Tulum, Mexico is the perfect place to plan an elopement. Best known for white sandy beaches, crystal blue water, and of course Mezcal. This coastal oasis is a great place to escape those winter blues and feel like you’ve jumped right back to summer. In this post I will share with you some of my favorite tips to help you elope in Tulum, Mexico.
Tulum is only a two drive from the city of Cancun located on the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula. Although if you don’t want to drive or catch a shuttle from the Cancun airport to your accommodations in Tulum I have some good news! There is now an Airport in Tulum making it even easier to enjoy this wonderful place.
Once in Tulum, I highly recommend getting settled into your hotel or vacation style property and then going to grab a bite to eat. There are tons of great places to choose from but I’ll leave you with a few of my favorites below.
Then once your full on taco’s and tequila take some time and explore the cute shops. This might also be the perfect time to head back to your accommodations and take a nap or perhaps take a dip in the pool. Since you’ll have a week full of fun ahead of you!
When it comes to tying the knot in Mexico, it is best to do all paper work first. Which includes filing for your marriage license. In the United States, each state has its own set of requirements. So it’s best to check your state government details for additional information.
Once all paperwork is filed you’ll be legally married in the U.S. but you’ll host your event in Mexico. Which means that you don’t have to miss out on an elopement ceremony experience if you don’t want to. This route is the easiest for those coming from the U.S but you can also apply for one in Mexico. The process is just a little more tedious and time consuming.
When it comes to planning an elopement in Tulum, Mexico there isn’t a shortage of places to choose from. Whether your looking to elope on the beach, in the jungle or at your very own private cenote theres a perfect place for you. Some of my favorite locations will be listed for you to explore below.
ESPACIO CHECHEN (Best of the jungle)
A private paradise in Tulum.
Known for its lush and vibrant green palm trees. It’s a beautiful place to escape from all the tourist filled locations. A perfect place for you and closest friends and family to celebrate your special day!
Nest Tulum (Best of Jungle, beach and hotel/vacation rental)
An elevated and authentic Mexico experience.
For all the lovers of minimalistic style this location is for you. Complete with beachfront property and a private garden this location is sure to turn a few heads.
K-NAJ Community (Best of cenote’s)
Incredible rental properties.
A wonderful place for those looking to both stay and play. This vacation rental sports a wonderful private cenote perfect for those wanting a more intimate celebration.
Boho Tulum (best hotels/vacation rentals)
Bohemian styled rental property.
Prepare to be amazed by all the beautiful architecture of this home away from home. A wonderful place for you and all your guests to stay during all the elopement festivities.
Hacienda 21 Tulum (best hotels/vacation rentals)
Luxury design made for family, friends and groups
A minimalist design property complete with a pool and garden. Ready for all your pre and post elopement activities. This rental property has the best light which is every photographers dream when it comes to photos.
Quiet and tropical.
White sandy beaches and crystal clear ocean waters are what await at Soy Tulum Beach Club. Have your elopement ceremony on the beach and then spend the day sipping on water out of coconuts.
The best time to visit Tulum is between November and February. This is the perfect time because it’s post rainy season and the temperatures are little more mild. During this time you are also less likely to experience the massive mounds of seaweed on the beach. Which bring with them many mosquitoes!
Just like with any type of destination elopement you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need with you. I always recommend flying with all elopement related with you inside your carry on. Just in case for some reason your checked baggage gets lost.
Below you can find a quick list that you can refer back on while packing for your trip.
There is truly so much to see and explore in Tulum so why not try and experience a lot of it. Having an all day elopement means that you can incorporate different locations, adventures and so much more into your day. It also allows you to have time on your side. Which means that your memories will feel less rushed and you’ll be free to enjoy the experience.
Your day could look like this; a morning ceremony on the beach, horse back riding in the jungle, drinks in a cabana, private dinner at your vacation rental and finally ending the day with dip in the pool.
A once in a lifetime adventure made for two is a great way to celebrate eloping in Mexico. If you’re looking for some fun activities you can find just a few below.
I could not be more excited for you! You are going to love Tulum, I just know it! And if your still searching for a photographer to help you pull it all together and photograph your day I would love to hear from you!
a wedding and elopement photographer based in Anchorage, Alaska. Obsessed with moments filled with light and love. I'm passionate about capturing moments that are not only meaningful but true to you and your story.
I specialize in intimate weddings and elopements for couples who value experiences over possessions. My work is warm and romantic with a dash of filmy nostalgia that focuses deeply on capturing images filled with emotion.