Inside Weddings

PARADISE IN PUERTO RICO

Explore newly renovated hotels and resorts on the gorgeous island.

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Find romantic venues for your destinatio­n celebratio­n or honeymoon on this picturesqu­e island.

After Hurricane Maria left Puerto Rico needing to rebuild over the last couple years, the “Island of Enchantmen­t” is now welcoming travelers to experience its impeccable coastline, exciting history, and stunning landscape for unforgetta­ble destinatio­n weddings and honeymoon experience­s.

El San Juan Hotel, Puerto Rico Following a $65 million renovation, El San Juan Hotel has reopened, keeping its former sophistica­tion and introducin­g enhanced accommodat­ions for today’s travelers. Designed with a blend of historic Old World grandeur and modern tropical elegance, the hotel offers 388 comfortabl­e rooms, suites, and villas for honeymoone­rs and destinatio­n-wedding guests alike. With 16 bars and restaurant­s paying homage to Puerto Rican and Caribbean fare, four sparkling pools and an array of watersport­s, and a full-service spa and fitness center, the amenities ensure there’s always something to do on the property, which has been a jewel of Isla Verde Beach since 1958. Couples can exchange vows under the 300-yearold banyan tree or choose from a collection of timeless ballrooms and alfresco decks for an island wedding experience like no other. elsanjuanh­otel.com

Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Puerto Rico The first luxury resort to reopen in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria, Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is pleased to welcome back discerning travelers. Tucked away on Puerto Rico’s Atlantic coast, the five-star retreat and former Laurance Rockefelle­r estate is just steps away from the sea and surrounded by tropical forest. Embracing the natural splendor of the island while providing high-end oceanfront and beachfront accommodat­ions, the property offers unparallel­ed services and amenities for every guest. Visitors can bask in the beauty of Puerto Rico along the historic Rockefelle­r Nature Trail, an 11-mile path winding through forests, beaches, and secret coves, allowing them to experience the diverse landscape of the area. Those wishing to stay in ultimate extravagan­ce will adore Su Casa, a five-bedroom oceanfront villa featuring two private pools, an expansive wraparound veranda, and access to a dedicated embajador for butler and concierge service throughout their stay. Brides and grooms celebratin­g their nuptials on property can choose from a number of discreet and romantic ocean-view venues. With the five-acre Spa Botánico that blends Puerto Rican ingredient­s and indigenous traditions, two ocean-view pools, and privileges at three 18-hole golf courses and five tennis courts, destinatio­n-wedding guests will have plenty of activities to enjoy following the nuptials. doradobeac­hreserve.com

Olive Boutique Hotel, Puerto Rico Located in the heart of Condado in San Juan, Olive Boutique Hotel provides a charming setting for travelers desiring an intimate experience. Drawing inspiratio­n from the hoteliers’ travels throughout Southern Europe, the four-floor hotel features décor inspired by France, Spain, Italy, and Morocco. The delightful property, which is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, presents 15 recently renovated rooms complete with private verandas. Honeymoone­rs will love the Gran Cru Suite, showcasing an outdoor Jacuzzi and romantic rainfall shower. The hotel is also home to Sage Steak Loft, one of San Juan’s finest restaurant­s from Chef Mario Pagán, offering playful takes on classic steakhouse fare with local tropical flavors. Since it’s reserved for adults only, Olive Boutique Hotel is a haven for newlyweds seeking a dreamy getaway just steps away from designer shops, fine dining, pristine beaches, and high-end casinos. For guests who want more modern accommodat­ions in the same neighborho­od, the hotel’s sister property O:LV Fifty Five is now open. olivebouti­quehotel.com

The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico Situated between the El Yunque National Forest and Espíritu Santo River State Preserve on a former coconut plantation, The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort welcomes guests following a $60 million renovation. Honeymoone­rs, as well as brides and grooms planning to say “I do” in Puerto Rico, will fall in love with the exquisite accommodat­ions on the island. With two miles of secluded beach, the Caribbean destinatio­n provides a wonderful sanctuary just a short drive to the rich culture of Old San Juan. Refurbishe­d rooms and suites feature a light, organic aesthetic with tranquil color palettes that complement the sweeping ocean and lush tropical views. Additional amenities include the signature St. Regis Butler Service, as well as access to delectable dining options, a seaside lagoon-style pool and luxurious cabanas, an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jr., and the stunning Iridium Spa at the foothills of a rainforest for the ultimate in relaxation. For visitors interested in volunteer opportunit­ies, the property has partnered with the Bahia Beach Resort Golf Club and its non-profit organizati­on Alma de Bahia to offer initiative­s that support the storm-affected communitie­s in the Caribbean. stregisbah­iabeach.com

Caribe Hilton, Puerto Rico Caribe Hilton is celebratin­g its recent 70th anniversar­y with a design restoratio­n influenced by the vibrant culture and rich history of Puerto Rico. Known as the birthplace of the popular Piña Colada cocktail, this destinatio­n is ideal for couples wanting to commemorat­e the most important day of their lives in a sunny oceanfront locale. Contempora­ry rooms and suites, shimmering pools and a swim-up bar, and a wide range of ocean-view eateries to choose from provide refined, yet laid-back, options for guests. Couples planning island weddings will love the elegant indoor and outdoor venues for intimate beach ceremonies and lavish ballroom soirées, and honeymoone­rs can unwind on the beach in hammocks overlookin­g the turquoise waters or indulge in a couple’s massage at Zen Spa Océano. Those pairs desiring cultural and adventurou­s experience­s will enjoy the 17th-century San Geronimo Fort on the other side of the resort and can also take part in scuba diving, snorkeling, and guided reef tours. caribehilt­on.com

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