Iberostar Playa Mita Wedding Photographer | Real Weddings & Venue Guide
Planning your wedding at Iberostar Playa Mita?
After photographing dozens of weddings here over the years, I’ve learned the best locations for portraits, the ideal timeline, and how to make the most of this beautiful oceanfront resort. From the private beach to the lush tropical gardens, I’ll help you create a relaxed photography experience while capturing genuine moments you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
You don’t have to worry about the photos
Most couples just want to enjoy their wedding day without feeling pulled away from the moment. I guide when needed, but focus on capturing everything naturally as it happens.
Why couples choose Iberostar Playa Mita
One of the biggest reasons couples choose Iberostar Playa Mita is the peaceful atmosphere. Unlike many resorts in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, the beach feels quiet and uncrowded, giving you plenty of space to enjoy your wedding day and your portraits without distractions.
Another advantage is that the resort hosts only one wedding each day. That means your celebration receives the full attention of the wedding team, creating a more relaxed experience from the morning preparations through the reception.
Combined with panoramic ocean views, tropical gardens, and one of the most beautiful ceremony gazebos in Riviera Nayarit, it’s easy to see why so many destination couples fall in love with this venue.
Why I love photographing weddings at Iberostar Playa Mita
Beautiful beach access with soft sunset light
Relaxed atmosphere that feels natural and easygoing
Tropical scenery throughout the resort
Great variety of spaces for ceremonies and portraits
About Iberostar Playa Mita
Located about one hour north of Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Iberostar Playa Mita is an all-inclusive beachfront resort overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
The resort combines ocean views, tropical gardens, and spacious outdoor areas that photograph beautifully throughout the day. One of its greatest strengths is the balance between elegant ceremony spaces and natural scenery, allowing couples to enjoy a relaxed destination wedding without feeling crowded.
Having photographed dozens of weddings here, I’ve become very familiar with the venue and how each location photographs throughout the day.
Photography Tips for Your Wedding at Iberostar Playa Mita
The wedding gazebo is my favorite ceremony location.
If you’re deciding between the beach and the gazebo, I almost always recommend the gazebo. It offers beautiful ocean views, photographs consistently well, and provides a more private atmosphere than many beachfront ceremonies.
Summer ceremonies require careful planning.
Like most outdoor weddings in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, summer ceremonies can be very warm. Scheduling your ceremony too early in the afternoon often means stronger sunlight and higher temperatures for both you and your guests.
Reserve about one hour for portraits.
I usually recommend setting aside around one hour for portraits. This gives us enough time to explore the beach, tropical gardens, and several beautiful locations around the resort without feeling rushed.
If you're using the resort spa...
One recommendation I always give couples is to bring your own makeup artist or your preferred makeup products if you’re planning to use the resort spa. The spa uses eco-friendly makeup, which can melt more quickly in the tropical heat compared to long-wear products.
Best Photo Locations at Iberostar Playa Mita
The Wedding Gazebo
One of the most elegant ceremony locations in Riviera Nayarit, with beautiful ocean views and excellent light throughout the ceremony.
The Beach
The beach is one of the resort’s biggest advantages. Since there are very few neighboring properties, it feels much more private than many beaches in Puerto Vallarta. During the summer months, this is also where you’ll enjoy the best sunsets.
Tropical Gardens
The greenery throughout the resort creates beautiful portraits that feel completely different from the beach, adding variety to your final gallery.
The Main Lobby
One of the most overlooked locations. The architecture and natural light make it a perfect spot for elegant portraits, especially during the warmer part of the day.
Wedding Photography Timeline
Every wedding is different, but this is the timeline I recommend most often to maximize beautiful light while keeping the day relaxed.
Best for November through February weddings.
4:15 PM
4:45 PM
5:15 PM
5:40 PM
6:10 PM
7:00 PM
8:30 PM
11:00 PM
Ceremony Begins
Family Photos
Cocktail Hour
Sunset Portraits
Reception Entrance
Dinner & Toasts
Open Dance Floor
Reception Ends
Best for March through May and October weddings.
5:00 PM
5:30 PM
6:00 PM
6:30 PM
7:10 PM
8:00 PM
9:00 PM
11:00 PM
Ceremony Begins
Family Photos
Cocktail Hour
Sunset Portraits
Reception Entrance
Dinner & Toasts
Open Dance Floor
Reception Ends
Best for June through September weddings.
5:45 PM
6:15 PM
6:45 PM
7:20 PM
7:50 PM
8:30 PM
9:15 PM
11:00 PM
Ceremony Begins
Family Photos
Cocktail Hour
Sunset Portraits
Reception Entrance
Dinner & Toasts
Open Dance Floor
Reception Ends
Explore more wedding photography in Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit
Planning your wedding at Iberostar Playa Mita?
I’d love to hear about your plans and help you create a wedding photography experience that feels relaxed, natural, and completely centered around your day.
Whether you’re still choosing your timeline or already have everything planned, I’m happy to answer any questions.
I personally reply within 24 hours
Iberostar Playa Mita Wedding FAQ
Why do so many couples choose Iberostar Playa Mita?
The combination of beautiful ocean views, a private beach, tropical gardens, and the fact that the resort hosts only one wedding per day creates a relaxed experience that’s difficult to find elsewhere.Iberostar Playa Mita is located in Riviera Nayarit, about 60 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. The resort sits on a wide beach with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
Which ceremony location do you recommend?
The wedding gazebo is my favorite location. It offers beautiful ocean views, excellent light, and a more private atmosphere while still feeling connected to the beach.
How much time should we reserve for portraits?
Around one hour gives us enough time to photograph in several areas of the resort, including the beach, tropical gardens, and the main lobby.Many couples bring their own photographer to capture their wedding day. It’s always best to check with the resort about any vendor policies or requirements.
Is a first look a good idea?
Yes. While the resort doesn’t have many completely private areas, there are a few beautiful locations that work very well for an intimate first look before the ceremony.Sunset is the most popular time for wedding portraits because the light over the beach creates beautiful warm tones and soft shadows.
What's the biggest planning mistake?
Planning an early afternoon ceremony during the summer months. The tropical heat and stronger sunlight can make the experience less comfortable for you and your guests.
Is Iberostar Playa Mita easy to reach?
The resort is about one hour from Puerto Vallarta International Airport. While it’s farther than some resorts, the quieter location and private beach are two of the reasons many couples choose it.