How to Elope in Puerto Rico
Surf Elopement in rincon, puerto rico
“My husband and I had the absolute BEST experience with Moon Rising Photography! The photos came out amazing, and we had so much fun at our wedding location in Rincon, Pueto Rico. I would recommend her for anyone interested in doing a destination wedding, or a couples photo shoot. Would give 10 stars if I could! Thank you Danielle!”
why should you elope in puerto rico?
Okay, so you are thinking about eloping in Puerto Rico but don’t know where to start or how to do it? You have come to the right place, let me be your guide! When people come back from Puerto Rico and they tell me that they did not leave San Juan my heart literally breaks from all that they missed on their trip to Puerto Rico. Don’t get me wrong, San Juan is awesome, the historic forts, the incredible food, the awesome party scene, the bioluminescent bay nearby-it’s awesome but there is so much more to Puerto Rico outside of the city! There are some places that just feel like home and Puerto Rico is one of those places to me. It truly is the Isla del Encanto— something about this island is truly magical and auspicious and filled with adventure. Time stands still and you begin to internalize what island time really means. The sun warms you right to your core.
*If you are looking for a general guide on how to elope, check out my blog post on how to plan your elopement here.
how do you GET MARRIED IN PUERTO RICO?
First of all, if you are from the US you do not need a passport to travel here, Puerto Rico is a US territory. If you are looking to elope and you truly want it all you can find it in Puerto Rico. It is filled with the history, stunning beaches, caves, hiking, waterfalls, lazy rivers, bioluminescent bays, surfing, rock climbing, live music, salsa, but best of all are the wonderful people! It truly holds this magic that cannot be described but only felt. As someone who is from the East Coast when you arrive you will just feel the stress melt from your body and who doesn’t want to spend their elopement in a place with a vibe like that?
transportation and how to get AROUND in puerto rico:
Puerto Rico has two airports. If you were mostly staying on the East Coast and in the San Juan area you could probably get away without renting a car but I highly recommend renting a car and exploring the rest of the island has to offer! There are two airports, San Juan is the major airport and Aguadilla is another smaller airport on the West Coast of the island. Both offer rental cars but I will say that Aguadilla has less options for times but if you knew you were staying on the West Coast and were strapped for time it could save you about a 2.5-3 hour drive from San Juan! As long as you don’t mind arriving at some strange times, the flight itineraries are certainly interesting for this smaller airport! Also keep in mind that Puerto Rico has been through it, the folks here are so strong and resilient but some of the roads are still in recovery mode from all of the hurricanes, drive carefully but don’t let the potholes stop you from the relaxed chaos that is driving in Puerto Rico!
THE LEGAL STUFF
While this is never anyone’s favorite topic, unfortunately, it is a necessary evil. This is where I come in, I can help you navigate this and connect you with the right people. I recommend hiring someone for a few hundred dollars to handle this aspect of the process(you decided to elope to avoid stress right?!). Specific legal and permit requirements for elopements in Puerto Rico may vary depending on the location and nature of the event (think size of wedding, where you are from, and a private vs. public location). There are a lot of websites out there discussing the requirements of there are some lesser-known things to consider:
Medical Certificate: A medical certificate is needed to show that the couple has completed all the required tests for marriage in accordance to the local laws of their hometown. If the couple's hometown doesn't require any tests for marriage, they can provide a certificate from a doctor or an official document from their local government stating this. The certificate is only valid for 10 days from the date it's issued. After 10 days, it's no longer valid, and they'll need to get a new one. (It sounds complicated but your doctor can provide a letter on their official letterhead for this!)
Note: If you are a resident of Puerto Rico you may also need a blood test!
Notorized Sworn Statement/Affidavit: If you are not a resident of Puerto Rico and want to get married on the island, you need to give the Demographic Registry a document called an affidavit. This affidavit should say that both partners are not Puerto Rican residents and that they're visiting specifically to get married. If you are not from the U.S., the affidavit must also state that they won't stay in Puerto Rico longer than what's allowed by their U.S. entry permission. If the affidavit is made in the U.S., it needs to be certified by the county clerk of the state. If it's made in another country, it needs to have the Apostille seal. This must be done by either a lawyer who is also a Notary Public (make sure it has the law office letterhead), A Notary Public (non Lawyer), but it must be certified by your County Clerk or State Department OR Another option is to have this Notarized Sworn Statement done in Puerto Rico by a local island lawyer.
Government Identification: If you're not from Puerto Rico and want to get married here then you need to give the Demographic Registry office in Puerto Rico a government ID. This could be your driver's license, passport, or state ID. If you're from another country, you'll need to show a valid passport, visa, or green card.
$150 IRS Revenue Stamp: This can be obtained at the Demographic Registry Office that is in the location you wish to marry.
Birth Certificate
Marriage License: Finally once you have all of the above and you decide on the location for your elopement you will bring all of these documents to obtain a marriage license from the Demographic Registry office in Puerto Rico(this contains the full list of all the offices).
Permit for Public Spaces: If the elopement ceremony is planned for a public space, such as a beach or park, a permit may be required from the local municipality. This permit typically involves completing an application, paying any associated fees, and adhering to specific regulations set by the municipality.
Officiant Requirements: Ensure that the chosen officiant for the elopement ceremony is legally authorized to perform marriages in Puerto Rico. Officiants must be registered with the Puerto Rico government to officiate legal marriages. (Wedding Ministers Puerto Rico)
Witnesses: Puerto Rico law requires two witnesses to be present at the marriage ceremony. These witnesses must be at least 18 years old and have valid identification. (Your photographer counts as a witness!)
*Don’t take my word for it(these things are usually moving targets anyway!), here is the full official document highlighting all of the requirements!
*PS- If all of this feels too complicated I recommend either hiring someone to handle most of this for you such as a local Puerto Rican lawyer—which they can do, the only thing you will need to do are to bring your personal documents and get a blood test from your local doctor at home and they can also provide the medical certificate OR doing a symbolic ceremony and doing the paperwork in your hometown. ( My husband and I did this - we got married in Italy and it was way less stressful and to us our vows were the more important part vs. all the hoops and paperwork!)
Unique Elopement LOCATIONS IN PUERTO RICO
Vieques Island: You can get to Vieques Island by plane or ferry. Ferry is the cheaper option and you can have a ferry ticket for less than $5 and be there in under an hour! Vieques is one of two popular islands off of the Eastern Coast of Puerto Rico, the other is Culebra. Vieques is the bigger of the two islands, and boasts the world’s most famous bioluminescent bay. Mosquito Bay in Vieques holds the Guinness Book of World Records title for the highest concentration of the organisms that create the glow - that is just breathtaking. There are 3 bioluminescent bays in the whole world and they are all here in Puerto Rico. This is a nighttime activity, I describe them as fireflies of the sea, you can rent clear kayaks either single or tandem to witness this phenomena. One thing I will kindly suggest you do not do is take boats to see the bioluminescence as it kills the sensitive microorganisms called dinoflagellates. The natural beauty of Vieques is unmatched, but don’t take my word for it-see it for yourself, even better bring me with you to document it! It is a perfect elopement destination, while a car is not necessary I would recommend it to explore some of the lesser-known places. Vieques if filled with pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear blue waters, and lush vegetation, who would not want to get married with a backdrop like that?
Guánica Dry Forest: The Guánica Dry Forest is a lesser-known gem in Puerto Rico in the Southwest corner of the island, featuring unique landscapes and tranquil surroundings for a private ceremony or portrait location. The forest's rugged terrain, limestone cliffs, and diverse flora provide a picturesque setting for couples seeking an off-the-beaten-path elopement experience. With its peaceful atmosphere and untouched beauty, Guánica Dry Forest offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it is filled with unique hiking trails. One of the more popular ones leading to Fuerte Capron.
Ponce Historic District: Ponce Historic District offers quaint streets and charming plazas, it is in the Southern part of the island and has an idyllic historic backdrop for a low-key elopement ceremony with cultural flair. Couples can explore the district's Spanish colonial architecture, vibrant colors, and rich heritage while exchanging vows in a romantic setting. The cobblestone streets, ornate facades, and bustling atmosphere add to the charm of this historic location, making it ideal for couples seeking a unique and memorable elopement experience. Hacienda Buena Vista is a historic coffee plantation that could also be a great unique and historical spot to tie the knot!
Rincon Lighthouse: Rincon Lighthouse provides panoramic views of the coastline and stunning sunsets as on the West Coast of the island the sun sets over the ocean! Parking at this location is also super easy- this would be a great location if you want something accessible for the rest of the people attending your wedding. The lighthouse is perched atop a cliff overlooking the ocean, and would be a great option for a scenic elopement! To have your wedding here you would just need to obtain permission from the town.
El Yunque Rainforest: A unique structure in the rainforest that is a bookable place for your wedding, it is better suited for bigger groups and is called El Portal, it was rebuilt and there were a ton of resources put into it. It is located at the entrance and is available for evening events, just a 35 minute drive from San Juan! It is 32,000 square feet and can accommodate 175 seated guests for dinner and 300 for a stand up reception. You will need a permit to book this, they are first-come first served. Events can start after 5PM and close at midnight. The phone number to inquire is 787-888-1810.
Castillo San Felipe Del Morro or Castillo San Cristobal: While these are picturesque, I would recommend only eloping in these locations at less popular times of year and times of the day such as sunrise. They can get incredibly busy, to marry here you will need to obtain a special use permit.
La Ruta Panorámica Luis Muñoz Marín: While it may take forever to navigate the meandering and winding roads(literally hours of driving!) they are picturesque. Almost 200 miles along this scenic route you can just pull off and take some photos with your loved one. While much of the road is private the magic of Puerto Rico is that it feels like so much of it is still to be discovered. There is so much packed into this small yet magical island!
The Beaches!: There are limitless options to choose from for beaches, take your pick! You may just need a permit from the local town depending on the area and size of your event!
ELOPEMENT FRIENDLY wedding VENUES in puerto rico
Not looking for a public place but looking for an intimate wedding or elopement-friendly venue in Puerto Rico for your destination wedding? Here are some unique locations.
Hacienda Siesta Alegre: This hacienda is located amidst the mountains of Rio Grande, Hacienda Siesta Alegre offers a unique and stunning ambiance for elopements. The estate is surrounded by lush gardens and boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Couples can choose from a few different locations on the property to exchange their vows, all of the locations are in an incredibly romantic atmosphere and surrounded by nature with an unreal view of the stars. Capacity depends on the location selected but can comfortably accommodate groups from 10-50 people.
Casa Bacardi: Yes, THE Bacardi! For more of a funky modern space check out this venue. It has both indoor and outdoor options for ceremonies and can accommodate both large and small groups.
Casa de España: If you have a bigger group and are looking to have a larger destination wedding Casa de Espana is nestled in Old San Juan. A hidden gem offering a romantic ambiance with its private courtyard and colonial architecture. This venue has an Old World charm and historic ambiance.
Villa Montaña Beach Resort: Now let me bring you to the West Coast for a minute to gorgeous Isabela. Most people who go to Puerto Rico don’t make it past the East Coast or El Yunque. Don’t get me wrong, the East Coast is incredible but if you want a bit more of a laid back vibe and the picturesque beaches that make their way onto postcards then go to the West Coast! The boutique resort features private beachfront villas and exotic flora with those Caribbean vibes you have seen in magazines. Fun fact, it is also pet-friendly!
El Convento: If you want city vibes with a few different options depending on the guest count this is a great option, it has anything from intimate spaces to larger spaces for bigger groups and is conveniently located in Old San Juan.
Villa de Zecheo- On the West Coast in my personal favorite lazy surf town called Rincon is Villa Zecheo. If you want chill beach vibes with a surf culture this is the spot for you. Fun fact: I stayed here on a yoga retreat and this was once a private residence turned into a wedding venue. The villa is literally on the beach near Dogman’s and Maria’s beach, you could walk out the back door and through the yard and catch a wave. They also offer custom elopement packages(with discounts for off-season and weekdays!), ask me more about them as I have a relationship with Gabriela! Accommodation is available right on the property, perfect for a small intimate wedding as the waves roll in to the sun setting over the water!
El Pretexto- Among the central region along the rolling hills and picturesque winding roads is El Pretexto. Farm-to-table restaurant with a rustic charm and a killer view. It is a smoke-free and adult-only venue. This venue can host a maximum of 36 people so it is more suited to elopements and small intimate weddings. The views are truly stunning, if you don’t mind being a bit further from the ocean but want to wake up and walk on a terrace surrounded by mountains, this is a place for you. (After all, in Puerto Rico the beach is never too far away!)
Once you decide on where you want to elope then you can begin to dream about how you want your day to go. Puerto Rico is truly magical and so many different types of weddings are possible. If you are looking for how to elope in Puerto Rico I hope this has been a great guide for you. Part of my services as a wedding photographer is helping people plan their dream elopements there are many other options that I would love to help you plan!
Wedding Vendors Puerto RIco
Hair + Make up
Vanessa Hair + Make up- Services San Juan + the rest of the island, Vanessa has over 11 years of experience and specializes in full and soft glam, for hair she specializes in hollywood waves and curly hair.
Caridad Vidro- Specializes in destination weddings and does both hair and makeup on site as well as catering to different skin tones and has over 16 years of experience.
Brides by Tatiana- with over fifty 5 star reviews on wedding wire Tatiana is a licensed cosmetologist who prides herself on having a calm demeanor, extremely valuable on a wedding day!
Officiants
Ana Maria officiant- She speaks three languages; English, Spanish, and French. She welcomes ALL couples and is both an attorney and notary in Puerto Rico so she can help navigate the arduous legal process I highlighted in the above section!
Get Married in Puerto Rico - LatinX owned, this company cConsists of two wedding officiants Aida & Darryl. They try to incorporate the couples uniqueness into their services and they speak both Spanish and English.
Florists
Wildchild Rincon - For smaller elopements and bouquets Adi Carter is located in Rincon on the West side of the island. She specializes in sustainable flowers that are native to the island.
Corals Florals- Coral has a history in the wedding industry and sources almost exclusively from her organic farm that uses sustainable growing practices, she believes the florals for your wedding should reflect you as a couple! Coral is located on the West Coast in Rincon.
Lorraine’s Flowers- Family-owned floral business based out of Juncos, Puerto Rico. If you are looking for more of a full service floral design and flower shop for a bigger wedding Lorraine’s flowers has you covered.
