50 HONEYMOON DESTINATION IDEAS BASED ON YOUR IDEAL DATE NIGHT
Planning a wedding is plenty of work all on its own, but it's often paired with planning the biggest trip of your lives, your honeymoon. Any honeymoon requires extra planning to make sure it's the memorable, romantic trip of your dreams. Plus, after years of forced cancellations or opting for scaled-back, mini-moons, couples are now shifting towards even grander mega-moon style trips. As incredible as these once-in-a-lifetime trips are, they can be a beast to plan.
Before you even start planning, it can be tricky just deciding where to go for such an iconic vacation. Let this list help you answer that question. I myself didn't know where I wanted to go, so I did mountains of research on a bunch of destinations (which I'm now passing along here). I started to realize that you really need to think about what you want your honeymoon to look like, keeping in mind it's supposed to be the ultimate trip for you as a couple. Sure, somewhere might be on your bucket list, but is it right for your honeymoon?
As I talked to friends about their honeymoons, both real and planned, I started to realize there were many, many flavors to pick from. I also started to see patterns for which types of couples were attracted to which types of trips. That's the core of this list.
Think about your favorite date night with your spouse. That's going to speak volumes about how you love to spend time together. Let that guide what types of destinations you should consider for your honeymoon!
SO, WHAT'S YOUR IDEAL DATE NIGHT?
Scroll down to see suggested destinations for each of these ideal date nights, where you can learn more about the destination, what to do, and where to stay - all keeping your personal brand of romance in mind!
DISCLAIMER:
As you read, keep in mind this post is all about exploring the art of the possible. These are some of the most extraordinary destinations in the world, and some will require more time and resources than you may be willing or able to spend. In a similar vein, the selected hotels are curated with a splashy honeymoon in mind. These aren’t the only options and many of these aren’t the places I would normally stay. These are the places I dream of staying, the places I feel have something that makes them particularly suited to a one-in-a-lifetime romantic trip like your honeymoon. This post is for dreaming. Reality can rear its ugly head later.
Last thing - I've listed many options for each destination here but for the sake of time, resources, or simply the flow of the trip, you'll probably have to limit how many you do. You won’t possibly be able to visit all of the suggested next stops for a destination, but you might consider creating an epic trip by adding one of them. The same applies for recommended things to do. You likely won’t make every stop listed, but they’re all things to consider. It’s also likely that there are many, many more you could consider, but I’ve tried to focus the suggestions on the destination’s “date night” theme.
INDULGING IN FINE FOOD & WINE ON A CLASSIC DINNER DATE
5 DESTINATIONS FOR YOU
You're classic, and your idea of the perfect honeymoon should reflect that. You want to head to a destination that allows you to enjoy some alone time but also get out and experience something wonderful. These destinations are known being effortlessly chic, with just the right balance of romance and things to do. You'll also find plenty of opportunities for dinner date after dinner date.
1. THE AMALFI COAST
Picture yourself perched atop a hillside sipping on a fine glass of Italian wine peering out over the ocean from behind a bougainvillea lined portico - that's the essence of staying in the Amalfi Coast. Its pastel hillsides and blue ocean vistas set the scene for romance. Add in some hotels notorious for luxury and fine Italian cuisine, and you have the perfect recipe for a classic honeymoon locale.
WHAT TO DO
Kayak through the Blue Grotto, a favorite spot since ancient Roman times.
Walk through miles of lemon trees on il sentiero dei limoni or perhaps enjoy lemon on your plate with the local dessert of Sorrento, lemon delice.
Enjoy the views from above, perhaps at Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, and from below, looking up at the pastel houses of Positano from the beach.
WHERE TO STAY
MORE TO SEE
2. ATHENS & THE GREEK ISLES
With ocean views as blue as the domed rooftops, and Cycladic-style buildings as white as your wedding dress, the Greek Isles have become an iconic honeymoon destination. Come here to watch dramatic Aegean sunsets, marvel at ancient Athenian ruins, or simply not leave your room's sun-soaked private plunge pool. Greece is a picture-perfect pick for your honeymoon destination.
WHAT TO DO
Explore ancient history and visit the iconic ancient ruins of Athens' Acropolis.
Eat your weight in delicious Mediterranean cuisine, then try your own hand at creating some with a cooking class.
Soak up the sun from the pool or beach or perhaps aboard a boat to get a different perspective of the islands.
Dig into the wonders of Atlantis, whether it's at the Akrotiri Ruins (believed to belong to the lost city) or the famous Atlantis Books.
WHERE TO STAY
MORE TO SEE
3. THE VIRGIN ISLANDS
Step aboard a catamaran to island hop through turquoise Caribbean waters, diving into spectacular reefs along the way. You won't have to think about much other than which cocktail you'd like waiting for you after returning from an afternoon snorkel. Head to port when you'd like to sample the local fare, get lost in a maze of granite boulders on the beach, or explore hillside sugar mill ruins. Take advantage of the Virgin Islands if you're looking to lounge in laid-back luxury on your honeymoon.
WHAT TO DO
Dive in, literally, and enjoy spectacular SCUBA & snorkel sites to spot beautiful corals, fish, sea turtles, and more.
Get lost in the maze of oversized granite boulders and plunge pools at the Baths at Virgin Gorda.
Check another US National Park off your bucket list and explore the beautiful views of Virgin Islands National Park.
Hop from beach bar to beach bar, enjoying classic island cocktails.
Alternatively, park yourself by the water and do next to nothing together.
WHERE TO STAY
4. THE FRENCH & ITALIAN RIVIERA
Snake your way along the dramatic coastlines of France and Italy, stopping along the way to visit exclusive beach resorts, star-studded marinas, fragrant fields of lavender, and hilltop medieval villages. Dine on delicious pastas or a classic bouillabaisse at a local haunt or go for a full-on gastronomic experience at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants. Whether onboard a yacht or simply admiring the marina, you're sure to feel like the star of your honeymoon along the Riviera.
WHAT TO DO
Park yourself on the beach to catch some rays in St-Tropez, Aperol Spritz optional.
Explore old towns stopping at extravagant villas, medieval buildings & local markets or seeing more historical sites like the Picasso Museum.
Try your hand at a game of roulette at the decadent Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco.
Watch luxury yachts sail into Porto Fino while enjoying a lovely Italian meal or espresso at the Piazzetta.
Charter a boat to explore the narrow Calanques and dive into the crystal-clear waters.
WHERE TO STAY
MORE TO SEE
5. VENICE & THE ITALIAN LAKES
The canal-lined city of Venice has long been synonymous with romance, thanks to its maze of canals, singing gondoliers, delicate glassmakers, and masquerades. Meanwhile while the Italian Lakes have become synonymous with James Bond and other suave celebrities. In both destinations you'll experience the best Italian hospitality there is, with countless options to both stay and dine like a noble, which is exactly how you should feel when celebrating your new nuptials.
WHAT TO DO
Sure it's touristy, but the gondola rides of Venice are an icon of romance and an easy way to see the city.
Tour the glass factory and appreciate the delicate and dangerous artistry of local glassblowers.
Get out on the lake whether it's on a sleek speedboat or a more laid-back personal watercraft like a kayak or SUP.
Stroll through the manicured grounds and gardens of beautiful lakefront villas dating back to the 18th century.
WHERE TO STAY
MORE TO SEE
EXPLORING YOUR FUN (& COMPETITIVE) SIDE AT AN ACTIVITY LIKE BOWLING OR TOPGOLF
5 DESTINATIONS FOR YOU
You hate boring date nights and want to have fun together above all else. You like to keep each other on your toes and don't shy away from a little healthy competition. Keep that spirit alive with a honeymoon destination that offers plenty of activities. Try something new together or up your game at an old favorite. Between horseback rides, ziplines, target sports, and water activities, you'll be sure to be smiling non-stop.
1. LUXURY DUDE RANCH
Rustic does not necessarily mean roughing it. A selection of ranches in the American West expertly combine an authentic cowboy experience with all the trappings you'd expect at a luxury resort (and more). You can expect to spend part of your day in the saddle or wading in the river, expertly guided by ranch staff, only to return home to a full-fledged tasting dinner featuring local game and produce. You can get all of the seclusion and romance you want from your honeymoon, but you won't have to worry for a second about being bored.
WHAT TO DO
Saddle up to play cowboy on the open range! Let a wrangler guide you through the scenery on horseback; some ranches offer cattle drives, overnights, or fly-fishing combos.
Master the art of being a master outdoorsman. Wade into the river to try your hand at fly-fishing or head to the range to test your trap and skeet skills.
Soak in the scenery with a next level glamping experience. You can feel one with nature and your spouse without actually roughing it; ranches offer elaborate glamping cabins often complete with champagne and outdoor soaking tubs.
Don't write off the winter activities. Some ranches offer the opportunity to explore the mountains after they've been blanketed in snow. Get out and hit the slopes or try Nordic skiing or snowshoeing.
WHERE TO STAY
MORE TO SEE
2. MAUI
Sure, the beaches in Hawaii are incredible, and that's a huge draw for honeymooners looking for a dose of romance. But, if you want to balance out your time as a beach bum, Maui offers so many other ways to spend your time together. Snorkeling, wind surfing, kayaking, zip-lining, hiking, biking, horseback riding - it's all on the menu here.
WHAT TO DO
Drive the long and winding Road to Hana making stops along the way to enjoy waterfalls, volcanic beaches with black and red sand, sea caves, rainbow-colored trees, and local cuisine.
Experience an otherworldly sunrise from above the clouds at Haleakala, then embark on a thrilling bike ride down the volcano.
Set sail on a catamaran to snorkel or dive at Molokini, a partially erupted volcanic crater with a coral reef growing in its protective crescent. In the winter you'll likely see whales on the ride out and possibly hear them singing once you dive in.
Take to the skies to experience first-hand why this was the location chosen for Jurassic Park. From a helicopter, you can get views of inaccessible cliffs, waterfalls, and even whales from a dramatic perspective.
WHERE TO STAY
MORE TO SEE
3. THE SOUTHWEST
The American Southwest is the stuff of legend, and your honeymoon can be, too. Once a rugged backdrop for cowboys, prospectors, and outlaws, the stunning red rock scenery today attracts an altogether different brand of visitor. You can still play cowboy if you want, with ranches offering all of the requisite activities from target sports to horseback riding. But there's plenty of luxury options for when you want to hit the spa or tap into the regions' reputation as a spiritual destination. The Southwest is a magical honeymoon destination whether you're seeking serenity or action, or a little bit of both.
WHAT TO DO
In Sedona, hike to Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge, Subway Cave, or any of the other iconic red rock scenery surrounding the city.
Explore the great parks of the American Southwest. Head in any direction and you'll find one - top picks include the Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon in Arizona; Chaco Culture in New Mexico; or the Big 5 in Utah. Try out some of the less known wonders, too!
Get outdoors and get active! Try mountain biking, going off-roading in a jeep, taking a horseback ride, or seeing things from above in a hot air balloon or helicopter.
Take advantage of some of the darkest skies you'll find with a romantic night gazing up at the stars.
Embark on a wellness journey as you reset from the wedding with indulgent spa treatments, yoga sessions, or soaks in thermal springs.
WHERE TO STAY
4. THE BLUE RIDGE & SMOKY MOUNTAINS
Draped in a smoky blue haze, the Smoky Mountains have been a place of fascination for millennia, from the time when the Cherokee first gave them their name. The landscape is now home to multiple exquisite mountain retreats where you can experience the wildlife, scenic drives, and views firsthand. Let the mysterious morning mist or the vibrant fall foliage serve as the backdrop for your honeymoon where you can spend your day enjoying any number of outdoors activities or simply soaking in the scenery.
WHAT TO DO
Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds its way through the mountains from Great Smoky Mountain National Park to Shenandoah National Park and is particularly stunning when aglow with fall color.
Try your hand at various mountain activities including horseback riding, hiking, fishing, or target sports like shooting clays.
Walk in the footsteps of the Vanderbilt Family as you tour The Biltmore Estate, which includes America's largest home and expansive gardens and grounds.
Don't let a rustic façade fool you, fine dining is a focus at multiple of the selected resorts below, which have become renowned as dining destinations as much as country retreats.
WHERE TO STAY
5. LOS CABOS
Cabo is another beach destination that has more than just beaches. When you are craving more adrenaline than the swim-up bar can provide, venture into the desert on ATVs or on horseback, hop aboard a boat to see El Arco and humpback whales. Try your hand at sport fishing, or dive in to see spectacular marine life or the underwater sand falls made famous by Jacques Cousteau. It has everything you'd want from a typical romantic honeymoon with so, so much more for couples where the beach just isn't enough.
WHAT TO DO
Get out on the water! The classic honeymoon choice is a sunset cruise to the iconic El Arco, but for something a little more exciting consider heading out for a sportfishing excursion - Cabo is one of the best spots in the world. Either way, if you're there in the right season chances are high you'll see whales splashing and playing as they make their annual migration.
Experience the peninsula's incredible marine life. Go diving or snorkeling in the plentiful Cabo Pulmo Marine Park to see its sparkling reef, take a day trip to La Paz to swim with whale sharks; or simply snorkel in one of the local bays known for large schools of fish. Closer to land, plan an evening to stay up and watch baby sea turtles hatch and learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect them.
Get your adrenaline pumping - there are plenty of options in Cabo from ATVs to camel rides to ziplines to dramatic desert hikes.
WHERE TO STAY
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TELL ME YOUR LOVE STORIES!
Let me know where you went (or are hoping to go) on your honeymoon or favorite romantic trip in the comments!
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