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Weddings (especially your own) are magical. Whether you celebrate with 300 of your closest friends and family in a European castle or you’re in the backyard surrounded by just the inner circle, there’s nothing as special as exchanging vows with the love of your life. That is, until the guests leave and you and your new spouse get some alone time. If you’re planning a honeymoon, it’s your chance to step start this new exciting life chapter with a trip you’ll remember forever.
Picture your ideal honeymoon: Are you basking under a tropical sun on a white sand beach sipping a tiki cocktail? Maybe you’re slurping up a saucy bowl of spaghetti alle vongole overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Or perhaps you’re discovering the ancient wonders of a charming Japanese city. Wherever you go, your honeymoon is the start of a new life chapter, and it's bound to be memorable. Here are the 10 best places for romantic honeymoons around the world, what you can look forward to in each destination, and a few must-haves to stash in your suitcase.
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Bora Bora
Plan your trip to Bora Bora in French Polynesia if you seek the ultimate luxury experience in a tropical setting. The island is known for its thatch-roofed overwater bungalows that offer privacy and access to some of the most beautiful crystal-clear water on earth.
A trip to Bora Bora is sure to include snorkeling, a paddle over reefs in a clear-bottom kayak, and romantic walks on the soft sand beaches. The Four Seasons is a five-star stay where you’ll be treated like royalty and enjoy everything this paradise has to offer, including world-class food, water activities, and even an in-water lesson with a marine biologist. The island’s Intercontinental is another fantastic option with a top-rated spa, expansive private bungalows, and a host of activities to choose from during your stay, including a private helicopter ride of the island.
If snorkeling is on the agenda, bring along a UPF rash guard, like this sleek option from Athleta, to prevent a burn while you explore the reef. And if you plan to stretch out with some beach yoga between dips in the pool, pack a cute matching set–we love this tropical-printed top and leggings from Beyond Yoga for a sunny escape. The guys should have a nice sporty pair of shorts (like these from Beyond Yoga) to wear around the resort.
Crete
Though the stunning bright white and blue backdrop of hilly Santorini gets a lot of attention (and we can’t deny it’s a lust-worthy spot for a vacation), the largest Greek island of Crete offers a less crowded, quieter, and more peaceful honeymoon getaway that’s every bit as romantic.
Crete is a quick (under an hour) flight from Athens, so you can spend a day or two exploring the big city and checking out the Acropolis before getting your island time. Once you arrive in Crete, you’ll enjoy those iconic Greek sunsets, delicious meals made with incredibly fresh Mediterranean produce, and plenty of ways to explore the island (unless of course, you’re planning to relax by the beach the whole time, in which case, and you’ll have your pick of beachfront resorts).
The Amirandes Resort by Grecotel is a sprawling coastal property where you can stay in a villa with a personal plunge pool and private beach access. The resort has more than seven dining options, plus pool-side service, so you’re guaranteed not to go hungry.
If your idea of a smooth vacation means making as few decisions as possible, you’ll love the friction-free experience of an all-inclusive like the Domes Aulūs Elounda. Stay in one of the property’s stunning suites, and you can enjoy a panoramic ocean view from your private jacuzzi.
Or, if you want the charm of a traditional Cretan stay, the Authentic Village hotel is a unique option that was built to capture the essence of an ancient culture with modern amenities.
On the island, be sure to visit an olive farm. Crete is the largest producer of Greek olive oil, and the beautiful orchards offer a romantic backdrop for a one-of-a-kind picnic.
What to pack? This luxe silk chemise from Fisher’s Finery takes up barely any space in your suitcase and makes every night feel indulgent. Otherwise, your Grecian wardrobe can be all about free-flowing dresses, breezy tops, and strappy sandals. We love this simple strapless dress from Anthropologie that could work as a beach cover-up or dinner dress and these minimalist M. Gemi sandals. For the guys, it’s all about linen shirts, light-colored shorts, and a chic cap to block out the rays.
Maui
Maui is a paradise-like destination for a couple’s first trip post-nuptuals. The Hawaiian island is famous for sunny golden beaches, secluded watery coves, and natural inland beauty that makes an ideal backdrop for a romantic getaway.
Hotel Wailea in Maui is the only Relais & Châteaux property in Hawaii, and it’s adults-only, so you can expect elegant sophistication and world-class service. The resort has 72 suites on 15 acres of lush Hawaiian beachfront to explore. The Wailea Elua Village is another fantastic oceanfront option that offers access to fantastic snorkeling, multiple swimming pools, and a private putting green.
The Hawaiian vibes are laid-back, carefree, and warm, so pack accordingly. The A. Putnum Pocket Tee is the perfect lightweight travel-friendly top for lounging at a resort or exploring the island. Athleta’s Elevation V-Neck Dress is also a smart item to pack for an active vacay in Maui: It’s made from moisture-wicking athletic material but looks chic enough for a candlelit dinner. You’ll also want to be to try out all of your property's on-site activities, so pack a cute tennis skirt, golf polo, and cap.
As for your beauty sleep during and after the flight, the Yuni Beauty on the Run Travel Kit has everything you need to stay refreshed on your Hawaiian vacation, in one TSA-approved pouch, including aromatherapy mist to calm flight nerves and ease you into a good night’s sleep.
Kyoto
Kyoto, Japan is a one-of-a-kind honeymoon destination that combines fascinating history, stunning natural beauty, and impressive architecture. Expect to stroll through the traditional wooded streets of this southern Japanese city and stumble upon regal pagodas, serene gardens, and peaceful shrines. For a stress-free and totally seamless experience, booking with a tour company like InsideAsia is a great way to take the guesswork out of planning a trip from across the world, plus you’re guaranteed to see the best sights with a knowledgeable guide.
A few iconic landmarks you won’t want to miss in Kyoto include the Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its mesmerizing Torii gates, and the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). Try a tea ceremony for a fun and tasty culturally immersive afternoon.
The city has several excellent properties for honeymooners, including the stunning Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto in the centrally-located Higashiyama district. The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto is another luxury resort on the banks of the Kamogawa River where you’ll have expansive views of the Higashiyama mountains from your room.
The ROKU KYOTO is a more secluded property with extensive activity offerings designed with honeymooners in mind. Couples can try their hands at traditional Japanese crafts and relax in the on-site spa (that’s fed with natural thermal springs) between city excursions.
For a more traditional stay, opt for a Japanese ryokan such as the over 200-year-old Hiiragiya Ryokan. The property has been family-owned for generations and offers a peaceful and romantic escape. The Shiraume Ryokan in the Gion district is an especially good choice if you’re honeymooning suring cherry blossom season in the spring, as the property is lined with the beautiful flowering trees.
You’ll want to pack for comfortable exploration. This Silver & Riley Belt Bag is the perfect companion to hold your phone and other valuables while keeping your hands free. If you’re packing a camera to capture the trip, this larger, stylish backpack from Cuyana has ample room for a DSLR or a selfie stick. It’s also the perfect-sized personal item for the flight; it can hold a 14-inch laptop.
As for what to wear, why not embrace the local aesthetic with a few picks from the Japanese brand Snow Peak? This breezy pullover is a great year-round choice, and these lightweight overalls make any outfit look put together while staying comfortable. Monos also has a few travel-ready pieces inspired by the city of Kyoto, including this unisex tee and these super-soft pants.
You may get a bit jet-lagged after landing in Japan, so this travel set from Dr. Dennis Gross will be your best friend in catching up on sleep. It includes a silk pillowcase to keep your hair and skin smooth, plus retinol cream for awake-looking skin, even if you’re feeling groggy on the inside.
Seychelles
Travel to the Indian Ocean to visit the romantic and pristine Seychelles for your honeymoon. These islands promise pure white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise ocean waters, and tropical flora and fauna.
The islands form an extensive archipelago where you can opt for total relaxation or more of an adventurous trip. Denis Island is perfect for those seeking a remote escape and some quiet time on the beach. Le Natique Hotel on La Digue Island offers more for those seeking outdoor experiences, including fishing and diving excursions. Wherever you land, you’ll have plenty of access to water sports, snorkeling, and kayaking over lively reefs.
For couples who want to experience some wildlife in a totally luxe way, Stanley Safari plans luxury Kenya & Seychelles Honeymoon trips that include a visit to a Giraffe Manor (!) and a beachside stay on the Seychelles North Island.
On Plate Island, the Waldorf Astoria Seychelles is a newer property of 50 seafront villas just south of Mahe. It offers access to an array of wildlife in a large coral reef, as well as colorful seabirds and even sea turtles. Every villa has a private pool and personal concierge–so expect to be treated like royalty.
On Mahé island, the Canopy by Hilton Seychelles, is near attractions like a golf club and a spice garden, where you can learn about the island’s native edible plants.
Wherever you stay in the Seychelles, you can expect plenty of beach and pool time. You might even want to charter a boat for a private afternoon adventure on the open water. If so, pack a wide-brimmed sun hat that will stay put in a breeze like this Straw Lifeguard Hat from Hemlock.
And don’t forget a sturdy pair of sandals that you can stroll the beach in and wear to dinner, like this strappy pair from Tevas. Speaking of resort wear, you can’t go wrong with bright colors and fun, loud patterns. We love flowy frocks like this from Farm Rio for a tropical trip.
Venice
Travel to Venice, Italy for a honeymoon full of fascinating history and culture, culinary delights, and memorable excursions. The city oozes charm, thanks to its dramatic 14th-century Venetian Gothic architecture and iconic canals, which honeymooners can navigate on a gondola ride. The boat ride will take newlyweds under the city’s famous bridges and past beautiful mosaic-studded palazzos, and iconic sights like St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace.
The Nolinski Venezia, an Evok hotel, is a newer accommodation option in the old city, with 43 rooms (13 of which are palatial suites), a Turkish spa, and a beautiful restaurant helmed by two-Michilin-starred chef Philip Chronopoulos.
Hotel Cipriani is the picture of Italian luxury, with spacious rooms and suites and a full-service spa. Love birds can even enjoy a private meal in the hotel’s stunning and secluded vineyards for a special treat.
A trip to Venice demands a wardrobe that’s both stylish and practical–expect cobblestoned streets and narrow alleyways, so you’ll want to leave your stilettos at home. Instead, opt for a sturdier pair of sandals that still look great, like these cushioned slides from Sam Edelman. For days when you’ll be on your feet for hours, a slim pair of neutral sneakers, like these from Onitsuka Tiger, will be your best friend.
On the practical side, you’ll need a European travel adaptor to be able to charge your devices. Plus, an external battery pack like this compact one from Anker is always handy for longer day trips. And a set of compressible packing cubes (we love the ones from Monos) will be your best friend for squeezing all of your outfits into your suitcase.
Maldives
The Maldives are a collection of secluded islands surrounded by the deep turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. This is a dream honeymoon destination for those looking for beachside luxury. The white sand islands look like the stuff of postcards, and the crystal-clear waters are brimming with vibrant coral reefs to stimulate snorkelers and divers.
If your dream honeymoon includes a thatch-roofed bungalow suspended over turquoise waters, the COMO Cocoa Island resort will exceed expectations. The resort has just 33 private suites and villas that offer privacy and a range of activities perfect for newlyweds, including cooking classes, private beach dinners, spa treatments, and whale shark expeditions for the more adventurous.
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is another stunning option with a spray of over-water villas. This property has more of a wellness focus if you’re hoping to balance out some of the celebratory bubbly with a vinyasa or two. It has extensive spa offerings, an outdoor tennis court, and a yoga and meditation studio in the fitness center.
If you like your luxury hotel experience with a side of outdoorsiness, Milaidhoo Maldives offers the best of both worlds. Guests stay in picturesque private villas and can opt to spend the night under the stars in a breezy four-poster bed on a secluded sandbank–talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Another great option, the Vakkaru Maldives is located within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll. Couples can stay in one of 113 overwater villas that hotel staff will decorate with a touch of romance before their arrival.
You can leave the jeans and jackets at home for this tropical trip. Be sure to pack enough swimsuits and cover-ups for plenty of beach and pool time (this one-piece from Erika Peña is perfect for a special occasion trip). A breezy linen shirt like this one from Miharo is a must for throwing on over a suit. Dress it up with a sea-inspired statement necklace from Kara Yoo, and you’re set.
For guys, a loose and comfy sun shirt from Outerknown will prevent a burn and keep you cool under the Maldivian sun. And don’t forget your SPF–Dr. Dennis Gross All-Physical Ultimate Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50 is strong enough to ward off powerful equatorial rays.
Of course, protecting your skin doesn’t mean you have to skip the sunny glow of a tropical vacation. Before you leave, self-tan with Bondi Sands foam and an exfoliating full-body tanning mitt for a streak-free finish.
Paris
Paris is a natural honeymoon destination for those seeking romance and charm. After all, It’s not called the “City of Love” for nothing. It feels like every cobblestone alleyway, nook, and cranny of this charming city has a spark of romance. The city also is brimming with opportunities for cultural immersion, with dozens of world-famous museums, historic sites, and bustling marketplaces.
Of course, you won’t be the only couple visiting Paris for a romantic getaway, so it’s best to book tickets to the most popular destinations, like the Lourve, in advance to beat the lines. Between museum visits, take in the spectacle of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe and stroll through the manicured gardens of Luxembourg and Tuileries (which are also prime picnicking spots).
The Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile is a towering centrally-located hotel with Eiffel Tower views and a popular array of dining options. Chouchou is another great option for a boutique experience and a lively atmosphere.
Pack for your trip in a suitcase chic enough for the Parisians with this pretty teal hard shell from Quince. And tuck your jewelry into a compact carrying case for tangle-free travel. If you’re honeymooning in the fall or spring, you’ll want a lightweight trench to pull any outfit together, plus a travel-friendly umbrella like this super compact palm-sized option from Davek New York. Don’t forget a pair of cool-girl shades that go with every Parisian outfit.
New Zealand
Celebrate your wedding with a trip way down under in stunning New Zealand. This island nation is the background to iconic movies, including Lord of the Rings and Avatar. And it’s easy to see why. The natural landscape is varied and breathtaking, from sharp-edged cliffs to snowy peaks to surf-ready beaches. NZ is a great choice for honeymooners seeking an active, adventure-filled trip.
Snow-seekers will want to visit popular mountains like Mt Hutt, Coronet Peak, or Cardona during the winter for unmatched snowboarding and skiing. But if sun is more your thing, go during the summer to explore lush forests, relax on secluded beaches, or visit the vibrant city of Auckland for great food.
Delamore Lodge on Waiheke Island has unique apartments and suites with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the stunning oceanic scenery. For more of an urban experience, check out the Covenent Hotel, a former nunnery that now has 22 charming guestrooms and an on-site restaurant and bar. If you plan your ski trip enough in advance, you may be able to snag one of the 15 slope-side apartments at Cardona resort. Otherwise, look for a cozy stay at one of several hotels in Wanaka, such as the Tin Tub Luxury Lodge or the Whare Kea Lodge, which has a stand-alone private chalet honeymooners can reserve.
If you’re traveling from the US, prepare for a long flight (it’s worth it!). Fly comfortably with a buttery-soft pair of bamboo joggers from Cozy Earth and a matching pullover crew that look put together but feel barely there. And if the hours over the ocean give you a touch of anxiety, find your calm with a supply of Ashwagandha Calm Gummies. A good pair of earplugs is also a must to catch a few Z’s in the air.
If hiking, biking, or rucking are part of your honeymoon plans in New Zealand, bring lightweight trail-ready pants and the right sling bag to hold snacks and other necessities. These minimalist trail shoes from Vivovarefoot are also great for travel, as they’re slim and flexible enough to slide into a packed suitcase but have all the traction you need for a confident hike. We also love this set of powder-based toiletries from Hotel Emporium that will breeze through TSA for a longer trip like this.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the destination for honeymooners seeking outdoor adventure. Visitors can get plenty of thrills on this rainforested island, whether they’re ziplining through the lush canopy, taking up watersports in the Pacific Ocean or Caribbean Sea, or summiting a formidable volcano in Arenal Volcano National Park. The island is also known for its travel-worthy waves that surfers flock to–but if you pack the right rash guard and find an instructor, beginners can hang ten, too.
Inland, discover Costa Rica’s stunning flora and fauna, including bright toucans and rambunctious monkeys on a guided wildlife tour. Be sure to pack a set of travel binoculars (we love the Field Issues from NOCS Provisions) to get a hard-to-find glimpse of tropical birds.
Go off the grid on your honeymoon without sacrificing luxury at the SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge. This retreat offers access to Corcovado National Park and active coral reefs for world-class snorkeling.
Or, if you’re planning your honeymoon for towards the end of 2024 or later, you can be one of the first to visit the Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique, which will have a state-of-the-art wellness center complete with a cenote-inspired spa, outdoor yoga, and thermal pools.
Casa Chameleon is a Relais & Chateaux luxury boutique hotel that’s all about romance, and you won’t be disappointed by the culinary offerings at the property’s four restaurants.
If you’re planning an adventurous trip to Costa Rica, expect to get sweaty. Be sure to pack electrolytes to stay hydrated. ZeroLyte hydration packs from Trace Minerals come in travel-friendly sticks and dissolve instantly into water. And to go from the sandy beach to your room, you’ll want a comfortable pair of slides that are waterproof. The Kane Recovery Shoes are right for the job, with the added benefit of helping tired feet relax after a day of exploration.
If hiking is on the agenda, it’s all about layers. Wool is an especially good fabric for staying dry, even in the humidity of Costa Rica, so pack a set of light and breathable nuyarn Merino baselayers for him and her from Wuru. Of course, you won’t want to forget the proper footwear. Start with quality hiking socks like the Yarn Goblin Micro Crew Socks from Darn Tough and a supportive pair of Danner hiking boots to keep your feet dry, comfortable, and ready to take on the next day’s hike.
For packing, the Black Hole Mini Convertible Backpack from Patagonia is the perfect adventure-ready carry-on for your Costa Rican adventure.
Embark On An Unforgettable Honeymoon
You’ve done it: you’ve planned the wedding, celebrated with friends and family, and now’s your chance to enjoy some deserved alone time with your new spouse. Wherever you decide to go, your honeymoon will be a memorable experience that sets the tone for your new life together. And if you’re not yet sold on a destination, there are plenty more to consider!
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