Puerto Rico Honeymoon: Savor the Caribbean with No Passport Required

Are you seeking an enchanting escape that feels worlds away without leaving domestic soil? Look no further than Puerto Rico. There are many reasons newlyweds will enjoy a getaway to this US territory, full of romance and culture. Delight in walks down the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, enjoy exploring picture-perfect bays and retreating to a beautiful beach resort.

To elevate your honeymoon in Puerto Rico, Hilton hotels are the top choice. These luxurious properties offer modern comfort, amazing hospitality,  stunning ocean views, and tons of amenities for couples seeking romance and relaxation.

Its 500-year-old history is evident in Puerto Rico’s metro area architecture, Puerto Rican culture and cuisine. Nestled in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States, making it an ideal destination for Americans looking to explore the beauty of the Caribbean without the need for a passport. The use of the American dollar and English spoken there will be ideal for honeymooners who want some comforts from home but a change of scenery. That, and more, can be found in this tropical paradise.

Geography

Tropical climates await your arrival at your honeymoon in Puerto Rico. Part of the Greater Antilles in the Caribbean, the island is just east of the Dominican Republic and west of the Virgin Islands.

Honeymooners will love the 300 miles of coastline and nearly the same number of beaches, and visiting the only rainforest in the US National Forest Service.  The island is about 100 miles across and 35 miles wide, so nothing is ever too far away. San Juan, the capital city, is located on the northeast side of the island.

It has seven regions: west, east, north, south, central mountains in the middle of the island, and a metro area surrounding San Juan. The seventh region includes two small islands off the east coast of Puerto Rico: Culebra and Vieques.

Puerto Rico’s Currency and Language

The official languages of Puerto Rico are Spanish and English. While some people only speak Spanish, many speak both languages or a version of “Spanglish,” a combination of the two.

As a US territory, the currency is the US dollar and credit cards are widely accepted anywhere you’ll go during your Puerto Rico honeymoon. (Your US cell service will also work in Puerto Rico!)

LGBTQ+ Community in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is welcoming to  LGBTQ+ couples and considers itself one of the friendliest of all the Caribbean nations to the queer community. As a US territory, their laws very much mirror those in the mainland. They have not one, but two Pride parades each year.

San Juan’s Condado neighborhood is a hub of LGBTQ+ acceptance, where couples can find LGBTQ+ friendly hotels and frequent beachside celebrations.  Bask in the sun on the Condado Beach, an LGBTQ+ friendly beach area offering a safe and inclusive atmosphere. 

Weather in Puerto Rico and the Best Time to Visit

The temperature on the island remains fairly steady all year, between 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest it gets is typically in the mountain region in December and January, with temperatures around 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Being mindful about hurricane season in Puerto Rico has been important the past few years; it is from early June through late November. The dry season is December through March.

The best time to visit is potentially February through April, when you avoid December’s holiday crowds, avoid hurricane season and still get to experience a warm climate while it’s winter in the United States.

Traveling to Puerto Rico

Passport and Visa information

 If you’re traveling to the island as a US citizen you won’t need a passport, because Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States. For international visitors, a valid passport is needed to enter Puerto Rico.

Flights to Puerto Rico

Book flights and leave the house with one simple photo ID (like your driver’s license) to travel to this destination.

It’s likely that your Puerto Rico honeymoon will start in San Juan, landing after you fly over the Atlantic Ocean to the largest and their main airport, Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU). It’s just east of the island’s capital city, San Juan.

We’ve priced out roundtrip flights to this honeymoon destination from three major US cities for the first week of November:

  • NYC to SJU: As little as $200 , for just under 4 hours of traveling with a nonstop flight.
  • LAX to SJU: $300 with one stop and 9 hours of travel time.
  • IAH (Houston) to SJU: $500 for a non-stop flight and just over 4 hours of flying time.

Of course you’ll have to get to your honeymoon resort after arriving. 14 car rental companies have desks at the airport. Additionally, there are readily available taxis and public buses. Another option is Uber. (Uber is only common in areas surrounding San Juan, thus it isn’t reliable for getting around other parts of the island.)  Some hotels may provide transportation to and from the airport as well.

Where to Stay in Puerto Rico

In Puerto Rico, you’ll have plenty of lodging options. And when you’re looking for a touch of luxury and romance, Hilton stands head and shoulders above the rest.

Hilton is renowned for its exceptional hospitality and boasts six honeymoon-worthy resorts and hotels. With ocean-view rooms and unforgettable dining, these resorts will provide you with the romantic oasis you’re looking for on your honeymoon.

Caribe Hilton 

Nestled between a lush, tropical landscape and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Caribe Hilton is an oasis of relaxation. Enjoy the private beach, swim in freshwater pools, and indulge in world-class dining. This historic resort has been a favorite destination for generations of travelers.

Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort 

For those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation, this resort boasts a golf course with breathtaking ocean views and a vibrant casino. Dive into the infinity pool, sip cocktails at the swim-up bar, and unwind in style.

The Plaza Hilton 

Located in the heart of vibrant Condado, this property offers stunning oceanfront views and easy access to San Juan’s bustling nightlife. Relax in the saltwater pools, rejuvenate in the spa, and dine on gourmet cuisine.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Dorado del Mar Beach Resort 

With spacious suites, a beautiful beachfront location, and complimentary breakfast, this resort is perfect for families and couples alike. Enjoy beachfront activities or explore nearby attractions.

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton San Juan

Conveniently located near Isla Verde Beach and Old San Juan, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations, a rooftop pool, and easy access to the island’s top attractions.

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Juan – Hotel & Casino 

This all-suite hotel is ideal for those looking for a mix of comfort and excitement. Savor complimentary evening receptions, try your luck at the casino, and explore the nearby Condado area.

Top Things to Do in Puerto Rico

There are a lot of unique activities to participate in on the island during your honeymoon. Newlyweds are sure to create lasting memories in Puerto Rico doing any of the following:

  • Take an evening kayak tour on one of three bioluminescent bays for an unforgettable experience.
  • Taste Puerto Rican specialties during a 3-hour culinary tour in Old San Juan (did you know the Piña Colada was invented here?)
  • Hike through El Yunque National Park, the only rainforest in the U.S. National Forest system, stopping at two different waterfalls
  • Visit a rum distillery and take one of three tour options at either of the following: Casa Bacardi or Hacienda Santa Ana.
  • Explore historic Old San Juan’s streets, lined with colorful buildings and colonial architecture. 
  • Tour Castillo San Felipe del Morro (known as “El Morro”) a fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site whose construction began in the 16th century.
  • Take a ferry to the small island of Vieques, and walk on a black sand beach, go hiking or horseback riding.
  • Enjoy water sports, including paddle boarding, deep-sea fishing, surfing or snorkeling in the Caribbean blue waters for a chance to see sea turtles and tropical fish.

Food in Puerto Rico

You can taste the passion and culture of Puerto Rico in its food. One of the most popular things to eat in Puerto Rico is lechón, which is slow-roasted pork. Couples should try other local favorites as well, like tostones (fried plantains), mofongo (mashed plantains with meat), or bacalaítos (fried cod fritters).

Register for your Puerto Rico Honeymoon

Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply looking to escape to a Caribbean paradise, Puerto Rico offers an unforgettable experience. With Hilton properties as your home away from home, you can make the most of your romantic getaway on this enchanting island. If you can picture yourself walking hand-in-hand with your partner on the streets of Old San Juan, soaking up the sun and vibrancy of Puerto Rico as you reminisce about your wedding, let your friends and family help make that dream come true by creating a Honeyfund registry. Start with our sample Eastern Caribbean registry.

 

 

Mikkel Woodruff

Mikkel Woodruff owns two travel sites, Sometimes Home and Sometimes Sailing, which she operates with her husband, Dan. Her photo business, Mikkel Paige Photography, allows her to bring a unique perspective to Honeyfund as she has been a part of the wedding industry for over a decade. She calls the east coast of the United States home and travels domestically and internationally multiple times a year hoping to inspire others to travel.

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