The 50 Best Honeymoon Destinations Around The World

Palm Springs, California

Hollywood’s quirky midcentury getaway is now accessible to all thanks to ample boutique hotels and private rentals. Soak up Palm Springs’ desert rays in your stylish accommodations. Relax poolside, sipping margaritas. Or, venture off the grid to the other-worldly Joshua Tree National Park.

Best Hotels: It’s no secret we love the Ace Hotel & Swim Club at Bridal Musings. Stylish, hip and with epic views of the San Jacinto Mountains, this modern hotel is the epitome of Palm Springs cool. However, if you’re looking to stay somewhere more private, we recommend two smaller boutique hotels: the Art Deco Villa Royale and the Moroccan-inspired Korakia Pensione.

Southwest National Parks

Ever dreamed of seeing the Grand Canyon? Sleeping under the stars in Zion? Hiking amongst the rock rocks of Utah? The American Southwest is an adventurer’s paradise and the perfect once-in-a-lifetime journey for your honeymoon.

Where to Visit: Your Southwest honeymoon itinerary will depend on a variety of factors. Where are you flying into and will you be driving? How much time do you have to explore? Regardless of your answers, we have a number of favorite National Parks, Monuments and destinations to visit throughout the region.

In Utah, one can not miss the grandeur of Zion National Park and the mystic hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park. Of course, nearly everyone has the Grand Canyon on their Arizona bucket list. But Canyon de Chelly, on the other hand, remains a well-kept secret in Northern Arizona providing adventurers with a majestic canyon where the only crowds are wild roaming horses. And don’t overlook the wild deserts of southeastern California. Venture into the Mohave Desert and you’ll find a park with rocks and trees that seem fit for another planet: Joshua Tree National Park.

Baja California, Mexico

The Baja is having a tourism renaissance. A new spotlight shines on Cabo San Lucas’ more authentic sister San Jose del Cabo. Charming Pueblo Magicos like Todos Santos caters to honeymooners looking to escape the crowds. The Sea of Cortez attracts marine-life lovers looking to swim with whale sharks and experience Jacques Cousteau’s “Aquarium of the World”. Finally, to the far north, Valle de Guadalupe is Mexico’s flourishing wine country.

Best Hotels: Maybe you saw my own Todos Santos wedding? Honeymoon in boutique luxury at our venue, Villa Santa Cruz. Cabo honeymooners will be treated to farm-to-table provisions at ACRE. Likewise, wine lovers will enjoy epic views of the Valle’s vineyards at Encuentro Guadelupe.

The Galapagos Islands

Dive with marine iguanas. Sunbathe on white-sand beaches. Discover the unique wildlife of this storied set of islands. The Galapagos provides animal lovers with a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon adventure. If your dream honeymoon includes diving, snorkeling, beachcombing and palling around with giant tortoises, then we promise, it’s worth the trek.

Best Hotel: Made up of a vast expanse of islands and ocean waters, we recommend choosing a hotel that organizes excursions and custom itineraries. Located in the center of the Galapagos Archipelago, Pikaia Lodge is a stunning destination that offers access to all the best wildlife adventures throughout the region. Honeymooners might even find giant tortoises roaming through the grounds as they make their way from the spa to the infinity pool.

Patagonia

Trek across glaciers and rugged mountains. Dine on the finest steaks and drink up authentic Argentinean and Chilean culture. What we love about a Patagonian honeymoon is that it can be both luxurious and adventurous. A unique South American honeymoon destination.

Best Hotel: On the edge of Torres del Paine National Park, Awasi Patagonia features sweeping mountain and desert views. An all-inclusive resort, the woodsy retreat organizes tours, gives spa treatments and cooks up a delicious Patagonian menu.

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Paris, France

The City of Love. We couldn’t think of a better Paris moniker if we tried. A classic honeymoon choice, Paris is so filled with romantic corners you won’t be competing for space. Honeymooners enjoy arguably the world’s finest cuisine, wine, fashion and art. Pop the Champagne in one of the city’s stylish wine bars then drink in the views as you stroll along the Seine.

Best Hotel: Like something from a Wes Anderson film, Villa Beaumarchais provides chic accommodations in one of the city’s most stylish and well-located neighborhoods. You’ll waste no time stepping out your alleyway into chic cafes, stylish fashion houses, immaculate parks and hip galleries.

Lake Como, Italy

There’s a reason celebrities like John Legend & Chrissy Teigen get married along the banks of Lake Como. The crystalline waters high in the Italian Alps are seductively beautiful. Steep Alpine cliffs fall into a deep, beautifully blue lake. Meanwhile, lavish Italian villas glitter the banks. Imagine the breathtaking grandeur of the Alps paired with the relaxed nature of Italy.

Best Hotels: Thankfully, the sheer size of Lake Como provides ample space for a variety of luxury honeymoon hotels. Villa Balbiano is one of the most coveted estates that can be found in this mountain paradise. Additionally, we have our hearts set on Relais Villa Vittoria for our own romantic getaway thanks to this gorgeous lakeside wedding.

Scotland

While Scotland may not first come to mind for a honeymoon, we must remind you of how sexy Bond movies can be. Imagine dropping your bags in stony Edinburgh, grabbing keys to your 007 Aston Martin and winding up the stunning peaks of the Scottish Highlands. Warm weather beach destinations do not have a monopoly on steamy romance. Just picture the two of you by the fire in your Scottish castle, sipping whisky and planning your misty Highland adventures.

Best Hotel: Tours through the Scottish Highlands could take you across vast lands, coastlines and islands. So, choose a region that fit your fancy. Plan a whisky tour through the western isles. Or, hike through majestic highlands watching majestic stag.

Regardless of your itinerary, we recommend making a stop at one of Scotland’s many regal accommodations. Inverlochy Castle fits the bill. Well located in Scotland’s western Highlands, the 13th-century castle is something like time travel (for you Outlander fans). With just seventeen rooms in this grand palace, expect the royal treatment.

Florence, Italy

Having honeymooned there myself, I can tell you Florence is one of the most romantic cities in the world. Imagine yourself strolling down cobblestone alleyways surrounded by art and the fragrance of Tuscan food. Listen to the sounds of joyful clinking glasses of nearby Italian wine bars. The architecture is beautiful, the food is delicious and the surrounding Tuscan hills are at your doorstep. Intrigued? Read our Local’s Guide to a Florence Honeymoon, shared from our monthlong stay in the beautiful Firenze.

Best Hotels: You don’t have to wait in museum lines to view some of Florence’s finest masterpieces. The Jewel of the Renaissance is home to a number of stunning hotels filled with authentic Florentine art. The boutique hotel, Casa Botticelli, in the stylish Santo Spiritu neighborhood serves also as an art gallery. Many of its hanging pieces are actually for sale. For Renaissance grandeur, look no further than Four Seasons Hotel Firenze. Every room, hall and bit of outdoor space serves as its own stunning work of art.

London, England

We never tire of the city honeymoon concept. London is certainly a classic choice. England’s capital city on the Thames River provides honeymooners with rich history and culture. View historic palaces and bridges. Take romantic walks through fragrant English rose gardens. See world-class theater in the West End. Sample the best of any cuisine you can imagine, as London touts one of the world’s most diverse populations. Of course, we’ll expect you to spend many romantic evenings at the pub, shouting a football together, like a proper Londoner.

Best Hotels: It’s important to note that London is quite a large city, geographically. So, selecting a hotel that’s well located to your desired activities is imperative. Both in the Marylebone neighborhood near Hyde Park, Home House London and The Prince Akatoki London will keep you a short cabbie ride away from most of the most popular sites, restaurants and to-dos London has to offer. The former is a posh, Georgian-era boutique hotel that will make you feel like a Windsor. The latter is a unique luxury hotel modeled after Japanese ryokans.

The Serengeti

If a wildlife safari through the Serengeti sits high on your bucket list, why not use your honeymoon as a reason to splurge? The massive national park is home to an abundance of wildlife. You’ll have the chance to see the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and black rhino. And let’s not leave out the giraffe, zebra, cheetah and a great variety of antelope. From June to October, honeymooners can witness The Great Migration of wildebeest across the Masai Mara and the Serengeti.

Best Hotel: These days, safaris are far from roughing it. Luxury accommodations in the bush rival the most sophisticated resorts in developed cities around the world. Singita Sabora Luxury Tented Camp brings five-star amenities under canvas. The inside of your tent features lavish interiors incorporating local African design and a spa-level bathroom. The outside blends so well into nature you won’t forget that you’re lounging within 350,000 acres of private wilderness.

South Africa

Our South African honeymoon was the best month of my life. Surfing with penguins in Cape Town. Enjoying sophisticated farm-to-table dining in wine country. Whale watching in the Western Cape. Finally, spending days soaking in all the wildlife and scenery of our luxury safari. The entire experience was sublime. Even if you don’t opt for our Cape Town to Wine Country to Garden Route to Amakhala Itinerary, South Africa features a wild number of destinations to fit your dream honeymoon.

Best Hotels: Have a South African road trip in mind? Touch down in one of Africa’s most beautiful cities, Cape Town. First, check into the beachside The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa. Then, wander to wine country’s Babylonstoren. Finally, make your way to your luxury safari further east at Bukela Lodge.

Mozambique

We won’t fault you for never knowing, but Mozambique is the perfect beach honeymoon destination. Imagine tropical palms waving over miles-long stretches of unspoiled soft white sands. Take a dip in the Indian Ocean as whales and dolphins swim past. Explore sand dunes by horseback under the setting sun. Sitting comfortably at the top of our travel wishlist, Mozambique offers everything you want from a beach destination plus a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the culture and beauty of East Africa.

Best Hotels: Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort exudes unparalleled luxury. Private villas sit steps from white sand beaches. Visitors are spoiled with the chance to experience local culture through a unique and sophisticated menu.

On the shores of a turquoise lagoon, Sussurro lands in the realm of boutique luxury (just see this stunning Sussurro elopement). Embracing local art and design and incorporating both in a calming, minimalist fashion, honeymooners can sink into complete relaxation. Set on the mainland, Sussurro can organize tours through nearby national parks to add wildlife adventure to your Mozambiquan itinerary.

Madagascar

To the honeymooners who say they’ve “been everywhere,” we ask, “How about Madagascar?” Isolated off the East Coast of Africa and surrounded by the deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean, Madagascar is the road less traveled. With 3,100 miles of beaches and vast protected jungles, privacy isn’t hard to come by. Plus, its isolation means it features some of the most unique flora and fauna in the world. Cut off from the continent, seventy percent of the local wildlife is only found in Madagascar. Lemurs have made this island nation their own kingdom.

Best Hotel: Located on what is coloquially known as Lemur Island, Tsara Komba is an eco-resort that combines a luxury beach vacation with an appreciation of the natural world. Snorkle shallow waters by morning. Explore the majestic forest by day. Finally, relax in your private ocean-view lodge by night.

Namibia

We’re always seeking ‘the next thing’ when it comes to world travel. In Africa, Namibia might be that place. Already home to a number of high-end safari-tented camps and boutique designer hotels, Namibia places luxury accommodations in an other-worldly landscape. A foreboding desert that kisses the Atlantic Ocean, the flora and fauna of Namibia are completely unique. Here, wildlife lovers can find the king of the jungle, the lion, remarkably making the desert its ruling domain.

Best Hotel: No detail was spared in the design and construction of Zannier Hotels Sonop. From the outside, the all-inclusive resort camouflages into a rocky perch above the desert, drawing animal life nearer and making stars all the brighter. Underneath the canvas of these luxury tents, honeymooners find every amenity one could expect from the most high-class hotels of the modern world. Bathe in spa bathtubs and under rain showers. Indulge in five-course dinners served by black-tie butlers. Wildlife game drives are included in the stay. Or, guests can embark into the desert by horseback or hot air balloon.

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Chiang Mai, Thailand

Experience the beating heart of Thailand’s Northern Kingdom. Isolated within the mountains, Chiang Mai feels entirely different than the islands of the South. You’ll experience authentic culture by sampling local dishes at night markets (try the Northern Thai curry, Khao Soi) and strolls through the old city’s ancient temples. Remarkably cheap prices allow for hours each day at the spa. Additionally, wildlife lovers can take a tour of one of Elephant Nature Park’s many refuges. The non-profit works to rescue and rehabilitate elephants across Thailand. The program will teach you to mash local fruits to then feed the elephants. On some tours, you can accompany your new elephant friends on a majestic hike through the forest to bathe in the river.

Best Hotels: To easily sample the menus of Chiang Mai’s restaurants and spas, you’ll want to stay in the heart of the city at Rachamankha. This boutique hotel provides luxury and serenity, even within the Old City walls. Once you’ve eaten your heart out, journey to the countryside retreat of Raya Heritage. Continue your spa routine in an even more lavish fashion at this artisanal resort in the mountains.

Thailand Islands

If you think the peak era to explore Thailand’s islands unscathed by festival travelers has come and gone, you’re wrong. The Kingdom of Thailand has over 1,400 islands, and we know where you can still find authentic Thai isles that offer honeymoon-worthy accommodations without the crowds. There are still plenty of islands that allow honeymooners to explore secluded beaches and fill their bellies with the most scrumptious Southern Thai food.

Best Hotels: Koh Yao Noi is a more tranquil alternative to neighboring Phuket. Not far away, the island is still easily accessible, while offering honeymooners a more private getaway. Book a stay at the luxurious Six Senses Yao Noi. Near Krabi, on quieter Koh Lanta, stay at Pimalai Resort & Spa where iconic limestone formations emerge from calm seas.

To really escape your fellow tourists, you can take a private plane to Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood’s most seductive hotel. With thatched-roof villas featuring their own private pools, you’ll only want to leave your suite to explore the resort’s secluded beach or the atmospheric spa.

Bali, Indonesia

Maybe you seek a holistic honeymoon in a temple-like suite overlooking rice paddies? Or, perhaps your itinerary includes beach hopping by motorbike to find the perfect surf spot? While Bali may be a perennial popular honeymoon destination, there are plenty of corners of this paradisical Indonesian island to escape to, with a number of styles of trips to be planned.

Best Hotels: A Bali beach honeymoon does not have to mean rubbing elbows with hoards of digital nomads. Escape to Amankila. The cliffside luxury resort offers honeymooners ultimate privacy. Private thatched-roof suites overlook the stunning Lombok Strait. Hidden within the jungle between the rice terraces rests Como Shambhala Estate, our pick for a lavish honeymoon stay filled with Balinese charm.

The Himalayas

Strengthen your marital bonds with a spiritual journey through the Himalayas. Not just for athletic mountain climbers, a Himalayan honeymoon provides a connection to nature, panoramic views and a glimpse into one of the world’s most isolated kingdoms. You’ll bring home more than the unique local artwork and panoramic photographs. Most travelers say a trip to the Himalayan mountains gives them a fresh and meaningful perspective on life. What better way to start your new chapter together?

Best Hotels: Spanning Bhutan, India, Nepal, Tibet and Pakistan, your best choice of hotel depends on your region of focus. For affordable luxury, The Dwarika’s Hotel in Nepal combines the authentic culture of Kathmandu in spacious and comforting accommodations. Featuring carefully curated art and architecture characteristic of its local surroundings, the hotel is something of a museum itself.

In the Kingdom of Bhutan, both Amankora and Six Senses Bhutan provide honeymooners an experience unlike anywhere else in the world. Temple-like accommodations float above the clouds, high on Himalayan peaks. The two hotels both exquisitely marry contemporary interior design with traditional Bhutanese style. Hosting world-class spas, revered chefs and five-star luxury, the hardest decision you’ll have to make is which to book between the two.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

There is a reason the world’s wealthiest travelers flock to Dubai. You’ll never run out of things to do. Sail a catamaran at sunset with your love. Hire a private driver in a luxury car to chauffeur you from designer fashion houses to Michelin star restaurants. Escape to nearby sand dunes and watch for elusive antelope. Take advantage of the Arabian peninsula’s most famous nightlife and plan your honeymoon around Dubai’s world-class sporting events.

Best Hotels: Secure your spot at the only hotel along the glimmering beaches of Pearl Jumeirah. Nikki Beach Resort & Spa does this newly built island justice. Providing stylish luxury villas, pools, a myriad of restaurants, sporting space and entertainment, the hotel leaves guests wanting for nothing.

Once refreshed by the Persian Gulf, Al Maha beckons you to the desert. Featured in our Luxury Honeymoons Guide, the resort is accessible only by private Jeep transfer. The buzzing sounds and glow of nearby Dubai disappear as you retreat to this entirely secluded oasis. If you’ve ever dreamed of a luxury tent stay under the stars that shine upon Arabian sands, this is about as dreamy as it gets.

Jordan

Jordan offers one of the best bang-for-your-buck honeymoons throughout the Middle East. The ideal Jordan honeymoon itinerary combines camel treks through otherworldly landscapes and relaxing days spent along the Dead Sea. Start (or end, you choose) with bucket list adventures through Wadi Rum and on to Petra. History lovers will marvel at this storied countryside. Then, refresh. Soak your muscles in the salty waters of the Dead Sea. Compared to the more pricy Israel across the water, you’ll be able to splurge on as many hammam spa treatments as you like thanks to Jordan’s delightful affordability.

Best Hotel: Many of Jordan’s finest accommodations actually come in the form of tent camps. Assuming your Jordanian itinerary includes treks through Wadi Rum, a stay at Memories Aicha Luxury Camp will deem it honeymoon-worthy. The camp takes glamping to a higher level, adorning their tents with ornate interiors, rendering each suite its own stargazing palace.

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New Zealand

Good influences we are, at Bridal Musings we believe you should use your honeymoon as an excuse to take that ultimate dream vacation. Splurge on that long-haul flight to the faraway destination you’ve always hoped to journey to. For many, daydreams take them to New Zealand. A remarkable country isolated in the South Pacific ocean, New Zealand is a destination like no other. Climb snow-capped peaks and lie on golden sand beaches. Marvel at fjords and geysers. Explore modern cities and idyllic pastoral landscapes. New Zealand’s 600 islands are your oyster. And yes, they have fabulous oysters to pair with all that world-renowned wine.

Best Hotels: Privacy breeds romance, and at Azur Lodge just nine luxury villas overlook Lake Wakatipu outside of Queenstown. Honeymooners can gaze at towering peaks from their own spa tub by day and then sip wine by their fireplace by night. Similarly, the ultra-modern design of Lindis burrows into the great landscape of Ahuriri Valley on the South Island. Beyond the modern digs, this unique hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views when you aren’t out horseback riding, biking, fishing, taking helicopter tours or wine touring. If the great outdoors is what you came for, this is it.

Mo’orea

While its sister island Bora Bora might attract honeymooners seeking the world’s fanciest resorts, Mo’orea beckons those wishing to combine a nature getaway with a cultural experience. Less touristy than Tahiti and Bora Bora, Mo’orea exhibits a more authentically Polynesian, relaxing pace. Hike the towering peaks for epic island views and dive into the lagoon to swim with sharks and if you’re lucky, migratory humpback whales.

Best Hotel: At Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, you can still enjoy that quintessential overwater bungalow seen at other Tahitian resorts. In addition, you’ll gain a unique visual and cultural experience that only Mo’orea can provide. While enjoying an experience that marries Polynesian tradition with modern luxury, your honeymoon suite plunge pool will be the cherry on top of what will certainly be the trip of a lifetime.

Tonga

Have you ever dreamed of swimming with humpback whales? You don’t have to be a serious diver to do so in Tonga. From July to October, the Kingdom of Tonga sees the mating and birthing of humpback whales. Visitors can embark on a snorkeling adventure through crystal clear waters and see these gentle giants of the sea up close. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience fitting for your honeymoon.

Best Hotel: Remote and void of the distractions of home, Fafá Island Resort gives you and your spouse the opportunity to focus entirely on each other and explore the seductive nature of Tonga. You’ll have the entire island to yourself, with just thirteen luxury villas. Snorkle in colorful coral reefs and embark on your humpback whale encounter.

Fiji

If you don’t intend to park yourself in the same beach lounge chair, Fiji makes an excellent island-hopping adventure. Featuring a spectacular array of islands and atolls, honeymooners can claim their favorite unique corner of this remote South Pacific destination. Known for underwater adventures, snorkelers will be spoiled with vibrant soft coral reefs. And, those looking to travel responsibly will be pleased to know Fiji is at the forefront of fighting climate change. Its efforts to keep Fijian waters crystal clear make it an eco-traveler dream.

Best Hotel: A 45-minute seaplane (which is a stunning excursion in itself) leads you from Fiji’s main island to Kokomo Private Island: a secluded paradise. With a small number of villas on-site, your luxurious honeymoon will feel private and pampered, with lavish spa treatments under waving palms and tropical meals to entice the senses. Live in your swimsuit as you surf, sail, kayak, fish and explore some of the greatest underwater reefs the world has to offer.

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