The Best Honeymoon Destinations for Every Type of Couple – How to Pick a Honeymoon Destination!

Every couple is unique, which is why every honeymoon should also be unique! There is no one-size-fits-all honeymoon destination. Everyone wants something different out of their first trip as a married couple! Some want to just sit back and not lift a finger after all the wedding stress, whereas others want to knock something exciting off their bucket list… like a luxury safari in the plains of South Africa or the highest bungee jump in the world in New Zealand!

So instead of just thinking about choosing a honeymoon location, start by choosing the type of experience you want to have together! A honeymoon is a trip you’ll talk and reminisce about for years to come! So I’m breaking down my top honeymoon recommendations by type of couple – from the “adrenaline junkies,” to the “road trip romantics,” to the “first-class, five-star” couples, these are the absolute best honeymoon destinations for every type of couple!

The best honeymoon destinations for:

The First-Class, Five-Star Couple 

If you’re the type of couple who appreciates the best of the best, and you don’t mind splurging on it for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, then choosing a destination that can provide top-of-the-line luxury is a must! Think: the sun-drenched and glamorous Amalfi Coast, the secluded powdery white sand beaches of the Maldives, or the over-water bungalow of your dreams in Bora Bora!

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast: 'There is more to see and do here than any words could ever give justice to' - Country Life

Classic elegance, luxury, and romance converge on the coveted Amalfi Coast where you can spend your days soaking up the European sun, boating to Capri, and indulging in ALL the pasta you can eat!! For Kenny and my honeymoon, we did three days in Amalfi, three days in Capri, and four days in Sardinia. Another option is adding a few days in Positano or Ravello!

My favorite hotel in Amalfi is Hotel Santa Caterina (this is where Kenny and I stayed on our honeymoon!). I mean how dreamy is this set up?

In Positano, if money is no object, stay at the breathtaking Il San Pietro Di Positano â€“ one of the few hotels in Positano with sea access!!

And definitely get over to Capri – we stayed at the stunning Punta Tragara, and I would LIVE at La Fontelina Beach Club if I could.

The Maldives

If you’ve both done Europe and are wanting to go to a far-flung destination for completely secluded luxury, the Maldives are the perfect spot for you! During our stay at the Six Senses Laamu, we even spent a day on a private sandbank off of the resort, complete with a cooler, umbrella, and lounge chairs!! Such a cool and unique activity, and it was one of our FAVORITE days!

Scuba divers also say the Maldives is an absolute MUST! It’s the perfect wintertime luxury escape because the best/driest months of the year in the Maldives are December through April. I mean…THAT WATER!!!

We also had the most magical time at the unbelievably luxe St. Regis Maldives Vommuli. It is located on a somewhat smaller island, but the upscale food, service, and spa really set it apart!! Plus, the overwater bungalows each had their own pool!! Spend your days yachting around the islands on the St. Regis’s private yacht, snorkeling, swimming with sharks and rays, and of course, hitting the spa!! The Maldives is a bit of a trek to get to, especially from the U.S., so make sure you give yourself ample time to enjoy it!

Bora Bora

Bora Bora in French Polynesia is as dreamy as it gets!! Luxury dinners on the water, swimming with sharks, jet-skiing, ALL the water activities, plus exploring the island makes for an unforgettable honeymoon! One good thing to note is that winter is the rainy season in Bora Bora, so it’s best to go anywhere from April through November!

In my opinion, for the best experience that is worth EVERY PENNY, you must stay at the Four Seasons Bora Bora. The Conrad is a close runner-up and slightly less expensive (Paris Hilton stayed here for her honeymoon!), but the Four Seasons is TOTALLY worth it IMHO.

Read more: The Four Seasons Bora Bora vs. Conrad Bora Bora 

The best honeymoon destinations for:

The Adventurous-Meets-Romantic Honeymoon Seekers

If you’re the active type of honeymooning couple that wants to use your honeymoon as an opportunity to explore a country you might not normally get the chance to, and check some seriously incredible experiences off of your bucket list, but also have plenty of time to relax together, these are the destinations for you.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known for its eco-conscious approach to luxury. Here, you’ll find jungle, volcanos, and long stretches of beach! If you’ve always wanted to take a surfing lesson, head to the Pacific Coast on the west side. Then, take some time to explore the cloud forest and the Arenal volcano (where you can sit in hot springs heated from the geothermic activity!! How freaking cool!!).

For luxury, stay at Hacienda AltaGracia, an Auberge Resort in Santa Teresa, The Four Seasons Papagayo, or Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas before heading to a super unique stay near the volcano, the Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa is a MUST!! Lounge in the volcanically heated mineral pools with a fresh rum cocktail in hand!

Hot-Springs

Bali

Ah, Bali… my home away from home. While it is a long haul from the United States, it has SO MUCH to offer! From the zen jungle vibes in Ubud where you can find magnificent waterfalls and ancient temples, to the turquoise shores and luxe beach clubs of Uluwatu and the trendy surf town of Canggu!! Give yourself a full two weeks to explore, and maybe even hit Nusa Pineda or the Gili Islands while you’re there.

You can’t go wrong staying in the honeymoon-heaven in the jungle, Four Seasons Ubud, and I definitely also recommend heading to the beach for part of your trip – I love The Six Senses Uluwatu! For more ideas, check out my Bali Honeymoon Guide.

Japan

Japan is a country of refined culture, stunning nature, and rich history! From the ancient and mystical temples of Kyoto to the bustling cities of Tokyo and Osaka! Enjoy the best ramen/sushi of your life, experience a traditional tea ceremony, ride the bullet high-speed train, and maybe even climb Mount Fuji!

The best time of year to visit Japan is either in the fall (to see the gorgeous changing leaves) or in the spring (to catch the blooming cherry blossoms!). For a taste of the refined luxury I’m talking about, you can’t miss the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto or the Aman Tokyo!

The best honeymoon destinations for:

The Wine-Lovers

Wine holds a special place in my heart, especially incredible wine. Why not explore the best of the best on your honeymoon?! Hop from tasting to tasting in the gorgeous Napa Valley for your honeymoon, or head down to South America and get off the beaten path in the Mendoza wine region of Argentina, or sip your days away exploring the oldest wine regions of Champagne, Bordeaux and Burgundy in the quaint and romantic French countryside!

Napa Valley

Taste the best wine of your life, bike around, indulge in good food… what could be better, am I right?? If you want to add a little adventure into your wine escape, spend a few days hiking in Yosemite National Park, or maybe road trip down Highway 1 along the rugged California coast! Stay at the Auberge Du Soleil for the ultimate honeymoon experience.

Mendoza, Argentina

Half Day Wine Tasting in Cellar from Mendoza by Tangol Tours | Bookmundi

A gateway to incredible wine at the foothills of the Andes Mountains, this destination is perfect for the couple that wants a bit of adventure as well as some luxury wine experiences! Maybe even spend a few days in Buenos Aires as well!

Vines Resort and Spa is a chic 22-room hotel with sweeping views of the vineyards and an infinity pool with snow-capped mountain views!

Douro Valley, Portugal

Thanks to moving some of our business to Porto, Kenny and I recently got to explore the Douro Valley and we were BLOWN AWAY. Did I mention one of my favorite hotels, The Six Senses, opened a pristine location there?? It’s the full-on wine-centric Portugal experience we were looking for, plus, the surrounding countryside is absolutely gorgeous!! Spend some time in Porto while you’re at it!

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The best honeymoon destinations for:

The Adrenaline Junkies

If you’re the type of couple who doesn’t like to follow in other people’s footsteps, consider a unique and thrilling destination like New Zealand or Switzerland!

New Zealand

What’s great about New Zealand is the drastic change in scenery (ever seen Lord of The Rings?) and culture, while still having the convenience of everyone speaking English! New Zealand is a great honeymoon destination because you can still have the luxury experiences you’re craving, but also get a bit more, like sky diving, bungee jumping, rafting, speed boating, and glacier helicopter tours!

Get your adrenaline fix in Queens Town on the South Island, then make your way up to Mount Cook and the infamous Marlborough wine region!! If you have time for the North Island as well, you can explore Hobbiton and Waiheke Island. For a full-on luxury experience in Queenstown, go with the Azur Lodge!

Azur Lodge-Queenstown Updated 2021 Price & Reviews | Trip.com

Switzerland

Private Trip: From Geneva to Interlaken | Switzerland Tour

Interlaken is known for its extreme activities as well as its extreme beauty! Nestled in the infamous Swiss Alps, Interlaken is surrounded by beautiful lakes, dramatic valleys, and all the traditional Swiss charm.

If hiking, paragliding, bungee jumping, mountain coasters, and adorable villages sound good to you, this might just be the honeymoon spot you’ve been looking for! Stay in the most gorgeous five-star hotel, Victoria Jungfrau, for the best luxury experience! I mean, just LOOK at this spa!

The best honeymoon destinations for:

The Road Trip Romantics 

There’s something whimsical about renting a car (or a chic antique convertible, anyone?!!) and exploring the countryside on your own time. Stop in all the small villages that catch your eye that would otherwise be overlooked, or in the case of Iceland, stop at any and every waterfall you pass for that stunning photo-op!

Portugal

A road trip through Portugal gives you the opportunity to take your time admiring all that this unique country has to offer. From Porto and the Douro Valley, to the colorful and vibrant city of Lisbon, to the rocky coastlines of the Algarve! Ah, I’m already mentally here. Plus, did I mention the FOOD?? In the Algarve Coast, the Bela Vista Hotel is the perfect spot to post up!! As for Porto, go with the Yeatman!

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Iceland

Iceland 2021: Top 10 Tours, Trips & Activities (with Photos) - Things to Do in Iceland | GetYourGuide

Iceland is a great honeymoon choice for those couples looking for something a little different and out of the ordinary! The main highway encircles the island, lending to the perfect leisurely road trip where you are certain to encounter some magical, mystical views.

Go in the summertime to get the best, most mild weather. Chase waterfalls, swim in the Blue Lagoon, go hiking, and even experience the other-worldly geothermic activity from the island’s volcano! For a honeymoon, splurge on a stay at Retreat at the Blue Lagoon!

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon hotel | Grindavik, Grindavik | Smith Hotels

Lagoon View Junior Suite image 1

The best honeymoon destinations for:

The All-Inclusive Sun Seekers

There is something amazing to be said for an all-inclusive honeymoon. No worrying about the bill, no searching for the best restaurants and trying to get reservations, no back-and-forth with tour companies. Just you, your boo, bottomless piña coladas, and everything you could want at your fingers tips, ALL INCLUDED! You’ll find the best all-inclusive resorts in favorite Caribbean destinations like Jamaica and Mexico!

Jamaica

My sister-in-law RAVES about their stay at Sandals Montego Bay for their honeymoon!! Spend your days paddle-boarding, lounging in a cabana, sipping fruity cocktails, taking a sailboat tour through the crystal clear waters, or getting your sweat on at the tennis courts! There are unlimited included land activities!! When you need a break from the sun, head to their award-winning Red Lane Spa!

SANDALS® Montego Bay: All-Inclusive Resort In Jamaica 

Mexico

Mexico is a great destination to get all the luxury of a faraway, exotic destination, but close to home! If you have limited PTO or don’t want to hop on an around the world flight, Mexico is a fabulous honeymoon spot. For the best bang for your buck, Mexico is known for having some of the best all-inclusives. Whether you’re heading to the warm waters of the Yucatan on the east side, or prefer whale watching and fine dining on the West Coast, we’ve got options!! Plus, a major reason to choose Mexico is obviously the FOOD.

For Cabo, go for luxury at the Waldorf Astoria Pedregal, or all-inclusive at Marquis Los Cabos! If you prefer swimming in warmer waters, head to the adults-only Beloved by Excellence, or the UNICO 20° 87° Hotel Riviera Maya (even spa treatments are included!!!)

And for all-out luxury, check out the One & Only Mandarina! One of the most beautiful hotels I’ve ever stayed in.

The best honeymoon destinations for:

The Food & Culture Lovers

These honeymoon locations are for the foodie couple that also appreciates a bit of history and culture with their relaxation, places like France, Italy, and Greece provide the best of both worlds. They all have incredible cultures, incredible museums, and arguably the best food in Europe!

Paris, France

The city of light and the city of love... what could be a more perfect honeymoon destination?! Picnic under the Eiffel Tower, wander through the Lourve (and many other incredible museums), or take a day trip to the Palace of Versailles or the region of Champagne. The activities are endless!!! For an Eiffel Tower view, stay at the Shangri-La Paris, and of course, get your quintessential robe photo out the window!!

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Greece

History buffs: be sure to begin in Athens where you can visit the Acropolis before escaping to the Greek island of Milos (where the statue of Venus was discovered), and end your trip in romantic Santorini.

In Milos, charter a boat to the infamous Kleftiko Cliffs, lounge on the lunar-landscape beach Sarakiniko, and eat as much feta cheese as you possibly can!! While there aren’t massive luxury hotel chains in Milos, the boutique, family-owned hotels add to the charm! The only five-star hotel on the island is Milos Cove, and man, is it gorgeous!!

Milos Cove, Komia – Updated 2021 Prices

15 Things To Do in Milos

Kleftiko Cliffs

READ MORE: The Jetset Guide to Santorini

Italy

Hide from the summer heat in one of the many art galleries scattered around Florence, or wander the ancient streets of Rome while cooling off with a cone of gelato.

Italy is where the Renaissance began and where many of the best artists and thinkers of all time lived and worked. The architecture of Italy is incredible, the scenery captivating, and the museums are world-renowned! And, for a break on the coast, you can head to the Amalfi Coast after exploring some of Italy’s most treasured cities.

Where to stay in Italy for a honeymoon:

Villa San Michele Florence – a Belmond Hotel

St. Regis Florence

 

Ravello

Perched 1000 feet up into the cliffside, with some of the most stunning views of anywhere in the world, Ravello is Italy’s biggest hidden gem. Stay at the magnificent Belmond Caruso

The best honeymoon destinations for:

The Beach Lovers

Sunseekers, unite!! One of my favorite destinations has beautiful weather no matter when you go: Hawaii!! For those wanting to escape winter, head to Anguilla. Or, for a summer beach destination, consider island hopping in Greece. And for those looking for the absolute most beautiful beaches in the world? The Maldives is for you. You really can’t go wrong with a beach honeymoon.

Hawaii

I love Hawaii so much that it’s where Kenny and I chose to get married! For your honeymoon, I’d go with happening Maui or remote Lanai.

Maui is one of my all-time favorite islands in general, and it couldn’t be a more perfect honeymoon destination, especially if you choose to stay at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea. It has the best of both adventure and luxury, from watching the sunrise on Mount Haleakala (a dormant volcano), to navigating the road to Hana, to living lavishly at the hotel spa, and eating at my favorite restaurant in the world – Mama’s Fish House! 

Or, hop on over to Lanai for one of the most remote, relaxing romantic experiences in the world.

The Four Seasons Lanai

A secluded luxury oasis with 5-star restaurants like Nobu and Malibu Farm, and an out-of-this-world breakfast buffet that will keep you full until dinner! This is one of the most exclusive resorts in Hawaii, and is hands down a favorite among honeymooners. 

Greek Isles

Summer in Europe is always a good idea, especially if you’re cruising around the Greek Islands! My favorite way to explore the islands is to charter a boat for a few nights, but even without that, it’s SUPER easy to get around the islands via ferry! To avoid the crowds, go with Milos, or Naxos, but for all-out LUXE, choose an ocean view suite on Santorini or Mykonos! 

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The Maldives

If you’re looking for a country that is 99% water (that’s right…) and 1% STUNNING beaches, look no further than the Maldives. Planning a honeymoon to the Maldives can be a little overwhelming at first. There are more than 200 resorts to choose from (!!!), and they all cater to a different type of couple, with a different budget. Each resort has different things to offer (some are better for divers, some are better for surfers, some have better food, some have better overwater bungalows, etc, etc), but, don’t worry – the Maldives happens to be my favorite place in the world and I have all of the intel for you. Check out my guide below.

READ MORE: JETSET CHRISTINA’S ULTIMATE MALDIVES GUIDE

The best honeymoon destinations for:

The Nature Enthusiasts

If you’ve been dreaming about getting up close and personal with elephants, a luxury African Safari might just be in the cards for you! On the other hand, if you’re the type of couple who loves to spend a day out in the mountains hiking, there is hardly anywhere as picturesque as the Italian Dolomites/South Tyrol! 

Africa

The best destinations for Safaris in Africa are going to be Kenya, Botswana, Tanzania, and South Africa. If you want an all-out luxe safari lodge experience, the And Beyond Sandibe Safari Lodge in Botswana pulls out all the stops. From their modern eco-lodge design, to customized safari/wine tastings, to helicopter rides around the famous Okavango River Delta!

Another great option for my luxury lovers is the Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge in Botswana! YES, IT’S A THING!!

If you dream of hiking Mount Kilimanjaro as well as fitting in a safari, head for Kenya! The most sought-after Safari Lodge in Kenya is the Mahali Mzuri, located right in the middle of the renowned Masai Mara right on the path of the great migration. Plus, how cool are these luxury yurts?? Mahali Mzuri 10

As for South Africa, the Phinda Mountain Lodge by And Beyond is the créme de la créme!

Dolomites/South Tyrol

Dolomites | Location, Mountains, & Facts | Britannica

Craving some small mountain villages, vast vistas, and maybe a plate of raclette? The Dolomites are calling!

The Dolomites are one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the Italian Alps and offer a wide range of activities. Not to mention, they pair perfectly with a few days in Milan and Lake Como for a well-rounded stay! If stepping into The Sound of Music sounds like your own personal heaven, go ahead and book a few nights in the elegant Miramonti Boutique hotel, and soak up some views like these…

Gallery image of this property

Gallery image of this property

Kauai

Known as “The Garden Isle,” this lush island is the perfect escape for couples that want to be surrounded by pristine nature! Think epic pastel sunsets, gorgeous clear waters, top-notch hiking on the NaPali Coast and the Waimea Canyon, jungle wildlife, and unreal helicopter tours that will make you feel like you’re in the movie Jurassic Park. For luxury, opt to stay at the Lodge at Kukui’ula, or for more rustic-chic seclusion, stay at the adorable Waimea plantation cottages!

Mexico

I bet you wouldn’t guess this resort is in Mexico, right!?

One&Only Mandarina is located 1 hour North of the Puerto Vallarta airport, in a secluded, gated new development called Mandarina. Its focus is on being one with the gorgeous natural beauty that surrounds it, and it is the IDEAL hotel for the nature lover. It sits on the edge of a rainforest and it is very lush and jungly. 

All of the suites are modern jungle treehouses stilted up 40 feet in the air!!! One of my favorite things about this resort is the way each modern treehouse villa was constructed to blend in seamlessly with nature. The O&O hashtag is #NatureUnspoiled and it’s easy to see why – the natural beauty and connection to nature here at Mandarina is so special, and the feeling waking up surrounded by birds chirping and crashing waves, sipping your coffee poolside, at your ocean-view jungle treehouse? Unbeatable.


 

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Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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