Getting Married at Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo: ULTIMATE GUIDE

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Dreaming of a wedding where timeless elegance meets the captivating beauty of the Pacific in Zihuatanejo? Welcome to Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo—an exquisite beachfront oasis offering unparalleled luxury and authentic Mexican charm in the heart of Zihuatanejo Bay. With its stunning ocean vistas, lush tropical gardens, and a sophisticated, yet welcoming atmosphere, Casa del Mar provides an unparalleled backdrop for your special day. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony on the sand or a grand reception overlooking the bay, this exquisite venue promises a wedding experience as unforgettable as its spectacular sunsets.

Renowned for its beautifully appointed suites and villas, and a deeply relaxing, upscale atmosphere, Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo seamlessly blends traditional Mexican architecture with modern luxury. Its exquisite event areas—from private beachfront terraces to elegant garden settings—are designed to reflect your unique love story, all while showcasing the captivating beauty of Zihuatanejo. Let the natural splendor and exclusive charm of this venue set the stage for your dream wedding.

Planning your perfect wedding in Zihuatanejo? Explore some of the best wedding photos in Zihuatanejo in this stunning destination, showcasing breathtaking moments captured in paradise. 

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Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?

 

Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo stands out for its breathtaking beachfront location directly on Zihuatanejo Bay, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and stunning sunsets. The venue’s luxurious and meticulously maintained design, featuring elegant suites, lush gardens, and direct access to a serene beach, creates a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere perfect for destination weddings. Couples seeking an upscale, elegant, yet authentically Mexican beach wedding experience, with exceptional service and exquisite culinary offerings, will find Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo provides an unparalleled picturesque and charming setting.

Recent guest surveys indicate that **couples increasingly prioritize unique, intimate settings and personalized guest experiences**. With its beautiful blend of natural coastal grandeur and refined local style, and a focus on attentive, high-end service, Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo offers a truly distinctive backdrop for your wedding photos and a memorable escape for your guests.

 

How Does a Wedding at Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo Work?

 

Planning your wedding at Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo is designed to be a luxurious and seamless process. Their dedicated on-site wedding planning team guides you through every step, ensuring your vision is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail and personalized service. The venue offers flexible event spaces and bespoke wedding arrangements that can include everything from ceremony setup and gourmet catering to professional coordination and vendor management.

This comprehensive support means you can relax and savor the moments while the venue expertly handles all logistics, allowing you to focus on celebrating your love in a beautiful, stress-free environment.

 

Best Months to Get Married

 

Zihuatanejo enjoys warm weather year-round, but the best months for a wedding are typically from November to May. This period offers pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The drier season also provides consistent, beautiful natural light for photography, making the golden hours truly spectacular over Zihuatanejo Bay.

Marrying during these months ensures optimal weather, while the summer/fall season (June-October) can be more humid and prone to afternoon showers, potentially offering cost savings but requiring stronger backup plans.

 

The Basics of Wedding Arrangements

 

Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo offers meticulously designed wedding arrangements tailored to various styles and sizes, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. These typically include:

  • Ceremony Setup: Options for beachfront ceremonies on the soft sand of Zihuatanejo Bay, lush garden ceremonies, or elegant terrace settings, with sophisticated decor tailored to your style.
  • Reception Venues: Versatile ocean-view spaces, including elegant beachfront terraces, refined dining areas, and expansive garden settings, perfect for an unforgettable celebration.
  • Catering: Gourmet culinary experiences crafted by their in-house chefs, emphasizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, exquisite seafood, and authentic Mexican flavors, with options for plated dinners, sophisticated buffets, or interactive food stations.
  • Decor and Floral Arrangements: Collaboration with top local florists and designers for luxurious, tropical floral designs and decor that complement the venue’s elegance and your personal aesthetic.
  • Entertainment: Assistance with coordinating high-quality music (from romantic acoustic sets and traditional Mariachi to lively DJs and full bands) and other entertainment to create the perfect ambiance.

These arrangements serve as a foundation and can be customized extensively to perfectly align with your dream wedding, ensuring every detail is flawlessly executed.

 

Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?

 

In destination weddings at Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo, typically:

  • The couple covers the primary wedding costs, such as the venue rental or buyout, gourmet catering, and comprehensive wedding planning services.
  • Guests are usually responsible for their own travel and accommodation, although Casa del Mar offers luxurious on-site lodging, and the venue can assist with group rates for guests.
  • The couple might choose to host additional events, like a sophisticated welcome dinner, a pre-wedding cocktail reception, or a farewell brunch, covering those costs for their guests.
  • Extra expenses for personalized luxury decor, enhanced entertainment, or exclusive pre/post-wedding excursions are typically the couple’s responsibility.
  • Gift registries or contributions towards travel/experiences are common, allowing guests to contribute in meaningful ways while enjoying the destination.

This structure allows the couple to tailor a high-end main event while guests manage their personal travel arrangements, with the convenience of on-site accommodation options.

 

Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations

 

Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo features versatile and elegant spaces suitable for intimate to large-scale weddings:

  • Main Event Spaces (e.g., Beachfront Terraces, Grand Palapa, Garden Lawn): Ideal for weddings ranging from 50 to 150+ guests, depending on the specific area and setup.
  • Beachfront Ceremony Area: Perfect for ceremonies up to 200 guests, offering stunning Zihuatanejo Bay views and direct access to the sand.
  • Entire Property Buyout: For ultimate exclusivity and privacy, the entire property can often be booked, making it perfect for multi-day wedding celebrations where guests stay on-site in luxurious comfort.

The venue itself boasts a selection of charming and comfortable suites and villas, many with ocean views, providing luxurious on-site accommodations for the wedding party and closest guests. For additional guests, Zihuatanejo offers a wide array of boutique hotels, luxury resorts, and rental villas within close proximity, and Casa del Mar’s team can assist with recommendations and group arrangements.

Ceremony and Reception Logistics

Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo’s expert wedding planning team expertly manages the flow of your day from saying “I do” to your final dance. A typical sequence might look like this:

Beachfront or Garden Ceremony: Exchange vows on the pristine sands of Zihuatanejo Bay or amidst the lush, beautifully manicured tropical gardens, with the Pacific Ocean or vibrant flora as your stunning backdrop, perhaps under a sophisticated arch or custom setup.

Sunset Cocktail Hour: Guests enjoy exquisite craft cocktails and gourmet appetizers on an elegant terrace overlooking the bay, as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors.

Grand Reception: Move to a dedicated reception area, such as a luxurious al fresco dining space on a grand terrace or a refined indoor venue, for a delectable multi-course meal, heartfelt toasts, and an unforgettable celebration with dancing.

Pro tip: Embrace the venue’s unparalleled connection to Zihuatanejo Bay. Consider a ‘bay-view elegant’ theme, incorporate local artisan touches, and let the dramatic natural beauty of the bay be your primary decor focus for breathtaking photos.

What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?

While specific inclusions vary based on the chosen package and property buyout, the core venue fee or wedding package at Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo typically includes:

  • Exclusive Use of Property: Often, Casa del Mar offers full property buyouts for larger weddings, ensuring complete privacy and exclusive use of designated event areas for the allocated time, which includes on-site luxury accommodation.
  • Premium Setup: Provision of elegant venue furniture, sophisticated table settings, and comprehensive setup for ceremony and reception spaces. Linens, basic decor, and serving ware are usually included.
  • Dedicated Staffing: A full team of professional on-site staff for setup, impeccable service during the event, and efficient cleanup. This often includes dedicated wedding coordinators, servers, and bartenders.
  • Basic Sound System: High-quality sound system available for background music and speeches; recommendations for professional AV rental can be provided for more extensive entertainment needs.

Remember that specialized floral installations, advanced lighting designs, upgraded entertainment, or additional luxury amenities are usually additional costs, coordinated seamlessly with your dedicated wedding planner and the venue.

Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies

The Pacific coast of Guerrero, including Zihuatanejo, can experience tropical rain, especially during the wet season (June-October). Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo is well-equipped with elegant covered areas such as a sophisticated grand palapa, stylish covered terraces, or refined indoor event spaces that can serve as a beautiful and seamless backup for ceremonies or receptions if weather is inclement, ensuring your celebration remains magical and comfortable.

Pro tip: Discuss the backup options in detail during your site visit or initial consultation. Understand where the alternative space is located and ensure it aligns with your vision, even if it’s just a contingency plan. The refined design of Casa del Mar ensures even backup spots are truly beautiful and functional.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies

Booking your wedding at Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo involves a standard payment structure typical for luxury venues:

Initial Deposit: A non-refundable deposit, often ranging from $2,500–$7,500 USD (or a significant percentage of the total package/buyout), is required to secure your date and the venue’s exclusive services.

Scheduled Payments: Further payments are typically scheduled at intervals (e.g., 9, 6, 3, and 1 month prior) to cover estimated costs based on your chosen package, specific arrangements, and confirmed guest count.

Final Payment: The remaining balance is usually due approximately 45-60 days before the wedding date.

Cancellation policies are strict and vary depending on the timing of the cancellation relative to your wedding date. Review your contract carefully and consider comprehensive wedding insurance to protect your investment against unforeseen circumstances.

On-Site Wedding Coordination and Planning Services

Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo provides unparalleled dedicated on-site wedding planning and coordination services, ensuring every aspect of your special day is executed flawlessly. Their expert team typically includes:

Dedicated Wedding Planner: A highly experienced main point of contact who will guide you through every decision, manage all venue-related logistics, and liaise seamlessly with all your chosen vendors.

Vendor Liaison: Comprehensive assistance with selecting and coordinating trusted local and international vendors for photography, videography, entertainment, flowers, custom decor, hair & makeup, and more.

Timeline Creation & Management: Developing a detailed, minute-by-minute schedule for the entire wedding weekend (if applicable) and ensuring everything runs precisely on time. This includes managing setup, guest flow, and transitions.

Rehearsal Coordination: Expertly guiding your wedding party and family through the ceremony rehearsal at the venue to ensure everyone is comfortable and prepared.

Their extensive expertise in executing luxurious, seamless events in the Zihuatanejo setting is invaluable for a truly stress-free and memorable planning experience.

Dietary and Menu Restrictions

Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo, with its highly acclaimed in-house culinary team, is exceptionally capable of accommodating a wide range of dietary needs and preferences, focusing on gourmet experiences. They emphasize fresh, locally-sourced, premium ingredients, specializing in exquisite seafood and refined Mexican cuisine, with extensive flexibility for international dishes and bespoke menus. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, kosher-style, and allergy-specific meals can all be expertly prepared and served with sophistication.

Personalized menu consultations with the Executive Chef are a highlight, allowing you to tailor the menu precisely to your tastes. You can arrange unique culinary experiences like a high-end ceviche and raw bar, a gourmet taco station with artisan tortillas, premium tequila or mezcal tastings, or a sophisticated wine pairing dinner to add a unique, luxurious local touch to your reception.

Music and Entertainment Restrictions

Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo welcomes a wide array of entertainment options, from romantic acoustic sets, traditional Mariachi, and elegant string quartets to vibrant DJs and live bands. As a luxury resort, they have established guidelines to ensure the enjoyment of all guests while respecting the peaceful atmosphere.

Typically, outdoor amplified music may have a curfew, often around 10:00 or 11:00 p.m., depending on the specific event space and local regulations. For celebrations planned to extend late into the night, the venue team can advise on suitable indoor or semi-enclosed spaces with soundproofing, or suggest transitioning to a quieter, more lounge-like ambiance to continue the party without disturbance. Casa del Mar prides itself on facilitating a grand celebration while maintaining its serene charm.

Parking and Guest Logistics

Most guests will arrive via Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH), which is conveniently located approximately a 20-30 minute drive from Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo. To facilitate seamless guest transportation and logistics:

Airport Transfers: The venue’s concierge team or your wedding planner can expertly arrange private luxury transfers, shared shuttle services, or coordinate car rentals directly from ZIH. Taxis are also readily available at the airport.

Local Transportation: Movement around Zihuatanejo is easy by local taxis, water taxis (for exploring the bay and nearby beaches like Las Gatas), or by enjoying leisurely walks, especially along the scenic beachfront promenade. The venue also typically offers valet parking or designated guest parking areas for those who choose to rent cars.

Providing guests with clear, detailed instructions on airport arrival, recommended transportation options, and local travel well in advance is highly recommended for a smooth experience.

Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo

For an average luxury wedding of about 75-120 guests at Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo, a rough estimate for your budget might be:

  • Venue Rental/Buyout Fee: $5,000–$20,000+ USD (often includes exclusive use of primary event spaces for a set duration, and may include some on-site luxury accommodations or suite credits).
  • Food and Beverage (per person): $100–$250+ USD per person. For 100 guests, budget $10,000–$25,000+. This typically includes open bar and multi-course dining.
  • Entertainment: $2,000–$8,000+ USD (professional DJ, live band, Mariachi, special performers).
  • Photography/Videography: $3,500–$10,000+ USD (depends on hours, photographers, drone, and deliverables).
  • Florals and Enhanced Decor: $2,000–$8,000+ USD (leveraging the venue’s elegance with sophisticated tropical designs).
  • Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Often included in higher-tier packages, but independent planners can range from $2,000–$8,000+.
  • Taxes and Service Fees: Typically adds 16% VAT plus a 15-20% service charge on top of services. Budget at least 31-36% of total costs for this.

Total estimated costs could range from $20,000 to $60,000+ USD for a 100-guest wedding, highly dependent on specific buyout terms, premium menu selections, elaborate decor choices, and added luxury amenities. Prioritizing what matters most to you can help manage the budget effectively.

*Please note: These are estimates. Always obtain a customized quote directly from Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo’s dedicated wedding team or your wedding planner.*

Splurge vs. Save

To save costs, consider a weekday wedding, simplifying decor to highlight the venue’s natural elegance, choosing local, seasonal flowers, or opting for a refined buffet or interactive food stations rather than a full plated dinner. Using in-house catering is usually more cost-effective. To splurge, consider hiring a renowned local chef for a bespoke gourmet menu, arranging a spectacular fireworks display over Zihuatanejo Bay, organizing a private yacht cruise for your guests, a premium tequila/mezcal tasting with a sommelier, or elaborate lighting and floral installations to transform the space.

Wedding Arrangements and What’s Included

Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo typically offers a range of comprehensive wedding packages, in addition to bespoke options, designed to simplify planning while ensuring a luxurious experience. Common inclusions in a wedding package or venue buyout might be:

  • Venue Rental/Buyout: Exclusive use of the property or designated premium event areas for a set period (e.g., 1-3 nights), which includes on-site luxury accommodation for the couple and a significant portion of guests.
  • Ceremony Setup: Use of a beautiful ceremony location (beachfront, garden terrace), elegant seating, and a sophisticated arch or chuppah with floral decor.
  • Minister/Officiant: Assistance with arranging services (symbolic or legal, with legal requiring separate paperwork/fees).
  • Cocktail Hour Setup: May include a designated elegant area, premium open bar service, and a selection of gourmet passed appetizers.
  • Reception Catering: Exquisite multi-course dinner (plated, gourmet buffet, or family-style) prepared by the in-house culinary team, often with menu tasting included.
  • Premium Bar Service: Comprehensive open bar packages featuring international spirits, fine wines, local beers, and signature cocktails.
  • Wedding Cake: A beautifully designed custom wedding cake sourced from a trusted local patisserie, with various flavor options.
  • Dedicated On-Site Wedding Planner: Comprehensive planning and day-of coordination services from the venue’s expert team.
  • Basic AV Equipment: Sound system for music and speeches, and perhaps basic lighting.

Pro tip: Booking the entire venue often includes luxurious accommodations, ensuring unparalleled privacy and a more relaxed, extended celebration, making it feel like your own private, opulent estate on Zihuatanejo Bay.

Activities for Other Days

Keep your guests entertained throughout their stay in Zihuatanejo and the surrounding area:

  • Organize a group boat tour of Zihuatanejo Bay, visiting beaches like Playa Las Gatas for snorkeling or Isla Ixtapa for swimming.
  • Book a private fishing charter or a sunset sailing trip on the Pacific.
  • Arrange a sophisticated welcome cocktail reception, a casual gourmet taco night, or a elegant beach bonfire at Casa del Mar.
  • Guests can explore the charming downtown Zihuatanejo, browse artisan shops, or visit the bustling local markets.
  • Arrange adventurous excursions like horseback riding on the beach, exploring nearby hot springs, or even a local cooking class.
  • Indulge in spa treatments, yoga sessions, or simply relax by Casa del Mar’s beautiful pools or on the private beach.

Three Practical Tips for Brides

1) Embrace Sophisticated Coastal Elegance: Zihuatanejo is warm and inviting. Opt for luxurious, breathable fabrics (silk, chiffon, light lace) for your attire, elegant updos or soft waves that complement the bay breeze, and makeup designed to last in a tropical, yet refined, climate. Elegant sandals are perfect for beach ceremonies.

2) Capture the Dramatic Bay Views: Zihuatanejo Bay is famous for its stunning, dramatic sunsets. Time your ceremony or key photo moments like couple’s portraits to coincide with the golden hour for breathtaking, truly magical photos that capture the essence of this unique destination.

3) Stay Hydrated and Savor Every Moment: The tropical climate, combined with celebratory activities, means staying well-hydrated is crucial for everyone’s comfort and enjoyment. Encourage your guests to drink plenty of water. Embrace the relaxed luxury of Zihuatanejo and allow yourself to fully immerse in and enjoy every precious moment of your sophisticated celebration.

Two Bride Reviews

“Our wedding at Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo was simply extraordinary. The elegant beachfront setting with those breathtaking bay views was beyond anything we imagined. The dedicated wedding team made everything feel so personalized and effortlessly perfect, attending to every detail with grace. Our guests were absolutely blown away by the luxurious accommodations, the gourmet food, and the unparalleled service. It truly felt like our own private paradise for the weekend!” – Sarah P.

“We chose Casa del Mar for our destination wedding and it was the best decision we ever made. From the moment we arrived, the service was impeccable, and the property itself is stunning. The ceremony on the beach with the Zihuatanejo Bay sunset as our backdrop was pure magic, and the reception dinner was a culinary masterpiece. Every detail was handled with such professionalism and warmth. Highly, highly recommend Casa del Mar for a truly luxurious and memorable Mexican wedding experience.” – Jessica M.

My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Photographer

Having photographed weddings across Mexico’s most beautiful destinations, Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo offers an exceptionally sophisticated and visually stunning setting for wedding photography. The dramatic beauty of Zihuatanejo Bay, with its iconic sunsets, and the elegant, traditional Mexican architecture of Casa del Mar, provide a wealth of diverse and luxurious backdrops. The direct beachfront access and lush terraced gardens mean golden hour portraits against the Pacific waves, intimate moments amidst vibrant flora, and grand reception shots under the stars are all incredibly impactful. The refined scale of this venue allows for capturing both candid, heartfelt emotions and the sophisticated details of a truly high-end celebration. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that blends classic elegance with authentic Mexican charm and unparalleled natural beauty, Casa del Mar Zihuatanejo is an outstanding choice. It photographs with a rich, vibrant, and timeless feel, reflecting the unique spirit of your opulent special day.

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