Planning a fun-filled, energetic destination wedding on one of Playa del Carmen’s best beaches? Look into Sandos Playacar Beach Resort, a large, popular all-inclusive resort located within the secure Playacar residential and golf community, known for its incredible stretch of white sand and lively atmosphere.
Sandos Playacar is celebrated for its expansive beachfront, multiple swimming pools catering to different vibes (including dedicated family and adults-only areas), extensive activities program, numerous dining options, and diverse room sections (Beachfront, Riviera Family Suites, and the exclusive Select Club Adults Only area). It offers a vibrant, action-packed setting perfect for couples wanting a classic all-inclusive experience with plenty for guests of all ages to do.
Weddings here are managed by the Sandos wedding team, offering a range of packages designed for different tastes and budgets, often utilizing the stunning beach or picturesque garden gazebos as primary venues. Poolside terraces and indoor function spaces are also available. Costs typically reflect its status as a large, well-regarded resort offering good value, potentially ranging from $12,000 to $40,000+ USD for a 50-guest wedding, depending on package selection, chosen room section for guests (Select Club is higher), décor upgrades, and specific event customizations. A wedding at Sandos Playacar promises a lively celebration on a world-class beach.
Capture the elegance of your Playa del Carmen wedding in stunning photos. Check out the finest Playa del Carmen wedding photos to help inspire your celebration.
Index
Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?
How Does a Wedding at Sandos Playacar Work?
Best Months to Get Married
The Basics of Wedding Packages
Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?
Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations (Beach, Riviera, Select Club)
Ceremony and Reception Logistics
What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?
Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies
Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies
On-Site Wedding Coordination & Planning Services
Dietary and Menu Restrictions
Music and Entertainment Restrictions (Playacar Rules)
Parking and Guest Logistics (Playacar Access)
Total Cost Breakdown
Splurge vs. Save
Wedding Packages & Inclusions
Activities for Other Days
Three Practical Tips for Brides
Two Bride Reviews
My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Pro
Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?
Sandos Playacar Beach Resort is an excellent choice for couples looking for a large, lively, family-friendly all-inclusive wedding situated on arguably the best stretch of beach in Playa del Carmen. If your priorities include a stunning beachfront setting, lots of activities and entertainment options for guests of all ages, diverse dining choices, and the convenience of being within the secure Playacar community (close to Playa del Carmen town), Sandos Playacar delivers fantastic value. Its distinct sections allow for some separation (e.g., adults can book into the Select Club). It might be less suitable for couples seeking an intimate boutique feel, ultra-luxury minimalist design, or a very quiet, secluded atmosphere.
The resort’s major selling points are its spectacular wide beach, vibrant atmosphere, extensive activities program, suitability for all ages (with adults-only options), location within Playacar near 5th Avenue, and overall great value proposition. Perfect for a fun, sun-filled, classic Playa del Carmen wedding celebration.
How Does a Wedding at Sandos Playacar Work?
Weddings at Sandos Playacar are coordinated by their dedicated in-house wedding department. The process typically starts by selecting one of their structured wedding packages, which are often designed around specific themes or locations (beach, gazebo) and cater to various budgets. These packages usually bundle core services like the ceremony setup, symbolic officiant, basic floral decor (bouquet/boutonniere), sparkling wine toast, and often a semi-private dinner reservation at one of the resort’s many restaurants. Couples then work with their assigned Sandos wedding coordinator to confirm details, select specific venue locations within the resort, discuss potential upgrades (décor, photography via approved vendors, music), and manage guest accommodations across the different room sections (Beach, Riviera, Select Club) using room blocks. The focus is on providing a well-organized and enjoyable wedding experience leveraging the resort’s extensive facilities and stunning beach.
Best Months to Get Married
Located in Playacar, just south of Playa del Carmen town, Sandos Playacar enjoys the beautiful Riviera Maya climate. The prime season for weddings, offering the most reliable sunshine, comfortable temperatures, calmer seas, and lower humidity, generally runs from late November through April. This period is ideal for maximizing enjoyment of the resort’s famous beach, numerous pools, and outdoor event spaces.
The Basics of Wedding Packages
Sandos Playacar offers a variety of wedding packages designed to provide options for different styles and budgets within their large resort complex. Common elements usually include:
Ceremony: Choice of standard location (stunning beach area, garden gazebo), setup with chairs and package-specific décor, symbolic officiant.
Florals: Typically includes a standard bridal bouquet and groom’s boutonniere matching the package theme.
Toast & Cake: A sparkling wine toast after the ceremony and a basic wedding cake are standard inclusions.
Reception Elements: Often includes a semi-private dinner reservation for the wedding group at one of the à la carte restaurants. Fully private receptions, cocktail hours, or significant upgrades usually require higher-tier packages or additional fees.
Coordinator: On-site Sandos wedding coordinator to manage package inclusions and resort logistics.
Potential Perks: May include simple room decorations, a fruit basket, or small discounts on spa services, sometimes tied to group booking size.
Packages provide a foundation focused on the ceremony and basic celebration elements, with customization available.
Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?
For weddings at the all-inclusive Sandos Playacar Beach Resort:
The couple typically pays for the chosen wedding package and any desired upgrades, customizations, or external vendor services beyond the package.
Guests pay for their travel (flights, transfers) and their all-inclusive stay at the resort, choosing rooms within the appropriate section (Beach, Riviera Family, or Select Club Adults Only). Booking through the couple’s room block is standard practice.
Optional activities and off-site costs such as excursions, shopping on 5th Avenue, spa treatments, or premium dining experiences are paid for individually by guests.
Standard wedding gift etiquette applies.
Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations (Beach, Riviera, Select Club)
Sandos Playacar’s large size offers diverse options:
Beach: The resort boasts one of the widest and most beautiful beaches in Playacar, offering ample space for ceremonies of almost any size.
Garden Gazebo: A picturesque gazebo set within tropical gardens provides a more shaded and intimate ceremony option (capacity likely medium-sized).
Pool Terraces: Various poolside areas, potentially including adults-only or family sections, might be available for cocktail hours or smaller receptions (capacity varies).
Indoor Function Rooms/Theater: The resort likely has indoor meeting spaces or potentially areas within its theater/entertainment venues that can serve as reception locations or backup spaces.
Restaurants: Semi-private areas in various à la carte restaurants are commonly used for post-ceremony dinners included in packages.
Accommodations: Guests choose based on preference and budget:
Beach Section: Standard rooms closer to the beach and main activities.
Riviera Family Section: Suites set further back in a more jungle-like setting, often larger and suited for families, closer to the water park.
Select Club Adults Only: An exclusive section with upgraded rooms, private pool, lounge, restaurant, and beach area for guests 18+.
Ceremony and Reception Logistics
Navigating the large Sandos Playacar property requires some planning:
Ceremony: Most commonly takes place on the stunning main beach or at the garden gazebo.
Cocktail Hour: Often transitions to a nearby beach bar, pool terrace, or designated garden area.
Reception: Frequently a semi-private dinner at an assigned restaurant. Fully private events might utilize indoor function spaces, specific terraces, or require tent setups (rental) on lawn/beach areas.
Internal Transport: Golf carts are often used to transport the wedding party. Guests may need to walk between sections or utilize resort pathways. Clear directions and potentially signage are helpful, especially if guests are staying in different sections (e.g., Riviera vs. Beach).
What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?
At Sandos Playacar, specific venue “rental fees” are usually incorporated into the wedding package price for standard locations (beach, gazebo). The package cost generally covers:
Use of the standard venue(s) specified in the package for the allotted time.
Standard Setup: Includes basic chairs, linens, simple altar/table, and décor elements outlined in the chosen package.
Included Food & Beverage: Covers items listed in the package, such as the toast, cake, and potentially a semi-private dinner at a designated restaurant.
Staffing: Services of the on-site coordinator and resort staff for executing package elements.
Additional costs apply for: significant décor upgrades, fully private reception venues (if available and chosen), enhanced menus or bar packages, external vendors (check policies), extended hours, or specialized equipment rentals.
Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies
Sandos Playacar utilizes its indoor facilities for weather backups:
Indoor Function Rooms/Salons: The resort has meeting rooms or multi-purpose salons that can be adapted for ceremonies or receptions.
Theater/Entertainment Areas: Depending on availability and size, sections of larger indoor entertainment venues might be used.
Restaurant Spaces: Certain covered restaurant areas could potentially serve as backup locations, particularly for smaller groups or cocktail hours.
The designated backup space depends on event size and resort availability, confirmed by the wedding coordinator.
Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies
Booking a wedding at Sandos Playacar typically involves:
Initial Deposit: A non-refundable deposit is usually required to secure the wedding date and chosen package.
Payment Schedule: The contract will outline deadlines for subsequent payments, often linked to milestones before the wedding date (e.g., 60, 30 days prior).
Final Payment: The remaining balance, based on the final guest count and any confirmed extras, is typically due 30-45 days before the event.
Cancellation Policy: The contract details the cancellation terms, including non-refundable amounts and potential penalties based on the timing of the cancellation. Review this section carefully.
On-Site Wedding Coordination & Planning Services
Sandos Playacar provides an in-house wedding coordination team:
Package Specialists: They are knowledgeable about the various Sandos wedding packages and help couples select the best fit for their budget and preferences.
Venue Logistics (Internal): They coordinate the use of resort venues included in the package (beach, gazebo, restaurants, backup spaces).
Resort Service Liaison: They manage arrangements with internal departments (F&B, banquets) for the elements included in the package.
Vendor Guidance: They often have lists of preferred local vendors (photo, music, flowers) who work regularly with the resort. Confirm resort policies and any potential fees for using external vendors not on their list.
Day-Of Oversight: They manage the setup of included package elements and oversee the basic timeline on the wedding day.
Dietary and Menu Restrictions
As a large all-inclusive resort with numerous dining outlets, Sandos Playacar can generally accommodate common dietary needs:
Standard requirements like vegetarian, vegan options, gluten-free, and common allergies can usually be handled, especially when communicated clearly for semi-private or private dinner arrangements.
Provide your wedding coordinator with a comprehensive list of all guest dietary restrictions well in advance, particularly when confirming menus and final counts.
Music and Entertainment Restrictions (Playacar Rules)
Entertainment choices need to consider the resort’s lively atmosphere and Playacar community rules:
DJs & Local Music: DJs are common for receptions, and hiring local musicians (mariachi, solo guitarist) is often possible.
Noise Restrictions & Curfew: Crucially, Playacar has community noise ordinances. Outdoor amplified music is typically subject to strict curfews (often 10:00 PM or 10:30 PM). Volume levels may also be controlled. Indoor events may allow for later music. Confirm specific times with the resort.
Resort Activities: Be aware of the resort’s own extensive entertainment schedule, which might overlap or be nearby depending on your venue choice.
Vendor Access: Confirm the process and any potential fees or restrictions for bringing external entertainment vendors onto the property and within the Playacar complex.
Parking and Guest Logistics (Playacar Access)
Logistics involve the resort and access through the Playacar gate:
Airport Transfers: Located approx. 50-60 minutes south of Cancun Airport (CUN). Shuttles or private transfers are needed.
Playacar Access: Guests arriving by taxi or transfer will need to pass through the main Playacar security gate. Providing guest names or using resort-affiliated transport usually smooths this process.
Resort Parking: On-site parking is typically available for guests renting cars.
Getting Around: The resort is large. Golf carts assist staff and wedding parties. Guests walk between sections or use resort pathways. Taxis are readily available at the lobby for trips into Playa del Carmen town (a short ride away). Golf cart rentals are not typically available for general guest use *within* Playacar phase II where Sandos is located.
Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at Sandos Playacar
For an estimated wedding of 50 guests:
Wedding Package & Basics: $10,000 – $25,000+ USD (Reflects good value packages, potential variations based on inclusions).
Upgrades & Customization: $3,000 – $15,000+ USD (Common for enhanced décor, private reception setups, photography/videography, entertainment).
Photography/Videography: $4,500 – $8,500+ USD (Verify resort vendor policies/fees).
Taxes & Service Charges: Expect standard ~16% VAT + ~15% service charge on applicable paid services.
Potential External Vendor Fees: Budget for possible fees if using non-preferred vendors (confirm policy).
Total estimated cost often ranges from $15,000 – $45,000+ USD, making it a competitive option for a large resort wedding on a prime Playa del Carmen beach.
Splurge vs. Save
Save: Choose a value-focused package, utilize the stunning beach for the ceremony with minimal added décor, opt for the included semi-private dinner reception, rely on the resort’s ambiance and activities for guest entertainment, have guests book standard room categories.
Splurge: Select a top-tier package, invest in significant custom décor and floral arrangements for the beach ceremony, arrange a fully private reception (potentially requiring venue rental/setup fees), book the Select Club Adults Only section for key guests, hire live entertainment, host additional events like a welcome party.
Wedding Packages & Inclusions
Sandos Playacar wedding packages typically bundle:
Ceremony: Standard beach or gazebo location, basic setup (chairs, altar table/structure per package), symbolic officiant, basic sound system.
Florals: Generally a standard bridal bouquet and groom’s boutonniere.
Toast & Cake: Sparkling wine for post-ceremony toast, basic wedding cake.
Reception Elements: Commonly includes a semi-private dinner reservation at an existing à la carte restaurant for the group. Private cocktail hours or receptions usually require higher packages or add-on costs.
Coordinator Services: On-site coordinator included for package elements.
Basic Perks: Might include simple room décor or basic amenities for the couple.
Pro tip: Clarify exactly which restaurants are available for the semi-private dinner and any menu limitations. Ask specifically about policies and fees for external photographers, videographers, and DJs, as resort policies can vary.
Activities for Other Days
Guests at Sandos Playacar Beach Resort have a vast array of activities included:
Beach Paradise: Enjoying the expansive, beautiful white-sand beach – perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and long walks.
Multiple Pools: Swimming and relaxing at numerous pools throughout the resort, including family-friendly pools, activity pools, and exclusive adults-only pools (in the Select Club section).
Water Park: Enjoying the small water park located in the Riviera section (confirm access rules).
Sports & Fitness: Participating in beach volleyball, tennis, water aerobics, utilizing the gym, or trying non-motorized water sports like kayaking and hobie cats.
Kids’ Club: Offering supervised activities for younger children.
Extensive Dining & Bars: Sampling food and drinks at numerous buffet restaurants, à la carte specialty restaurants (Mexican, Italian, Asian, Steakhouse, Brazilian, etc.), snack bars, and bars throughout the property.
Nightly Entertainment: Enjoying shows in the theater, live music at bars, and themed party nights.
Exploring Playacar: Walking or biking (rentals sometimes available nearby) through the safe and pleasant Playacar community.
Playa del Carmen Access: Taking a short taxi ride to explore the vibrant 5th Avenue with its shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
Booking Excursions: Arranging trips to nearby cenotes, ruins, or eco-parks.
Three Practical Tips for Brides
Specify Room Section Preferences: When arranging the room block, be clear about the different sections (Beach, Riviera, Select Club Adults Only) so guests can choose based on their needs (family, budget, adults-only preference) and understand the relative locations within the large resort.
Leverage the Beach: Sandos Playacar’s beach is truly exceptional. Plan key photo moments here – ceremony, sunset portraits, group shots. Its width and beauty are major assets.
Confirm Playacar Noise Rules: Double-check the specific noise curfew times for outdoor music with the resort, as Playacar community rules can be strictly enforced. Plan your reception timeline accordingly.
Two Bride Reviews
“Sandos Playacar was perfect for our big, fun wedding! The beach is absolutely incredible – the best we saw in Playacar. Our ceremony there was stunning. Guests loved all the activities, pools, and food options. Having the adults-only Select Club option was great too. Good value for a large, lively resort.” – Nicole B. (Example Review)
“We chose Sandos Playacar for the beach and the location close to town. It didn’t disappoint! The wedding team was organized, the package was straightforward, and our guests had a blast with all the resort activities. It’s a large resort, so expect lots of energy. Our semi-private dinner was well-handled. Great choice for a fun, classic Playa wedding.” – Ryan G. (Example Review)
My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Pro
Sandos Playacar Beach Resort is a photographer’s playground for capturing vibrant, energetic, beach-centric weddings. The star is undeniably the magnificent, wide stretch of white sand beach, offering endless opportunities for stunning ceremony shots, romantic walks, and group photos against the turquoise water. The resort’s numerous pools, each with a different vibe (family activity pools, quieter adults-only pools), provide dynamic backdrops for capturing candid fun and relaxation. The sheer scale of the resort means diverse visual elements, from tropical garden paths in the Riviera section to beachfront settings. While it might lack the intimate nooks of smaller resorts, it excels at showcasing the lively, fun-in-the-sun atmosphere of a classic Playa del Carmen all-inclusive celebration. Photos here will naturally highlight the beach, the energy of the guests, and the vibrant colors of the Mexican Caribbean.
