Planning a honeymoon requires careful consideration and a well-padded budget. Given that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event (in theory), it should be a grand affair. Why limit yourself to one week when you can take three? Why settle for a single destination when you can combine multiple stops? Imagine combining the wonders of Tanzania and Tuscany, or Patagonia and Fiji.
Though it’s high-stakes and potentially stressful, we’re here to assist. We’ve compiled dozens of T&C-approved honeymoon destinations along with the best places to stay at each. Whether you’re seeking adventure, like a 10-day trek across the Serengeti, or prefer relaxing on pristine sands, we have suggestions for you. Consider sprawling on a private island, honeymooning like JFK and Jackie Kennedy in Santa Barbara, or exploring many other enticing options listed below.
Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara, with its charming Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and Mediterranean climate, is ideal for romantics seeking a city-meets-beach escape. For wine lovers, the picturesque, winery-filled Santa Ynez Valley is nearby. Stay at the romantic San Ysidro Ranch, a beautifully landscaped hideaway where JFK and Jackie honeymooned, and where many celebrities have sought refuge.
Kohala Coast, Big Island, Hawaii
While Hawaii is synonymous with honeymoons, the Big Island offers a less commercialized and more authentic experience. Enjoy helicopter tours, nighttime snorkeling with manta rays, and the geological marvels of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Stay at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, a mid-century masterpiece featuring cantilevered stairways, an impressive collection of Asian Pacific Art, and a silk-smooth beach.
Big Sur, California
Big Sur offers sweeping views and mind-body-soul retreats amidst towering redwoods and whimsical meadows. For a quintessential experience, head to Alila Ventana Big Sur and indulge in its infinity-edge hot tub, clothing-optional Mountain pool, or Japanese hot baths. Opt for one of the standalone houses for ultimate privacy.
Punta Mita, Mexico
This 1,500-acre coastal peninsula in the Riviera Nayarit is an oasis of wellness and indulgence with a wild, untamed feel—barefoot luxury at its finest. The Four Seasons established the region’s first resort in the late ’90s and recently expanded with Naviva, a collection of 15 luxury tents in a forest overlooking the ocean. It’s an ultra-private, romantic adults-only, all-inclusive retreat.
Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como, set against the dramatic Alps, offers Riva cruises, delicious pasta, strolls through postcard-perfect villages, and lounging by a floating saltwater pool. The picturesque towns of Cernobbio, Bellagio, and Varenna have long been chic refuges for Milanese elite and celebrities. For a unique dolce vita experience, stay at the exquisite Villa d’Este.
Maui, Hawaii
Support Maui after the devastating Lahaina wildfire by visiting this island made for honeymooners. It offers a polished but relaxed vibe with fantastic culinary options, gorgeous beaches, rainforests, and whale watching. Stay at Hotel Wailea, an adults-only Relais & Château with all-suite accommodations overlooking three Hawaiian islands.
Pacific Harbor, Fiji
Fiji, remote and surrounded by crystal clear water, is perfect for decompressing post-wedding. Luxury properties abound, many with private islands. Nanuku offers the option of renting its exclusive two-acre private island, a 25-minute boat ride from the main property.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora, known for its scuba diving and coral reefs, is a remote destination for honeymooners seeking to splurge. The Conrad, located on a private cove on the island of Motu To’opua, boasts the longest stretch of white sand beach in Bora Bora and possibly the world’s most legendary sunsets.
Nova Scotia, Canada
Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia offers a slightly unconventional honeymoon with top golf courses, world-class biking, hiking, and sunset boat tours. Enjoy first-rate seafood like lobster, crab, and salmon. Stay at Cabot Cape Breton, a secluded luxury resort with 72 rooms and 19 oceanfront villas along Cape Breton Island’s stunning coast.
The Azores, Portugal
Just a 5-hour flight from NYC, the Azores offer untapped nature for gourmands and adventure enthusiasts alike. Azores Getaways provides customizable tour packages, from food and wine tours to ambitious itineraries for visiting all nine islands. The packages include accommodations, roundtrip flights, and airport transfers, making booking a breeze.
Lord Howe Island, New South Wales, Australia
This World Heritage-listed island is the ultimate secluded getaway with fabulous weather. Only 400 visitors are allowed at a time, making it a private paradise with the world’s most southerly coral reef. Stay at the Capella Lodge, a luxurious retreat with nine suites inspired by an Australian beach house’s carefree spirit.
Canouan, The Grenadines
Canouan, an undiscovered Caribbean gem, offers excellent golf, tennis, fishing, and sailing. Mandarin Oriental’s first Caribbean resort features Italian design, private butlers, and romantic options like private beaches and uninhabited islands.
Nevis
Nevis is known for its slow pace, crystal clear waters, and white sand beaches. Stay at Golden Rock Inn, a jungle chic property designed by the architects of the Aman resorts. This 11-room inn, nestled within lush gardens, offers hiking trails, exceptional views, and gourmet food.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna, with its old-world romance, is a nexus of art, music, food, and history. Explore Art Nouveau masterworks at the Belvedere Museum and the Habsburg summer palace, Schönbrunn. Stay at the Rosewood, housed in a former 19th-century neoclassical bank building.
Tanzania
For adventurous couples, embark on a 10-day, 62-mile trek across Serengeti National Park. Experience Africa’s raw beauty with no lodges, roads, or crowds—just walking, campfires, stargazing, and sleeping in tents to the sounds of nature.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini’s inimitable sunsets, infinity edge pools, and ancient volcanic landscapes create a magical honeymoon atmosphere. While Oia is the most romantic town, Imerovigli offers the best sunset views from Santorini’s highest cliff. Splurge on the villa at Auberge Resorts’ Grace Hotel with a private swimming pool, spa, hammam, personal chef, and outdoor fireplace.
Mauritius
Mauritius, known for its secluded vibe and incredible beaches, is epitomized by the One & Only Le Saint Geran. The hotel, located on a vibrant coral reef, offers lush interiors, diverse water sports, and world-class dining.
Praiano, Italy
Praiano, a quaint Italian seaside town on the Amalfi Coast, offers a rustic charm. Stay at the adults-only Casa Angelina, featuring dramatic cliffs, a chic pool club, and floor-to-ceiling windows for an ideal romantic getaway.
Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca, a dreamy island with rippling hills and cobbled villages, offers a charming escape. Stay in the chic town of Deià at Belmond La Residencia, enjoying candlelit dinners among olive groves, an award-winning spa, and romantic picnics on ancient terraces.
Abu Dhabi, UAE
The Empty Quarter, the world’s largest sand desert, offers a romantic expanse for dining by the dunes and camelback traverses. Stay at Qasr Al Sarab, a luxurious palatial oasis in the heart of the desert.
The Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Iceland, with its hot springs, geologic features, and 24-hour daylight in summer (or aurora borealis in winter), offers a unique honeymoon experience. Stay at the Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland for unlimited access to the Blue Lagoon facility and nearby golf.
Patagonia, Chile
Patagonia offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Torres del Paine National Park’s iconic snow-capped peaks and crystal blue icebergs. Stay at Explora Patagonia for breathtaking views and guided explorations through stunning landscapes.
Masai Mara, Kenya
Masai Mara, renowned for safaris and the annual wildebeest migration, offers conservation-led luxury travel. Stay at Bateleur Camp with 19 tented suites featuring hardwood floors, private butlers, and outdoor showers for a romantic, old-world glamour experience.
Paris, France
Paris, the city of love, with its picturesque avenues and landmarks, is perfect for honeymooners. Stay at Le Bristol, which renovated its luxurious rooms and suites during the Covid closure. Book the Honeymoon Suite for panoramic city views.
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech, with its gardens, mosques, and vibrant markets, offers an exotic honeymoon experience. Stay at La Mamounia, a historic hotel with sumptuous interiors nestled in ancient olive groves.
Rome, Italy
Rome, a cinematic city of romance and culture, is an ideal honeymoon destination. Stay at Hotel Eden, a historic luxury hotel with aristocratic suites and a Michelin-starred rooftop restaurant offering stunning city views.
Canggu, Bali
Canggu, a laid-back coastal village in Bali, offers great surf breaks and luxurious accommodations. Stay at COMO Uma Canggu for adventurous surfing with TropicSurf or simply relax on the volcanic sand beach.
Dorado Beach, Puerto Rico
Dorado Beach, a Ritz Carlton Reserve, is a stunning sanctuary with pristine oceanfront rooms, outdoor showers, private plunge pools, and lush grounds. Enjoy a tropical paradise with world-class spa facilities.
Sacred Valley, Peru
In the heart of Peru’s sacred mountains, Tambo del Inka offers adventure-seeking couples a perfect honeymoon. VIP access to Machu Picchu via the resort’s private train station is a must.
St. Moritz, Switzerland
Stay in Pontresina, near St. Moritz, to enjoy both peaceful mountains and glitzy nightlife. The Grand Hotel Kronenhof offers Alpine vistas and romantic luxury with activities for every season.
Maalifushi, the Maldives
COMO Maalifushi, the only resort on the pristine Thaa Atoll, offers overwater and beach villas. Enjoy private terraces, pools, and lush tropical vegetation. The eight-day and seven-night ‘Footsteps of Buddha’ journey connects Maalifushi with the brand’s wellness-focused COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto, with its gardens, shrines, and rich history, offers a serene and luxurious honeymoon. Stay at the Ritz-Carlton, a fusion of Japanese and Western design, offering Michelin-starred dining, holistic spa treatments, and private rickshaw rides.
Trancoso, Brazil
Trancoso’s jungle-backed coastline, colorful Quadrado, and relaxed pace make it a perfect honeymoon destination. Stay at UXUA, with 11 casas designed by Wilbert Das of Diesel fame, including the ultra-private Casa da Avore.
Mnemba Island, Zanzibar
Mnemba Island, a tiny island resort off the coast of Zanzibar, offers an exclusive, romantic getaway. With only 12 thatched bandas surrounded by turquoise water and coral reefs, it’s perfect for diving or just relaxing.
Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany offers a romantic escape with its rolling hills, charming towns, and culinary delights. Stay at Belmond Castello di Casole, a 10th-century estate turned luxury hotel, for a royal experience with alfresco dinners under ancient trees.
Jaipur, India
Jaipur, known for its literary festival, exquisite jewelry, and historic palaces, offers a unique honeymoon destination. Stay at The Johri for an intimate experience in a five-suite haveli near the Johri Bazaar.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, a city blending Eastern and Western cultures, offers a rich, romantic experience. Stay at The Peninsula for stunning waterfront views and a luxurious base for exploring Turkey’s historic and cultural spots.
Venice, Italy
Venice, with its Renaissance wonders and romantic gondola rides, is perfect for honeymooners. Stay at the luxurious Aman Venice, favored by George and Amal Clooney for their nuptials, housed in a grand palazzo on the Grand Canal.
Puglia, Italy
Puglia, with its whitewashed architecture, Mediterranean coastline, and rustic charm, is an ideal honeymoon destination. Stay at Borgo Egnazia, a resort designed to replicate an authentic village, offering luxury and romance in equal measure.
Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia offers a mix of clear Caribbean waters, stunning beaches, and the iconic Pitons. Stay at Jade Mountain Resort, a unique architectural marvel with sweeping views and luxurious accommodations.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona’s red rock formations and spiritual energy make it a unique honeymoon destination. Stay at Ambiente, a landscape hotel with private atriums, rooftop star-gazing, and panoramic views.
Darby, Montana
For a luxurious ranch experience, Triple Creek Ranch in Darby offers horseback riding, fly-fishing, and other activities. This adults-only property provides a perfect fantasy of the American West.
Banff, Canada
Banff, known for its natural beauty and luxury, offers honeymooners a scenic and romantic escape. Stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs, a historic resort offering five-star amenities in the heart of the Rockies.
Gordes, France
Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in France, offers charming shops, a weekly market, and a rich history. Stay at La Bastide de Gordes for countryside chic accommodations and exquisite Provençal cuisine.
Andermatt, Switzerland
Andermatt, a picturesque Swiss ski town, offers world-class skiing and summer activities. Stay at The Chedi Andermatt for a serene honeymoon with chalet vibes and Asian-inspired zen.
