Originally, the term "honeymoon" referred to the medieval practice of drinking mead, a beverage made with honey, for a month after getting married. Today, though, it usually refers to a romantic trip to a fantasy location with your lifetime partner.
Choosing the ideal honeymoon spot is an important decision because it sets the tone for the start of your married life. The perfect honeymoon destination takes into account the interests and passions of both couples. Whether you see yourself basking in the sun on a quiet beach, exploring old ruins in a historic city, or immersing yourself in the marvels of nature amidst magnificent surroundings, the possibilities are endless.
Our comprehensive list of the top honeymoon destinations for 2024 and beyond covers everything from traditional spots to remote beaches and more approachable rocky landscapes.
Maldives
Renown for: White-sand beaches
Best time to visit: November-April
Nestled in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a serene island situated off the southern coast of India, about 400 miles southwest of Sri Lanka. Ideal for newlyweds looking for a laid-back ambiance, the islands have plenty of sandy beaches. Combining island simplicity with luxurious amenities, the Maldives provides the ideal balance of leisure and indulgence.
In the Maldives, you'll find the perfect romantic getaway. Resorts compete to offer luxurious experiences like private dinners on secluded sandbanks and overwater suites accessible only by boat. With stunning blue backdrops, every island promises a carefree and unforgettable honeymoon.
Spend your days lounging on pristine beaches, swimming alongside gentle whale sharks, and exploring vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. As the day winds down, return to your hotel for a relaxing spa treatment and a romantic supper with a stunning sunset backdrop.
Bora Bora
Renown for: Volcanic views
Best time to visit: November-April
Bora Bora, located in French Polynesia, is well-known for its spectacular volcanic panoramas, aquamarine lagoons, and powdered white sandy beaches. This small island, which is roughly 6 miles long and slightly more than 2 miles wide, is filled with natural beauty. A dormant volcano sits in its middle, surrounded by thick vegetation that descends into a magnificent turquoise lagoon.
Bora Bora is the perfect honeymoon destination for relaxation. With its sandy islets and stunning blue lagoon, couples can unwind and enjoy activities like scuba diving in the protected coral reef.
Napa Valley, California
Renown for: Wine and Vine
Best time to visit: August-October or March-May
Napa Valley is a top choice for honeymoons, known for its stunning vineyards, exceptional wineries, and romantic atmosphere. Filled with vine-covered hillsides, elegant restaurants, and chateaux reminiscent of French architecture, Napa Valley in California offers a uniquely romantic experience for couples.
Couples flock to this scenic region for wine tastings, gourmet dining, and leisurely drives through picturesque landscapes. From charming bed-and-breakfasts to luxurious spa retreats, Napa offers a range of accommodations for a memorable honeymoon experience.
Santorini, Greece
Renown for: Sugar-cube buildings and wine
Best time to visit: April-June or September-October
Greece and the Greek islands have an absolutely appealing quality. Santorini serves as a entrance to the allure of the Greek Islands. Santorini is Greece's top honeymoon spot, known for its romantic vibes. Its iconic architecture features whitewashed sugar-cube homes and blue-domed churches, harmoniously blending with the breathtaking Caldera and the Aegean Sea backdrop, offering a perfect setting for a romantic getaway.
One of the greatest ways to view Santorini and the other islands is by sailing around the island, followed by a stay in a beautiful cave hotel. Wine takes center stage on the Greek island. For wine enthusiasts seeking the island's finest, a visit to Vassaltis Vineyards and Domaine Sigalas is a must. Above all, couples come here to see the sunset.
St. Lucia
Renown for: Stunning natural beauty
Best time to visit: December-April
Nestled in the eastern Caribbean Sea, Saint Lucia is a gorgeous tropical paradise renowned for its vibrant culture, breathtaking natural beauty, and welcoming nature. Saint Lucia consistently ranks among the most beloved honeymoon destinations globally, and it's not hard to understand why.
With its gorgeous beaches, sparkling oceans, soaring mountains, and verdant jungles, this dreamy island provides an exquisite setting for newlywed couples. Not only that, Saint Lucia has lots of opportunities for couples who like to engage in adventure activities and water sports.
Scotland
Renown for: Breathtaking scenery and quaint culture
Best time to visit: June-August
Scotland is becoming more and more popular as a honeymoon destination because it offers a mesmerizing combination of breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and quaint culture. Scotland offers a wide range of experiences for couples to enjoy, such as touring historic sites, dining at fine restaurants, and taking leisurely drives through stunning landscapes.
June through August could be an excellent time for honeymooners to consider Scotland. During these months, destinations like Santorini and St Lucia are bustling with weddings, while terraces in Venice and Ravello are filled with newlyweds.
Grenada
Renown for: Spices
Best time to visit: December -April.
While it may no longer be accurate to describe Grenada as the Caribbean's best-kept secret, it's evident that the island still maintains a more relaxed influx of tourists compared to some of its busier counterparts. Grenada, often referred to as the “Isle of Spice” due to its abundance of locally grown spices, is a tropical haven that presents honeymooners with a tantalizing mix of natural beauty, rich history, and authentic Caribbean charm.
Its beaches, including the well-known Grand Anse Beach, are a symphony of sapphire waters, swaying palms, and golden sands, creating the ideal environment for couples to create special memories.
Paris, France
Renown for: Elegant architecture
Best time to visit: June-August and September-October
We often associate honeymoon destinations with distant locations, but that's not always necessary. Sometimes, all you need for romance and relaxation is a quick trip on the Eurostar. Paris, known as a gateway to love, boasts charming cafes, elegant architecture, cobblestone streets, chic boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.
Paris is a beloved destination for hopeless romantics and the perfect post-wedding getaway, especially for couples short on time.
Bali, Indonesia
Renown for: Beautiful temples and diverse beaches
Best time to visit: April-September
Bali, the heart of Indonesia, is well-known for its romance and perfect honeymoon destinations. Bali's terrain is littered with gorgeous temples of all sizes and shapes, which add to its beauty and cultural richness. In addition, from rustic beach huts to luxurious resorts and stunning holiday villas, Bali offers diverse accommodation options.
With its mystical landscapes and countless islands, it boasts some of the most beautiful places to stay worldwide and stands out as an exceptional option for honeymooners seeking a romantic and memorable escape in 2024.
Fiji
Renown for: Diverse Islands
Best time to visit: July-September
There isn't a place more remote and exotic than Polynesia, the South Sea islands. Fiji is a castaway fantasy located thousands of kilometers away from everything. Fiji, situated in the South Pacific Ocean, stands out as an excellent honeymoon spot for couples who love to travel.
With over 300 Fijian islands, many transformed into private resorts, it offers the ultimate castaway experience with deserted beaches, stunning surf, jungle waterfalls, and secluded blue lagoons. Additionally, couples can indulge in luxurious accommodations or eco-friendly lodges immersed in nature.
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