When Canadian couples picture a destination wedding, Mexico often tops the list — and not just for its convenience. While the Mayan Riviera gets a lot of attention, Mexico’s Pacific Coast offers a different kind of magic: golden-hour light, mountain-meets-ocean backdrops, and an artsy, off-the-beaten-path energy you won’t find elsewhere.

Here’s what you need to know about planning a destination wedding on Mexico’s west coast — including the best locations, pros, cons, and photographer insight.

Top Pacific Coast Wedding Destinations

Puerto Vallarta

• Classic beach-meets-colonial charm
• Known for vibrant sunsets and mountain views
• Larger resorts and boutique hotels available

Sayulita

• Bohemian surf town vibe
• Great for intimate, artistic weddings
• Popular with creative couples and adventure-seekers

Cabo San Lucas

• Desert meets the ocean — bold and dramatic
• High-end resorts and stunning rocky cliffs
• Best for luxury weddings and larger groups

Why Canadian Couples Choose the Pacific Coast

Unbeatable Sunsets

West-facing beaches mean you’ll get golden-hour light that’s warm, rich, and perfect for portraits.

Photographer Insight:
“If sunset portraits matter to you, this is the coast to be on. The light in Sayulita is unreal — soft, colourful, and cinematic.”

If golden-hour portraits are important to you, consider scheduling a day-after session at your destination wedding to make the most of the light.

Diverse Landscapes

From lush mountains to cactus-dotted coastlines, the west coast gives you:

• More photo variety
• Opportunities for off-resort portraits
• Unique textures and tones that differ from the white-sand east

Culture & Charm

• Many towns have real character: think cobblestones, murals, and street music
• Local markets, tacos, and tequila tastings add personality to your celebration
• Less “resort bubble,” more opportunity to connect with the destination

Direct Flights from Canada

• Major hubs like Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto offer non-stop flights
• Puerto Vallarta and Cabo have well-connected airports

Want a wedding that reflects more than just resort luxury? Read our guide on how to plan an all-inclusive destination wedding to learn how to blend fun, logistics, and authentic experiences.

Potential Challenges to Consider

Rougher Surf

Not all beaches are swimmable — important if your guests include young kids.
Portraits on the sand? Gorgeous. Swimming? Maybe not.

Planning a beach session? Why You Should Bring a Canadian Photographer explains how local knowledge can help navigate tricky conditions for the best photos.

More Travel Once You Land

• Sayulita and smaller towns may require extra transport from the airport
• Roads can be windy and bumpy — not ideal for all guests

Make sure your destination wedding timeline builds in time for travel, portraits, and golden hour — not just ceremony logistics.

Weather

• Pacific hurricane season runs May–October
• Best time to go: November through April

Ideal for Couples Who…

• Want golden-hour portraits over white-sand minimalism
• Care about authentic culture and scenery
• Don’t mind trading resort convenience for visual character
• Are open to adventure and charm over polish