Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations for Couples to Visit

Summertime is prime time for romance. To get yourself in the mood, we’ve compiled a list of top 10 honeymoon destinations for couples—from a secluded wine-centered stay in Mendoza to a sumptuous castle-hotel in Paris—to inspire your summer fling.

1. Bora Bora is one of the great honeymoon destinations for couples:

Bora Bora, a small island in the South Pacific, overflows with beauty. A dormant volcano rises at its center and fans out into lush jungle before spilling into an aquamarine lagoon. Author James Michener called Bora Bora “the most beautiful island in the world.” The 18th-century British explorer James Cook even coined it the “Pearl of the Pacific.” The very definition of a tropical getaway, blissful Bora Bora abounds with luxurious resorts, sunny skies, warm waters—and friendly locals.

And as you might have already guessed, Bora Bora is an island in French Polynesia, and the leading industry here is tourism. You can snorkel and explore Vaitape (Bora Bora’s main port), hike Mount Otemanu, etc. But there’s a catch: Bora Bora is expensive – very expensive. In short, visit Bora Bora for natural beauty and relaxation – if you have the money.

2. Antigua & Barbuda

The twin islands of Antigua and Barbuda are essentially Eden. With pristine beaches, pastel facades, bustling markets, tropical fruits, and plenty of limestone formations, the islands offer visitors solitude on soft sand or a getaway on a catamaran sailing between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea at sunset. Head to all-inclusive resorts (in your honeymoon destinations) such as Curtain Bluff (where tennis, sailing, water-skiing, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and bocce are included), along with once-in-a-lifetime private island getaways like Jumby Bay Island.

3. Baja California, Mexico

West Coasters looking for an affordable honeymoon destination and fun should look no further than Baja California, Mexico. San Jose del Cabo is home to an authentic Mexican village, and it has dozens of pristine beaches for above-and-underwater activities. Several excellent luxury resorts in the area include the elegantly minimalist Las Ventanas al Paraíso, the shiny new Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal or Viceroy Los Cabos, and The Cape at The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort. The less-traveled East Cape has even more spectacular seascapes and a major escapist vibe; it’s also home to Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas and Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Just over the border in Valle de Guadalupe is some of the best wine and food imaginable—not to mention relaxed accommodations (such as Cabañas Cuatro Cuartos and El Cielo Winery & Resort).

Read More: 5 Unforgettable Overseas Adventure Travel for Couples

4. Kohala Coast, Big Island, Hawaii

If you’re planning a honeymoon in Hawaii, consider visiting Big Island. It’s arguably the least commercialized island and has many adventures to offer like helicopter tours, nighttime snorkeling to see manta rays, and visits to the geological marvels of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Stay at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, a mid-century masterpiece from Laurance S. Rockefeller that features cantilevered stairways, a museum-worthy collection of Asian Pacific Art, and a pretty slice of beach with sand as smooth as silk.

5. Lake Como, Italy: Cool Honeymoon Destinations for Couples

Riva cruises, delicious pasta, ambling strolls through postcard-perfect villages, and lounging by a fresh saltwater pool that floats in the lake… Isn’t this what a honeymoon is supposed to be? Set against the dramatic scenery of the Alps and Lake Como, the lakeside towns (Cernobbio, Bellagio, Varenna among them) have long been a chic, polished refuge for the Milanese elite (and George Clooney). For the most quintessential dolce vita experience, head to the grandest dame here: Villa d’Este.

6. Antioquia, Colombia

If you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon off the beaten path, consider Colombia. The country offers private honeymoon getaways for newlyweds—something you’ll surely be craving after the wedding buzz. We suggest heading to Colombia’s Antioquia region for a laid-back break. After visiting the department’s capital, Medellín, make your way to the colorful town of Guatapé and stay at Bosko, a collection of clear-sided domes that take in the lush greenery and large lake below. There are no street lights here, so come nightfall, it’ll be just the two of you and the stars.

7. Cappadocia, Turkey

Romantic honeymooners can’t do much better than in Cappadocia, Turkey. Located less than four hours from Turkey’s capital city, Cappadocia comprises wind-carved landscapes that look like they belong on another planet. You can explore the area by hot air balloon or on foot or horseback: There are many ways to see this magical valley full of caves and rock formations called “fairy chimneys.”

8. Salalah

If you’re looking for the perfect honeymoon destination, then Salalah is precisely what you need. The capital of Oman’s southern Dhofar region, it’s famous for its frankincense trade and, today, as a luxury resort for newlyweds. With a spectacular mountain backdrop, a thriving and vibrant city, and beaches that could easily rank as some of the best in the world, it’s luxurious, beautiful, and—what’s more—it all comes without the usual crowds you’ll find at better-known destinations. Salalah has earned its place in our top ten, from ancient souqs to royal palaces and modern malls.

9. Venice

What could be more romantic than Venice? This unique destination is probably one of the most iconic locations globally. Famous for the Rialto Bridge, St Mark’s Square, and the gondolas that ply their trade along its canals, it’s a spectacular and ancient hotspot bound to bring out the romantic in anyone. Head here during Carnival and see the city come alive as masked balls and dancing transform it into a magical place (if it wasn’t already). Which one is your favorite spot? Hopefully, we have given you some new ideas for your honeymoon destinations so that it really will be a holiday of a lifetime.

Read Also: 10 Best Places to visit in California for Newly Married Couples

10. Phuket and Krabi

When you think of Thailand, you probably think of a few things: beaches and parties. But there’s more to this country than just Bangkok and Pattaya. Thailand is a fantastic place for shopping, enjoying the beach, and exploring. If you’re looking for a honeymoon in an exotic location beyond just shores, Phuket or Krabi may be perfect for you! There are lots to do—from nightlife to activities—and even more to explore.