Getting Married at Sunscape Dorado Pacifico: ULTIMATE GUIDE

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Dreaming of a vibrant wedding where the golden sands meet the sparkling waters of the Pacific in Ixtapa? Welcome to Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa—an exciting, family-friendly all-inclusive resort that offers stunning oceanfront settings, diverse amenities, and seamless service for your special day. With its beautiful beaches, multiple pools, and an array of dining and entertainment options, Sunscape Dorado Pacifico provides a lively yet elegant backdrop for your celebration. Whether you envision a grand ceremony on the sand, a chic reception by the pool, or a sophisticated indoor banquet, this expansive venue promises a wedding experience as vibrant as its spectacular sunsets.

Renowned for its Unlimited-Fun® concept and attentive staff, Sunscape Dorado Pacifico seamlessly blends relaxation with exciting activities. Its exquisite event areas—from pristine beach locations to elegant terraces and versatile ballrooms—are designed to reflect your unique love story, all while showcasing the captivating beauty of Ixtapa. Let the natural splendor and comprehensive amenities of this resort set the stage for your dream wedding.

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

Index

Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?

 

Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa stands out for its prime beachfront location in Ixtapa, offering direct views of the Pacific Ocean and stunning sunsets, combined with the convenience of an all-inclusive resort. The venue’s vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere, multiple pools, and diverse dining options create a lively yet comfortable environment perfect for destination weddings. Couples seeking a full-service, stress-free wedding experience with a variety of activities and amenities for guests of all ages will find Sunscape Dorado Pacifico provides a picturesque and comprehensive setting.

Recent guest surveys indicate that **couples increasingly prioritize convenience, value, and a wide array of amenities for their guests**. With its beautiful blend of coastal beauty and resort comforts, and a focus on attentive service within an all-inclusive framework, Sunscape Dorado Pacifico offers a truly distinctive backdrop for your wedding photos and a memorable escape for your guests.

 

How Does a Wedding at Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Work?

 

Planning your wedding at Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa is designed to be a streamlined and personalized process. Their dedicated on-site wedding coordination team guides you through every step, ensuring your vision is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail. The resort offers various pre-designed wedding packages, which can be further customized, including everything from ceremony setup and gourmet catering to professional coordination and vendor management, all integrated into the all-inclusive experience.

This comprehensive support means you can relax and savor the moments while the resort handles the logistics, allowing you to focus on celebrating your love in a beautiful, stress-free environment, with all your guests enjoying the resort’s amenities.

 

Best Months to Get Married

 

Ixtapa-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.

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 within the resort’s many covered venues.

 

The Basics of Wedding Arrangements

 

Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa offers thoughtfully designed wedding packages tailored to various styles and sizes. These typically include:

  • Ceremony Setup: Options for beachfront ceremonies, garden gazebos, or elegant terrace settings, with customizable décor.
  • Reception Venues: Diverse spaces including beach, pool terraces, garden areas, and air-conditioned ballrooms suitable for various guest counts.
  • Catering: Extensive gourmet cuisine, often a blend of international and Mexican flavors, with options for plated dinners, buffet, or cocktail receptions, all expertly prepared by the resort’s culinary team.
  • Decor and Floral Arrangements: Collaboration with the resort’s preferred vendors for beautiful floral designs and decor that complement the resort’s aesthetic and your personal style.
  • Entertainment: Assistance with coordinating music (DJ, live bands) and other entertainment, often with sound systems provided by the resort.

These arrangements are part of comprehensive packages and can be customized extensively to perfectly align with your dream wedding.

 

Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?

 

In destination weddings at Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa, typically:

  • The couple covers the primary wedding package costs, which include the ceremony setup, reception catering, open bar, and coordination services.
  • Guests are usually responsible for their own travel and all-inclusive accommodation costs, though the resort often provides special group rates or room blocks.
  • The couple might choose to host additional events, like a welcome cocktail party or farewell brunch, often covering those costs for their guests as part of an enhanced package.
  • Extra expenses for upgraded decor, premium entertainment, or pre/post-wedding activities beyond the standard package are typically the couple’s responsibility.
  • Gift registries or contributions towards resort experiences are common, allowing guests to contribute in meaningful ways while enjoying the all-inclusive benefits.

This structure allows the couple to tailor the main event while guests enjoy a comprehensive vacation package.

 

Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations

 

Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa features versatile spaces suitable for a wide range of wedding sizes, from intimate gatherings to large celebrations:

  • Main Event Spaces (e.g., Beach, Pool Terrace, Ballrooms): Can accommodate from 20 to 300+ guests, depending on the chosen venue and setup. The beach is popular for larger ceremonies, while ballrooms offer flexibility for receptions.
  • Ceremony Areas: Multiple picturesque spots like the main beach, a designated garden gazebo, or an oceanfront terrace, perfect for ceremonies up to several hundred guests.
  • Entire Property Accommodations: As a full-service resort, Sunscape Dorado Pacifico offers hundreds of rooms and suites for guests, ensuring convenient on-site lodging for everyone. Group booking benefits are often available.

The resort provides a large number of comfortable rooms and suites, many with ocean views, ensuring all your guests can stay together and enjoy the convenience of the all-inclusive experience throughout your wedding celebration.

Ceremony and Reception Logistics

Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa’s dedicated wedding team expertly manages the flow of your day from saying “I do” to your final dance. A typical sequence might look like this:

Beachfront Ceremony: Exchange vows on the golden sands of Ixtapa with the Pacific Ocean as your stunning backdrop, perhaps under a beautifully decorated arch or gazebo.

Cocktail Hour: Guests enjoy premium cocktails and an array of appetizers by one of the resort’s pools, on a scenic terrace, or in a vibrant garden area, as the sun dips below the horizon.

Elegant Reception: Move to a dedicated reception area—a grand ballroom, an elegant outdoor terrace, or a stunning beach setup—for a delicious plated dinner or gourmet buffet, heartfelt toasts, and vibrant celebration with music and dancing.

Pro tip: Leverage the resort’s diverse settings. Consider a beachfront ceremony, a sophisticated cocktail hour on an upper-level terrace for panoramic views, and an indoor reception for extended dancing and climate control. Discuss lighting and sound options with your coordinator for each space.

What’s Included in the Wedding Package Fee?

Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa offers various wedding packages, each with a comprehensive set of inclusions. While specific details vary by package tier (e.g., complimentary, silver, gold, platinum), core inclusions typically cover:

  • Dedicated Wedding Coordinator: An on-site expert to assist with all wedding details from planning to execution.
  • Ceremony Setup: Basic décor for the chosen ceremony location (e.g., chairs, aisle runner, arch/gazebo).
  • Minister/Officiant: Services of a symbolic officiant (legal ceremonies require additional paperwork and fees).
  • Cocktail Hour: Private cocktail reception with open bar and appetizers for a set duration.
  • Reception Dinner: Private dinner reception with a choice of menus (plated or buffet) and open bar service.
  • Wedding Cake: A beautifully designed wedding cake for the couple and guests.
  • Sound System: Basic sound system for the ceremony and reception (microphones, background music).
  • Room Upgrades & Amenities: Often includes complimentary room upgrades for the couple, sparkling wine, and fruit basket upon arrival, and special turndown service.
  • Complimentary Nights: For certain packages or guest counts, the couple may receive complimentary nights for future stays.

Remember that enhancements like premium liquor, elaborate floral installations, specialty lighting, or professional DJ services are usually additional costs, coordinated through your wedding planner or the resort’s recommended vendors.

Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies

The Pacific coast of Guerrero, including Ixtapa, can experience tropical rain, especially during the wet season (June-October). Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa is well-equipped with multiple covered and indoor spaces, such as elegant ballrooms, versatile meeting rooms, and covered terraces, that can serve as beautiful and seamless backup venues for ceremonies or receptions if weather is inclement. This ensures your celebration remains magical and uninterrupted, regardless of the forecast.

Pro tip: During your site visit or initial consultation, discuss the backup options for both your ceremony and reception. Confirm their aesthetic appeal and capacity to ensure they align with your vision, even if they are just contingency plans. The resort’s robust infrastructure ensures a smooth transition if needed.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies

Booking your wedding at Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa involves a standard payment structure typical of large resorts:

Initial Deposit: A non-refundable deposit, often ranging from $500–$5,000 USD (or a percentage of the total package), is required to confirm your date and wedding package.

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

Final Payment: The remaining balance is usually due approximately 30-45 days before the wedding date, based on final guest counts and selections.

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

On-Site Wedding Coordination and Planning Services

Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa boasts a professional, in-house wedding coordination team dedicated to ensuring your special day is flawless. Their comprehensive services typically include:

Dedicated Wedding Coordinator: A primary point of contact from initial inquiry through to the wedding day, guiding you through every decision.

Vendor Liaison: Assistance with selecting and coordinating trusted resort-approved local vendors for photography, music, flowers, additional décor, and more.

Timeline Creation & Management: Developing a detailed schedule for the entire wedding event, including pre- and post-wedding activities, and ensuring everything runs smoothly and on time.

Ceremony Rehearsal: Guiding your wedding party through the ceremony rehearsal at the chosen venue space.

The resort’s team is adept at managing all aspects of a destination wedding, providing invaluable expertise for a stress-free and enjoyable planning experience.

Dietary and Menu Restrictions

Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa, with its extensive culinary infrastructure, is highly capable of accommodating a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. Their diverse restaurants offer international and local cuisine, and the catering team can expertly prepare vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and allergy-specific meals.

Consultations with the resort’s culinary team are typically included, allowing you to tailor the menu precisely to your tastes and guest requirements. You can arrange unique culinary experiences like a fresh seafood station, a gourmet taco bar, specialty cocktail bars, or even a themed dinner at one of their à la carte restaurants to add a distinctive touch to your reception.

Music and Entertainment Restrictions

Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa welcomes various entertainment options, from romantic live musicians and elegant acoustic sets to lively DJs and full bands. As a vibrant resort, they generally have more flexible policies regarding noise levels, especially for events held in designated outdoor areas or indoors.

Outdoor amplified music typically has a curfew, often around 10:00 or 11:00 p.m., depending on the specific venue location within the resort. However, indoor ballrooms or designated event spaces can usually accommodate celebrations extending later into the night. The wedding team can advise on suitable spaces and work with you to ensure your party continues while adhering to resort policies and local regulations.

Parking and Guest Logistics

Most guests will arrive via Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH), which is conveniently located approximately a 20-minute drive from Sunscape Dorado Pacifico. To facilitate guest transportation:

Airport Transfers: The resort or your wedding planner can help arrange private or shared shuttle services directly from ZIH. Taxis are also readily available at the airport.

Local Transportation: Movement around Ixtapa is easy via local taxis, colectivos (shared vans), or by using ride-sharing apps. The resort’s concierge can assist with arranging transportation for excursions or local visits.

Parking: Extensive on-site parking is available for guests who choose to rent cars, as is standard for a large resort.

Providing guests with clear instructions on airport arrival, recommended transportation options, and local travel well in advance is highly recommended to ensure a smooth arrival and stay.

Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at Sunscape Dorado Pacifico

For an average wedding of about 50-80 guests at Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa, a rough estimate for your budget might be:

  • Wedding Package Cost: $3,000–$15,000+ USD (depending on the package tier and inclusions, often covering many core services for a base number of guests).
  • Guest Accommodation Costs: (Paid by guests, but relevant for total wedding budget) Varies significantly by season and room type. Expect guests to pay $150-$300+ USD per person per night for the all-inclusive stay.
  • Additional Food and Beverage (beyond package): $80–$150+ USD per person for added private events or upgraded selections. For 70 guests, budget $5,600–$10,500+.
  • Entertainment: $1,500–$5,000+ USD (DJ, live band, specialty acts).
  • Photography/Videography: $3,000–$8,000+ USD (depends on hours, photographers, and deliverables, often with resort-approved vendors).
  • Florals and Enhanced Decor: $1,000–$5,000+ USD (from resort standard to elaborate designs).
  • Taxes and Service Fees: Typically adds 16% VAT plus a 10-15% service charge on top of services not explicitly included in the package. Budget at least 26% of total non-package costs for this.

Total estimated costs for the *wedding event itself* (excluding guest travel/accommodation) could range from $15,000 to $40,000+ USD for a 70-guest wedding, highly dependent on chosen package, customization, and added luxuries. Leveraging the all-inclusive nature helps streamline budgeting.

*Please note: These are estimates. Always obtain a customized quote directly from Sunscape Dorado Pacifico’s wedding team or your wedding planner.*

Splurge vs. Save

To save costs, consider a complimentary package (often for a certain number of room nights booked), an off-season wedding, simplifying decor to utilize the resort’s inherent beauty, or opting for a buffet meal. To splurge, consider upgrading to a premium package, extending your reception time, hiring a renowned live band, arranging a private fire show on the beach, a gourmet tasting menu with wine pairings, or exclusive spa treatments for the bridal party.

Wedding Packages and What’s Included

Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa offers a range of tiered wedding packages designed for various budgets and preferences, making planning straightforward. Common inclusions across their packages might be:

  • Dedicated Wedding Coordinator: Your personal guide throughout the planning process and on the wedding day.
  • Ceremony Venue & Basic Setup: Choice of a beautiful location (beach, gazebo, terrace) with chairs and a decorated arch/gazebo.
  • Symbolic Officiant: Services of a symbolic minister for your ceremony.
  • Bridal Bouquet & Groom’s Boutonniere: Standard floral arrangements.
  • Wedding Cake: A single-tier or multi-tier wedding cake.
  • Cocktail Hour: Private reception with domestic open bar and appetizers for a set duration (e.g., 1 hour).
  • Private Dinner Reception: Choice of plated or buffet dinner for a set duration (e.g., 3 hours) with domestic open bar.
  • Sparkling Wine Toast: For the couple and guests during the ceremony or reception.
  • Sound System: Basic sound system with a microphone for the ceremony and reception.
  • Special Touches for the Couple: Room upgrades, late checkout, breakfast in bed, romantic turndown service, and anniversary night certificates (terms apply).

Pro tip: Review each package carefully to understand included guest counts and upgrade options. Sometimes, booking a certain number of guest room nights can unlock a complimentary wedding package, offering significant value.

Activities for Other Days

Keep your guests entertained throughout their stay at Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa and the surrounding area:

  • Encourage guests to enjoy the resort’s Unlimited-Fun® amenities: multiple swimming pools, daily activities, live entertainment, and non-motorized water sports.
  • Organize a welcome dinner at one of the resort’s specialty restaurants or a casual beach BBQ.
  • Book a group excursion: a catamaran cruise to Ixtapa Island for snorkeling, a fishing trip, or an ATV tour through the jungle.
  • Guests can explore the shops and restaurants of Ixtapa’s hotel zone, or take a short taxi ride to Zihuatanejo to experience its charming fishing village atmosphere, local markets, and beautiful bay.
  • Arrange a spa day for the bridal party at the resort’s spa, or a group yoga session by the ocean.
  • Take advantage of nearby golf courses or tennis courts.

Three Practical Tips for Brides

1) Leverage the All-Inclusive: Maximize the value of Sunscape Dorado Pacifico by encouraging guests to arrive a few days early and enjoy the full range of amenities—pools, restaurants, and entertainment. This turns your wedding into a complete vacation experience for everyone.

2) Trust Your Coordinator: The resort’s wedding team specializes in handling every detail. Be open about your vision, but trust their expertise in navigating local vendors, logistics, and resort policies, allowing you to relax and enjoy the process.

3) Plan for the Sun and Fun: Ixtapa is warm and vibrant. For your wedding attire, consider lighter fabrics and a style that is comfortable for the climate. Remember sunscreen for outdoor activities and embrace the festive, lively atmosphere for your celebration.

Two Bride Reviews

“Our wedding at Sunscape Dorado Pacifico was everything we dreamed of and more! The resort staff were incredibly attentive, and our wedding coordinator made planning from afar completely stress-free. Our guests raved about the delicious food, the beautiful beachfront ceremony, and how much fun they had with all the activities available. It was the perfect blend of relaxation and celebration.” – Jessica M.

“Choosing Sunscape Dorado Pacifico for our destination wedding was the best decision. The resort’s all-inclusive concept meant our guests were completely taken care of, and the variety of dining options kept everyone happy. The beach ceremony was breathtaking, and the reception on the terrace overlooking the ocean was just magical. The wedding team handled every detail perfectly, allowing us to truly enjoy our special day.” – Sarah L.

My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Photographer

Having photographed weddings across Mexico, Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa offers a dynamic and visually rich setting for wedding photography. The expansive beachfront provides endless opportunities for stunning sunset portraits, while the resort’s multiple pools, lush gardens, and varied architectural elements offer diverse backdrops for creative shots. The sheer size and amenities of a resort like Sunscape mean there’s always something vibrant happening, allowing for candid captures of guests enjoying themselves. From elegant ballroom details to lively pool celebrations and romantic beach ceremonies, the resort facilitates a wide range of photographic styles. If you’re envisioning a wedding that combines a grand scale with ease of planning, luxurious amenities for your guests, and a vibrant atmosphere, Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa is an excellent choice. It photographs with a lively, elegant, and truly memorable feel, capturing the joy and celebration of your special day against the stunning Pacific backdrop.

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