Let’s face it, every time a new season of Bachelor in Paradise kicks off, we have two main questions: Who is going to find love (or at least some drama), and where on Earth is that stunning beach resort they get to call home?
While the drama is always unpredictable, the location is a beloved constant. If you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming about sipping a margarita by that iconic pool or walking down those sandy steps to the beach, you’re in luck. We’ve got the full scoop on the tropical paradise that serves as the backdrop for all the romance and rose ceremonies.
The Main Hub: Welcome to Playa Escondida
For nearly a decade, the sun-soaked setting for Bachelor in Paradise has been the Playa Escondida Resort in the beautiful town of Sayulita, Mexico. Since taking over from Tulum after Season 1, this “hidden beach” (that’s literally what Playa Escondida means in Spanish) has become as much a character on the show as Wells Adams and his trusty bar.
Nestled between the lush jungle and the Pacific Ocean, this secluded resort is the perfect place for sparks to fly. It’s not a sterile TV set—it’s a real, functioning resort with a rustic, bohemian vibe that encourages contestants to relax, open up, and, well, fall in love on camera.
The resort features a variety of accommodations, from quaint, thatched-roof bungalows to stunning beachfront villas. And those locations you see all the time on screen? They’re all there:
- Multiple pools for those dramatic heart-to-hearts.
- A full-service spa for relaxing after a tense rose ceremony.
- An open-air restaurant and bar (yes, Wells’s spot!).
- A yoga platform with breathtaking ocean views.
Can you actually stay there?
The best part? A resounding YES! When the Bachelor franchise isn’t filming, Playa Escondida is open to the public. Fans can book their own stay and experience the magic firsthand, with activities like surfing, horseback riding on the beach, jungle treks, and whale watching.
The Charming Town: Sayulita, Mexico
Playa Escondida is located in the vibrant surf town of Sayulita, in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit. This gives the show a rich cultural backdrop that extends beyond the resort walls.
Sayulita is known for its:
- Colorful, cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops and galleries.
- A world-class surfing scene.
- Stunning beaches, including the popular Playa de los Muertos.
- A laid-back, bohemian atmosphere that attracts travelers from all over the world.
While most of the day-to-day drama unfolds within the resort, the spirit and beauty of Sayulita are what give the show its signature look and feel.
Beyond the Resort: Where Do They Go on Dates?
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Bachelor show without extravagant one-on-one and group dates. To keep things fresh, producers take the contestants off the resort to explore other spectacular locations throughout Mexico.
While the exact locations change each season, past dates have taken place at:
- Luxury Hotels & Resorts: Couples have been whisked away to other high-end spots like the Hacienda del Mar for private dinners and overnight stays.
- Adventure Parks: For a dose of adrenaline, contestants have visited places like VidantaWorld theme park in Nuevo Vallarta.
- Private Yachts: Nothing says “I’m falling for you” like a romantic day spent sailing on the Pacific Ocean.
- Local Restaurants & Cultural Sites: To showcase the local culture, dates often include intimate dinners at authentic local restaurants or exploring the natural beauty of the region.
So, while Playa Escondida is home base, the entire Riviera Nayarit region serves as a romantic playground for the cast.
From the familiar steps of the resort to the exciting new date locations, the setting is a crucial part of what makes Bachelor in Paradise the ultimate summer escape. Now, who’s ready to book a flight?
