11 Best Philippine Destination Wedding Venues: Beach, Garden, Stunning Views

Church Wedding Requirements in the Philippines

• Marriage License - Check the requirements above. Please note that if you have been previously married, unless you are widowed, most Catholic churches will not allow your wedding, even if you have a marriage license.

• Original Copies of the Baptismal and Confirmation Certificates of both parties, with the notation “For marriage purposes only” and with a validity of six months

• List of Principal Sponsors - You need to provide the names and addresses of two principal sponsors or witnesses. Some churches allow more than two sponsors, so it’s best to check with your parish.

• Canonical Interview - This is an interview with the parish priest to help them assess whether you are ready for the sacrament of marriage.

• Pre-Cana Seminar Attendance - This is similar but different to the Family Planning Seminar and Marriage Counseling that you need to attend for your Marriage License Application. Those having a church wedding need to attend both.

• Marriage Banns - This church notice announces your upcoming wedding. This public announcement will be posted for three consecutive Sundays.

• Other additional requirements that your parish may require from you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Weddings in the Philippines

To avoid any additional stress and to ensure a smooth planning experience, check out this list of FAQs about having a destination wedding in the Philippines.

How early should we apply for a marriage license?

A marriage license is only valid for 120 days from the date of its issuance, so your wedding date must fall within those 120 days. Technically, you can apply as early as 130 days before your wedding date, but in case of any postponement, it is recommended that you apply between 90 and 15 days before your wedding date.

Can foreigners get married in the Philippines?

Yes, foreigners can get married in the Philippines, but they need to submit additional requirements like a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Contract Marriage. Please check the full requirements above.

Do we need witnesses for the marriage ceremony?

Yes. You need at least two witnesses of legal age (18 years old and above) to legally marry in the Philippines. Traditionally, the primary sponsors serve as the witnesses in a wedding, but this is not required. Any wedding guest can be a witness, but you usually need to provide the names to your solemnizing officer or church in advance.

Can we have a civil wedding, or do we need to have a church wedding?

In the Philippines, you can have either a civil wedding, a church wedding, or even both! Both are considered legal, and a church wedding is not required.

Is divorce legal in the Philippines?

While a Divorce Bill is tabled in the Philippine Senate as of this writing, divorce is not legal in the Philippines; only annulment is.

The Best Places for a Destination Wedding in the Philippines 

The Philippines is home to several provinces, all unique and having their own charm. This is an advantage for couples who want to get married here, as you’ll find the perfect one for your wedding, whether you want a beach wedding, a garden wedding, or even a rustic wedding in the highlands.

1. Boracay

Famous for its picturesque White Beach, Boracay is a popular choice for a destination wedding in the Philippines. A Boracay beach wedding will give your ceremony a beautiful tropical backdrop, complete with a stunning sunset. Since there have been countless weddings celebrated on the island, there will be plenty of options for Boracay wedding venues and other suppliers.

Top-rated venues for weddings in Boracay

Photo by Discovery Shores Boracay

You’re already on one of the best beaches in the world, so make the most of it by going for a wedding along the beach! If you want to have your wedding along Station 1, your best option is Discovery Shores Boracay, a luxurious beach wedding venue in the Philippines.

Photo by Discovery Shores Boracay

For a more private event, consider having it at the less visited Punta Bunga Beach. You can have it at either Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay or Movenpick Resort and Spa Boracay. 

Top Boracay activities and attractions

There are plenty of things to do in Boracay to keep your guests entertained. Apart from exploring White Beach, the most popular activity is going on Boracay island-hopping tours, which will take you to spots like Coral Garden, Crocodile Island, and Balinghai Beach. You can also try various water activities like a Boracay paraw sunset cruise, helmet diving, crystal kayaking, and scuba diving.  

How to get to Boracay

Boracay is easily accessible via flights to Caticlan from other airports in the Philippines. If you’re coming from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila or the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the flight time will be a little over an hour. You can also take a flight from the Clark International Airport in Pampanga. From Caticlan Airport, you need to book Boracay transfers that include a short land trip to the jetty port and then board a boat that will take you to the island.

2. El Nido, Palawan

El Nido has seen a rise in popularity in the last decade. This is mostly because several publications have hailed it as home to some of the best islands and beaches in the world, thanks to its stunning limestone formations and pristine waters. It has also been a favorite destination for beach weddings, as it is one of the most romantic places in the Philippines. 

Top-rated venues for weddings in El Nido

Photo by Cauayan Island Resort

There are many unspoiled beaches in El Nido, giving you plenty of options for wedding venues. If you want a luxurious El Nido wedding, you can hold it at either Lagen Island or Pangulasian Island.

Photo by Lihim Resorts in El Nido Palawan

For an intimate but tasteful gathering, you should consider Lihim Resorts and Cauayan Resort. If you’re inviting a lot of guests, Seda Lio is a great option, as it has 153 rooms.

Top El Nido activities and attractions

You can’t visit here without going on one of the El Nido island-hopping tours! Even if you’ve visited some islands in El Nido before, you can always try a different route, as there are at least four different tours: El Nido island-hopping Tour A, B, C, and D.  You can also enjoy activities on the mainland including ziplining in Las Cabanas Beach and a canopy walk in Taraw Cliff.

How to get to El Nido

The quickest way to get here is via a direct flight to El Nido from either the Manila Airport, Bohol Panglao International Airport, Caticlan Airport, Cebu Airport, Clark Airport, or Coron Airport. Another option is to book flights to Puerto Princesa and then take land transfers to El Nido. Depending on your El Nido accommodations, you might need to take boat transfers as well.

3. Tagaytay

Those looking for Philippine wedding venues near Manila should include Tagaytay at the top of their list. This city is known for its cool temperatures, stunning views of the Taal Volcano, and endless dining options, making it one of the most popular Philippine tourist spots. Those who want to be married in a church will be happy to know that there are picturesque churches in and near Tagaytay. 

Top-rated venues for weddings in Tagaytay

Photo by The Oriental Luxury Suites Tagaytay

Most Tagaytay weddings are celebrated at a church, in a garden venue, or both. The most popular church in this area is the Calaruega Chapel of Transfiguration (in Nasugbu, Batangas), which is also commonly known as Calaruega Church. Sonya’s Garden is another popular option that can accommodate up to 300 guests.

Photo by The Oriental Luxury Suites Tagaytay 

If you want the gorgeous views of the Taal Volcano as your backdrop, you can hold your Tagaytay wedding at The Oriental Luxury Suites.

Top Tagaytay activities and attractions

Tagaytay tours often include sightseeing and visiting attractions like the People’s Park in the Sky, Picnic Grove, and Twin Lakes, but if you want a different experience, you can go on a coffee farm tour in nearby Amadeo, Cavite. You can also treat your family and your entourage to a spa day in Nurture Wellness Village.

How to get to Tagaytay

The nearest airport to the city is the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, so the quickest way to get here is via flights to Manila and land transfers to Tagaytay. Depending on the traffic and weather conditions, it can take roughly two hours to get from Manila to Tagaytay.

4. Coron, Palawan

Similar to El Nido, Coron in Palawan is also known for its luxurious beach resorts and pristine natural attractions, including islands, beaches, and lagoons. Apart from being home to stunning natural gems, the municipality is also known for its wreck dive sites, which offer a unique honeymoon experience for adventurous couples.

Top-rated venues for weddings in Coron

Photo by Discovery Coron (Club Paradise Palawan)

If you want you want your Palawan beach wedding to be on a gorgeous island, your best option is Discovery Coron (formerly known as Club Paradise Palawan). Whether you want an intimate celebration or a grand event, you can have your dream Coron wedding on the private island resort.

Photo by Discovery Coron (Club Paradise Palawan)

Another option for a luxurious Palawan wedding venue is Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa, which is also located on an island that is a boat ride away from Coron Town. An option near the town is Tag Resort, which has a special pavilion perfect for weddings.

Top Coron activities and attractions

Among the most popular attractions in Coron are Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoon, and the Skeleton Wreck Dive Site, all of which you can visit when you go on a Coron super ultimate island-hopping tour. You can also go on a Coron Town tour, which will take you to mainland attractions like Lualhati Park and Mt. Tapyas View Deck. For a laid-back night tour, you can book the Coron firefly-watching walking tour.

How to get to Coron

You can easily reach Coron by flight. Many local airports, including Manila Airport, Cebu Airport, Clark Airport, and El Nido Airport, have flights to Coron. After reaching the airport, you can easily access hotels and resorts on the mainland via Coron transfers, while island resorts require an additional boat ride.

5. Cebu

Cebu is not only home to historic sites and some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines but it is also known for its mouth-watering local dishes like Cebu Lechon that will make your celebration extra special. If you’re having guests from all over the world, Cebu is an ideal destination, as its airport hosts several international routes, making it easily accessible. In fact, in early 2024, Cebu was nominated as the best wedding destination in Asia by the World Tourism Awards.

Top-rated venues for weddings in Cebu

Photo by Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan

If you want a Cebu wedding venue that’s both solemn and modern, you should check out the Chapel of San Pedro Calungsod, which is dedicated to the Filipino saint. Those planning a Cebu beach wedding should consider luxury resorts like Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan and

Dusit Mactan Resort.

Photo by Dusit Mactan Resort

You can also have your dream island wedding in the Philippines at Badian Island Wellness Resort, which is located on a small island just off the coast of the Cebu mainland.

Top Cebu activities and attractions

If it’s your first time in the province, it’s a good idea to book a Cebu City tour to some of its top attractions like Magellan’s Cross, Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño, and the Yap-San Diego Ancestral House. You can also go on a Mactan island-hopping tour to the Hilitungan and Caohagan Islands. If you’re having your wedding in South Cebu, you can try canyoneering tours in Kawasan Falls and a Moalboal sardine run tour.

How to get to Cebu

Cebu has an international airport that services several local and international flights, so you can easily book flights to Cebu from Philippine airports (like the Manila Airport) and those in other countries. Depending on where on the island you are staying, you’ll likely need Cebu transfers to reach your hotel or resort.

6.  Bohol

Bohol is the perfect wedding location for first-timers in the Philippines, as it is home to not only beautiful beaches and islands but spectacular caves, iconic hills, and adventure parks, as well as historical sites, including picturesque churches. You celebrate your wedding and then immediately go on a tropical honeymoon and explore some of the best Bohol tourist spots afterward.

Top-rated venues for weddings in Bohol

Photo by Amorita Resort

You have two main options for a Bohol wedding; you can have a beach wedding or a church wedding. For a beach wedding, you can’t go wrong with either Bohol Beach Club or Mithi Resort.

Photo by Amorita Resort

A popular cliff wedding venue is Amorita Resort, a luxury resort near Alona Beach. If you prefer a more traditional church wedding, a great venue would be Baclayon Church, which is one of the oldest Catholic churches in the Philippines and is a National Cultural Treasure and National Historic Landmark.

Top Bohol activities and attractions

If it’s your first time in the province, it is recommended that you check out the different Bohol countryside tours, most of which will take you to see the iconic Chocolate Hills, Loboc River, and the Tarsier Sanctuary. You can also book Bohol island-hopping tours to get the chance to spot dolphins and visit the Balicasag and Virgin Islands. For a romantic night with your new spouse, you can enjoy firefly-watching in Bohol in the Abatan River.

How to get to Bohol

From Luzon, you can book flights to Bohol from Manila Airport or Clark Airport. If you’re coming from Mindanao, you can take a flight from the Davao International Airport. Those coming from the Visayas can get a ferry from Cebu, Dumaguete, or Siquijor. From the airport or seaport, you can easily book Bohol transfers to your hotel or resort.

7. Batangas

Batangas has long been a favorite weekend getaway destination for those living in Metro Manila, thanks to its beaches and dive spots, which are easily accessible from the capital through day trips from Manila. For those planning a wedding, apart from picturesque beaches and farms, Batangas also has several beautiful and historical churches where you can exchange “I dos.”

Top-rated venues for weddings in Batangas

Photo by The Farm at San Benito

For a traditional church wedding, you can have it in Calaruega Church, the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Batangas City, or the Lipa Cathedral in Lipa City.

Photo by The Farm at San Benito

If you want a beachfront wedding in Batangas, check out Acuatico Beach Resort in San Juan. Another great option is The Farm at San Benito, where you can celebrate your union in lush natural surroundings.

Top Batangas activities and attractions

Many people flock to the province for the lovely Batangas beaches where you can swim and relax. Divers head to Anilao to explore its protected marine sanctuary, which is rich with underwater life. Batangas is also known for its mountains, which are relatively easy to climb. Some of the peaks you can conquer here by joining hiking tours are Mt. Gulugod Baboy, Mt. Batulao, and Mt. Malarayat.

How to get to Batangas

The nearest international airport from Batangas is the Ninoy International Airport, so you would first have to book flights to Manila and then travel to the province by land via Batangas transfers.

8.  Siargao

Siargao is known as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines and a laid-back island destination. It is also home to beautiful islands, serene lagoons, and other picturesque natural attractions. If you prefer a simple ceremony amidst tropical surroundings, Siargao may be the perfect location for your island wedding.

Top-rated venues for weddings in Siargao

Photo by Nay Palad Hideaway

While most Siargao accommodations aren’t luxurious, you can still have your dream Siargao beach wedding at some of its resorts. Bayud Boutique Resort can host both your wedding ceremony and your reception. Inara Siargao is also a good option for those who want a private event, as all of the suites here can be booked exclusively for you and your guests.

Photo by Nay Palad Hideaway

If you want an intimate but still extravagant wedding, you can book your wedding at Nay Palad Hideaway, where you can also enjoy your honeymoon afterward.

Top Siargao activities and attractions

Surfing is one of the best things to do in Siargao, but if you’re not really into riding the waves, you can enjoy Siargao island-hopping tours instead. This will take you to beautiful locations like Guyam, Daku, and Naked Islands. You can also visit inland attractions like the Magpupungko Rock Pools, Cloud 9, Maasin River, Paghungawan Marsh, and Coconut Mountain View via a Siargao land tour.

How to get to Siargao

The quickest and most convenient way to get to the island is to book flights to Siargao from either Manila Airport, Cebu Airport, or Davao Airport. From Sayak Airport, you can book a private Siargao transfer that will bring you to your accommodations.

9. Rizal

Photo from 2-Day Treasure Mountain Rizal Camping Package

While many destinations on this list boast beautiful beaches, Rizal offers something completely different: overlooking views of Metro Manila and cooler temperatures. This combination is perfect for late-afternoon outdoor weddings bathed in romantic sunset hues.

Top-rated venues for weddings in Rizal

Photo by Timberlands Highland Resort

For an overlooking panoramic view of the cities below, reserve a slot with the Antipolo Cathedral. This church on a hill has picturesque exteriors that are perfect for entourage photos. For an elegant garden wedding, consider Timberlands Highland Resort.

Photo by Timberlands Highland Resort

For simpler but still tasteful celebrations, you can check out Altaroca Mountain Resort or Luljetta’s Place, which is home to Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens Spa.

Top Rizal activities and attractions

Rizal tours often involve visits to outdoor attractions such as the Masungi Georeserve, Treasure Mountain, Tinipak River, Daranak Falls, and Calinawan Cave. It is also home to mountains that are popular with hikers, including Mt. Daraitan, Mt. Pamitinan, Mt. Binicayan, and Mt. Batolusung. Of course, there are also indoor attractions in Rizal like the Pinto Art Museum.

How to get to Rizal

If you’re coming from outside the Philippines, you need to book a flight to Manila. After landing at the airport, you have to travel by land to Rizal. Since the province has many roads traversing mountains, it’s recommended that you book Philippine airport transfers in advance so you ensure you have the right type of car for the trip.

10. Bataan

While Bataan is primarily known for its dark history relating to World War II, it can still be a perfect venue for your wedding in the Philippines, especially if you’re looking for a Spanish-era look and atmosphere. Bataan is also a great location for quiet beach weddings, as its shores are less visited by tourists compared to more popular destinations.

Top-rated venues for weddings in Bataan

Photo by Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

For a beachfront wedding, check out Anvaya Cove Beach and Nature Club and Montemar Beach Club. If you want a luxurious wedding, Rancho Bernardo Luxury Villas and Resort is an option, or you can kick it up a notch and go for a historical vibe at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, a heritage resort home to restored houses and buildings from the Spanish colonial era.

Top Bataan activities and attractions

While in Bataan, take the chance to visit historical spots like the Mt. Samat Shrine of Valor, the Bataan World War II Museum, and the Fall of Bataan Marker. You can also go on a Batangas Laki Beach tour, which also comes with a visit to the Five Fingers Cove. Those who want to explore the mountains of Bataan can try a Tarak Ridge hike.

How to get to Bataan

To get to Bataan, you need to book flights to Clark or Manila. From the airport, you need to go on a land trip to Bataan. If you’re landing at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, you also have the option to board a ferry from Pasay City bound for Mariveles, Bataan.

11. Baguio

Baguio appeals to many engaged couples because of its cool weather, rustic feel, and accessibility from Manila. It gives the bride, groom, and their guests the chance to dress up without worrying about the temperature. Baguio is also rich in historical and cultural attractions that guests can easily explore before and after the wedding.

Top-rated venues for weddings in Baguio

Photo by Le Monet Hotel

For couples eyeing a small outdoor Baguio wedding, a good option is Le Monet Hotel, where you can be surrounded by tall trees and lush greens as you celebrate your union. Another option is Frangeli House, a private events place that offers accommodations for couples and their guests.

Photo by Le Monet Hotel

For a reception with a large number of guests, you can check out The Manor at Camp John Hay, which offers several wedding venues that can accommodate hundreds of guests.  

Top Baguio activities and attractions 

Baguio is a city brimming with cultural and historical attractions like Camp John Hay, Wright Park, and the Baguio Botanical Garden, and you can check them all out when you go on a Baguio city tour. If you’re interested in art, you can visit museums in and near Baguio including the BenCab Museum and Museo Kordilyera when you go on a Baguio museums tour. For a laid-back day with friends and family, head to Burnham Park and try the fun activities there like boating and biking.

How to get to Baguio

While Baguio is home to Loakan Airport, as of this writing, there are currently no commercial flights landing there, so the quickest route is by booking flights to Clark. From there, you need to book Baguio transfers to the city. You can also book flights to Manila, but the land trip to Baguio will be longer by around two hours.

Have your dream wedding in the Philippines!

Planning your destination wedding will always come with a little stress, but having it in these destinations assures you that your big day will be truly beautiful and memorable. As an added bonus, the Philippines is also a great destination for your honeymoon. To lessen the stress of planning everything, book Philippine honeymoon packages and spend day 1 of being a married couple relaxing in a tropical paradise.