Because timing is everything when you’re saying “I do” in paradise.
So, you’ve already decided on a tropical all-inclusive resort for the backdrop of your big day, amazing! But, now comes the million-dollar question: When is the best time of year to get married in Mexico or the Caribbean?
There is no easy answer to this, as not all months are created equal. From tourist-filled dry seasons to hurricane curveballs, the date you pick will shape everything from the vibe of your photos to how much your guests pay for airfare. Let’s break it down so you can stop stressing and start dreaming of that tall margarita by the pool!
Why Timing Matters More Than You Think
Your wedding date is a domino effect. Weather, resort pricing, guest availability, and even sargassum seaweed (yes, that’s a thing) all tie together to determine when the best time of year is to get married. High season means picture-perfect weather but also peak pricing and limited availability and lots of tourists. Low season means better deals and fewer crowds, but you’ll want a solid backup plan for rain or storms. Then there’s the middle ground which is called shoulder season and is my personal favorite, where you get the best of both worlds.
Find out more factors that you need to consider when picking the perfect destination wedding date here.
Month-by-Month: What You Can Expect
January–March: Peak Season
This is the “Instagram highlight reel” time of year with sunny skies, low humidity, and gorgeous beach days. But be warned, everyone wants in on this. Expect packed resorts, peak pricing, and limited room availability.
Best for: Couples who value reliable weather over budget. I recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.
April–June: The Shoulder Season
This is my favorite time of year for a destination wedding in Mexico or the Caribbean. Why you may ask!? Prices dip, crowds thin out, and the weather is still fabulous (with just the occasional rain shower).
Best for: Couples who want beautiful scenery but flexibility, and some budget breathing room.
July–October: Hurricane Season
Not my first choice because it is often hot and humid. As a result, storms are a real possibility. But, resorts get competitive this time of year, which means major perks and discounts. If you’re adventurous and flexible, this can still be a win. Just make sure you have travel insurance and a resort with a solid Plan B venue.
Best for: Budget-savvy couples who don’t mind a little weather roulette.
November–December: Holiday Season
I personally think November is underrated. This is when the dry season kicks in, prices are fairly reasonable, and beaches are gorgeous. Early December can be great too, but be sure to book before holiday surcharges skyrocket in the last two weeks of December.
Best for: Couples who want festive vibes without the full chaos of Christmas week.
Region-Specific Considerations
Destination Weddings in Mexico
- Caribbean side (Cancun, Riviera Maya): Gorgeous beaches but storm-prone from July–October. Also, the hardest hit by sargassum seaweed during the warmer months (typically April–October).
- If pristine beach photos are a priority, make sure your resort is known for beach maintenance or consider a different region altogether.
- Pacific side (Puerto Vallarta, Cabo): No sargassum here (big win!), but hurricane threats still exist. Yes, even Cabo has had weddings canceled during storm season. Don’t assume it’s risk-free, always have a solid Plan B and travel insurance.
Destination Weddings in The Caribbean
- Every island has its own microclimate. Aruba, for instance, sits outside the hurricane belt.
- Some (like Jamaica or St. Lucia) are lush and romantic but wetter in summer/fall.
- Sargassum Season Alert: During warmer months (typically April–October), sargassum seaweed can pile up on beaches throughout the Caribbean.
- If a picture-perfect beach ceremony is your dream, make sure to pick a destination and resort where this isn’t a known issue, or has daily cleanup crews that stay on top of it.
- If a picture-perfect beach ceremony is your dream, make sure to pick a destination and resort where this isn’t a known issue, or has daily cleanup crews that stay on top of it.
Destination Weddings in The Dominican Republic
- Similar patterns to Cancun
- High season from December–April
- Hurricane season from August–October
- Offers excellent value for guests and stunning beach setups.
Don’t Forget About Your Guests
Sure, you might be happy to tie the knot in September, but your cousin with school-aged kids may not be thrilled about pulling them out of class. Flight prices, holiday schedules, and vacation days all come into play. I always recommend providing your guests with 9–12 months notice to help make group bookings easy. Your sanity will thank you.
Best Time of Year to Get Married From A Travel Advisor Perspective
Here’s my Goldilocks recommendation:
- Late April through early June = warm weather, fewer crowds, better pricing
- Mid-November to early December = post-hurricane calm, before holiday rush
Months to Avoid (if possible):
- September: peak hurricane risk + slow resort season
- Spring Break (March): unless you want college party vibes in your wedding photos
That said… I’ve planned gorgeous weddings in every month. It’s all about the right resort, backup plans, and realistic expectations.
And if you’re wondering what could go wrong (and how to handle it like a pro), check out this no-nonsense post: What To Do When Things Go Wrong During Your Destination Wedding. Because being prepared is part of planning stress-free.
Ready To Begin Planning Without The Stress?
Choosing your wedding date shouldn’t feel like decoding a weather forecast. I’ve visited more than 200 resorts and know which ones shine and which ones flop, no matter the season. If you’re ready to find the best time of year to get married at an all-inclusive resort, let’s chat. Your wedding deserves to be stress-free, beautiful, and perfectly timed.
GET YOUR FREE VACATION CONSULTATION!
Ready to plan your next epic all-inclusive getaway? Snag your spot now for a no-obligation consultation call with Kathryn at KP Travel Group. I can’t wait to hear all about your vacation plans!
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