Here at WGM, we love to dream about destination weddings. That sandy beach, blue skies and beautiful sunshine? Who wouldn’t love to jet off to somewhere wonderful to say “I do!” WE sure do. The question is not if we should go, it’s where! That’s why we’ve asked our readers where their dream destination wedding would be. And the results are in! Here’s where you said you want to get married abroad:
Hawaii – 25%
Caribbean – 22.5%
Dominican Republic – 20%
Jamaica – 17.5%
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Aloha, y’all. Seems as though 25% of our readers think that a destination wedding in Hawaii is the way to go. And you know, we totally agree. (Just read up on our editor Lindsay Jones’ vacay to gorgeous Lanai last year.)
So, where should you plan a wedding in these locations? Choosing the destination may be easy, but finding the right resort? Well that’s the real question. There are so many beautiful venues to choose from. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites here, but we also recommend reaching out to our friends at DestinationWeddings.com. Their Certified Destination Wedding Experts are there to help you (for free) with all your wedding planning details.Â
Caribbean
The Caribbean has long been a favorite for brides planning a destination wedding. From islands like Anguilla, Aruba, the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, St. Martin, Turks & Caicos, the U.S. Virgin Islands and so much more, there is an island for every type of couple. Stretching from the coast of Florida to Venezuela, the expansiveness and diversity offered by these Caribbean destinations is unparalleled. There are white-sand beaches with bright turquoise waters, or black volcanic beaches with dramatic waves. World-renowned surf hubs abound, as do breathtaking snorkeling coves. You can stay at an upscale resort in town or opt for a location in a remote rainforest village. Destination weddings in the Caribbean provide a getaway for every personality and preference.
WGM Resort Choice:
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Dominican Republic
We love the beautiful options the Dominican Republic offers for Destination weddings. With great weather and wonderful resorts, there is something for every couple! The Dominican Republic are home to both Atlantic and Caribbean-facing beaches, with colorful resort towns and plenty to offer for outdoor enthusiasts. On the Caribbean side, Dominican Republic destinations like Juan Dolio and La Romana have clear waters and white-sand beaches, perfect for snorkeling and diving, while the Atlantic coast has surf and fishing towns set against plush tropical rainforest. The sheer variety also gives you plenty of options when it comes to Dominican Republic wedding venues!
WGM Resort Choice
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Jamaica
Ok, so we kind of love Jamaica for anything. An awesome vacation, a honeymoon, and of course a destination wedding. As the third largest Caribbean island, Jamaica is home to nearly 2.6 million people and almost 700 miles of white and gold-sand coastlines. Known worldwide for its friendly locals, laidback spirit, and beautiful beaches, Jamaica is a passionate and lively island. Whether you want to tour a rum or coffee farm, visit Bob Marley’s hometown or snorkel on a secluded white-sand beach, destination weddings in Jamaica give you something romantic, adventurous, and playful to mark off any travel bucket list.Â
P.S.: Please promise us you’ll visit Scotchies when and if you go. We’d have our wedding at this Jamaican Jerk chicken go-to if we could. It’s a local favorite!
WGM Resort Choice
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Hawaii
Is there anything more romantic than a Hawaii wedding? This Pacific island chain is geographically diverse and breathtaking, covering all but two of the world’s climate zones. Hawaii has jagged mountain spires, active volcanoes, rural farmland, lush waterfalls and sweeping canyons. The beaches here span the color wheel, with a palette of jet black, green, gold, red, and stark white hues painting the many coves and inlets. Whether you want to learn to surf for the first time in Waikiki or escape to a wild volcanic shore in Kauai, weddings in Hawaii will exceed your imagination and expectations. From the Big Island, Kauai, Lana’I, Maui, Oahu and Waikiki, there are so many awesome resorts and locations to choose from.
WGM Resort Choice:
Lanai City, Hawaii
Photo Credit: The Four Seasons Resort Lanai