The Best Puerto Rico Wedding Venues!
Hello there! My name is Cami, and I am passionate about creating the perfect wedding experience for every couple I photograph in Puerto Rico. To achieve this, I believe in educating my clients so they have the right expectations for their big day.
In addition to my weekly Saturday wedding blogs, I am starting a new monthly blog series called Wedding Wednesday. This series will share tips and insights from a photographer's perspective on various wedding-related topics. If you have any ideas for topics, feel free to share them in the blog's comments section.
Today's topic is about the best wedding venues in Puerto Rico. As the first major decision for most couples, the site inspection can be overwhelming, especially if you're planning from abroad. Puerto Rico has diverse options, from luxurious ballrooms to rustic haciendas and dreamlike beaches. I have categorized my favorites and shared my experiences with each, along with photos of real weddings held at each venue.
I hope this blog helps you make an informed decision and creates a stress-free planning process!
OUTDOOR PUERTO RICO WEDDING VENUES
I feel privileged to live on an Island full of beautiful natural scenes! I enjoy how outdoor weddings can be stunning without requiring lavish decorations.
Opting for an outdoor wedding venue in Puerto Rico presents challenges such as preparing for rain and dealing with the hot Caribbean climate, regardless of the season.
Nevertheless, there are many breathtaking outdoor wedding venues in Puerto Rico that are definitely worth your attention!
Puerto Rico Beach Wedding Venues
When considering a wedding in Puerto Rico, couples often imagine exchanging their vows in front of a breathtaking ocean view while feeling the sand beneath their feet. However, some may prefer to enjoy the scenic view without the sandy setting.
What makes the following venues particularly appealing is their versatility - they offer stunning locations for both sandy and non-sandy wedding ceremonies.
Upscale Weddings at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is a luxurious and exclusive wedding venue in Puerto Rico that provides an upscale experience for couples looking for a tropical paradise to tie the knot.
Situated along the picturesque shoreline, the resort showcases immaculate beaches, verdant surroundings, and sophisticated amenities that cater to every detail of a destination wedding.
With its top-notch facilities, personalized attention, and stunning ocean vistas, Dorado Beach is the perfect setting for capturing unforgettable memories as a wedding photographer in Puerto Rico.
Weddings at Villa Montana Beach Resort, in Isabela
Villa Montana is a top-rated resort on the main Island's west side. It offers a unique experience with individual villas that provide stunning coast views.
The resort is eco-friendly and pet-friendly, so you can celebrate a wedding while offsetting your environmental impact.
You can access their beautiful beachfront gazebo for your ceremony and choose from two reception options. One option is an indoor and air-conditioned setting or the O Restaurant, a lovely terrace by the beach. If you're looking for a beautiful beach destination wedding in Puerto Rico, Villa Montana is a great choice.
Weddings at Copamarina Beach Resort, Guanica
Have you heard of Guanica? It's a hidden gem that boasts plenty of tourist attractions. The town offers beautiful farms, serene mangrove beaches with many snorkeling spots, and picturesque landscapes.
And if you're looking for a wedding venue you can also stay at, you should check out Copamarina Beach Resort. This locally-owned hotel sits on the beach and has the most relaxed atmosphere. It's a stunning venue that offers indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings and special events.
Weddings at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve (Formerly Gran Melia Rio Grande)
Another ideal beach wedding venue is Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico. It offers lush gardens, pools, and a beach for outdoor ceremonies.
The Grand Ballroom is perfect for more significant celebrations, while smaller event spaces accommodate intimate gatherings. Guests can enjoy a championship golf course, spa, and diverse dining options. But the most iconic is the Cupula, famous for first looks, ceremonies, and newlywed portraits.
With top-notch service, your wedding experience will be seamless and memorable.
St Regis Bahia Beach Resort Weddings in Rio Grande Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico's St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is a top-notch wedding venue that shouldn't be overlooked. This opulent resort boasts a perfect blend of sophistication, breathtaking surroundings, and top-of-the-line amenities, making it an ideal choice for couples planning their dream destination wedding.
The St. Regis venue offers a beautiful beachfront location and exceptional service, making it a perfect choice for weddings.
Oceano Restaurant, Condado
In light of the 2020 COVID-19 PANDEMIC, Oceano Restaurant closed its doors permanently on April 2020.
Nautical Weddings at Club Náutico de San Juan, San Juan Bay
If you're into sailing, the Club Náutico de San Juan could be an ideal spot for your wedding. The ceremonies can occur near the docks, and the reception ballroom has a stunning view of the marina.
What I like most about this location is its convenience. It's situated right between the tri-district area of the Condado, Convention, and Colonial Districts of San Juan.
You could get married at an Old San Juan church or prepare at a Condado Hotel with just a short commute.
Haciendas For Weddings in Puerto Rico
The majority of haciendas in Puerto Rico originated as large residences belonging to ranch proprietors.
These properties possess a rustic charm and feature stunning tropical gardens, thus requiring minimal decoration. Nowadays, many haciendas have been repurposed as venues for weddings and events.
Here are some of my top picks based on accessibility, beauty, and convenience.
Hacienda Siesta Alegre Wedding Venue, Río Grande
Mi Ranchito, as I call it, has been the venue for some of my most cherished weddings. It is also one, if not the most popular wedding venue in Puerto Rico. It always impresses every guest who sets foot in the Hacienda.
The charm and enchantment of the place remain constant throughout the Ceremony, Cocktail, and Reception areas, as well as the gardens, ponds, fountains, and terraces in the vicinity.
Weddings at Hacienda Azucena, Rio Grande
Hacienda Azucena is an excellent choice for couples looking for an affordable wedding venue in the mountains near El Yunque Rainforest.
This beautiful property offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere that makes guests feel at home. The personalized service and delicious food make it a memorable experience for everyone.
Plus, the breathtaking view from the ceremony area is simply stunning. It's the perfect place for small and intimate weddings or even elopements.
Hacienda Don Carmelo, Vega Baja
At Hacienda Don Carmelo, the horses are a source of pride, but personally, I'm in love with the lush greenery.
Located just minutes from the PR-22 highway, it's a perfect spot for weddings, especially for those who don't want to travel far.
The venue offers a beautiful bridal suite, a spacious gazebo for receptions, and an adorable treehouse.
Weddings at Hacienda Campo Rico, Carolina
As I've said before, my strong suit (as you may tell from my portfolio) is Hacienda weddings. I love the natural feel and look to them, plus being outdoors makes it feel like I'm not even working.
Hacienda Campo Rico is located in Carolina, about 15 minutes from the SJU airport and the hotel district, full of beautiful patios, terraces, and tropical gardens.
Castillo Serrallés, Ponce
If you venture to the southern region of Puerto Rico, you'll discover the magnificent Mansion of the Serrallés family. This historic castle was built by the founders of Puerto Rico's most famous distillery and has since been transformed into a museum.
This hilltop property boasts a variety of areas that can be reserved for special events, such as the patio, pool area, surrounding gardens, and a newly-renovated Japanese garden complete with a grand pagoda perfect for hosting your reception, dinner, and dance party.
If you decide to have your wedding there, mini-bottles of Don Q rum are a fitting souvenir for your guests.
Weddings at El Bungalow, Aguada
Locals of the western area are familiar with El Bungalow wedding venue. Still, it remains a hidden treasure for many, including destination couples.
A beautiful villa hidden within a bamboo forest offers a gorgeous outdoor ceremony area by a creek and a rustic indoor reception space with air conditioning.
Weddings at El Bungalow, Aguada
Locals of the western area are familiar with El Bungalow wedding venue. Still, it remains a hidden treasure for many, including destination couples.
A beautiful villa hidden within a bamboo forest offers a gorgeous outdoor ceremony area by a creek and a rustic indoor reception space with air conditioning.
HISTORIC WEDDING VENUES IN PUERTO RICO
Puerto Rico, one of the earliest Caribbean settlements, boasts a rich history. One of its most iconic towns, Old San Juan, is dotted with 16th-century gems, blending a European aesthetic with Caribbean allure.
Weddings at Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Old San Juan
The El Morro Fortress is a citadel located in the capital of Puerto Rico, built by the Spanish to protect San Juan from seaborne enemies during colonial times.
Despite the changes in the history of the Island, it has stood the test of time and is now part of the US National Parks Service. It is also the seventh-oldest building in the United States of America.
Its stunning 16th-century architecture overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, making it a scenic location for exchanging vows. This is one of my favorite spots for elopements in Old San Juan!
Permits through the National Parks Service are needed to host events and portrait sessions at this and other fort locations within Old San Juan.
Weddings at Castillo San Cristobal, Old San Juan
Castillo San Cristóbal, the largest fortification ever built by the Spanish in the Americas, was completed during the 16th century. It was a crucial entry point to the city, safeguarding its gates.
Today, it is a historic landmark, museum, and exquisite wedding venue under the administration of the National Parks Service. The fortification boasts various plazas, each with a unique character, making it a popular choice for hosting wedding ceremonies.
Additionally, its location in Old San Juan provides convenient access to several reception venues nearby, some of which are also featured on this list.
Indoor Wedding Venues in Puerto Rico
If you or your guests are not fond of heat or want to ensure great weather on your wedding day, you can always choose to celebrate your nuptials in beautiful ballrooms. Here are some of my favorite options that I have worked with so far.
Weddings at Hotel El Convento, Old San Juan
El Convento is a picturesque wedding venue in the heart of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. It is a boutique hotel, originally a Carmelite convent dating back to the 17th century. The hotel has been beautifully restored to retain its colonial charm while providing modern amenities.
El Convento offers the perfect romantic wedding setting with captivating courtyards, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, and elegant ballrooms. Its proximity to historic sites and the vibrant culture of Old San Juan provides endless opportunities for captivating wedding photos. As a Puerto Rico destination wedding photographer, you'll appreciate the blend of history and modern luxury that El Convento offers.
Casa de España wedding Venue, Old San Juan
This beautiful venue, featuring Moorish-inspired architecture, was constructed in the 1930s as the headquarters for Spanish descendants in Puerto Rico. Casa de España has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since the 1980s.
It is a popular establishment for weddings and events today, boasting a stunning patio, rooftop areas, and a mirrored ballroom perfect for receptions. Additionally, its location in Old San Juan makes it a convenient spot for capturing beautiful wedding photos on and off the premises.
Weddings at Antiguo Casino de Puerto Rico, Old San Juan
Antiguo Casino, located in the heart of Old San Juan, is one of the top wedding venues in Puerto Rico. This former casino boasts stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Although I typically prefer outdoor photography, the venue's large windows, white walls, marble floors, and gold accents are breathtaking. It's the perfect location for a luxurious Puerto Rico wedding, so much so that it will be my wedding venue!
Museo Casa Blanca - Casa Blanca Museum Weddings at Old San Juan
This museum, built in the early colonial style, was closed for an extended time. Recently, it has reopened and is now a great attraction to visit during your vacation in Puerto Rico.
It also serves as a stunning venue for small weddings, elopements, and micro weddings, with authentic looks of the Old San Juan aesthetic.
HOTELS FOR WEDDINGS IN PUERTO RICO
Hotels are famous for weddings in Puerto Rico due to the convenience of discounted accommodation rates for guests, the option of travel card hacking, and the ability to have most services included within the venue booking.
This makes them a highly sought-after choice, particularly for those planning a destination wedding in Puerto Rico.
Weddings at La Concha Resort – Condado District, San Juan
La Concha Resort in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a perfect beachfront hotel wedding venue. Its stunning beachfront location, versatile event spaces, and modern architecture offer a sophisticated and unforgettable experience.
The resort's experienced event planning team is one of my favorites in the Islands: they strive for perfection. Additionally, the resort offers culinary excellence, luxurious accommodations, and many stunning photo opportunities. Its central location in Condado adds an extra layer of destination appeal for guests.
Condado Vanderbilt Hotel Weddings – Condado District, San Juan
I have enjoyed photographing some of my most cherished weddings at this hotel. The hotel boasts impressive Spanish Revival architecture, designed by the same firm that worked on New York City's Grand Central Terminal.
The Vanderbilt staff is incredibly supportive and obliging, making it an unforgettable wedding experience for everyone involved - couples, guests, and vendors.
It exudes elegance and sophistication, making it a perfect venue for luxury weddings. Its oceanfront setting provides excellent opportunities for outdoor photography.
Venues in which I haven't shot Puerto rico Weddings yet... But I'd love to!
This list is based on my 15 years of experience, focusing only on places where I have worked. However, as I continue to grow in the industry, I may add more places to the list.
If you are planning a wedding, consider this a hint that I would love to capture your special day at these locations.
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico – Santurce, Puerto Rico
One venue I am particularly excited about is the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico in Santurce. As an art and architecture enthusiast, I have seen some amazing weddings held here. The entrance of the museum is a beautiful spot for a ceremony, and the plaza inside is perfect for a reception. I have yet to book a wedding at this venue, so will you be my first?
Weddings at Hacienda Los Pablo - Los Pablo Home in Lajas, Puerto Rico
Another venue I can't wait to photograph is Hacienda Los Pablo.
Los Pablo is a charming and picturesque wedding venue in Lajas, Puerto Rico. This historic estate offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and rustic desert elegance, making it an ideal location for couples seeking a unique and romantic setting for their destination wedding.
The estate's architecture showcases traditional Puerto Rican elements, with its white-washed walls, red-tiled roofs, and quaint courtyards bringing an Old-World-meets-California-Valley charm.
I hope this list was helpful! In the next blog on this series, I discuss engagement session location ideas in Puerto Rico, as this is one of the most frequent questions I receive after booking. Is there something you want me to talk about in a future Wedding Wednesday? Share it in the comments below!
XO,
Cami