Getting Married at Dreams Natura: What Makes It Different from Dreams Riviera Cancun?

Hi, I’m Evan Whitney, the photographer behind Arch Wedding Studio. If you’re planning your destination wedding, you’ve probably noticed that the "Dreams" brand is a huge name in the Riviera Maya. Two of their most popular resorts, Dreams Natura and Dreams Riviera Cancun, often end up as the final two contenders for couples. On paper, they seem very similar: both are family-friendly, all-inclusive, and beautiful. So, what’s the difference?

As a photographer who has been lucky enough to shoot at both, I can tell you they offer surprisingly different atmospheres and, more importantly, very different visual backdrops for your wedding photos. This isn't about which one is "better," but about which one is the right one for your specific style. Let’s break down the key differences from a photographer’s point of view.

Dreams Natura

Modern & High-Energy vs. Classic & Lush

Dreams Natura is the newer of the two, and you feel that modern energy the moment you arrive. The design is contemporary, sleek, and inspired by the surrounding jungle, with a lot of natural wood, stone, and impressive water features, including a lazy river and a water park. This resort has a "wow" factor and feels very high-energy and fun. It’s perfect for the modern couple who loves a sleek design and wants a venue that feels new and exciting for their guests.

Dreams Riviera Cancun, on the other hand, is built with a more classic, tropical hacienda style. It’s incredibly lush and feels more established, with winding cobblestone paths, sprawling gardens, and a more traditional layout. The vibe is timelessly romantic and a bit more tranquil. This resort is for the couple who dreams of that classic Riviera Maya feel—romantic, surrounded by nature, and exuding a warm, traditional charm.

Dreams Riviera Cancun

Unique & Dramatic vs. Timeless & Oceanfront

When it comes to your Dreams Natura wedding ceremony, the locations are all about drama and unique design. Their most famous spot is the "Infinity Pool" gazebo, which features a clear-floor aisle that makes you feel like you’re walking on water. They also have a very cool, cenote-inspired cave location for intimate ceremonies, and a stunning rooftop deck. These spots are fantastic for a couple who wants a ceremony backdrop that is modern, unexpected, and very "Instagram-worthy."

Dreams Riviera Cancun’s ceremony locations are more about classic, in-your-face ocean views. Its most iconic spot is the large, octagonal, thatched-roof gazebo set right at the edge of the beach. It’s a beautiful, timeless structure that perfectly frames the turquoise ocean behind you. They also offer beautiful beach setups and garden locations. This is the ideal choice for the couple who has always pictured that quintessential, romantic, toes-in-the-sand (or at least looking at the sand) ceremony.

Dreams Natura

Architectural & Sleek vs. Organic & Green

As a photographer, I love the variety at Dreams Natura. The modern architecture creates amazing leading lines, dramatic shadows, and reflections. We can use the sleek, wood-slatted walkways, the impressive rock formations in the lazy river, and the contemporary sculptures to create photos that feel more high-fashion or editorial. The rooftop also offers epic panoramic views of the ocean and the jungle, which is incredible for sunset portraits.

At Dreams Riviera Cancun, my lens is always drawn to the greenery. The entire resort feels like a secret tropical garden. We can wander the winding paths and find a dozen secluded spots that feel like we’re all alone in the jungle. The photos here feel more organic, soft, and naturally romantic. It’s easier to find those classic "tropical paradise" shots, with lush palm trees, vibrant flowers, and charming, rustic textures.

Dreams Riviera Cancun

Chic Rooftop vs. Romantic Garden

Dreams Natura truly shines with its modern reception venues. The Blue Water Rooftop is a show-stopper. Hosting your reception or cocktail hour up there, overlooking the entire resort and the ocean, feels incredibly chic and exclusive. It’s perfect for a sophisticated party under the stars. They also have beautiful, modern ballrooms and terrace options that carry that same contemporary, high-end feel.

Dreams Riviera Cancun delivers a more grounded, classic romantic reception. Its pool deck, surrounded by those iconic octagonal towers and lit by torches and twinkle lights, is a hugely popular and beautiful spot. You can also host a reception in their garden areas or on a beach-adjacent terrace. The feeling is less "Miami chic" and more "timeless tropical romance," with the sounds of the ocean and the warm, lush air setting the mood.

So, here’s the bottom line: a Dreams Natura wedding is perfect for the couple who wants a modern, sleek, and high-energy venue with unique, dramatic photo backdrops. Dreams Riviera Cancun is the ideal choice for the couple who wants a classic, lush, and timelessly romantic setting that feels like a tropical garden paradise.

There’s no wrong answer—only the one that feels right for your love story. If you’ve chosen your venue and are looking for a photographer who knows how to capture its unique magic, I’d love to chat.