Top Honeymoon Destinations for Every Month of the Year
Game, set, honeymoon: We’ve found the dreamiest destinations that'll seal your nuptial bliss with a sweet finish, no matter which season you get married in and what sort of adventure or relaxation-status you seek.
By: Perri O. Blumberg
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January: San Antonio, Texas -157613
Celebrate forever with a winter honeymoon (don’t worry, temps will be in high 60s and low 70s) in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, where you can stroll through the historic Alamo or mosey on over to nearby wineries nestled among historic towns. Rolling hills complete the landscape, with rustic farms so charming they might inspire some post-wedding envy. At luxe boutique property Eilan Hotel & Spa, you can enjoy packages such as the Amore spa package, which includes a 60-minute Eilan Signature Massage with chocolate-covered strawberries and champagne for 90 minutes. Or try the Retreat spa package, which includes a 90 minute Volcanic Hot Stone Massage (yes, please), Milk & Honey Body Polish, Ocean & Earth Body Wrap, and champagne for 210 minutes. End your day of newlywed euphoria at the resort’s restaurant, Sustenio, a Mediterranean-inspired menu by award-winning Executive Chef Stephen Pyles.
Photo courtesy of Eilian Hotel & Spa
January: Swiss Alps, Switzerland
Fairytale seekers, meet your match: Snow-capped mountains (Hello, Instagram) and classic winter activities like skiing and sledding, as well as more unique endeavors like romantic sleigh rides and snow biking, await you and your honey. Overlooking the most exclusive chalet village in the Swiss Alps, Gstaad Palace is a turreted, castle-like hotel that stands against a jaw-dropping backdrop of beauty. After a long day spent luxuriating in the crisp clean air, couples can return to the Palace to indulge in some of Gstaad Palace’s most incredible experiences, including signature spa treatments at The Spa and the Swiss restaurant La Fromagerie’s delicious Champagne and Black Truffle Cheese Fondue.
Photo courtesy of Gstaad Palace
February: St. John, US Virgin Islands
Ready to escape winter temperatures? Us, too. The beautiful Caneel Bay resort is home to seven of the top beaches in the Virgin Islands and set on its own private peninsula amid 170 acres in Virgin Islands National Park. If you’re looking for the ultimate tech detox, rejoice! The resort has no room phones or TVs, making it an ideal place to disconnect from the world and focus on your sweetie. For an intimate private dinner, check out The Sugar Mill Ruins at Caneel Bay, featuring an 18th-century façade of exposed stone. You’ll be enchanted as you dine in the dramatic glow of torch lights amongst beautiful Danish stone and coral walls, decorated with conch shells and sea glass, under a starlit sky. For even more pampering, try the resort’s “Very Important Honeymooners” package, complete with rose petal turndown service, chocolate covered strawberries, and bottle of house champagne on night of arrival, a six-inch cake that will match the color of your original wedding cake, a sunset cocktail cruise for two, and a Caneel Bay memory box for all of your honeymoon keepsakes gathered during the stay.
Photo courtesy of Caneel Bay
February: Kruger’s Sabi Sands Area South Africa
Lusting with safari jealousy over your friend’s recent Facebook album? Offering romance and adventure, Five Zero’s Classic Five South African Safari makes for one heck of a heavenly kingdom for your honeymoon. With the savannah at its most beautiful — vibrant with green and full of life — and the warm weather getting your private plunge pool perfectly heated, February makes for an ideal time for this wildlife adventure. Expect intimate meals in the bush and romantic dinners with your other half as par for course on this spectacular escape. Between the bookends of tasty meals, you’ll get up close and personal with Africa’s Big Five (you’ll definitely want that new camera you’re so glad you registered for handy): Lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, and elephants, oh my! You’ll kick off and finish each day in luxurious accommodations overlooking the Kruger’s Sabi Sands Area — where the original luxury safari began — and complete your over-the-moon honeymoon adventures with vino tasting in South Africa’s wine country, swimming with penguins, or relaxing for the day at Blaaubergstrand Beach.
Photo courtesy of All Kurt/Five Zero
February: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
You'll both love the perfect balance of activity and relaxation idyllic Cabos has to offer. In February, you’ll catch whale watching season (and escape colder temps to this 80 degree oasis), where you can enjoy guided tours with Cabo Adventures. Other post-I-do must-dos include a camel safari, swimming with the dolphins, zip lining, paddle boarding, snorkeling, horseback riding, and more. After an action-packed day, return “home” to the Hilton Los Cabos Beach and Golf Resort (which just underwent a multi-million dollar renovation), where all guest rooms include an ocean view. Take in the area’s most tranquil stretch of golden beach, facing the Sea of Cortés, with a dip in the infinity pool or in one of the only swimmer-friendly beaches in the tourist peninsula, or bask in the serenity you’ll find at the Eforea Spa with a couples' treatment. Come nosh time, the newly-renovated resort has reimagined and redesigned their seven food and beverage venues with delightful sea-to-table options, like a fresh-out-of-the-water ceviche served in a coconut shell, as well as a cooking class, where you’ll be making tamales and ceviche with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Thirsty? Wash it down with the largest tequila collection in all of Los Cabos.
Photo courtesy of Hilton Los Cabos Beach and Golf Resort
March: Scottsdale, Arizona
A honeymoon will evoke happy memories in your heart long after you’ve returned home, and Scottsdale is perfectly suited for a March honeymoon; the weather stays comfortable in the mid-70s and 80s. Unleash your inner artist getting lost at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, or take a lovey-dovey hot air balloon ride while reveling in the sweeping views of the desert from above. Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain sets you up for marvelous Sonoran desert scenery, which you can take advantage of as you hike Camelback Mountain or splash around in Scottsdale’s biggest infinity pool (or just cozy yourself up in the spa). For a truly magnificent sunset view, newlyweds can sip cocktails from their dry bar in one of the resort’s brand new Camelback Suites, whose design encompasses its scene-stealing desert landscape.
Photo courtesy of Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain
March: Turks and Caicos
Enter paradise in this idyllic island retreat, free from the hustle and bustle of daily life and where your biggest problem will probably be deciding “wine or margarita?” With March temperatures in this beautiful tropical climate hovering around 80 degrees, you’ll want to make sure you pack all your favorite bathing suits. While you visit, be sure to fit in a stunning boat tour or even a half day cruise if that’s more your scene (Facebook photos don’t lie, the water is that pretty). The Palms, a 72-suite oceanfront resort just steps away from the famed Grace Bay Beach, known for their mesmerizing vistas, will have you soaking in the sights of tranquil turquoise seas, vibrant corals and sea life, and startlingly white sand beaches. The resort also has plenty of romantic activities for honeymooners if sunset horseback riding or moonlight dinners on the beach beckon.
Photo courtesy of The Palms
April: Guana Island, British Virgin Islands
If scenic hikes and secluded beaches sounds like your kind of party, this magnificent private island is for you. With 850 acres of untouched land and majestic wildlife, you’ll love the winding miles of hiking trails, powdery white sand, restorative yoga, tennis, and more. A must-do on your honeymoon checklist is the special castaway picnic lunch, where a Guana boater will whisk you away to a glistening beachside local with food, wine, and total privacy. At Guana Island, featuring sea view rooms and villas, be sure to catch a private movie screening at the Garden of Eden after dinner (by request) or a beachside massage with the soothing sounds of waves crashing down in the background.
Photo courtesy of British Virgin Islands Tourist Board
April: The Maldives
You can’t go wrong with making this destination on the Indian Ocean’s picturesque waters your launching pad for marriage. April is the end of dry season and has bragging rights for being the time when the water hits its warmest temperatures. Take a dip in pristine ocean water or indulge in a candlelit dinner on the beach. Jumeirah Dhevanafushi provides a romantic and relaxing backdrop for your festivities, with a honeymoon package offering everything from a couples massage to Champagne breakfast and a four-course dinner under the stars. Also worth checking out: the hotel’s restaurant Mumayaz offers “Bodu beru” drumming performances on Fridays, alongside a sumptuous Maldivian meal.
Photo courtesy of Jumeirah Dhevanfushi
April: Singer Island, Florida
In April, as the rest of the country begins to move past winter and into spring, expect Florida’s warm season – already in full swing -- to usher you away to post-wedding bliss. The AAA Four Diamond Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa is located on the water, offering jaw-dropping views of both the beach and the Intracoastal Waterway. For those seeking a stress-free romantic honeymoon, the Couples Getaway Package includes breakfast for two and one bottle of Champagne, two cocktails, and a cheese tray upon arrival.
Photo courtesy of Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa
May: Machu Picchu, Peru
If you dream of an off-the-beaten-path honeymoon, prepare to be astounded. Come May, you’ll miss the rainy season in this historic and majestic area and be able to explore the region during one of the best times of the year. Providing a full cultural immersion and multi-activity itineraries into remote Andean communities, the new Lares Adventure is a completely customizable five- or seven-day itinerary offered by Mountain Lodges of Peru. Newly launched in the Sacred Valley along the Lares Trail to Machu Picchu, you’ll enjoy a pristine and breathtaking alternative to the more heavily traveled Inca Trail. Expect to get an insider’s glimpse peering into local communities, including hits like sunset hikes you won’t soon forget, authentic cultural exchanges with remote mountain communities whose traditions have remained unchanged for centuries, visits to local markets and museums, horseback riding, and more. Not into roughing it? Fear not: You’ll stay at high-end lodges that serve as luxurious base camps located in some of the most remote areas of the Andes, providing mist-dusted views of snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and lush valleys.
Photo courtesy of Mountain Lodges of Peru
May: Nantucket, Massachusetts
Ah, the holy trinity of sunshine, blue skies, and New England charm. Come May, you can’t go wrong with honeymooning on the splendid south of Cape Cod, where this dune-filled sanctuary houses one of the areas most serene seaside retreats, Harborview Nantucket. Lovers in search of an idyllic setting for their own island escape will surely enjoy the Nantucket Wine Festival (in mid-May). Continue your happy buzz with an afternoon spent at Cisco Brewery — a winery, a brewery and distillery all in one — or enjoy a visit to one of Nantucket’s quaint museums, like the Nantucket Whaling Museum. And whether fishing, boating, or beaching is more your jam, Nantucket offers no shortage of fantastic waterfront activities. As for your accommodations, sit back and relax after a long day in one of 11 well-appointed cottages. With a slew of amenities including a full kitchen, spacious living and dining areas, a washer and dryer, and complementary Cisco Brewery assorted beers and local wine upon arrival, we’re pretty sure your island time is Worry Free O’Clock.
Photo courtesy of Harborview Nantucket
June: Ascot, England
Does the idea of long sunny days, gentle breezes, and Jane Austen novel-worthy vibes has you wondering, “Where should we sign?” Book a trip to Coworth Park in June right away. History buffs can take in nearby Windsor Castle and get a glimpse at how Queen Elizabeth spends her weekends or simply take it easy (you deserve it) in tranquil Coworth Park. With the vast wild flower meadows filled in full, fragrant bloom, you’ll love the backdrop off endless fields of wild flora during your stay at this upscale country house turned hotel and spa in the English countryside. Guests can stay in the Georgian Mansion House, with lofty rooms and wide windows overlooking the grounds, or opt for a room in the converted stables or cottages. The spa at Coworth Park allows couples to rejuvenate in unison with couples massages and signature spa treatments. At night, cozy up at a country-chic table at the farm-to-table restaurant at Coworth Park, The Bar and The Barn (it used to be a stable!).
Photo courtesy of Coworth Park
June: Clayton, New York
Anchored away in love? Nautical-leaning couples looking for an escape can head to tranquil upstate New York in the Thousand Islands (yes, like the dressing) region. Whether strolling through Rock Island Lighthouse State Park or hitting up the Antique Boat Museum is more your pace, you’ll find plenty of attractions in this under-the-radar waterfront oasis. Check in to worry-free honeymooning at AAA Four-Diamond-rated 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, perched along the glistening St. Lawrence River in Clayton, New York. Don’t forget to pack your camera and sunglasses: The hotel and the region’s beauty peak in June, when the weather is warm and boats dot the welcoming river. Tucked away in one of the North Country’s best small towns in America, the picture-perfect river village is just minutes from quaint shops, renowned museums, vineyards, and tons of outdoor activities. Charter a yacht for a private cruise ranging from two hours to a full day on the St. Lawrence, or set yourself up with a fishing charters or boat rental. Wine enthusiasts can also enjoy a wine tasting package, and wellness buffs will love getting in some R&R at the in-house spa and off-site spa package.
Photo Credit: George Fischer
July: Montego Bay, Jamaica
Total sea-clusion awaits you: July catches tropic temperature around 90 degrees, and Jamaica serves as the perfect destination for a lovely, intimate celebration of your nuptials. Lush mountains, the shimmering waters of the Caribbean Sea, golf, tennis, kayaking, and more are the perfect recipe for honeymoon success. At Tryall Club, each of the 89 privately-owned villa homes sprinkled throughout the 2,200-acre property are amidst breathtaking scenery and provide a home-away-from-home for lovebirds to reconnect. Each villa comes with a butler, housekeeper, laundress, and gardener to care for all needs, while a world-trained chef can whip up a meal to fulfill any culinary fantasy. And don't skip the glass bottom boat ride – it's practically guaranteed to turn into one of those memories that will last a lifetime.
Photo courtesy of Tryall Club
August: Barnard, Vermont
Vermont isn't just for ice cream and cheese lovers: Barnard, Vermont is lush and green with bountiful meadowlands and natural charm. With August offering warm temperatures with less of the swell from summertime madness, you’ll enjoy all the quiet and calm that the green mountains of New England have to offer. Twin Farms provides an intimate, all-inclusive country hideaway that transforms honeymoon fantasies into reality. Nestled in an unspoiled valley, Twin Farms features an exceptional culinary experience, a spa, bonfires (yes, there shall be s’mores), daily cocktails and canapes, and more. For your meals, guests forgo menus, allowing the chef to dazzle their palates with customized meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with cuisine spotlighting seasonal picks from Twin Farms' estate-grown herbs, fruits, and vegetables. For a real opulent upgrade, try the Chalet, the largest cottage at Twin Farms offering romance and luxury in 3,000 square feet of living space. Honeymooners can splash around with glee in the Furo, a 104 degree Japanese style soaking tub, or kiss goodbye a relaxing day in a private granite hot tub with stunning views of Mount Ascutney.
Photo courtesy of Twin Farms
August: Denarau Island, Fiji
Paradise: Found. August, which falls in peak season for travel (since it’s in the dry season) is a perfect time to visit Fiji, where you’ll find yourself with countless choices for leisurely escapes to sand dunes or islands. Or take in the sights from up above with a helicopter ride over the islands (the Garden of the Sleeping Giants is a true gem).From jet skiing to sightseeing tours, you really can’t go wrong in this true Shangri-la. Amplify your stay in the cradle of cloud nine at Hilton Fiji Resort and Spa, where honeymooners can enjoy a beachfront villa, perfectly suited for a couples' getaway. By day, indulge in a relaxing massage overlooking the sea or relax by one of the resort’s divine swimming pools. By night, say hello to edible eden with a candle-lit meal at Maravu and watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean.
Photo courtesy of Hilton Fiji Resort and Spa
August: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
If you’re looking for adventure, Punta Cana has no shortage of great options, from jungle safaris and jeep safari tours to ziplining fun and cave expeditions. Or, now that you’re an aisle pro, walk down the runway into a helicopter for stellar sightseeing from above. At the Paradisus Palma Real Resort, the world’s your oyster: Play beach volleyball with your partner in crime, enjoy a game of tennis, or simply relax as a couple within the #NoKidsAllowed section of the resort. At night, catch a show like Le Cirque or the Michael Jackson Legend Show, or try a fun class with your other half, like candle- or sushi-making.
Photo courtesy of Paradisus Palma Resort
September: Chebeague Island, Maine
Positioned off of the coast of Portland, Maine, the summer season brings a swell in population to almost 2,000 people. In September, as the summer crowds leave and the island returns to around 350 residents (yes, you read that right), Chebeague Island Inn, a restored hotel from the 1920s, offers an attractive mix of quiet, secluded beaches, and walking trails along with a golf course with water views, if you feel like teeing off to your marital happiness.The Inn also has a special Honeymooner’s Heaven package, including a bottle of champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, and a custom 5-course wine paired dinner to make planning a breeze. Did we mention it’s an “unplugged” kind of spot? Yep, welcome to a #NoStressZone.
Photo courtesy of Chebeague Island Inn
September: The Great Migration Safari, Kenya
File this under once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The Great Migration Safari in Kenya provides a spectacular backdrop for an unforgettable honeymoon. September is the ideal time to catch the highly dramatic wildebeest crossing of the Masai Mara River, a natural phenomenon, as the mega-herd of wildebeest and zebra travel through their long migration. At this time of year, there's also plenty of lion and cheetah action on the plains. After a beautiful night under the stars, prepare to wake up to stunning scenery and sunrises. You’ll pretty much be swept away into a romantic and thrilling #SafariLife.
Photo courtesy of All Kurt/Five Zero
October: Doonbeg, Ireland
Crisp autumn air, fall foliage, rolling hills, sand dunes, and the Atlantic coastline... what’s not to love? Take peaceful strolls amidst majestic scenery, or check out the local pub and restaurant scene. At the Trump International Golf Links & Hotel, you’ll also enjoy a wide array of dizzying enticements for honeymooners, including an award-winning Greg Norman-designed links course, the White Horses Spa, and two signature restaurants. At Ocean View, with, well, a stunning ocean view of the Atlantic, be sure to try favorites like the Doonbeg Crabmeat Cocktail, Apple Turnip Soup and Roasted Monkfish Medallions and Tiger Prawns. And definitely enjoy a lazy day with your sweetie experiencing their Festive Afternoon Tea, unwinding in earl-infused goodness.
Photo courtesy of Trump International Golf Links & Hotel
October: Queenstown, New Zealand
Exotic? For sure. But you’ll feel right at home at this tranquil lake retreat. Rent bikes or hit hiking trails for a day of mountainside adventure, or try skydiving or bungee jumping if you and your honey can handle it. New Zealand in their spring means cool and comfortable temperatures in the 50s and longer hours for sunshine. At The Hilton Queenstown Resort and Spa, you’ll be privy to unspoilt panoramic scenes of Lake Wakatipu. Take your other half with you for a soothing spa treatment in a luxury couples room, or spend time in one of the relaxation rooms with a private deck complete with a hot tub and gorgeous lake views
Photo courtesy of The Hilton Queenstown Resort and Spa
October: Bluffton, South Carolina
Stay and experience the glory of May River as it reaches its peak. Hello, fall bliss! Laze into the comfort of a romantic getaway as oysters are once again harvested and dolphins frolic along the shores of the vibrant marsh grasses for your Southern sojourn. Montage Palmetto Bluff invites honeymooners to stay and experience the glory of the river at its peak. As fall settles in over the Lowcountry, the days are warm and the nights cool and breezy (yes, s’mores roasted over an open flame, we’re looking at you). While taking in the pristine views, enjoy a glass of local craft beer at Buffalo’s or sink into aphrodisiac deliciousness at an oyster roast along the waterfront. Spend your days swimming in the heated lap pool, relaxing at the spa, hanging in a bubbling jacuzzi, or hitting the trails on over 20,000 acres of everyone-at-home-will-be-jealous natural wonder.
Photo courtesy of Montage Palmetto Bluff
December: Maui, Hawaii
Sure, the holiday weather might be frightful, but in Hawaii, you can kiss all those snow-topped freezing-cold woes goodbye and swap ‘em for romantic snorkeling excursions through colorful coral gardens, a rich and friendly island culture, and Pacific Ocean views that will have you gazing in awe for days. At Montage Kapalua Bay, relax at the resort’s private beach club or in a classy poolside cabana at the Sunset Pool. Get your dose of om-infused serenity at the award-winning Spa Montage and intensify your bond with the Maui Romance Couples package which includes a coconut milk bath for two, and a custom outdoor couple massage, complete with a tropical fruit platter and refreshments. Keep riding your honeymooners’ high all the way into the evening with dinner at the renowned Cliff House. Perched atop the Pacific Ocean, you’ll be dazzled by some of the best views on the island, and your tastebuds will be dancing in happiness over a custom private dinner prepared for you by the culinary maestro’s at the resort.
Photo courtesy of Montage Kapalua Bay
December: Montego Bay, Jamaica
Adios, winter. Jamaica’s good times vibes, upbeat reggae shows, and unforgettable beaches will have you bobbing your head “yeah, mon,” in no time. At Half Moon, A RockResort is a top-rated honeymoon destination you can make that whole swimming with the dolphins dream come true (or ride horses along the ocean, if that’s more your thing). Or take it easy relaxing on a private stretch of beach or at one of the resort’s 54 pools (yes, you read that right) — many private and semi private — for some happy and secluded bliss. For a one-of-a-kind experience, try the resort’s new Stush in the Bush expedition, where guests will take a tour of the farm and learn about the plants that are grown on property, what they're used for, their medicinal properties, and more. During the tour, you’ll get to taste, smell, and touch the plants before you’ll enjoy a fresh lunch outdoors.
Photo courtesy of Half Moon, A RockResort
November: Palm Beach, Aruba
From golfing to butterfly farms, Atlantis submarines to watersports, Aruba has a near-dizzying assortment to top off the peak of your honeymoon’s crescendo. For divine wonderland-level views, check out Mt. Haystack, where you’ll be greeted with a wondrous view of the Venezuelan coast from the top of the 500-step climb, or if fine dining and shopping is more your pace, you won’t be disappointed by Oranjestad, Aruba’s dazzling and welcoming capital (high season starts in mid-December, so you’ll avoid the crowds). As stomping grounds for your newlywed utopia, look no further than the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort and Casino, which is known for its beachfront spa, killer daiquiri-sipping by the sparking pools, and romantic dinners for two under the stars. Looking to add a little adventure to your honeymoon? You might enjoy scuba diving or trying your hand with lady luck at the casino tables.
Photo courtesy of Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort and Casino
November: St. Barths
Every November, Saint Barth stakes center stage with the Taste of St Barth Gourmet Festival that has spotlighted celebrated chefs like Jean George Vongerichten, who work together with the executive chefs at some of the island’s best restaurants to create the exceptional meals. Behold: a lover’s paradise on a private 16-acre peninsula between Marigot Bay and Grand Cul de Sac, the Le Guanahani resort offers newlyweds two pristine white sand beaches. a magnificent spa by Clarins, and plenty of activities to keep your adrenaline pumping, like Zumba and aqua fitness. Try the Romance Package for two, which comes with a daily buffet breakfast at Indigo, a romantic dinner with rosé champagne, a picnic, sunset cruise, car rental, a spa treatment per person per stay, and round-trip airport transfers. You might just never want to go back home.
Photo courtesy of Le Guanahani
Year-round: Big Island, Hawaii
Visit the Kohala Coast on Hawaii Island for an unforgettable honeymoon experience that will have you wishing you could have a reason to honeymoon every year. Helicopter excursions? Sure thing. How about a snorkeling adventure complete with tropical fish? Yes ma’am. Some live entertainment or festive luau’s with the locals? Yup! Call the fantasy-like Hilton Waikoloa Village your home away from home. The resort features tropical gardens with waterways, exotic wildlife, and a museum walkway spotlighting Asian and Polynesian artwork. Spa junkies will make quick friends with The Kohala Spa, which offers revitalizing and relaxing treatments and massages. And fear not about being hangry on this tropical haven: The resort features 14 restaurant and lounges with unique bites and bevvies at each. Pro-tip: Feeling a little woozy after all those champagne toasts? There’s a tram system around the resort for that.
Photo courtesy of Hilton Waikoloa Village
Year-round: Cary, North Carolina
Nature fans, prepare to forest bathe your way into pure bliss! The serene woodlands and mild weather for most of the year are just a tiny preview of the secluded paradise this region of North Carolina has to offer. Let your senses guide you along beautiful hiking trails or relish in fine dining. Nestled in twelve acres overlooking a private lake, The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary, North Carolina is a balanced mix of sophisticated ambience, artistic spirit, and the natural beauty of its surroundings. Enjoy world-class meals at Herons Restaurant, where you can also enjoy afternoon tea service. If you are ready to get your spa game front and center, relax at the stimulating spa that offers intimate wellness experiences, or simply kick back in one of the contemporary, spacious guest rooms with stunning views with a good book. Head on over with your Mr. to the secluded outdoor pool with private cabanas, or try breaking a sweat on the quarter-mile walking and jogging trail leading guests around the hotel’s three-acre lake.
Photo courtesy of The Umstead Hotel and Spa
Year-round: Cayman Islands
Yes, this is that famous #1 Beach as voted on by U.S. News and World Report. Grab your gear for a fairytale honeymoon: Drift away to some swoon-worthy deep sea adventures where you won’t leave the tropical blue sky beauty with a suitcase full of treasured memories. The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa is a stunning hotel that goes the extra mile (or seven) to make sure your honeymoon dreams are all met. The hotel partners with Red Sail Sports, which has more than 27 years serving divers in the Cayman Islands. Expect to be met by clear blue waters of the Seven Mile Beach, a lively island culture and spectacular food (your golf-obsessed hubby will be pleased with the destination’s courses as well). After a grueling day in the water, swing by Hibiscus Spa with a Lomi Lomi “Cayman Style” Massage or Moor Mud Wrap, followed by a cocktail and leisurely stroll on the beach before diving into tasty coastal cuisine at the resort’s signature restaurant Beach House.
Photo courtesy of The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa
Year-round: Fajardo, Puerto Rico
If an alluring 1-2-3 punch of the Atlantic Ocean, El Yunque Rain Forest, and Caribbean Sea sounds enticing, Puerto Rico may just be the honeymoon destination for you and your forevermore. With a festive, island culture, playful tropical drinks and all day ocean vibes, you’ll have access to nature reserves, scuba excursions and fishing or boating adventures at your fingertips. At El Conquistador, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, you can relax both body and spirit in the throw-your-stress-at-the-shore Eucalyptus steam room at the spa or sip exotic cocktails overlooking the breathtaking El Yunque Rain Forest. Get your paddles pumping in tandem with your hubs with a kayak around the 100-acre private island, or try reliving your childhood with the fun and freedom of horseback riding before unwinding in a private, relaxing guest room.
Photo courtesy of El Conquistador
November: Paris, France
Say "bonjour" to romance. Arguably the most romantic city in the world, there’s no better place to kiss hello to happily-ever-after than on cobblestone side streets, with the muddled scents of fresh bread and wine spilling into the streets. Other must-sees include the Eiffel Tower (of course), the wall of “I Love You’s,” the Luxembourg Gardens, houseboat hunting —erm, fantasizing — on the Seine, and so much more. In 2015, the Hilton Paris Opera underwent a $50 million transformation to return the hotel to its former glory in exquisite style. Since November is more of an off season for tourists, you’ll love the lack of lines and easier access to top museums, along with a more intimate feel for your honeymoon. Yes, there might be rain, but c’mon, is there anything more romantic than Paris in the rain? (And talk about amazing umbrella shots for instagram…)
Photo courtesy of Hilton Paris Opera
May: Capri, Italy
There’s no time quite like May to explore the island of Capri, which has been attracting visitors with its majestic aura and natural beauty since, well, the time of the Ancient Greeks. A stunning setting for honeymooners, you’ll be able to blow off post-wedding steam at romantic beaches, indulge in views of rainbow-painted houses and seaside cliffs, and sunbathe in picture-perfect weather. At the only five-star, 55-room boutique hotel on the island, Hotel Caesar Augustus is perched on a next-level picturesque cliff overlooking the Bay of Naples. Sure, the hotel may have the finest aspects of ancient Roman architecture with Italian furnishings, but it also offers 21st-century conveniences and luxurious amenities to ignite your romance. Take a dip in the infinity edge pool overlooking the ocean, followed by a sunset dinner for two at a private cliffside table.
Photo courtesy of Hotel Caesar Augustus
March: Rovinj, Croatia
If you’re looking for a March honeymoon with cool-but-comfy temperatures in the 50s and secluded privacy, it’s time to get Croata on your radar. Explore the charming port of Rovinj on a leisurely stroll and the Brijuni islands for a taste of times long gone and untouched natural wonder in a national park. With nature and wildlife tours, segway tours, snorkeling, and modern beaches, we'll leave it up to you to decide how action-packed or relaxed you want to make your ‘moon. Stay at the architectural marvel that is the Hotel Lone. Tucked away in the Istrian Coastal resort area, this strikingly-designed hotel is shaped like an ocean liner, paying homage to its Adriatic locale. Spa lovers will be drawn in by the hotel’s scented steam sauna, treatment rooms overlooking the forest, and an indoor freshwater pool with hydro-massage effects. Or cozy up in one of the sunbathing terraces at the outdoor pool as you enjoy cocktails and light bites. Now, how do you say “cheers” in Croatian? Hmmmm...
Photo courtesy of Hotel Lone
June: Phuket, Thailand
Sunny temperatures and bespoke romance awaits for you in Phuket in June, when temperatures settle in the 70s and 80s. Kick your honeymoon off on a playful note with an outing to Chalong Bay Rum Distillery or the DJ-equipped Surf House, where you can learn to surf in the wave pool with the help of pros. Pace yourself when it comes to eating; between local cooking classes and the Phuket Town Weekend Night Market, your belly will be as happy as your heart. The fun and romance doesn’t stop when it comes to your lodging. At Pasera Resort, splurge for the Romantic Experience Package, where you’ll stay at the Dima Spa Pool Suite, a romantic beach seafood BBQ with wine, and complimentary daily in-suite massages with a private steam room. Arrange a private yacht for an island excursion or simply laze around the magnificent property, which is built around a forest of Banyan trees and is perched on the cliffs of Kamala with inspiring views of the indigo Andaman sea.
Photo courtesy of Paresa Resort
July: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Whether capping off your honeymoon with a yoga retreat in Tulum or a tour of the ancient Mayan ruins is more your jam, you can’t go wrong with a visit to this awe-inspiring Mexican hot spot. Rosewood Mayakoba is a five star, award-winning resort located in Riviera Maya, nestled between an arc of Caribbean white sand beaches and crystal clear lagoons, with 130 stand-alone suites that include private plunge pools. You’ll spend your days crisscrossing this romantic resort between attractions, like the Rosewood Spa (located on its own private island) and the championship El Camaleón golf course. You’ll also have the opportunity to try a variety of land and ocean adventures, like cave swimming and horseback riding.
Photo courtesy of Rosewood Mayakoba
July: Lake Placid, New York
Why July? Besides beautiful weather, this month is when the village hosts a Songs at Mirror Lake Music Series every Tuesday, featuring live music from well-known musicians (last summer’s performers included Rusted Root, Amy Helm, and Lukas Nelson). Swap Empire state cityscape skylines for the majestic natural wonder of the Adirondack mountains, where the Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort entices all of your senses. Situated directly on Mirror Lake (which is exactly as pretty as it sounds), newlyweds can explore Lake Placid’s pristine waterfront with hits like paddleboard rides and sunset strolls. Grab a jalapeño margarita at Generations Tap & Grill at the resort as you overlook this beautiful lake. For a unique experience, newlyweds can also enjoy the Adirondack Scenic Flight, which takes you and your life’s co-pilot soaring over the state’s highest peaks, shimmering lakes, and Lake Placid’s famed Olympic venues.
Photo courtesy of Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort
January: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Escape the cold (and a case of the winter blues) in January for the warm embrace of Mexico, where you’ll find a vibrant culture, beachside relaxation, and delicious eats all at your fingertips. Lovebirds will enjoy romance-infused activities, like scuba diving at the Cenotes, a beautifully-caved area deep below bright and vibrant waters, or a thrilling zipline ride with Xplor Park Cancún. At the 5-star Paradisus in Playa del Carmen, you’ll enjoy romantic all-inclusive resort amenities, like classes in massage techniques or Latin dancing like salsa or tango.
Photo courtesy of Paradisus in Playa del Carmen
December: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Pristine Caribbean shorelines? Tropical forests? Reliving childhood wonder at Xcaret theme park? All that and more awaits you on an unparalleled "summer" honeymoon in Riviera Maya, with temperatures around 80 degrees in December. Fly into Cancún, where you can enjoy local attractions like Playa del Carmen, Xcaret, Sian Ka’an, and Xplor. After a day of adventure, take the 40-minute drive to Mayakoba, where the Fairmont Mayakoba offers couples a chance to experience the Mayan paradise. Situated amongst five different eco-systems — mangrove, tropical forest, lagoons, water canals, and coastal dunes — great conservation efforts were taken into consideration for the development of this community, and your camera will enjoy some seriously happy viewing. Indulge in a treatment at the luxurious Willow Stream Spa as husband and wife, or test your prowess with 18 holes at a course that twists through a lush forest canopy and meanders around your own Mexican oasis.
Photo courtesy of Fairmont Mayakoba
September: Isola delle Rose, Italy
Want to explore Venice and Italian culture? How about heading on a secluded getaway on a private island? In September, the city’s perfect weather (74 degrees on average) makes for the ultimate honeymoon destination for newlyweds who want to see one of Italy’s oldest and most romantic cities and get their history buff on; you might even do some celeb oogling at the Venice Film Festival. For your accommodations, the new JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa is nestled on its own private island, Isola delle Rose, that just a 20-minute complimentary boat ride from Venice’s St. Mark’s Square. Perfect for lovebirds who want to keep their post-nuptial festivities private and low key, the resort offers sensational views of Venice (upon arrival, you’ll definitely want to beeline to the rooftop infinity pool that overlooks the city). To restore your sense of calm, the resort is home to Venice’s largest spa, GoCo, and offers first-rate personalized treatments. Native olive trees and an on-property Romanesque Revival church? You betchya. For the adventurous eater, one of the resort’s restaurants, Dopolavoro — overseen by two-star Michelin chef Giancarlo Perbellini — is the perfect spot to celebrate your romance over a tantalizing meal.
Photo courtesy of JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa
Top Honeymoon Destinations for Every Month of the Year
January: San Antonio, Texas -157613
Celebrate forever with a winter honeymoon (don’t worry, temps will be in high 60s and low 70s) in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, where you can stroll through the historic Alamo or mosey on over to nearby wineries nestled among historic towns. Rolling hills complete the landscape, with rustic farms so charming they might inspire some post-wedding envy. At luxe boutique property Eilan Hotel & Spa, you can enjoy packages such as the Amore spa package, which includes a 60-minute Eilan Signature Massage with chocolate-covered strawberries and champagne for 90 minutes. Or try the Retreat spa package, which includes a 90 minute Volcanic Hot Stone Massage (yes, please), Milk & Honey Body Polish, Ocean & Earth Body Wrap, and champagne for 210 minutes. End your day of newlywed euphoria at the resort’s restaurant, Sustenio, a Mediterranean-inspired menu by award-winning Executive Chef Stephen Pyles.
Photo courtesy of Eilian Hotel & Spa
