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.
SOAKING IN THE SIGHTS & SOUNDS OF THE BOTANICAL GARDEN OR ZOO
5 DESTINATIONS FOR YOU
You are fascinated by the wonders of the Earth and seek out all the beauty Mother Nature has to offer. As a die-hard animal lover, you’d probably take your pets on your honeymoon if you could. Don’t you worry - these destinations offer up enough flora and fauna spotting to make up for having to leave Spot behind. You and your spouse will be able to celebrate your new union immersed in natural beauty, perhaps with the company of some new animal friends.
1. AFRICAN SAFARI
Going on safari is the mother of all wildlife experiences. Even if you've seen animals up close before, words truly can't do justice to seeing them in their natural habitat uninhibited by the world. Not only is going on safari a once-in-a-lifetime experience for any traveler, it's an experience especially suited for romance. In the middle of the bush, you'll find true solitude, and you'll also find true luxury, the perfect combination for an epic honeymoon.
WHAT TO DO
Head out on expert-guided game drives to witness truly wild wildlife from an open-air 4x4. Depending where you go on safari you can plan to see big cats stalking a kill, elephants trumpeting their tusks, giraffes grazing on acacia trees, million-strong herds of zebra and wildebeest making dramatic river crossings, and so much more.
Get a different perspective of the landscape from a hot air balloon floating over the herds of the Great Migration in Kenya and Tanzania or the flood of the Okavango Delta in Botswana.
Feel the thunder of Victoria Falls, aka "the Smoke that Thunders." The mile-wide falls, which straddle the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, are the largest in the world (based on combined height & width). If you’re up for it, pose in the Devil's Pool where it’ll appear as if you’re about to tumble over the edge.
Enjoy each other and the solitude of a fabulous vintage canvas tent that harkens back to the age of explorers. With any luck you'll be able to spot wildlife right from the comfort of your clawfoot soaking tub while you sip champagne.
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2. COSTA RICA
It's not hard to see why nature lovers would love Costa Rica - this Central American country is reportedly home to 5% of the world's biodiversity. The landscape of lush rainforests and volcanic features is sandwiched between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, so you'll be able to experience the best of both land and sea. In addition to the great outdoors, Costa Rica is known for its friendly and hospitable people who live by a motto of "Pura Vida," which sounds like the perfect motto for a honeymoon as well.
WHAT TO DO
Explore the rainforest in search of wildlife, like sloths, monkeys, iguanas, jaguars, ocelots, and more. Costa Rica is also known for its epic avian sightings including toucans, macaws, and quetzales.
Experience the marine life of two oceans where you can go scuba diving to see coral reefs and manta rays, go on a whale watching cruise, or see sea turtles hatch on the beach.
Get active by land and by sea. You can horseback ride along the beach, zipline with a view of the Arenal Volcano, kayak down a river or into sea caves, walk along the hanging bridges of a cloud forest, or try your hand at surfing the waves.
The nearby volcanic activity unlocks unique wellness experiences that include dips in mineral hot springs in addition to luxe massages, body wraps, masks, and more.
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3. MADAGASCAR
Madagascar is a lot less developed than other destinations, which means you might have to “rough it” or work to get to your destination a tiny bit more. But, a little extra effort is worth it if you want to visit one of the most unique wildlife destinations in the world. Madagascar is called the 8th continent because of its staggering number of endemic species. If you want one of the most unique honeymoon destinations with stories to tell for a lifetime, Madagascar is for you.
WHAT TO DO
Get lost in the rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to many of Madagascar's endemic species including indris, aye-ayes, fossas, panther chameleons, and more than 100 lemur species.
Cruise the Avenue of the Baobabs, which is lined with the island's unique, over-inflated looking trees known as the "trees of life."
Dive in to see the wonders below the wonder. The Tulear Reef is the world's 3rd largest reef system and is filled with 400+ species of fish and 300+ species of coral. You can also head to dive spots where you can see enormous whale sharks, manta rays, and humpback whales.
When you've had enough exploring, catch some rays as you relax on the pristine white sand beaches that fade into the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
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4. PUERTO RICO
You don’t even (technically) have to leave the US for a robust rainforest experience & tropical beach getaway. With just a short flight, you can find all the must-have elements of an awesome honeymoon - luxury resorts, picturesque beaches, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. From kayaking through a bioluminescent bay to hiking through a tropical rainforest you'll be able to experience some of the most incredible island scenery in the world - all with your brand-new spouse.
WHAT TO DO
At night, experience one of the rarest phenomena in the world - bioluminescent bays. There are only 5 ecosystems in the world where microscopic organisms are concentrated enough to produce a visible glow, and Puerto Rico has 3 of them, including the world's brightest. Take the opportunity to kayak through the glimmering water.
Explore the tropical rainforest. El Yunque is a 29,000-acre paradise filled with winding hiking trails, a scenic lookout tower, and diverse species including the rare Puerto Rican parrot.
Dip your toes into the crystal-clear Caribbean waters. You don’t have to do anything more than relax on one of the soft sand beaches, but you can get out and explore the colorful coral reefs or try one of the island's surf breaks.
Puerto Rico is considered the Rum Capital of the World - make sure to try some while you're here. If you want to tour a distillery, one of the best known is Casa Bacardi where there are several tour options ranging from the classic tour to mojito mixing classes and chocolate pairings.
WHERE TO STAY
5. AUSTRALIA
When you think of the world's best wildlife destinations, surely Australia comes to mind. The isolation of the continent has led to the evolution of iconic species like kangaroos, koalas, emus, dingoes, and more. You'll be able to have the adventure of your lives as your explore landscapes from the rainforest to the Red Center to the Great Barrier Reef. Heading down under is sure to be exciting no matter the occasion, but especially for a nature-loving couple seeking out an epic honeymoon.
WHAT TO DO
Dive into what is probably Australia's most famous place to see wildlife, the Great Barrier Reef. Explore 1,400+ miles of reef to see colorful corals, schools of fish, and other marine life like whales and turtles. Topside, wade in the swirling white sand beaches of the Whitsundays or hike through the Daintree Rainforest, which is over 180 million years old.
Venture into sandy red desert of Australia's Outback where aboriginal traditions, iconic rock formations like Uluru, and kangaroos reside. For an explorer-style experience, check out a tented camp or ride The Ghan Train through the Mars-like landscape.
Drive along the Great Ocean Road where towering rock formations erupt from the water, dolphins swim in the bay, and hot springs offer up a place to relax. Along the way, stop in the Otways to see koalas, emus, and possibly platypus.
Head to lesser-known natural beauties like Kangaroo Island, Rottnest Island, Phillip Island, or Tasmania to see endemic species like kangaroos, koalas, dingoes, quokkas, and penguins.
Keep in mind unless you have an extended amount of time, you won't be able to do all of these. You'll have to pick and choose, but these ideas should get you started on seeing Australia's iconic scenery and wildlife.
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SNUGGLING UP ON THE COUCH TO ENJOY DINNER & A MOVIE AT HOME
5 DESTINATIONS FOR YOU
It doesn't matter where you are or what you're doing, you are happiest when you are together. In fact, you see your honeymoon as a chance to simply enjoy one another, devoid of the distracting excess that can come with some trips. You appreciate how romantic strolling through a small town can be and how many great options there are close to home. One of these choices is sure to be the perfect fit.
1. NEW ENGLAND
The journey is part of the destination in New England; zig-zag your way through the region going as fast or slow as you see fit. Wander quaint towns with American Colonial history, cruise along craggy coastlines, and snake your way along winding roads ablaze with fall foliage. Lodging options tend to feel like you've stepped into a charming historic residence but sacrifice no amount of luxury. Snuggle up next to a crackling fire or settle into an Adirondack chair at the edge of the sea - it's all a picture of relaxed romance.
WHAT TO DO
Visit the coastal enclave of Newport where families like the Astors and the Vanderbilts built opulent Gilded Age mansions. The town also has important history for sports like sailing, tennis, and golf.
Go for a hike through the fall foliage or set sail to see the whales at Acadia National Park in Maine.
Walk in the footsteps of America's Founding Fathers with a tour of the Freedom Trail in Boston. You'll see sights like the Old North Church, the site of the Boston Massacre, and the USS Constitution.
Depending on the season and your personal tastes, pick between spending time in the mountains (check out the Adirondacks, the Berkshires, or retreats in VT and NH) or along the coast (Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, or Nantucket are great picks).
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2. THE FLORIDA KEYS
Hop your way from island to island, no boat necessary! Off the tip of Florida, you'll find a string of islands, each with their own personality, conveniently connected by US 1. The Keys have all the sun and sand you want in an island destination but manage to leave the pretension at the door. If you're looking for a laid-back spot to soak up the sun and freshly married romance, look no further than the Keys.
WHAT TO DO
Catch a colorful sunset at Mallory Square, a popular spot that comes alive with musicians, street performers, and local vendors.
Venture out to Dry Tortugas National Park which is home to a 19th century fort which played a key role in the Civil War and held Dr. Samuel Mudd as a prisoner. The park is also a great spot to snorkel, especially around the moat walls. For a less known spot, head to John Pennekamp State Park to see the submerged Christ of the Abyss and multiple coral reefs.
Explore where Ernest Hemingway lived, worked (& drank). His home is preserved - now descendants of his famous six-toed cats rule the roost. You can also visit Sloppy Joe's, one of his favorite watering holes.
Try the local fare, including fresh seafood and Caribbean-style jerk chicken. Key Lime Pie is world-famous, so you should sample a couple mile-high slices of the tangy, creamy concoction.
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3. THE SOUTHEAST COAST
Picture Spanish Moss dripping from centuries-old oak trees with branches overhanging cobblestone streets lined with pastel-painted houses. That's the essence of the Southeast, and it's beyond romantic. The way of life is just slower here, and time seems to stretch on like a Southern drawl, which means you'll be able to soak up all these moments as newlyweds. You'll also have plenty to keep you from being bored - spend the day at the beach, exploring historical sites, or simply eating your way through a mountain of irresistible coastal cuisine. A heavy helping of Southern charm is just what you need to kick-off post-nuptial bliss.
WHAT TO DO
Start just outside Jacksonville at Cumberland Island where you'll find pristine beaches, free-roaming horses, loggerhead turtles, and the remains of a Carnegie Mansion.
Drive up the coast to Savannah (and nearby islands). Not only is it Georgia's first city, but one of the most beautiful in the US, and it's filled with beautiful parks & old mansions as well as a bit of haunted history.
Wrap up your trip in Charleston where you'll feel like you've stepped back in time as you walk the cobblestone streets to see the appropriately named Rainbow Row, quaint boutiques, & cute little oyster bars. The historical sights here date back to 1670; you can't miss Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.
Stay in the cities to make the most of walking around town but consider also choosing an island resort to balance with some beach time.
Make sure to indulge in Southern dining scene, which is already known for rich cuisine drawing from a melting pot of cultures & comfort food that will rival your grandma's. Charleston also happens to be home to more James Beard winners per capita than any other US city.
You might also consider adding stops in St. Augustine, Georgia's Golden Isles, Hilton Head, and more.
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4. PALM SPRINGS
This desert oasis is just a few hours from LA, but you'll feel like you've been transported far, far away in both time and space. The retro vibe of Palm Springs will feel like you've time traveled back to the mid-century when stars like Sinatra and Elvis lived here. Meanwhile, the otherworldly landscapes of Joshua Tree will have you wondering if you've rocketed to a distant planet. That far-flung feeling paired with romantic resorts makes for the beginnings of a great trip, but add in that the time saved on travel can be spent on enjoying time, just the two of you, and Palm Springs can be a truly dreamy honeymoon destination.
WHAT TO DO
Take a trip to Joshua Tree where contorted, spiky trees, strange rock formations, and beautiful blankets of stars make you have left the planet Earth.
The desert sun is literally always shining, so the pool will be calling your name, and it's your honeymoon so you don't have to leave your floatie if you don't want to.
Relax & recharge after a busy wedding-day build-up with a trip to the spa where you can indulge in therapies influenced by the desert.
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5. WESTERN CANADA
Heading here is a bit bigger trip than others in this section given it requires international travel, but what could be cozier than snuggling up by the fire of a winter lodge or riding in a glass-topped train watching the mountains tick by? This wilderness escape is filled with opportunities to spend time alone together in the lap of low-key luxury as you celebrate your new nuptials.
WHAT TO DO
Explore the stunning scenery of the Canadian Rockies in Banff where you'll find a selection of Canada's National Parks, a castle-style lodge, and the iconic turquoise-hued Moraine Lake.
Just north of Banff, explore Jasper's hot springs, glaciers, and dark skies.
To see the sights without the hike, hop aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train which snakes along rivers framed by snow-capped mountains from Banff to Vancouver.
In Vancouver, get a taste of culture by visiting indigenous sights, or literally, by sampling dim sum along the Dumpling Trail.
Head up to Whistler to explore the Olympic Park where you can take advantage of winter sports galore. For something unique, check out the sliding center where you can discover bobsled or luge - even in the summer!
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ENJOYING LIVE MUSIC AT THE CONCERT OF A TRENDY NEW ARTIST
5 DESTINATIONS FOR YOU
You always know “what’s next” long before everyone else seems to find out, and you also frequent the perpetually-chic classics. Date night usually means attending the hottest opening in town or snagging a seat that would impress even the most seasoned concierge. Whether it’s a mainstay or a relative newcomer, your honeymoon destination should be no less edgy or sexy than your typical Friday night.
1. BALI
Bali has become somewhat of an Instagram starlet in recent times, and it's easy to understand why. Whether in the lush, hilly jungle or dramatic cliffside beaches, postcard-worthy vistas abound. Add to that beauty Bali's renowned wellness experiences, both physical thanks to an assortment of luxury spas and yogi retreats and spiritual thanks to the "Island of the Gods'" Hindu culture, and you can see why this island is a top romantic retreat.
WHAT TO DO
Tap into your spiritual side, visiting any of the many, many temples dotting the island. Visit elaborately carved caves, a holy site home to hundreds of Balinese Macaque Monkeys, "the Gateway to Heaven," or the cliffside Uluwatu Temple known for vivid sunsets and daily dance performances.
Get lost, metaphorically, in the tropical, jungle landscapes. Here you can literally go chasing waterfalls. You can also climb Mount Batur, an active volcano, or visit the picture perfect Tegallalang Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hit the beach and beyond! Honeymooners will likely pass on the raucous beach clubs and opt for a secluded strip, but don't stop at the sand. "The Balinese Pipeline" offers waves for beginners and pros alike, and the "Coral Triangle" offers some of the most spectacular dive sites in the world.
After what was likely a busy build-up to your wedding, embark on a well-needed wellness journey that Bali is famous for. Align your chakras by practicing the ancient art of yoga and visit a luxury spa with locally-influenced, unique treatments aiming to provide an indulgent & holistic experience.
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2. TULUM & RIVIERA MAYA
No matter where you are in the US, Riviera Maya isn't all that far away, but it feels like a whole other world. The blue waters and white sand beaches of the coast, ancient Mayan ruins, mysterious cenotes, and lush jungle landscapes mingle together to create the paradise of the Yucatan peninsula. The whole region has seen a wave of exciting new hotel openings perfectly geared towards couples, but Tulum in particular has blossomed as a boho-chic destination that perfectly mixes the old & the new. If you're looking for a sexy honeymoon spot, you don't have to look far.
WHAT TO DO
Perched on a cliff above the Caribbean, the ruins of Tulum are as beautiful as they are historic and well worth a day of exploring. Farther inland, you can visit the iconic pyramid of Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Mayan history is also felt in the unique geography of the area. Explore water-filled underground caves known as cenotes, which were spiritual places believed to act as portals to the underworld. Above ground, venture into Reserva de la Biosfera de Sian Ka'an, a UNESCO site where you can kayak down Mayan canals and picturesque lagoons.
Relax and reset with massages, wraps, and facials at a luxury spa. Alternatively, try a temazcal ritual for an extra dose of culture. This Pre-Colombian ritual is intended to cleanse your soul with guided meditations and chanting in a sweat lodge.
You don't have to travel to Australia for a spectacular coral reef; the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the second largest reef system in the world, and well worth a day of snorkeling or diving. Alternatively, Akumal, which means "land of the turtles" in the Mayan language, is a famous spot to snorkel with its resident sea turtles.
Explore the artsy side of Tulum. Tour the twisting wood installations at SFER IK ("Spheric") Art Museum, walk through the famous Ven a la Luz sculpture, or visit one of the many art galleries in the area.
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3. CROATIA
Croatia is a melting pot of cultures, bringing together the best of Europe from meandering stone streets to fresh Mediterranean seafood to rich history & culture. Unlike the rest of Europe, it's not completely overrun with tourists. Game of Thrones helped kickstart the country's popularity, but it's its beautiful coastline, inland waterfalls, and charming medieval towns that keep people coming back. If you're thinking about Europe for your honeymoon, make sure to consider this effortlessly cool gem.
WHAT TO DO
Taste your way through the cultural melting pot of the Istrian Peninsula. Known for truffles and wine, it's also home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in Pula and pastel-colored Venetian houses in Rovinj.
Step back in time in the ancient coastal cities of Split and Dubrovnik, most famous for Diocletian's Palace and the medieval backdrop seen in Game of Thrones & Star Wars.
Island hop along the Dalmatian Coast where medieval towns perched on limestone cliffs rise out of glimmering turquoise waters.
Don't ignore the natural beauty of inland areas. Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Parks are home to bands of numerous waterfalls cascading between emerald-green pools.
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4. THAILAND & CAMBODIA
Backpacking through Southeast Asia seems to have become the de facto graduation ritual in recent years; take that trip and elevate it for your honeymoon. Swap the hostels and shoestring sacrifices for luxury hospitality, while still discovering everything that makes this place so magnetic for so many. Perhaps it's the friendly people or tasty cuisine that attract visitors. Perhaps it's that this trip has a little bit of everything from jungles to beaches, rice terraces to cities, and modern to traditional jam-packed into a manageable journey. No matter what brings you here, you're sure to have an epic trip filled with memories to kickstart your marriage.
WHAT TO DO
Overgrown with massive, twisting roots, the intricate temple of Angkor Wat is the largest religious structure in the world and a true masterpiece of Khmer architecture. While there are many magnificent temples in this part of the world, this one is a stand-out.
Introduce yourself to Thailand in Bangkok where you can tour UNESCO sites and temples, day trip to ancient ruins & jungles, and eat your way through the floating markets and street food vendors of the city.
Explore the Northern part of Thailand where you can see a different lifestyle, lush landscapes, and animal sanctuaries as well as try distinctly Northern cuisine. Chiang Mai is known for its many temples while Chiang Rai and the "Golden Triangle" are known for the history of the opium trade and river cruises along the Mekong River.
Head south to Thailand's boulder-dotted, white sand beaches. Koh Samui is particularly suited for honeymooners since it's home to some of Thailand's most romantic resorts and has a more tranquil vibe where you can enjoy the beautiful sights above and below the water.
If you are thirsty for a more active island than relaxed Koh Samui, head to Ko Pha-Ngan at the full moon for one of the most epic parties of your life. Phuket is also a lively option with plenty to do by day and night including a day-trip to the iconic Phi Phi Islands or taking a dive excursion in the Similans Islands.
If you've always dreamed of traveling by vintage rail, hop aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express which transports passengers in opulence from Bangkok to Singapore - make sure to dress for dinner!
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5. ST. BARTH
St. Barth is fashionably exclusive, even by resort destination standards. This enclave for the rich & famous hasn't been overrun by mega resorts; instead, you'll find a set of boutique-style hotels ready to cater to your every need. The exclusivity also protects the postcard-worthy scenery. Pristine beaches and calm waters encircle the lush green hills that form the silhouette of the island. Extravagant white yachts dot the deep blue harbors while coral-roofed buildings sprinkle the land. The French flair of the island comes through at its trendy restaurants and beach clubs. St. Barth is a fabulous pick for honeymooners looking to balance the glamour of the French Riviera with the sun & convenience of the Caribbean.
WHAT TO DO
Hit the beach - or several. You'll have a variety of options to choose from whether you want pristine sand, privacy, or lots of seashells.
Venture out into the water with a snorkel and some fins to be delighted by the colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles. Also check out a glass-bottomed kayak to see the sea life!
Play with all the water toys you can dream of from high-tech options like seabobs and flite-boarding to more traditional sailing on a small Hobie-Cat, sportfishing boat, or glamorous yacht.
Be pampered poolside, whether you want to see-and-be-seen at a buzzy spot like Eden Roc or Nikki Beach or you want to slip into seclusion at a more intimate resort (or even your own in-room plunge pool).
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HIKING TO A REMOTE CAMPSITE TO SLEEP UNDER THE STARS
5 DESTINATIONS FOR YOU
You enjoy pushing each other to your limits. You don’t just dip your toe in; you want to get out and really experience nature and some of the last undeveloped corners of the earth. You’re completely okay if that means you have to break a sweat or rough it a little bit - in fact, that’s probably how you prefer it. You know that the journey is every bit as good as the destination and some of the best destinations are the hardest to reach.
1. ALASKA
Alaska is the Last Frontier, one of the most remote and unadulterated places left on earth. You can explore dazzling landscapes where wildlife roam free both by land and sea. Witness natural phenomena like the midnight sun and the Northern lights, and trace the footsteps of indigenous cultures and gold rush prospectors. Heading here for your honeymoon can truly be the adventure of a lifetime where you can discover true remoteness and simply enjoy each other and the land around you.
WHAT TO DO
Cruise the Inside Passage making stops in ports like Sitka, Ketchikan, Juneau. You'll sail through fjords flanked with icy glaciers, likely seeing whales like humpbacks, orcas, and white beluga in the waters. Shore excursions allow you to experience totem carving, flightseeing, or Gold Rush train rides.
Venture into Denali National Park to see the eponymous tallest peak in North America and to explore the park's 6 million acres of wilderness which is home to Alaska's Big 5 (Moose, Grizzly Bears, Caribou, Dall Sheep, & Grey Wolves).
Get up close to the Grizzly Bears in Katmai National Park where the bears position themselves on the brink of Brooks Falls to fatten up on salmon swimming upstream before the winter.
Check out one of Alaska's other National Parks. Alaska alone has 56 million acres of park land, which makes up ~60% of the total National Park land area. The parks are expansive and nearly untouched, meaning they're teeming with wildlife and natural beauty.
Gaze up at the magical Northern Lights (if you're up for a wintertime visit). Fairbanks is situated in the Aurora Oval, which gives you a solid shot at seeing the phenomenon. You can also see the landscape via dogsled or warm-up in the nearby hot springs.
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2. ARGENTINA & BEYOND
You certainly don't have to rough it in Argentina - Buenos Aires is known as the Paris of the South, and even the more rugged parts of the country have luxury camps on offer - but Argentina is known for its natural, rugged beauty and endless opportunities for adventure. In the north, there are wild wetlands, waterfalls, and rainforests teeming with tropical wildlife. Further south, Patagonia is a hiker's paradise with plenty of opportunity to go off the grid. In between, you'll find lakes, deserts, and fertile Pampas grasslands. No matter how you like to explore, you're sure to find something for you. Your biggest challenge will be trying to find the time to fit it all into your epic honeymoon.
WHAT TO DO
Feel the mist from the roaring Iguazu Falls, a genuine rival to Niagara and Victoria, as you walk along the boardwalks winding around the hundreds of cascades.
Stay at an estancia for the gaucho experience. Ride horses across the vast landscape, try your hand at polo, test your skills with a shotgun on a dove hunt, or indulge in a traditional asado barbecue.
Head to the foothills of the Andes for a wine-tasting (and possibly harvest) experience at one of Mendoza's famous Malbec vineyards.
Venture into the mountains of Patagonia, a hiker's paradise where jagged peaks tower over aquamarine alpine lakes. You can go on any adventure you can dream up here from glacier trekking to kayaking & river rafting to skiing & snowboarding in the winter. Popular stops include El Chalten for hikes to Mt. Fitzroy, El Calaphate for Glaciares National Park & the Perito Moreno Glacier, and Torres del Paine in Chile.
Check out the UNESCO-listed Peninsula Valdes for sightings of endangered southern right whales, orcas, elephant seals, sea lions, and more.
If you're into mountain climbing, summit Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the world outside Asia.
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3. ICELAND
Known as Land of Fire and Ice, Iceland is a hotspot, not only geothermally speaking but as a tourist destination in recent years. Despite its popularity, there are still some untouched areas and plenty of adventure activities. As you embark on some of the island's epic road trips, you'll experience all this North Atlantic gem has to offer, from the cerulean blue waves crashing against black sand beaches to the jewel-toned aurora dazzling above the emerald green landscape. It has everything an intrepid pair of honeymooners could want, and it's just a short flight from most European destinations.
WHAT TO DO
Look up to the sky and see the celestial wonders that come with Iceland's extreme latitude and isolation. In the winter, see the dancing Northern Lights and in the summer, see the never-setting midnight sun.
Discover the island's dramatic landscape; chase waterfalls & trek across glaciers. If you'd rather not hike, try catching a ride on an Icelandic Pony or go on an ATV ride along the black sand beaches.
Experience the geothermal features of the island firsthand; Iceland is filled with geysers, volcanoes, and hot springs. Blue Lagoon is the most famous hot spring, but many others are dotted across the country and offer more privacy.
If you're really up for an adventure go SCUBA diving in the Silfra Fissure, paraglide over the landscape, or kayak through the icebergs.
If you are visiting in the winter, be sure to explore the seasonal ultra-blue ice caves at Vatnajӧkull National Park.
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MORE TO SEE
4. ANTARCTICA
The quintessential explorer's destination, Antarctica is truly one of those once-in-a-lifetime trips. The extraordinarily remote 7th continent is only visited by ~50k people each year (about the same as a single baseball stadium), which means the landscape has been relatively untouched since John Davis first set foot here back in 1821. The isolated location has developed some unique wildlife specially adapted to the harsh environment like Emperor Penguins, Elephant Seals, whales, and other extremophiles. If you're explorers at heart and want to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, the white continent should be at the top of the list for your honeymoon.
WHAT TO DO
Sail through the spectacular Iceberg Alley of the Antarctic Sound, where massive islands of ice float in the frozen waters while birds fly ahead.
Get off the boat and get active. Try a zodiac cruise or kayaking on the water or get out and hike on the frozen land. For the bold (and experienced), you can even get into the water to snorkel or dive - drysuit definitely required!
See the extraordinary wildlife that calls Antarctica home. You'll see a variety of whales, seals, fish, and birds that have all adapted to living at the bottom of the world. Most famously several species of penguins, including the iconic Emperor, waddle about the snow & ice.
If you're really up for an adventure, head inland. Special outfitters offer skiing and climbing trips, but an excursion to the South Pole is the definition of a bucket list item - only a small-subset of visitors make the trip each year.
WHERE TO STAY
MORE TO SEE
5. PORTUGAL & THE AZORES
Not all (relatively) untouched places are in the farthest corners of the Earth. The Azores happen to be just over 2 hours off the coast of Portugal but still feel like a place that's just beginning to be discovered. This volcanic archipelago is draped in vibrant tropical greenery and adorned with turquoise-colored crater lakes. Thanks to the lush landscapes and sheer number of outdoor activities, this island chain is often referred to as the Hawaii of Europe. Keep the explorer spirit alive by also heading to mainland Portugal, the birthplace of some of the world's most iconic voyagers. You'll be able to discover new places and new things about each other if you embark on this epic honeymoon.
WHAT TO DO
Go on a cruise to see many species of whales and dolphins playing in their natural habitat. You might even encounter some of them underwater on a snorkel trip.
Hike or bike around the islands, peeking out over lagoons within volcanic craters, following dramatic coastlines, admiring colorful hydrangeas, and feeling the spray of waterfalls.
Experience the volcanic activity of the islands firsthand by taking a dip in an oceanside thermal pool or exploring a lava tube.
Head to the Douro Valley to tour the terraced vineyards perched on hillsides cut by the Douro River and taste fine wines including delicious Port.
Go hunting for azulejos (the iconic blue and white glazed tiles) in Porto. The Sao Bento train station is a must-see, as it houses a 20,000-tile mural of Portuguese history. Churches are also popular places to look, but you can find azulejos all around the city.
Step into a real-life screensaver at the Benagil Cave, a Pantheon-esque sandstone cavern in the Algarve. The cave is far from the only thing to see here; the region is known for having some of Europe's most beautiful beaches and plenty of sun.
WHERE TO STAY
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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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