{"id":79707,"date":"2023-07-28T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-07-28T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/withjoy.com\/blog\/?p=79707"},"modified":"2024-07-17T15:37:53","modified_gmt":"2024-07-17T22:37:53","slug":"puerto-rico-destination-wedding","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/withjoy.com\/blog\/puerto-rico-destination-wedding\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Plan the Perfect Puerto Rico Destination Wedding"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Puerto Rico’s lush rainforests, pristine beaches and vibrant culture have all the makings of picture-perfect destination wedding. This tropical paradise offers an idyllic blend of natural beauty, history and an incredible array of venue options that will make your dream wedding day a reality. Exchange your vows surrounded by greenery, then dance the night away in a historic landmark \u2014 plus, you\u2019ll be able to capture your first moments as newlyweds against breathtaking backdrops. Puerto Rico has it all, and we can’t wait to share why it’s the ultimate destination for your special day. So, grab a coconut drink and let’s dive into the excitement of planning your perfect destination wedding<\/a> in Puerto Rico!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What to Know Before \u201cI Do\u201d<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s get the nitty gritty out of the way before you jump into wedding planning<\/a>. Puerto Rico is an island located in the Caribbean Sea and it’s actually a commonwealth, offering a unique blend of vibrant local culture and U.S. influences. What truly sets Puerto Rico apart is its captivating architectural style and rich history. You’ll be saying “I do” amidst some of the oldest churches on U.S. soil. Talk about romance with a dash of old-world charm!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And here\u2019s the great news for destination weddings<\/a>: Because Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, you and your wedding guests don\u2019t need a passport to travel to paradise. Transportation around the island is easy with the major airport, Luis Mu\u00f1oz Mar\u00edn International Airport (SJU), located around 20 minutes from San Juan. Renting a car is recommended for exploring different areas of the island. Be sure to put this info on your wedding website<\/a> so your guests have all the info they need to make travel arrangements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To make your vows official in Puerto Rico, you\u2019ll need a handful of documents including a valid government-issued ID, birth certificates, medical clearance, a sworn affidavit that you\u2019re in the country to get married, and an IRS stamp from the local government office. Our recommendation is to work with your wedding planner to gather everything you need to legally obtain a marriage license.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Setting a Budget<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
\n
\"A<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

One of the best parts about getting married in beautiful Puerto Rico? You get some major bang for your buck when it comes to saying \u201cI do\u201d in a tropical paradise. Expect to spend around $15,000 to $30,000 for a wedding<\/a> of around 50 to 100 guests.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When to Book Your Destination Wedding<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to setting the perfect date for your dream celebration, there are a few things to keep in mind. Be mindful of the busy tourist season, which typically falls between December and April when the island is dry and warm. If you want to avoid the crowds and save money on your destination wedding, consider picking a date during the shoulder season (May to November). But a word of caution: Be wary of hurricanes from June to November, as it could pour buckets on your well-laid plans. It’s also wise to steer clear of major festivals that draw crowds, such as Fiestas de la Calle San Sebasti\u00e1n in January and the Casals Festival in February, as venue and hotel prices may skyrocket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Have Your Destination Wedding Ceremony in Puerto Rico<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
\n
\"A<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

From fairy tale-esque city streets to romantic remote beaches, Puerto Rico has every possible paradise scenario for you and your partner. No matter which locale you choose, the island will embrace you with open arms and provide the perfect backdrop for your dream destination wedding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

San Juan<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Puerto Rico’s vibrant capital city is perfect for couples seeking a mix of history and metropolitan charm. Exchange vows amidst the colorful buildings and cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, with the impressive El Morro fortress as your backdrop. After the ceremony, explore the city’s lively streets such as Calle de la Fortaleza where you can savor delicious Puerto Rican cuisine and enjoy the romantic ocean views at spots like Playa El Escambron. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Isla Verde <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re dreaming of a waterfront wedding, Isla Verde Beach is the barefoot luxury choice. Located just minutes from Puerto Rico\u2019s major airport, this stretch of sand is actually three beaches \u2014 El Alambique, Pine Grove Beach and Balneario de Carolina. The pristine 3-mile shoreline renowned for its turquoise waters and luxurious resorts. Dance the night away under swaying palm trees and create memories that will last a lifetime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Vieques<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For a truly magical experience, consider Vieques, a secluded island paradise. Home to Mosquito Bay, the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world, this destination will make your wedding night an otherworldly affair. Imagine saying “I do” under a canopy of stars and later witnessing the water come alive with a mesmerizing blue glow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Rincon<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you and your partner are surf enthusiasts or simply love beach towns with a laid-back vibe, Rincon is your spot. This surfers’ haven offers scenic shores and a relaxed atmosphere. Choose a sunset ceremony at Sandy Beach, followed by a beach bonfire with crashing waves serving as your soundtrack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

El Yunque National Forest<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For nature lovers, El Yunque National Forest provides a lush and enchanting backdrop for your wedding \u2014 not to mention it\u2019s the only tropical rainforest in the national forest system. Exchange vows while surrounded by tropical flora and cascading waterfalls. Embrace the beauty of nature, and perhaps even encounter the iconic coqu\u00ed tree frogs singing their sweet serenade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Ponce<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you crave a blend of culture and history, Ponce, Puerto Rico’s second-largest city, is a fantastic option. Known as the \u201cPearl of the South,\u201d Ponce boasts stunning architecture, myriad museums and a charming town square. Consider a ceremony at the historic Parque de Bombas, a vibrant red-and-black firehouse turned museum, for a unique and unforgettable celebration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Top Puerto Rico Wedding Venues<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Give yourselves (and your wedding guests) an unforgettable experience in luxury. The old-world charm of Puerto Rico goes further than just the stunning coastlines. Historical mansions, seaside escapes and whimsical haciendas await in your search for the perfect destination wedding venue. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Old San Juan: <\/strong>Hotel El Convento <\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>
<\/div>
<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/div>
<\/path><\/g><\/g><\/g><\/svg><\/div>
View this post on Instagram<\/div><\/div>
<\/div>
<\/div>
<\/div>
<\/div><\/div>
<\/div>
<\/div><\/div>
<\/div>
<\/div>
<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/div>
<\/div><\/div><\/a>

A post shared by Hotel El Convento (@hotelelconvento)<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/blockquote>