Imagine exchanging vows with the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters of Isla Mujeres’ southernmost point as your backdrop, followed by a chic beach club celebration. Welcome to the unique wedding combination offered by Zama Beach Club & Punta Sur, Isla Mujeres. This isn’t a single resort, but rather the pairing of a stylish event venue (Zama) with a stunning natural landmark (Punta Sur) for an unforgettable island wedding experience.
Zama Beach Club provides a beautiful setting with multi-level pools, sandy areas, a dock, and a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere perfect for receptions, welcome parties, or beach ceremonies. Punta Sur, a short golf cart ride away, offers unparalleled natural beauty with its rugged coastline, Mayan temple dedicated to Ixchel, and breathtaking panoramic views – ideal for incredibly scenic photoshoots or intimate, adventurous ceremonies (requiring specific coordination and permits).
Hosting a wedding leveraging both locations involves booking Zama Beach Club for your primary event (reception, potentially ceremony) and coordinating separate access/permissions for Punta Sur. Costs can vary significantly based on Zama’s event packages or minimum spends, guest count, catering choices, and the logistics of coordinating Punta Sur access. Expect estimates potentially ranging from $15,000 to $45,000+ USD for a 50-guest wedding, considering island vendor costs and logistics. This pairing is perfect for couples seeking a blend of relaxed beach chic and dramatic natural beauty on the charming island of Isla Mujeres.
Index
Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?
How Does a Wedding at Zama Work?
Best Months to Get Married
The Basics of Wedding Packages
Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?
Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations
Ceremony and Reception Logistics
What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?
Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies
Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies
Coordination & Planning Services
Dietary and Menu Restrictions
Music and Entertainment Restrictions
Parking and Guest Logistics
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?
The combination of Zama Beach Club and Punta Sur is ideal for couples seeking a unique, non-traditional island wedding experience that blends a stylish beach club party vibe with breathtaking natural scenery. If you love the charm of Isla Mujeres, want stunning cliffside photos, and envision a relaxed yet chic reception by the sea, this pairing is perfect. It requires more logistical planning (ferry, golf carts, separate venue coordination) than an all-inclusive resort.
Key draws are the dramatic beauty of Punta Sur, the relaxed elegance of Zama Beach Club, the authentic Isla Mujeres atmosphere, and incredible photo opportunities. It’s less suited for those wanting the convenience of an all-in-one resort or hosting very large groups requiring extensive on-site accommodation.
How Does a Wedding at Zama & Punta Sur Work?
This involves coordinating two distinct elements:
Booking Zama Beach Club: You’ll typically work directly with Zama’s event team or an independent wedding planner based on Isla Mujeres. This involves securing a date, agreeing on a package or minimum spend for food and beverages, selecting menus, and arranging decor/entertainment for the reception (and potentially ceremony if held there).
Coordinating Punta Sur Access: Punta Sur is a natural park. Using it for photos or a ceremony requires separate coordination. This might involve entrance fees, specific time slots, potential permits (especially for ceremonies), and arranging transportation (golf carts) for the couple, photographer, and potentially guests. An experienced local planner is highly recommended for navigating this.
Guest accommodation is arranged separately at various hotels or rental properties across Isla Mujeres.
Best Months to Get Married
Isla Mujeres shares the desirable Riviera Maya climate, making late November through April the most popular months with pleasant weather and lower rain chances. This is ideal for enjoying Zama’s outdoor setting and the exposed beauty of Punta Sur. Be aware that Punta Sur can be quite windy, especially outside the calmest months.
The Basics of Wedding Packages (Zama Beach Club)
Zama Beach Club likely offers event packages or works on a minimum consumption basis for weddings. Expect offerings focused on their venue:
Venue Usage: Exclusive or semi-exclusive use of designated areas (beach, pool deck, restaurant space) for a set number of hours.
Food & Beverage: Pre-set menus or customizable options based on their restaurant’s cuisine (often fresh seafood, Mexican influences), bar packages (open bar or consumption-based). A minimum spend is common.
Basic Setup: May include existing venue furniture, basic linens, standard lighting.
Staffing: Service staff for the event.
Coordination: May offer basic on-site coordination for the Zama portion.
Note: Packages typically *do not* include Punta Sur access/permits, extensive decor, external vendors (DJ, photographer, florals beyond basics), or accommodations.
Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?
For a Zama & Punta Sur wedding on Isla Mujeres:
The couple pays for the Zama Beach Club event costs (venue fee/minimum spend, F&B, decor, entertainment), Punta Sur access/permit fees, planner fees, and their own travel/accommodation.
Guests pay for their travel to Cancun, ferry to Isla Mujeres, accommodation on Isla Mujeres, and local transportation (golf carts).
Guests typically cover their own meals outside of the hosted wedding events.
Gift registries are standard.
Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations
Capacity needs careful consideration:
Zama Beach Club: Suitable for small to medium-sized weddings. Capacity likely ranges from perhaps 30 to 100+ guests depending on the specific areas used (beach, pool deck, restaurant). Verify exact numbers with the venue.
Punta Sur: As a natural park area, it’s not designed for large seated events. Ideal for standing ceremonies for smaller groups (e.g., under 30-40) or primarily for couple/wedding party photoshoots. Logistics become complex with larger groups.
Accommodations: Guests stay off-site at various hotels (e.g., Mia Reef, Ixchel Beach Hotel, Privilege Aluxes) or vacation rentals across Isla Mujeres. Securing room blocks might be possible at larger hotels.
Ceremony and Reception Logistics
A common flow involves:
Option 1 (Zama Focus): Ceremony on Zama’s beach or deck -> Cocktails at Zama -> Reception at Zama -> Photoshoot trip to Punta Sur before or after the ceremony.
Option 2 (Punta Sur Ceremony): Transport (golf carts) to Punta Sur for an intimate ceremony -> Transport back -> Cocktails & Reception at Zama Beach Club.
Key Logistics: Ferry transport for all guests from Cancun, golf cart rentals on Isla Mujeres for guest mobility and transport to Punta Sur, coordinating timing between locations.
What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?
This breaks down into two parts:
Zama Beach Club: The fee or minimum spend typically includes use of the agreed-upon space, existing furniture, basic lighting, standard staffing, and the food/beverage outlined in the contract. It usually *excludes* Punta Sur fees, external vendors, custom decor, florals, transportation, and accommodation.
Punta Sur: Costs here are typically separate and might include park entrance fees per person, a specific photography permit fee, or potentially a special event permit fee if hosting a ceremony (verify regulations with local authorities/planner). These fees grant access but usually include no setup, seating, or services.
Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies
Backup plans differ significantly:
Zama Beach Club: Has covered restaurant areas and potentially other sheltered spaces that can serve as a backup for rain during a ceremony or reception planned for their outdoor decks/beach.
Punta Sur: Offers virtually no shelter. If weather is poor (heavy rain or strong winds), ceremonies or photoshoots planned here usually need to be relocated entirely (e.g., back to Zama or another indoor location on the island) or rescheduled. A solid Plan B is essential.
Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies
Expect separate processes:
Zama Beach Club: Likely requires an initial deposit to secure the date, followed by scheduled payments, with the final balance due weeks before the event. Cancellation policy will be specific to their contract.
Punta Sur Permits/Fees: Payment terms for permits or entrance fees depend on the managing authority/process at the time. These might need to be paid closer to the date or upon entry. Cancellation/refund policies for these fees may be limited.
Coordination & Planning Services
Coordination is crucial for this type of wedding:
Zama Beach Club: May offer an on-site coordinator focused *only* on the event execution at their venue (F&B, basic setup, staffing).
Punta Sur & Overall Logistics: An independent wedding planner based on Isla Mujeres or highly experienced in the area is strongly recommended. They are essential for:
Navigating Punta Sur permits and logistics.
Coordinating ferry and golf cart transportation.
Liaising with Zama and other island vendors (florists, musicians, decor rentals).
Managing off-site guest accommodations.
Creating and executing the overall timeline involving multiple locations.
Dietary and Menu Restrictions
Zama Beach Club, as an established restaurant and event venue, should be able to accommodate common dietary needs:
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies etc., can likely be handled with advance notice provided to their culinary team when planning the menu.
Ensure clear communication of all requirements during the menu selection process.
Music and Entertainment Restrictions
Considerations for both locations:
Zama Beach Club: Can typically accommodate DJs or live music (solo, small band). Subject to noise ordinances and curfews common on Isla Mujeres (likely around 10 PM or 11 PM for amplified outdoor music).
Punta Sur: Generally not suitable for amplified music due to its nature as a park and exposed location. Acoustic music (e.g., guitarist, violinist) might be possible for a ceremony, but requires verification and likely permits.
Vendor Access: Ensure chosen entertainment vendors are willing and able to transport their equipment via ferry and golf cart.
Parking and Guest Logistics (Isla Mujeres Specifics)
Unique island logistics apply:
Airport & Ferry: Guests fly into Cancun (CUN), then take a taxi/shuttle to the ferry terminal (e.g., Puerto Juarez – Ultramar is common), and then a ~20-minute ferry ride to Isla Mujeres.
Island Transport: Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation on Isla Mujeres. Renting them is essential for guests to explore and reach venues like Zama and Punta Sur. Taxis are also available but less flexible.
Parking: Not applicable in the traditional sense. Zama will have space for golf cart parking.
Communication: Clear instructions about ferry schedules, golf cart rentals, and venue locations are vital for guests.
Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at Zama & Punta Sur
For an estimated wedding of 50 guests on Isla Mujeres:
Zama Beach Club (Venue/F&B): $10,000 – $25,000+ USD (Based on minimum spend, guest count, menu/bar choices).
Punta Sur Fees/Permits: $100 – $1,000+ USD (Highly variable – depends on current park fees, photo vs. ceremony permit).
Planning Fees: $3,000 – $7,000+ USD (Independent planner highly recommended for this logistical complexity).
Decor, Florals, Entertainment: $3,000 – $15,000+ USD (Island vendor costs can be slightly higher due to logistics).
Photography/Videography: $4,500 – $9,000+ USD (Include vendor ferry/transport costs).
Transportation (Golf Carts/Coordination): $500 – $2,000+ USD (Depending on guest needs).
Taxes & Service Charges: Apply to Zama F&B/services (verify rates).
Total estimated cost often falls between $25,000 – $60,000+ USD, significantly influenced by guest count, Zama choices, and decor levels.
Splurge vs. Save
Save: Host ceremony and reception at Zama only, minimize Punta Sur use to a brief photo session, choose basic F&B packages at Zama, opt for simpler decor, utilize DJ over live band.
Splurge: Buy out Zama for full exclusivity, host an elaborate ceremony at Punta Sur (if permitted), upgrade to premium menus/bar at Zama, extensive custom decor and florals, live band, arrange private catamaran arrival for guests.
Wedding Packages & Inclusions (Zama Focus)
Zama Beach Club packages or minimum spend agreements typically include:
Space: Use of specified areas (beach, pool deck, restaurant).
F&B: Food and beverage up to the agreed minimum or package level.
Basic Setup: Existing venue tables, chairs, basic linens, bar setup.
Staffing: Bartenders, servers for the event duration.
Basic Coordination: On-site contact for the Zama portion.
Exclusions are important: Punta Sur access/permits, accommodations, transportation (ferry/golf carts), external vendors (photo, full planning, extensive decor, florals, music), wedding cake (unless specifically included), officiant fees.
Pro tip: Get a very detailed contract from Zama outlining exactly what is included/excluded in their fee or minimum spend.
Activities for Other Days (Isla Mujeres)
Isla Mujeres offers a charming island experience for guests:
Renting golf carts and exploring the island from end to end.
Relaxing at Playa Norte (North Beach), consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches.
Snorkeling or diving at nearby reefs (MUSA underwater museum, Garrafon park).
Exploring downtown Isla Mujeres (Centro) with its shops, restaurants, and colorful streets.
Visiting the Turtle Farm (Tortugranja).
Enjoying sunset cocktails at various beachfront bars.
Taking a day trip back to Cancun or for other excursions (though island activities are plentiful).
Deep-sea fishing or boat tours.
Three Practical Tips for Brides
Hire an Isla-Savvy Planner: Logistics are key. Choose a planner very familiar with Isla Mujeres, Zama, and the process for Punta Sur access/permits.
Communicate Logistics Clearly: Provide guests with detailed info about ferry travel, golf cart rentals (encourage pre-booking), accommodation options, and the wedding day timeline involving multiple locations.
Have a Rock-Solid Punta Sur Weather Plan: Discuss and confirm a definitive Plan B with your planner for any activities planned at the exposed Punta Sur location. Don’t leave it to chance.
Two Bride Reviews
“Our wedding using Zama and Punta Sur was MAGICAL. The photos at Punta Sur are unreal – those cliffs! Then we had the most fun, relaxed reception at Zama. It was exactly the chic, boho island vibe we wanted. Yes, it took more planning with the ferry and golf carts, but SO worth it for a unique experience.” – Jessica T. (Example Review)
“We loved having our reception at Zama Beach Club – great food, cool atmosphere, right on the water. We did our first look photos at Punta Sur beforehand, which was incredible. Having a good planner who knew Isla Mujeres was essential to making it all work smoothly. Our guests loved exploring the island on golf carts!” – Brian S. (Example Review)
My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Pro
The Zama & Punta Sur combination on Isla Mujeres offers a visually spectacular and uniquely atmospheric wedding experience. Punta Sur provides some of the most dramatic natural backdrops in the entire region – the rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and Mayan ruins create unparalleled photo opportunities, especially for adventurous couples. Zama Beach Club complements this with a stylish, laid-back beach vibe – its pools, deck, and beachfront setting are perfect for capturing candid moments and lively reception energy. The challenge and charm lie in the island logistics. Documenting the journey – the ferry ride, the golf cart adventures – adds to the story. This pairing is ideal for couples wanting photos that blend epic natural landscapes with chic, relaxed island celebrations, reflecting a truly distinct destination wedding.
