Bachelorette parties have become a time-honored tradition where brides-to-be and their closest friends gather to celebrate one of the last milestones before marriage. Cabo San Lucas, with its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and range of luxurious and budget-friendly activities, has become a favorite destination for brides looking to celebrate in style. However, one of the most common questions when planning a bachelorette party in Cabo is: Who pays for what? Do brides typically cover the costs, or do bridesmaids foot the bill?

The answer to this question is not straightforward, as the traditions can vary significantly depending on the group dynamics, financial situations, and even geographical location. Let’s explore the various costs associated with a bachelorette party in Cabo San Lucas, what typically happens with payment, and how these trends may differ based on the bride’s age, financial situation, and where she and her friends are from.

The Costs of a Bachelorette Party in Cabo San Lucas

Airfare

One of the largest expenses for any destination bachelorette party is airfare. Depending on where the party is flying from, this can range from $200 to over $500 per person. Flights from California to Cabo tend to be on the lower end of the spectrum, often ranging between $150 and $350 for round trips if booked early. Meanwhile, travelers coming from Texas might expect to pay slightly more, especially if they’re flying from cities like Dallas or Houston. On average, flights from Texas can range from $250 to $450.

Other states, such as those in the Midwest or East Coast, will typically see significantly higher airfare costs, sometimes exceeding $600 round-trip. In these cases, some bridesmaids may opt for connecting flights to save money, while others may invest in direct flights for convenience.

Accommodations

Accommodations are another significant cost, with a wide range of options available depending on the group’s budget and preferences.

Budget Accommodations: For brides in their 20s or early 30s on a tighter budget, Airbnb and budget-friendly hotels can be ideal. Split among 5 to 10 bridesmaids, accommodations can cost as little as $50-$100 per night per person. Popular Airbnb options include villas located near Medano Beach or in downtown Cabo, offering easy access to bars and restaurants without breaking the bank.

Mid-Range Accommodations: Bridesmaids in their 30s or with some extra spending money may prefer to book a mid-range villa or stay at a popular all-inclusive resort like Riu Palace or Breathless Cabo. These resorts typically offer a balance of luxury and affordability, with prices ranging from $150-$300 per night per person, depending on room type and time of year.

Luxury Accommodations: For more established brides and their friends, luxury accommodations at ME Cabo, the Montage Los Cabos, or a private villa in the exclusive Pedregal community may be more fitting. These accommodations come with perks like private pools, beach access, and concierge services but will set the group back $400-$800 per night per person.

Transportation

Once in Cabo, transportation costs can vary depending on how far the group is staying from the airport and what types of transportation they choose. Most groups will want to arrange for private transportation to ensure safety and convenience.

• Private Car Services: Popular private car services, like Brown’s Private Services, offer round-trip transportation from the airport to the hotel or villa for around $100-$150 USD for a group of 5 to 8 people. Splitting this cost among the group is common practice.
• Taxis and Ride Shares: If staying in downtown Cabo or at an all-inclusive resort, the group may rely on taxis or ride-sharing services to get to and from restaurants, bars, and the marina. These services are typically affordable, with fares ranging from $10-$20 per ride.

Dining Out

Dining is one area where costs can range significantly, depending on the group’s preferences and budget.

• Budget-Friendly Dining: For groups on a tighter budget, dining at local taco stands or casual restaurants such as Taco Gus and El Toro Güero is an affordable option, with meals averaging $10-$20 per person. Breakfast and brunch spots, like The Office on the Beach, offer reasonably priced meals with a view, averaging $20-$30 per person.
• Mid-Range Dining: For groups looking to splurge a bit on a few dinners but keep things affordable overall, mid-range restaurants like Alexanders and Misiones de Kino are great options. These restaurants offer excellent food and cocktails, with average costs ranging between $50-$75 per person.
• Fine Dining: More established groups may opt for high-end restaurants such as Rosa Negra, Nobu Los Cabos, or Sunset Monalisa. These dining experiences can cost $100-$200 per person, particularly when factoring in cocktails, wine, and multiple courses.

Yacht Charters and Activities

One of the highlights of a Cabo bachelorette party is chartering a private yacht for a day of sunbathing, snorkeling, and partying. Booze Cruise Cabo is a popular choice for bachelorette groups due to its rave TripAdvisor reviews, customizable experiences, and all-inclusive packages.

• Budget Yacht Charters: For brides on a budget, Booze Cruise Cabo offers affordable yacht options that include open bar, snacks, and water toys like floating islands and paddleboards. A half-day charter may cost around $125-$175 per person.
• Mid-Range Yacht Charters: A more upscale yacht charter with lunch, premium cocktails, and a visit to iconic locations like Santa Maria Bay or Medano Bay could range between $200-$250 per person. These mid-range charters often include snorkeling gear, float parties, and a professional crew to ensure a seamless experience.
• Luxury Yacht Charters: For groups looking for a truly luxurious experience, Booze Cruise Cabo’s premium yachts, featuring full catering, champagne toasts, and professional photographers, can range from $300 to $500 per person. These charters are ideal for those looking to create Instagram-worthy memories and indulge in top-tier service while cruising along Cabo’s coastline.

Entertainment Costs

In addition to dining and yacht charters, Cabo offers a variety of entertainment options for bachelorette parties.

Beach Clubs and Day Parties: Mango Deck on Medano Beach is a famous spot for beach parties, drinking contests, and lively atmosphere. The cost of a day at Mango Deck can vary, but for groups who want a VIP experience, reserving a beachfront table with bottle service may cost $300-$500, which can be split among the group.

Nightclubs: For bachelorette groups wanting to hit the town after a day of fun, Cabo’s nightlife doesn’t disappoint. Clubs like El Squid Roe, Mandala, and La Vaquita offer everything from EDM to top-40 hits. Cover charges at these venues are typically $20-$40 per person, while bottle service can range from $200-$600 depending on the club and bottle selection.

Photography and Memories

Many groups choose to document their bachelorette parties with photos, either using their own cameras or hiring a professional photographer.

• DIY Photography: For groups on a budget, using smartphones and cameras to capture the fun moments is a great option. Many of Cabo’s scenic spots, like the Arch or Lover’s Beach, provide a beautiful backdrop for photos without the need to hire a photographer. Additionally, many groups take advantage of props and matching outfits to create memorable and fun photos.
• Professional Photography: For groups looking to invest in professional photos, Cabo has many talented photographers who specialize in bachelorette parties and events. Hiring a photographer for a beach session or during a yacht charter typically costs between $300-$700, depending on the package. These photos can provide lasting memories and stunning images to commemorate the trip.

Who Traditionally Pays for What?

Early 20s Bride on a Budget

In a bachelorette party for a bride in her early 20s, it’s common for the bridesmaids to cover the majority of the expenses, especially if the bride is younger and may not have the financial means to contribute much. Bridesmaids typically pay for their own airfare, accommodations, meals, and activities. They may also pitch in to cover some of the bride’s costs as a gift to her.

The bride, in turn, might pay for smaller personal expenses, such as her souvenirs or drinks, but the bulk of her costs—such as accommodations and activities—are often covered by the bridal party. For these groups, budgeting is key, and they may opt for more affordable dining options and activities to ensure everyone can participate without breaking the bank.

30s Bride with Children

For a bride in her 30s who may already have children or is marrying her common-law husband, the financial dynamics often shift. In these scenarios, the bride may contribute to the costs, especially if she wants a more extravagant celebration.

The bridesmaids typically still cover their own expenses, such as airfare, accommodation, and meals, but the bride might take on more of the group’s expenses, such as splitting the cost of the yacht charter or paying for a special dinner. This is often seen as a way for the bride to contribute to the celebration while still being treated by her bridal party.

40s Bride with Established Career

For a bride in her 40s, who likely has an established career and more financial security, the tradition may change entirely. In these cases, it’s not uncommon for the bride to cover a significant portion of the expenses, especially if she is hosting a more luxurious bachelorette party.

The bridesmaids may still cover their own travel and accommodations, but the bride may pay for group activities, such as the yacht charter or a fine dining experience. These brides tend to opt for higher-end options, from luxury accommodations to premium experiences, and are more likely to take on the financial responsibility for parts of the event to ensure a memorable experience for everyone.

Differences Based on Geography

Traditions for paying for bachelorette parties can also vary depending on where the bride and bridesmaids are from.

California

In California, bachelorette parties are often seen as an opportunity for the bride to be pampered and celebrated by her friends. It’s common for the bridal party to cover most, if not all, of the bride’s expenses. Bridesmaids from California may expect to contribute more financially, as the cost of living and travel in the state is generally higher, and many are accustomed to covering larger expenses for celebrations.

Texas

In Texas, traditions may vary slightly. Southern hospitality plays a role, and while bridesmaids often cover their own expenses, it’s not uncommon for the bride to contribute as well, particularly if she’s financially secure. In Texas, there’s often more of a communal approach to paying for the party, with bridesmaids and the bride sharing the costs for major activities.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the way expenses are split for a bachelorette party in Cabo San Lucas varies widely based on the bride’s financial situation, age, and the traditions of her bridal party. Whether it’s a budget-friendly celebration or a luxury extravaganza, there’s a way to make the experience unforgettable for every bride, regardless of who foots the bill. The key is communication, planning, and ensuring that everyone feels comfortable with the arrangements, so the focus remains on celebrating the bride and her upcoming wedding in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.