When planning a couple’s wedding, there are many factors that come into play, not the least of which is where to host this memorable event and how much it will cost.
The reasons to plan destination weddings range from giving the couple and their guests a vacation, having more time to spend with each other, or simply because the couple wants to get a jump on their honeymoon.
With so many options to choose from, selecting the right one will be a challenge. Many hotels and resorts around the world offer excellent wedding packages, which are worth considering.
Here are a few ALHI destinations to get started with that important search.
Turtle Bay Resort
Named “#1 Best Resort for Romance on Oahu” by Hawaii Magazine’s Reader’s Choice in 2023, the newly reimagined iconic Turtle Bay Resort beckons with five miles of pristine coastline on Oahu’s North Shore.
Golf, tennis, pickle ball, spa treatments, horseback riding, snorkeling and surfing promise to keep everyone busy before and after the wedding festivities.
While there are several packages to choose from, the current favorite is the “Kuilima Point Tented” package, which offers couples Turtle Bay’s most popular locale in which to say, “I Do.” Lulled by the sound of the waves at one of Oahu’s northernmost points, this site can accommodate up to 50 guests, which another option with a maximum of 150 guests.
For couples seeking packages which include services for the ceremony and a room or suite—all with ocean views—the Pili Aloha package includes a 3-Night Stay in an Ocean Bungalow, florals, photography, and videography.
Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club
This 5-star resort sprawling along Anguilla’s peaceful Caribbean shore boasts a newly enhanced property promising the ideal destination wedding experience.
In addition to a host of activities including golf, tennis, yoga, fishing and more, the soon-to-open Aurora Entertainment Park will feature more to do with 600,000 gallons of non-stop watery fun, sure to entertain guests with a half-acre swimming pool with lazy river, thrilling water slides, kid’s splash pad, cabanas and more. Pickleball, basketball, sand volleyball and bocce ball courts are other options. For the younger guests, there will be a rock-climbing wall as well as a kids’ and teens’ activities center with video games, ping pong, billiards, air hockey and dance floor with video screen and jukebox.
The “Wedding Ceremony” package for up to 150 guests (25 guest minimum) offers everything for the ritual—including the venue, private event coordinator, bridal bouquet, matching groom’s boutonniere, officiant, Anguillan marriage license and more.
The “Wedding Reception” (25 person minimum) includes a complimentary overnight wedding accommodation for the bride and groom and either a three-course dinner reception or a buffet dinner, both of which, include the cake and three hours of premium bar.
Kempinski Hotel Cancun
Overlooking the serene sandy shores of this ancient Maya Empire, Kempinski Hotel Cancun offers the idyllic wedding destination in a sophisticated setting. Options include a host of venues ranging from elegant indoor ballrooms, scenic beach sites, magical open courtyards facing the sea or intimate poolside ceremonies.
The intimate “Seaside Ceremony” package for 20 guests includes a symbolic ritual, wedding arch, bridal bouquet, groom's boutonniere, a romantic breakfast for the couple the day after the wedding and other amenities.
The “True Love” package can accommodate up to 50 guests and includes beach set-up, symbolic ceremony, bridal bouquet, groom's boutonniere, private room for the bride while preparing for the ceremony and more.
Dining options, such as the “Culinary Experience” includes five consecutive hours of premium open bar service, passed hors d’oeuvres, three course plated dinner and more.
Special enhancement packages are available for entertainment, décor, floral arrangements, and experiences such as fireworks, fire show, tequila tasting and a mixology class for an additional fee.
Atlantis Paradise Island
Five luxurious resorts, each with a distinct vibe, comprise the magical Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas. With five miles of beach, 14 unique pools, 20 distinct swimming areas, tennis, golf, underwater adventures in addition to a 141-acre water park and a luxurious spa, there’s something for everyone on the wedding guest list.
A host of restaurant and bar options combined with entertainment venues including a casino and nightclub add to the merriment for all ages.
With several wedding packages to choose from, the “Celebrate Love” Atlantis wedding package is popular for larger parties and for couples wanting a “mega” celebration. Included is a choice of picturesque indoor and outdoor venues with enhanced décor and special amenities with romantic touches for the wedding couple.
Among the inclusions: three-night accommodations in the Cove Deluxe Ocean View Suite; an officiant; premium marriage licensing services; bridal hair and make-up (in-room or Mandara Spa); bridal bouquet and groom’s boutonniere; decorated rated arch at ceremony site; one-hour solo musician for the ceremony; four hours of photography and more.
Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa
Scattered along 21 lush tropical acres overlooking Bailey’s Bay in Bermuda, 201 ocean-view rooms tucked into 11 colorful cottages beckon with a host of on-site activities, including a natural cave spa as well as a variety of appealing wedding packages.
As its name implies, the “Intimate Affair" for two to six guests is conducted under a private pergola overlooking the sea and includes the minister, photographer for one hour, marriage certificate, bridal bouquet and boutonniere for the groom, bottle of house sparkling wine, and a six-inch, one-tier wedding cake.
For 10 guests, the “Small Wedding” package conducted on the main lawn with the ocean as a backdrop or on the beach includes all of the above with the addition of four bottles of wine, five dozen hors d’oeuvres sampler platter, and 12-inch, one-tier wedding cake.
Other indoor and outdoor venues are available for larger weddings with dining options ranging from a lavish signature buffet with carving stations to individually plated meals.
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