don’t forget to bring two adult witnesses (over 18 years old) who must be present at the ceremony.
Payment: Lastly, ensure you pay the prescribed fee.
Officiants and Witnesses for Los Cabos Elopements
Both an officiant and a witness are essential for formalizing your union in Los Cabos. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of experienced officiants in the area ready to help create a ceremony that reflects your unique love story.
Permit Requirements for Los Cabos Elopements
While Los Cabos is a popular elopement destination, there’s no need to worry about permits or paperwork beyond obtaining your marriage license. Once you have that, you’re free to exchange vows wherever your heart desires—whether on the beach, amidst stunning desert landscapes, or overlooking the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas.
Guests at Your Los Cabos Elopement
Embrace the freedom to keep your Los Cabos elopement intimate and personal. While there are no strict restrictions on guest count, many couples opt for a small gathering of close family and friends or simply choose to celebrate just the two of them. After all, this day is about celebrating your love and commitment to each other.
Los Cabos Elopement Vendors
Officiants: Choose an officiant whose values align with yours to craft a ceremony that authentically reflects your love story.
Planners: Entrust a skilled planner to bring your elopement vision to life, from dreamy beach setups to elegant desert-inspired decor.
Hair and Makeup Artists: Enhance your natural beauty with the expertise of Los Cabos’ finest artists, specializing in beach-inspired looks.
Florists: Elevate your celebration with stunning floral arrangements that complement Los Cabos’ breathtaking landscapes.
Private Chefs: Indulge in a culinary journey tailored to your preferences with a private chef.
Cakes: Commemorate your love with a sumptuous wedding cake crafted by Los Cabos’ skilled bakers.
Videographers: Preserve every moment of your special day with the expertise of Los Cabos’ premier videographers.
Photographers: Trust a Los Cabos-based photographer to capture every candid moment and breathtaking vista, immortalizing the magic of your elopement day.
Los Cabos Activity Ideas
Aside from exchanging vows in secrecy, Los Cabos promises a plethora of experiences to make your elopement truly unforgettable. Whether you’re exploring dramatic desert landscapes, embarking on thrilling ocean adventures, or simply indulging in relaxation by the sea, there’s an abundance of delights awaiting every couple.
El Arco: Take a boat tour to see this famous natural arch in Cabo San Lucas from the water; it’s like something out of a postcard. You might even catch a glimpse of some chill sea lions lounging around.
Whale Shark Snorkeling: Ever wanted to swim with the big boys of the ocean? This is your chance! Dive Cabo offers tours where you can get up close and personal with whale sharks, and they even throw in some fish tacos after your swim.
La Coyota: Need some souvenirs that aren’t the usual tacky stuff? La Coyota’s got you covered with handcrafted goodies in a chill environment with no pushy salespeople.
Cactus ATV Tours: Get off the beaten path and explore the desert and sand dunes of Los Cabos on an ATV. It’s like a rollercoaster ride through nature’s own theme park, with options for horseback riding and camel tours if that’s more your vibe.
Deep Sea Fishing: If reeling in a big one is your idea of a good time, Cabo’s deep-sea fishing scene won’t disappoint. Whether you’re after marlin or mahi-mahi, you’ll find plenty of charters ready to take you out on the hunt.
The Office on The Beach: This beachfront restaurant has been dishing out tasty Mexican grub since forever. Grab a bite, enjoy the view, and stick around for some live tunes after the sun sets.
Snorkel & Boat Tour of Everything Cabo: Dive into the clear waters around Cabo and check out all the cool marine life and landscapes. Plus, they throw in lunch and keep the drinks flowing – what’s not to love?
The Sand Bar: Skip the pricey resort spas and treat yourself to a massage with an ocean view. Then, grab a drink and hit the beach feeling like a million bucks.
The Cabo Coffee Co.: Need a caffeine fix? This cozy café roasts up some top-notch beans from the mountains of Oaxaca. Plus, they’ve got treats for the gluten-free and dairy-free crowd.
Mount Solmar: Lace up your hiking boots and head up Mount Solmar for epic views of Cabo. It’s an easy hike with killer sunset vistas – perfect for showing off on Instagram.
Cabo Zipline and Rappelling: Get your adrenaline pumping as you zip through the air and rappel down cliffs. It’s like being in an action movie, but with better scenery.
Cabo Wabo Cantina: Rock out at this legendary spot founded by Sammy Hagar himself. With live music, tequila flowing, and maybe even a table-dancing sighting, it’s a nightlife experience you won’t forget.
Each activity offers a unique and unforgettable experience for eloping couples in Los Cabos, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Typical Food and Dishes from Los Cabos
Let’s delve into one of the most delightful aspects of Los Cabos – its cuisine! This vibrant coastal region boasts a culinary scene that’s both diverse and delicious. Here are some typical foods and dishes you absolutely must sample during your elopement:
Fish Tacos: Imagine tender, fresh fish, lightly coated in a crispy batter or grilled to perfection. Nestled in a warm tortilla, it’s paired with crunchy cabbage, tangy salsa, and perhaps a drizzle of creamy sauce. Each bite is a symphony of textures and flavors, perfectly capturing the essence of Baja California’s culinary scene.
Ceviche: Dive into a bowl of ceviche, where delicate pieces of raw fish are bathed in zesty lime or lemon juices, enhancing their natural sweetness. Mixed with crisp onions, juicy tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and just a hint of fiery chili peppers, it’s a refreshing dish that dances on your taste buds, reminiscent of the salty breeze and crashing waves of Los Cabos.
Shrimp Delights: From classic shrimp cocktails to sizzling garlic shrimp, Los Cabos serves up seafood delights that are nothing short of irresistible. Picture plump, succulent shrimp, grilled to perfection or nestled in a cheesy quesadilla. Each bite is a celebration of the ocean’s bounty, with flavors that transport you to the shores of Mexico.
Mexican-style Grilled Meats (Carne Asada): Close your eyes and picture tender, marinated beef sizzling on the grill, releasing mouthwatering aromas that fill the air. Served alongside warm tortillas, creamy guacamole, zesty salsa, and hearty beans, it’s a feast fit for royalty. Each bite of carne asada is a testament to Mexico’s rich culinary heritage and love affair with grilled meats.
Tama
les: Unwrap a steaming tamale and discover a world of flavor hidden within. The masa, infused with savory goodness, encases a filling of your choice – perhaps tender meats, gooey cheese, or spicy chilies. Wrapped in a corn husk and steamed to perfection, it’s comfort food at its finest, evoking memories of family gatherings and cherished traditions.
Mole: Lose yourself in the depths of mole, a complex sauce that marries the bold flavors of chili peppers with the richness of chocolate and a symphony of spices. Spooned over tender chicken or enchiladas, it’s a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes the palate and leaves you craving more. Each bite is a journey through Mexico’s diverse culinary landscape, with layers of flavor waiting to be discovered.
Chiles Rellenos: Bite into a crisp, golden-brown chile relleno and experience a burst of cheesy goodness, followed by a wave of savory flavors. Whether stuffed with gooey cheese, savory meats, or a medley of vegetables, each bite is a culinary adventure that transports you to the bustling markets and vibrant streets of Mexico.
Mexican Breakfast Favorites: Wake up to the aroma of freshly fried eggs, sizzling on the griddle, ready to be nestled in warm tortillas and smothered in zesty salsa. Or perhaps indulge in a plate of chilaquiles, where crispy tortilla strips are bathed in tangy salsa and topped with creamy cheese and plump eggs. It’s breakfast done the Mexican way – hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.
Fresh Fruit and Agua Frescas: Quench your thirst with a cool glass of agua fresca, bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh tropical fruits. Sip on refreshing watermelon, tangy pineapple, or juicy mango, each sip a taste of paradise. Paired with a plate of freshly sliced fruit, it’s the perfect way to beat the heat and indulge your senses.
Tacos de Marlin: Close your eyes and imagine the salty breeze of the ocean as you bite into a taco de marlin. Grilled marlin, perfectly seasoned and nestled in warm tortillas, is topped with crunchy cabbage, zesty salsa, and creamy avocado. Each bite is a taste of coastal paradise, with flavors that transport you to the sun-drenched beaches of Los Cabos.
From casual beachside eateries to upscale dining establishments, Los Cabos offers a culinary adventure that’s sure to satisfy your appetite and leave you craving more. So dig in, savor the flavors, and enjoy every delicious moment of your elopement!
How Much Does It Cost to Elope in Los Cabos?
High-End Elopement 10k Budget: For couples seeking luxury, anticipate investing in premium experiences, exquisite accommodations, and personalized services to ensure every aspect of your elopement is nothing short of extraordinary.
Standard Elopement 5k Budget: Opting for a standard budget allows you to enjoy Los Cabos’ beauty without exceeding your financial means. Look for mid-range experiences and vendors that offer quality service at a reasonable price point.
Low-End Elopement 3k Budget: Even with a modest budget, you can still have a beautiful elopement in Los Cabos. Consider alternative experiences, DIY options, and support from local vendors to create cherished memories while keeping costs manageable.
Los Cabos Elopement Timeline Example
Here’s a sample timeline for a 4-hour elopement session:
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Preparation
– Bride and groom get ready separately.
– Photographer captures candid moments of preparation, such as getting dressed, putting on accessories, and final touches.
3:30 PM – 4:00 PM: First Look
– Bride and groom have their first look at each other in a private location.
– Photographer captures the emotional moment and reactions.
4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Ceremony
– Bride and groom exchange vows and rings in a scenic outdoor location or intimate indoor setting.
– Photographer documents the ceremony, including the couple’s emotions, guests (if any), and the surroundings.
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Portraits
– Bride and groom take portraits together at various locations, capturing their love and the beauty of the surroundings.
– Photographer directs poses and captures candid moments.
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Adventure Shots
– Couple embarks on a short adventure session, exploring unique or picturesque spots nearby.
– Photographer captures candid moments of the couple’s interactions and the surrounding landscape.
6:30 PM: End of Session
– Photographer concludes the session, saying farewell to the couple.
– Couple may choose to continue celebrating privately or have other plans for the remainder of the day.
This timeline allows for a mix of candid, intimate, and adventurous moments, capturing the essence of the elopement within a 4-hour timeframe.
Los Cabos Elopement Photography Packages
Are you ready to capture every precious moment of your Los Cabos elopement? Discover my photography packages, meticulously crafted to cater to your needs and budget. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony or a grand elopement, I am committed to capturing your love story with creative finesse and meticulous care. Take a look at our packages!
Pin for Later
Congratulations, you’ve reached the end! I trust you found our guide helpful! Before you go, make sure to bookmark these images to your Pinterest board. This way, you can conveniently revisit this guide whenever necessary during your elopement planning process.
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