Dreaming of a Puerto Rico Destination wedding? We have your wedding ideas, top locations and cost estimates here.
If you’ve been dreaming of spending your happiest day of your lives in a tropical paradise, Puerto Rico is the escape you might want.
It’s affordable, easy to get to from the US, and simply gorgeous. But here’s the thing: reserving a flight and showing up is not how a Puerto Rico destination wedding works. That’s where we come in – we specialize in turning dream destination weddings into reality and today we’ll help you learn how to plan a perfect destination wedding in Puerto Rico!
What Makes a Puerto Rico Destination Wedding So Special?
There’s no place like Puerto Rico. Sure, other Caribbean islands are out there, but none capture the magic of Puerto Rico quite like it. Here’s why.
The Scenery Is Unreal
Golden beaches? Check. Lush rainforests? Check. Bioluminescent bays? Double check.
Whether you want to exchange “I do’s” with the picturesque ocean as your backdrop or amidst glowing waters at night, Puerto Rico is for you.
And each corner of the island is different, too. San Juan is rich with history and has a lively nightlife. El Yunque is a lush, mystical rainforest great for lovers of the outdoors. And Vieques? Its home to some of the most isolated beaches in the Caribbean.
The Culture Adds Meaning
A Puerto Rico destination wedding isn’t all about the views; it’s about connection, too. Puerto Rican traditions are rich and running deep, and incorporating those into your special day can add a level of meaning.
Think bomba y plena music, traditional cuisine, or even a local blessings ceremony. These elements pay homage to the tierra (land) and its people, which gives your celebration feeling grounded and true.
Family Vacation and Destination Wedding in One Go
Best of all, by planning a Puerto Rico destination wedding, you’re giving your family and friends an excuse to vacation. Rather than shoehorning everybody into a banquet hall for a few hours, you’re giving them a chance to binge for days – or weeks – in one of the loveliest spots in the world. They’ll thank you for it.
Best Locations for Puerto Rico Destination Wedding
Alright, let’s break it down even further. If you’re committed to an idea of a Puerto Rico destination wedding, here are some of the top locales to try for.
San Juan
San Juan has the best of both worlds and the first among them is the old one and the new one. Imagine saying “I do” before Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century fortress facing the sea. Or exchanging promises in a cobblestone courtyard fringed with colorful Spanish colonial buildings.
- El Convento Hotel, a beautiful boutique hotel in Old San Juan. It has a rooftop terrace that overlooks the city.
- Condado Beach: This strip is a great combination of city and beach. A string of upscale resorts stretches along the shoreline, providing convenient access to restaurants and nightlife.
- Galley Bay: The Beach Escape
El Yunque
For naturalists, El Yunque National Forest is a must. Imagine being surrounded by enormous trees, tumble-down waterfalls and the sound of coquí frogs chirping away in the background.
- Yokahú Tower: This observation deck offers jaw-dropping views of the forest canopy. Perfect for a small, intimate ceremony.
- Hacienda Siesta Alegre: A rustic venue nestled in the heart of the rainforest. There are fairy lights strung between trees and tables adorned with tropical flowers.
Vieques and Culebra
If you dream of a private, off-the-beaten-path wedding, Vieques or Culebra are your best bets. These sister isles, with their glimmering waters and unspoiled beaches, are paradisiacal.
- Flamenco Beach (Culebra): Frequently ranked among the best beaches on Earth, Flamenco is postcard-perfect. A white sand beach with turquoise waters and no crowds.
- Sunset Beach (Vieques): You know by the name this was a spot famous for fiery sunsets. Ideal for evening ceremonies.
Rincón
On the island’s western tip, Rincón is known for its chill vibe and elite surf breaks. If you’re an adventurous couple and love the idea of a super casual, boho-chic wedding, then this is the spot for you.
- Crashboat Beach: A pristine beach with calm waters and beautiful rock formations. Perfect for sunset photos.
- Horned Dorset Primavera: A luxury boutique hotel featuring chic accommodations and breathtaking ocean views.
How To Budget for Your Destination Wedding In Puerto Rico
Wedding planning is pricey enough without the word “destination” – which can feel like opening Pandora’s box. But don’t panic. Planning a Puerto Rico destination wedding does not mean you have to go bankrupt if you do it right. Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Be honest about what you can afford
Before you get anywhere near Pinterest and your dreams of a beach wedding, sit down and think about how much you’d actually be able to spend. Take into account everything from flights to food, lodging, entertainment, and more!
Ask yourself:
- Is it a pay for everything thing, or is it guests pay their own?
- Are you looking for a smaller get-together or a larger celebration?
- Are there non-negotiables (i.e., certain venue/photographer)?
Knowing these things up-front will save you from overspending later.
Step 2: Break Down the Costs
There are few primary expenses that come with a Puerto Rico destination wedding. Let’s tackle them one by one so you can understand where your money is really going.
Venue Fees
It tends to be the largest portion of your budget. Venues on Puerto Rico’s are as affordable as public parks and as upscale as luxury resorts. Prices vary tremendously depending on location, season and time of day. For example:
- A private villa could run $3,000-$7,000 a night.
- A garden venue at a resort might cost $2,000 to $5,000 just for the event space.
Pro tip: Traveling during the off-peak seasons (spring and fall) typically means lower prices and greater availability.
Vendor Costs
Photographers and florists and caterers and musicians – they all charge based on experience and demand. Toast for something in the $2,000–8,000 range for photography, $1,000–5,000 for flowers and $50–150 a head for catering.
Accommodations
When you have guests, you’ll need to consider accommodation. Hotel prices in Puerto Rico are not cheap, particularly during high-season months like December and June. Rates can start at $150-400+ per night. If you’re searching for cheaper alternatives, think about reserving condos or vacation rentals.
Transportation
Transportation in Puerto Rico is cars and shuttles – and even boats if you’re island hopping. Add rental fees, gas, parking and driver tips.
Approvals and Legal Requirements
Certain venues require permits for events, and you might pay extra for sound systems, generators or waste disposal. And remember to add the cost of the marriage license ($200 in Puerto Rico).
Guest Activities
Since this is a destination wedding, your guests will likely want to explore. Organize welcome dinners, outings, farewell brunches. These are extras that can add up, so factor in a portion of your budget for hospitality.
Ready to Start?
The trick is striking that content between your vision and feasibility-and that’s where we come in.
Start planning your wedding of a lifetime! Learn about our Destination Wedding Planner services, and we will be there for you every step of the way.
Because when it’s time to say “I do” in paradise, the sky’s the limit.
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