Secrets Puerto Vallarta Destination Weddings 2026 — Secrets Vallarta Bay Complete Guide
Secrets Vallarta Bay Puerto Vallarta is the only Secrets resort on the Pacific coast of Mexico — and the only hotel in Puerto Vallarta with an on-site casino. 271 all-ocean-view suites on Banderas Bay, legendary Pacific sunsets, 6 wedding venues up to 350 guests, free-flow to Dreams Vallarta Bay next door, a 14,000 sq ft eco-spa, and a location 5 minutes from El Malecón boardwalk. Complete planning guide with venue tables, sunset timing tips, free-flow access, and Puerto Vallarta excursion overview.
Updated July 2026 · VFL Destination Weddings · CST #2002477-40
Why Choose Puerto Vallarta for a Secrets Wedding
Puerto Vallarta is a genuinely different destination from the Riviera Maya or Cancun. On the Pacific coast of Mexico, set inside the protected curve of Banderas Bay — one of the largest natural bays in the world — Puerto Vallarta delivers a famous combination of mountains and ocean that doesn't exist anywhere on the Caribbean coast. The Sierra Madre mountains descend to the waterfront, the sunsets over the bay are internationally recognized as among the most dramatic in Mexico, and the city of Puerto Vallarta itself (cobblestone streets, cathedral, El Malecón, local restaurants) is five minutes from the resort — a genuinely walkable destination unlike any of the Cancun or Riviera Maya all-inclusive corridors.
Resort Overview — Secrets Vallarta Bay
Secrets Vallarta Bay is set on the golden sand beaches of Banderas Bay, 15 minutes from Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) on the Pacific coast. All 271 accommodations are suites — virtually all with ocean views — with whirlpools and ground-floor swim-out suites available. The open-air 3rd-floor lobby offers bay and mountain views and hosts live nightly entertainment. Adjacent to Dreams Vallarta Bay, guests have free-flow access to that property's restaurants, bars, and facilities. The resort is the only hotel in Puerto Vallarta with an on-site casino, and holds 6,886 sq ft of convention and meeting space.
All Ocean-View Suites
Every one of the 271 suites offers Banderas Bay ocean views — not just "most rooms." Couples can guarantee their guests will wake up to the Pacific every morning without needing to upgrade or specify a view category at booking.
Only Hotel in PV with Casino
The only all-inclusive resort in Puerto Vallarta with an on-site casino — a genuine wedding-week evening activity for guests who enjoy it, available without a taxi or transportation off-property.
Free-Flow to Dreams Vallarta Bay
Adjacent to Dreams Vallarta Bay — free-flow access adds 7 more restaurants and 5 bars, bringing the combined dining options to 13+ restaurants and 10+ bars across both properties for the full wedding group.
14,000 sq ft Eco-Spa
Built from reclaimed wood with a hydrotherapy circuit and serenity spa cabins — one of the most ecologically designed resort spas in Mexico. A strong wedding-week amenity for the couple and guests wanting pre-ceremony pampering.
Chef's Table + Wine Cellar
A private Chef's Table where the head chef prepares meals for guests to watch — and a wine cellar with sommelier for curated wine and food pairings. Premium private dining options for the couple or inner circle during the stay.
Complimentary Golf Nearby
Complimentary green fees at Marina Vallarta Golf Club and Vista Vallarta Golf Club — two of the most scenic courses in Mexico, both within 15 minutes of the resort. A strong group activity for golf-playing wedding guests.
Wedding Venues 6 Venues · Up to 350 Guests
| Venue | Setting | Capacity | Venue Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beach | Banderas Bay beachfront — golden sand facing west over the Pacific, with the Sierra Madre mountains framing the horizon. The most expansive ceremony setting at the resort, facing the sunset directly. | 350 guests (ceremony · cocktail · reception) | Confirm with coordinator · 10:30 PM curfew applies | Largest outdoor ceremonies; sunset ceremonies at the water's edge; the primary venue for groups over 100 |
| Terraza La Vista | The resort's signature elevated terrace — covered, open-air, with panoramic Banderas Bay views. The best golden-hour photography position at the property. The terrace faces west, allowing the sunset to unfold behind the couple during the ceremony. | ~150 guests (ceremony · cocktail · reception) | $700 venue fee (confirm current rate) | Sunset ceremony photography; mid-size weddings wanting a defined elevated setting; couples prioritising views over beach sand |
| Wedding Gazebo | A dedicated beachfront gazebo structure on the Banderas Bay shoreline — provides an architectural focal point for the ceremony with the Pacific as the backdrop. Photographs well from all angles. | Confirm capacity with coordinator | Confirm with coordinator | Couples wanting a defined ceremony structure; intimate to mid-size groups wanting the gazebo aesthetic |
| Pool Area | The infinity pool terrace facing Banderas Bay — hard surface, suitable for receptions with dancing. Swim-up bar accessible to guests. Evening lighting transforms the pool reflections into a dramatic reception backdrop. | 250 guests (cocktail · reception) | Confirm with coordinator | Evening cocktail hours; poolside dinner receptions; couples wanting the pool-view aesthetic for the party |
| Lobby (3rd Floor) | The open-air 3rd-floor lobby — bay and mountain views on two sides, naturally breezy. Hosts live nightly entertainment. An unusual ceremony space — elevated, architectural, and with panoramic views. | ~75 guests (ceremony) | Confirm with coordinator | Intimate ceremonies in an architectural setting; couples wanting elevated bay views without a beachfront setup |
| Convention Center / Ballroom | Indoor air-conditioned ballroom — 6,886 sq ft total convention space. The resort's primary large indoor event venue with full AV capability, dance floor, and staging. Rain backup for all outdoor events. | 200–724 guests (reception) | Confirm with coordinator | Large formal receptions; rain contingency; the highest-capacity indoor option of any Secrets property on the Pacific; events requiring staging and AV |
| Secrets Deck | A smaller outdoor terrace with hard surface — intimate scale, customizable with tables and chairs. Best suited to smaller reception dinners or cocktail hours for the inner circle. | ~50 guests (reception) | Confirm with coordinator | Small private dinner receptions; cocktail hours for the wedding party; intimate group events during the wedding week |
Planning Around Puerto Vallarta Sunsets
Pacific sunsets at Puerto Vallarta are the most photographically powerful element of a Secrets Vallarta Bay wedding — and the one thing that requires advance planning. Unlike Caribbean-facing resorts where the sun sets behind the resort, here it sets directly over the water in front of every west-facing venue.
Summer Sunsets (June–August)
Sunset falls approximately 7:30–8:00 PM. Plan ceremony start time 45–60 minutes before sunset for golden-hour light through the ceremony and first-look photos. Summer is also Puerto Vallarta's rainy season (brief afternoon showers typical, evenings usually clear).
Winter Sunsets (November–February)
Sunset falls approximately 5:30–6:15 PM. Earlier start time required — plan ceremony around 4:30–5:00 PM. Peak season (December–April) has the most predictably clear skies for sunset photography.
Free-Flow Access to Dreams Vallarta Bay
All Secrets Vallarta Bay guests have free-flow access to the adjacent Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa — the family-friendly sister property next door. This gives the combined complex a total of 13+ restaurants and 10+ bars for the wedding week.
Secrets Vallarta Bay (base property)
- 7 restaurants (Bordeaux · Oceana · Gohan · Barefoot Grill · Market Café · Bay Café · Sweet Bites)
- 5 bars + lounges
- Infinity pool + 2 activity pools
- 14,000 sq ft eco-spa
- On-site casino
- Convention Center (6,886 sq ft)
- Chef's Table + wine cellar
Dreams Vallarta Bay (free-flow access)
- 7 additional restaurants (Himitsu/Asian · Tamarindo/Mexican + 5 more)
- 5 additional bars
- Additional pools
- Family-friendly — suitable for wedding guests with children
- Additional beach access
- Additional entertainment program
Dining — 7 On-Site Restaurants + Dreams Access
All dining included. No reservations required at most venues. With Dreams Vallarta Bay free-flow access, wedding groups have access to 13+ restaurants — enough for multiple meals a day for a week without repetition.
Bordeaux
French fine dining — the most romantic dinner setting on property. Recommended for the couple's anniversary dinner or rehearsal dinner for the inner circle.
Oceana
Beachfront seafood — open-air setting with direct ocean views. The most atmospheric lunch and casual dinner venue at the resort.
Gohan
Dedicated sushi bar open from 1 PM daily — a popular afternoon option for wedding guests wanting lighter dining between activities.
Barefoot Grill
Poolside casual grill — burgers, tacos, and snacks. The go-to daytime poolside dining option throughout the stay.
Market Café
International buffet — breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The main group gathering point for early-morning and casual meals.
Chef's Table (additional charge)
Private kitchen dining where the head chef prepares and presents the meal interactively. A premium add-on for the couple or VIP guests — book early as dates fill quickly.
Plus Bay Café, Sweet Bites (crêpes and ice cream), and full Dreams Vallarta Bay dining access for 7 more restaurants including Himitsu (Pan-Asian) and Tamarindo (Mexican). 5 bars include Manatees swim-up bar, Sugar Reef poolside, and Rendezvous deck bar (open to 1 AM) — plus all Dreams bars.
Suites & Accommodations
All 271 accommodations are suites — virtually all with Banderas Bay ocean views. All include in-room whirlpool, furnished balcony or terrace, daily-refreshed minibar, and 24-hour room service. Ground-floor swim-out suites connect directly to the pool from a private terrace.
Junior Suite Garden / Ocean View
- Contemporary décor · furnished balcony
- In-room whirlpool · king bed
- Ocean view or garden view
- Daily minibar · 24-hr room service
Swim-Out Suite
- Ground floor · private terrace
- Direct pool access from the terrace
- Same suite amenities as standard
Preferred Club Suite Recommended for couple
- Preferred Club lounge · private beach area
- Butler service · VIP check-in
- Priority restaurant reservations
- Enhanced concierge + exclusive amenities
Preferred Club is recommended for the couple and VIP guests — butler service and the private lounge make pre-ceremony morning logistics significantly easier.
Secrets Wedding Packages at Vallarta Bay
Secrets Vallarta Bay uses the same three-tier package system as every other Secrets property. One Pacific-coast-specific note: live entertainment in the Secrets Ultimate package at Vallarta Bay uses mariachi — the traditional Mexico Pacific coast entertainment style — rather than the Jamaica-appropriate steel pan / reggae used at the Montego Bay properties.
Wedding in Paradise
Complimentary with 7 qualifying nights (couple) or 5 rooms × 3 nights. Ceremony setup, coordinator, bouquet, cake, sparkling wine, newlywed amenities, late checkout.
$0 with qualifying staySecrets of Love
Private cocktail hour + 3-hr dinner reception (Silver Menu · 20 guests), 36 photos + album, minister included, hairstyling and makeup, Vera Wang flutes.
Confirm pricing with VFLSecrets Ultimate
Adds live mariachi entertainment, full ceremony décor, Gold Menu upgrade, 50 photos + album, 30-min video, couples spa treatment.
Confirm pricing with VFLLegal Weddings in Mexico — Puerto Vallarta Requirements
Secrets Vallarta Bay is in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. Legal requirements are consistent with other Mexican Secrets properties in Quintana Roo, with one key difference — confirm blood test requirement with the Jalisco coordinator as state-level requirements can vary slightly.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrival requirement | Couple must arrive a minimum of 2 full business days before the ceremony. Arrival day, weekends, and Mexican national holidays do not count. |
| Birth certificates | Original birth certificates — apostilled and with a certified Spanish translation. |
| Marital status | Sworn declaration of single status. If previously married: apostilled, translated divorce decree or death certificate. |
| Blood test | Required in the state of Jalisco — arranged through the resort coordinator, typically 3 days before the ceremony. Confirm current requirement at time of booking. |
| Same-sex legal marriage | Fully legal in Mexico — including in the state of Jalisco. Available at Secrets Vallarta Bay with no restrictions. |
| Lead time | Begin document preparation at least 3–4 months before the wedding date. Apostille process can take 4–8 weeks depending on your home country. |
Puerto Vallarta — Wedding Week Excursions
Puerto Vallarta's combination of city, jungle, mountains, and bay gives wedding groups more excursion variety than any other Secrets destination. The resort is 5 minutes from the city centre and 15 minutes from the airport — genuinely the most "destination within a city" of any Secrets property.
Downtown (5 min)
- El Malecón — 1 km oceanfront boardwalk, sculptures, restaurants, nightlife
- Iglesia de Guadalupe — iconic cathedral, Old Town cobblestone streets
- Mercado Municipal — local market, crafts, fresh produce
- Zona Romántica — restaurants, galleries, boutiques, beach clubs
Nature & Adventure
- Canopy / zip-line tours — Sierra Madre jungle, 30–60 min from resort
- Whale watching — humpback whales in Banderas Bay (Nov–March)
- Los Arcos — marine sanctuary with snorkeling and PADI diving
- Yelapa — secluded village by boat, waterfall hike, beach
- Sayulita — surf village, artisan market, 45 min north
Golf (Complimentary)
- Marina Vallarta Golf Club — links-style, bay views, 15 min from resort · free green fees
- Vista Vallarta Golf Club — mountain setting, 2 courses (Nicklaus + Weiskopf designs) · free green fees
Frequently Asked Questions
What Couples Say
What Our Couples Say About Their Destination Wedding
Real weddings planned with Vacations For Less
Amanda & Michael
Dreams Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort · Mexico
Teresa and the team at Vacations For Less made our destination wedding an absolute dream. With over 350 guests traveling, their organization and attention to detail made everything seamless. From the ceremony to the reception, every moment was flawless.
Lisa & Danny
Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort · Mexico
Coordinating travel for our beach wedding group was effortless thanks to Teresa from Vacations For Less. She handled all travel logistics, guest reservations, and details so everyone could relax and enjoy the celebration.
Kevin & Grace
Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres · Mexico
Teresa and Anna were incredible throughout our destination wedding planning process. They managed every reservation, transfer, and detail for our guests. Our wedding was absolutely perfect from start to finish.
Request a Secrets Vallarta Bay Wedding Quote
Tell us your target dates, estimated guest count, preferred venue (beach, Terraza La Vista, or ballroom), and whether you need Dreams Vallarta Bay rooms for family guests. We'll send current package pricing, group room rates, venue availability, and sunset timing for your specific dates within 24 hours — free, no obligation.
Free consultation · No obligation · Response within 24 hours
Prefer to talk? Call 1-800-200-2423 · Mon–Fri, 9 AM–5:30 PM PT