Casa Mariposa Event Venue & Villas in South Padre Island, Texas
Bethany & Able Wedding - Casa Mariposa in South Padre Island, TX
The Ultimate Beachfront Wedding Venue in Texas
If you’ve been dreaming of a beach wedding that feels like an intimate destination escape but without the hassle of passports and long flights, Casa Mariposa in South Padre Island might just be the perfect venue for you. This hidden gem offers an unbeatable combination of beachfront beauty, elegant villas, and a laid-back island vibe, making it an ideal spot for couples who want a tropical wedding with the ease of staying in Texas.
We recently had the honor of photographing Beth & Abel’s wedding here, and let me tell you—it was nothing short of magical. From their ceremony on the sand to the twinkle-lit courtyard reception, every moment felt like it belonged in a postcard. If you’re considering Casa Mariposa for your wedding, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this stunning venue.
A Tropical Paradise on South Padre Island
Where It’s Located
Casa Mariposa is tucked away on South Padre Island, just a short drive from the mainland. Its prime location gives you the best of both worlds—seclusion and privacy while still being close to great dining, entertainment, and activities for you and your guests.
The Vibe: Relaxed Elegance Meets Island Charm
One of the things we love most about this venue is its unique blend of luxury and laid-back beachy vibes. The Mediterranean-style villas, lush gardens, and private beach access make it feel like you’ve stepped into a coastal paradise. Whether you’re going for a casual barefoot ceremony or an elegant soirée under the stars, this venue can match your vision.
For Beth & Abel, this was exactly what they wanted—a wedding that felt intimate and romantic, but still had a touch of coastal chic. Their décor was minimal because, honestly, the natural beauty of the setting did most of the work for them!
Ceremony & Reception Spaces That Wow
The Beachfront Ceremony
Imagine walking down a sandy aisle with the waves gently crashing behind you, the salty breeze in the air, and the golden light of sunset painting the sky. That’s exactly what a ceremony at Casa Mariposa looks like.
Beth & Abel chose to exchange vows right on the shoreline, with a simple bamboo arch draped in flowing white fabric. Their ceremony was the perfect blend of sentiment, love, and laughter as they enjoyed the cheers of the guests.
The Courtyard & Garden Reception Area
After the ceremony, guests moved to the courtyard reception area, which is a stunning mix of tropical greenery, string lights, and rustic charm. It’s the kind of space that feels warm and inviting, perfect for an intimate dinner under the stars.
Why we love this space:
Twinkle lights create a romantic atmosphere.
Open-air design lets guests enjoy the ocean breeze.
Plenty of space for dancing (which Beth & Abel’s crowd took full advantage of!).
Indoor Villa Option
While most couples opt for the outdoor spaces, Casa Mariposa also has an indoor villa option that works beautifully for smaller weddings or unpredictable weather. The Spanish-style architecture, with its warm tones and elegant arches, makes for a cozy and intimate alternative.
A Photographer’s Dream Venue
As wedding photographers, we’re always looking for venues with gorgeous lighting, a variety of backdrops, and natural elements that enhance the romance of the day. Casa Mariposa delivers on all fronts.
Golden Hour Perfection
South Padre Island is known for its stunning sunsets, and Casa Mariposa offers one of the best vantage points. The golden light reflecting off the ocean creates an ethereal glow that makes for breathtaking portraits.
Beth & Abel timed their post-ceremony photos perfectly, stepping away from the reception for a few quiet moments on the beach just as the sky turned pink and orange. The result? Some of our favorite beach wedding portraits ever.
Variety of Backdrops
The Beach: Soft sand, rolling waves, and dramatic skies.
The Villas: Mediterranean-style architecture with gorgeous textures and tones.
The Gardens: Lush greenery that adds a tropical touch to portraits.
Fun & Candid Moments
One of our favorite shots from Beth & Abel’s wedding was of the fireworks show happening across the island from the venue. It was a perfect opportunity for the two to enjoy a special moment.
Guest Experience & Amenities
On-Site Luxury Villas
One of the biggest perks of Casa Mariposa is that your guests don’t have to go far at the end of the night. The venue offers luxurious on-site villas, making it easy for friends and family to turn your wedding into a weekend getaway.
Private Beach Access
Unlike public beach venues, Casa Mariposa offers a private, secluded beachfront experience. This means no unexpected beachgoers in the background of your ceremony photos!
Things to Do Nearby
If you’re planning a wedding weekend, there’s no shortage of activities for your guests to enjoy:
Dolphin-watching tours
Deep-sea fishing excursions
Sunset catamaran cruises
Exploring the iconic sand dunes
Beth & Abel’s guests took full advantage of their time on the island, spending the morning paddleboarding before getting ready for the wedding. It made the whole experience feel more like a vacation than just a one-day event.
Is Casa Mariposa Right for You?
This venue is a great fit if you:
✅ Love the idea of a beachfront wedding with a private, intimate feel.
✅ Want a venue that blends elegance with relaxed island charm.
✅ Dream of golden-hour portraits on the beach.
✅ Want a destination-style wedding without leaving Texas.
For Beth & Abel, it was everything they could have hoped for—an effortless, stunning, and joy-filled day that felt true to their love story.
Pro Tips for Planning a Casa Mariposa Wedding
Book early – This venue is in high demand, especially for spring and fall weddings.
Plan for sunset portraits – The lighting is unbeatable, and your photos will thank you.
Consider a wedding weekend itinerary – Take advantage of all the island has to offer.
Final Thoughts
Casa Mariposa isn’t just a wedding venue—it’s an experience. Whether you’re dreaming of an elegant beachfront ceremony, a lively courtyard reception, or a weekend-long celebration with your loved ones, this venue offers the perfect setting.
If you’re planning a wedding here and need a photographer who knows how to capture its magic, we’d love to be part of your day. Let’s chat and start planning your dream wedding photos!