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Planning a honeymoon can feel overwhelming — and as someone who’s explored over 50 countries, I know how easy it is to get lost in the endless options online. Sure, you could book that classic trip to Paris or the Maldives, but after years of discovering hidden corners of the world, I’ve learned that the most romantic getaways often lie where you least expect them.
From secluded mountain retreats to lesser-known island paradises, there’s a whole world of luxury honeymoon spots that go beyond the typical destinations you see on social media. Whether you’re dreaming of waking up in a overwater villa or sipping wine in an ancient castle-turned-hotel, I’ve put together a list of places that combine romance, luxury, and that special something that makes a honeymoon unforgettable.
- Best for romance: Maldives private islands
- Most secluded: Fiji overwater bungalows
- Best for adventure: Safari lodges in Tanzania
- Best for food lovers: Tuscany wine estates
- Most peaceful: Santorini clifftop suites
- Best for beach life: Bora Bora lagoon villas
Maldives Islands
Picture yourself on a private deck overlooking crystal-clear waters that stretch endlessly to the horizon – that’s what awaits in the Maldives. These islands, scattered like pearls across the Indian Ocean, are where overwater bungalows first became famous. Unlike other beach destinations, the Maldives offers a unique “one island, one resort” concept, meaning each resort has its own private island. From swimming with gentle whale sharks to dining in underwater restaurants, the experiences here feel almost surreal. What makes the Maldives special isn’t just the white sand beaches or the warm waters – it’s the feeling of being completely removed from the rest of the world, where your biggest decision might be choosing between a morning snorkel or a sunset cruise.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Float away to paradise in Bora Bora, where turquoise lagoons and overwater bungalows create the perfect romantic escape. The luxurious resorts offer private decks where you can slip straight into crystal-clear waters, or relax in your own infinity pool overlooking Mount Otemanu. For a memorable dinner, try the island’s signature Polynesian feast at La Villa Mahana, where only seven tables per night get to enjoy French-inspired cuisine in an intimate garden setting. Take a sunset cruise around the lagoon, or spend your days snorkeling with gentle reef sharks and colorful tropical fish right from your bungalow.
Santorini, Greece
Honeymooners flock to Santorini for its famous blue-domed churches and pristine white buildings, but this Greek island offers much more than just pretty architecture. The crescent-shaped island, formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, provides couples with intimate settings like hidden cave hotels and cliffside infinity pools overlooking the Aegean Sea. While watching the sunset from Oia is a must-do activity, visitors can also explore black sand beaches, tour local wineries built into the volcanic soil, or take a boat trip to the still-active volcano at the center of the caldera. The mix of romantic dining spots, ancient ruins, and crystal-clear waters makes Santorini an ideal spot for couples seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Newlyweds flock to the Amalfi Coast for its winding seaside roads and pastel-colored villages perched above the Mediterranean Sea, but this stretch of Italian coastline offers much more than just beautiful views. The string of thirteen towns, from Positano to Vietri sul Mare, each brings its own charm – with hidden beaches, terraced lemon groves, and centuries-old churches dotting the landscape. While summer draws crowds to beaches and boat tours along the coast, spring and fall visitors can explore the ancient Path of the Gods hiking trail or learn to make authentic limoncello in quieter settings. The region’s fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and local wines make every meal feel like a celebration, perfect for couples seeking that special honeymoon experience.
Seychelles Islands
If you’re dreaming of the perfect honeymoon spot, the Seychelles Islands should be at the top of your list. Scattered like gems across the Indian Ocean, this archipelago of 115 islands sits off the coast of East Africa. White-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters define the landscape here, where luxury resorts like Four Seasons Resort Seychelles nestle seamlessly into the natural surroundings. The property’s hillside villas peek through native trees, offering views that make it impossible to tell where the ocean ends and the sky begins. Beyond the resorts, you’ll find hidden coves perfect for swimming, giant tortoises roaming freely, and some of the clearest waters for snorkeling in the world.
Maui, Hawaii, USA
Maui is where I send couples looking for that perfect mix of romance and adventure. This Hawaiian island delivers everything you’d want in a honeymoon – from quiet beaches where you can watch the sunset together, to the winding Road to Hana with its waterfalls and black sand beaches. Whether you’re snorkeling with sea turtles at Molokini Crater, watching the sunrise from above the clouds at Haleakala National Park, or simply relaxing at a beachfront resort in Wailea, Maui knows how to make newlyweds feel special.
St. Lucia, Caribbean
When it comes to Caribbean islands, St. Lucia stands apart with its iconic twin peaks, the Pitons, rising dramatically from the sea. This volcanic island draws honeymooners who want more than just beach time – though the golden sands here are pretty hard to beat. What makes St. Lucia special is how it blends luxury resorts with real adventure: you can spend your morning hiking through rainforest trails, take a mud bath in volcanic springs by afternoon, and wind down at a five-star clifftop restaurant as the sun sets. It’s not the easiest island to reach, and the winding mountain roads aren’t for the faint of heart, but the mix of French-Creole culture, secluded beaches, and high-end hospitality makes it worth the journey.
Venice, Italy
Float through winding canals in one of the world’s most romantic cities when you visit Venice. Take a gondola ride under the Bridge of Sighs at sunset, where local legend says couples who kiss will find eternal love. Share plates of fresh pasta and seafood at charming restaurants tucked away in narrow alleyways, then wander hand-in-hand through St. Mark’s Square as bells toll from the basilica. For an extra special evening, book a private dinner cruise through the Grand Canal, where you can watch the city lights twinkle on the water while sipping prosecco from the Veneto region.
Little-Known Fact:
Fun fact: Venice is built on over 100 small islands connected by more than 400 bridges, with the city literally floating on ancient wooden poles driven deep into the seafloor. These wooden poles, surprisingly made from water-resistant oak, elm, and larch trees, have supported Venice’s buildings for centuries without rotting thanks to the lack of oxygen in the mud they’re buried in.
Dubai, UAE
Ever wondered what it feels like to dine in a restaurant underwater or sip champagne at the top of the world’s tallest building? That’s just another day in Dubai, where luxury knows no bounds. This glittering desert city is where you can wake up to breakfast in a Bedouin camp, spend your afternoon skiing on indoor slopes, and end your day watching the sunset from a hot air balloon over endless sand dunes. The Burj Al Arab, shaped like a billowing sail, offers couples their own private butler and gold-plated iPads, while the Palm Jumeirah’s overwater villas let you step right from your bedroom into the warm Arabian Gulf. Between desert safaris and high-end shopping at Dubai Mall, you’ll find romance in unexpected places – like watching the famous dancing fountains from a private yacht or stargazing in the desert under a blanket of stars.
Lake Como, Italy
Nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps, Lake Como sits like a wishbone-shaped jewel about an hour north of Milan. Unlike the tourist-packed streets of Rome or Florence, this lakeside destination moves at its own peaceful pace. Just watch the wooden boats glide across the crystal-clear waters, passing centuries-old villas with their perfectly manicured gardens, and you’ll see what I mean. Because of its history as a retreat for European aristocrats, Lake Como is dotted with elegant mansions and waterfront hotels, many converted from noble estates. You’ll find cobblestone villages hugging the shoreline, their narrow streets leading to hidden restaurants serving fresh-caught fish and local wines, while the surrounding mountains provide a natural backdrop that makes every photo look like a postcard.
Bali, Indonesia
Ever had a local rooster wake you up to the sounds of gamelan music drifting through the morning mist? That’s daily life in Bali, where rice paddies cascade down hillsides and incense wafts from temple doorways. This Indonesian island blends spiritual traditions with luxury hospitality – you can start your day with a sunrise yoga session in Ubud, spend the afternoon getting pampered in a treetop spa, and end with a private dinner on the black sand beaches of the north coast. The cliff-top resorts of Uluwatu offer ocean-view infinity pools and traditional fire dances at sunset, while the nearby Gili Islands beckon with crystal waters perfect for snorkeling with sea turtles.
Fiji Islands
I first visited Fiji in 2018, landing on Viti Levu before island-hopping to smaller gems like Mamanuca and Yasawa. These South Pacific islands float like green jewels in crystal-clear waters, where coral reefs and tropical fish paint an underwater rainbow. Traditional Fijian villages dot the coconut palm-lined shores, sharing space with secluded luxury resorts like the Likuliku Lagoon Resort, known for its overwater bungalows. The property’s private beach faces west, offering front-row seats to sunsets that melt into the horizon, while gentle waves provide nature’s perfect lullaby for honeymooners seeking their own slice of paradise.
Swiss Alps, Switzerland
Escape to the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps for a romantic mountain getaway unlike any other. The region offers countless luxury chalets and resorts where you can cozy up by a crackling fireplace after a day on the slopes. Take a scenic train ride through the mountains on the Glacier Express, or enjoy a private helicopter tour for aerial views of the Matterhorn. For an extra special experience, book a stay at the Zermatt Peak chalet, where your private butler will serve champagne in the outdoor jacuzzi as you gaze at the snow-covered landscape below.
Mauritius
When it comes to honeymoon spots in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius stands out as a place that feels like it was designed specifically for newlyweds. This island nation delivers everything you’d expect from a tropical paradise – white sand beaches wrapped around calm lagoons, coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, and inland forests hiding waterfalls and hiking trails. It’s not just about lounging on the beach though – couples can spend their days learning to kiteboard in the gentle winds, exploring local markets filled with fragrant spices, or visiting century-old tea plantations in the hills. What makes Mauritius special is how it blends French, Indian, and Creole influences into something uniquely its own, from the architecture to the food to the warm welcome you’ll receive from locals.
Turks and Caicos Islands
I first visited the Turks and Caicos Islands in 2019, landing on the pristine shores of Providenciales, the most developed of the archipelago’s 40 islands. White sand and clear turquoise waters define the coastline, particularly along Grace Bay Beach, where luxury resorts line the northern shore. The islands offer that perfect mix of seclusion and sophistication that honeymooners crave. COMO Parrot Cay resort, set on its own private island, stands out with its beachfront villas and infinity pools that seem to melt into the Caribbean Sea. The surrounding coral reefs provide excellent snorkeling, while the calm waters create ideal conditions for paddleboarding and sailing. After sunset, couples can enjoy fresh-caught seafood at local restaurants or opt for private beach dinners under the stars.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown has long been on my shortlist of perfect honeymoon spots in New Zealand, and for good reason. This South Island gem sits right between snow-capped mountains and the crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu, offering couples a playground of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re zipping through the air on the world’s first commercial bungy jump, sipping local Pinot Noir in the nearby Central Otago wine region, or taking a peaceful cruise across the lake, there’s something here for every kind of couple. It’s not just a summer destination either – winter transforms the surrounding peaks into a skier’s paradise, making Queenstown an ideal choice for newlyweds year-round.
Paris, France
I always tell couples dreaming of romance to visit Paris, the City of Light. Nestled along the Seine River, this iconic destination blends historic charm with modern luxury through its cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafes, and the instantly recognizable Eiffel Tower. From candlelit dinners in cozy bistros to hand-in-hand strolls through the Louvre, Paris offers countless ways for newlyweds to create unforgettable moments together.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Ever wondered what it’s like to wake up to the sound of lions roaring in the distance? At Kruger National Park, a vast wilderness in South Africa’s northeast, this is just part of your morning routine. The park, about a five-hour drive from Johannesburg, offers some of Africa’s most memorable safari experiences. You can spot the “Big Five” – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo – from the comfort of your private lodge, or take guided game drives at sunset when the animals are most active. The park’s luxury lodges, like Royal Malewane and Singita Lebombo, blend seamlessly into the bush, offering private pools, world-class dining, and personal rangers who know every inch of this wild paradise.
Tahiti, French Polynesia
I first visited Tahiti in 2015, drawn to the heart of French Polynesia by stories of its crystal-clear lagoons. The largest island in the Society Islands archipelago, Tahiti rises from the South Pacific like a green jewel ringed by white sand and coral reefs. Local markets and small villages dot the coastline, while the interior holds hidden waterfalls and thick rainforests. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, perched over the turquoise waters on stilts, offers overwater villas where you can slip directly from your private deck into the warm ocean below. The resort’s location on a private motu (small island) provides perfect views of Mount Otemanu across the lagoon, especially as the sun sets and paints the sky in shades of orange and pink.
Côte d’Azur, France
Experience the glamour of the French Riviera along the sun-soaked Côte d’Azur, where Mediterranean charm meets luxury living. Start your day at a beach club in Saint-Tropez, sipping rosé while watching yachts glide across crystal-clear waters. Make your way to Monaco’s famous Monte Carlo Casino for an evening of sophistication, or wander through Nice’s charming old town, where local markets and seaside restaurants serve up the freshest seafood. Book a room at the legendary Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, where you can enjoy private beach access and world-class service that’s hosted celebrities and royalty since 1870.
Bet You Didn’t Know:
Did you know that the Côte d’Azur gets around 300 days of sunshine each year, which is why artists like Picasso and Matisse flocked here to capture the region’s famous light and colors in their paintings? The area’s perfect weather and beautiful coastline also caught the attention of European royalty in the 1800s, making it the first modern tourist destination and earning it the nickname “French Riviera.”
Tuscany, Italy
I first discovered Tuscany on a late summer trip in 2018, wandering through the rolling hills of Italy’s most romantic region. Located in the heart of the country, Tuscany spreads across a landscape dotted with cypress trees and medieval hilltop towns. Small family-run vineyards and olive groves blanket the countryside here, alongside historic villas that have been transformed into luxury hotels. Places like Castello di Casole offer couples their own slice of Italian paradise, complete with wine tastings in centuries-old cellars and morning views over misty valleys. The infinity pool seems to pour right into the surrounding hills, making it easy to lose track of where the water ends and the famous Tuscan horizon begins.
Aspen, Colorado, USA
For honeymooners seeking a mix of luxury and adventure, Aspen delivers year-round magic in the Colorado Rockies. This charming mountain town combines world-class ski slopes and outdoor activities with high-end shopping, fine dining, and cozy lodges. In winter, couples can hit the powder at four different ski areas, while summer brings opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and scenic gondola rides through aspen groves. After active days outdoors, you can unwind at five-star spas or enjoy intimate dinners at acclaimed restaurants like Cache Cache and Element 47.
Cool Fact:
Did you know that before Aspen became a luxurious ski resort town, it was actually a booming silver-mining hub in the late 1800s where miners struck it rich with the largest silver nugget ever found in Colorado? These days, the historic mining town has become a favorite escape for Hollywood celebrities, with regulars like Kevin Costner and Kurt Russell owning homes in this mountain paradise.
British Virgin Islands
Drift away from the ordinary in the British Virgin Islands, where crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches set the scene for romance. The collection of 60 islands offers secluded coves and hidden bays perfect for couples seeking privacy, with places like Virgin Gorda’s The Baths featuring natural rock pools ideal for intimate swimming adventures. Stay in overwater bungalows at Scrub Island Resort, where you can watch fish swim beneath your private deck, or charter a yacht to explore the countless uninhabited islets at your own pace. For a special evening, book a beachfront dinner at Little Dix Bay, where fresh-caught seafood and local flavors come together under a canopy of stars.
Cappadocia, Turkey
Turkey’s Cappadocia region feels like something straight out of a fairy tale, and I mean that quite literally. This ancient landscape is dotted with “fairy chimneys” – tall, cone-shaped rock formations that early inhabitants carved into homes and churches. What makes this place really special is how you can experience it: floating high above the unique terrain in a hot air balloon at sunrise, while hundreds of other colorful balloons share the golden morning sky. Below, you’ll find a network of underground cities and cave hotels where you can actually stay in rooms carved into the rock thousands of years ago. It’s not your typical honeymoon destination, but that’s exactly what makes it perfect for couples who want their first adventure together to be truly memorable.
