Celebrating your marriage by getting away to a beautiful beach paradise is what many would consider a dream honeymoon. Not only have you tied the knot, but you’re also on the other side of the busyness that comes with a wedding, the stress leading up to the big day, and all that comes with the family getting together to witness your holy matrimony.
Honeymoon aside, you could use a vacation. But what better time for a beach getaway than the beginning of your life as a newlywed? And what better way to enjoy the milestone of marriage than by laying out on a white sand beach in your favorite bikini? And spending time with your partner, of course.
Bali, Indonesia
If you’ve been daydreaming of a honeymoon getaway at an exotic beach location, chances are Bali looks quite similar. Bali is a province of Indonesia, and although it’s only half the size of Hawaii’s Big Island, it’s one of the standout destinations in all of Southeast Asia.
Luxury hotels, nightlife, and world-class dining lack nothing in terms of comfort, class, and accommodation. Even if you’re staying in an elite hotel, life outside in nature and culture is where the magic of Bali is self-evident.
The nature abounding on the island is what makes it a truly unforgettable experience. White sand beaches with clear water are standard. Dense jungles, scenic hikes, and ancient shrines await your discovery.
Balinese culture is hospitable and altruistic. As a whole, they represent strong faith and spiritual practice, as portrayed in the bestselling book and blockbuster film Eat, Pray, Love. Experience the culture and interact with friendly locals in the bustling street markets while you pick up fresh fruit or shop for souvenirs.
And despite the luxury experience and exotic location, once you get to Bali it’s surprisingly affordable. The cheap cost of living in Bali means you find plenty of ways to save while still enjoying one of the premier honeymoon vacations in the world.
Saint Lucia
Located in the Eastern Caribbean, Saint Lucia is consistently one of the top honeymoon destinations around the world. The island has several natural characteristics that make it unique. Wind through rainforest trails and under waterfalls, explore underwater landscapes at several reef-diving sites, relax on volcanic beaches, and hike the Piton mountains for a panoramic view.
Have your choice between beach resorts, open-air resorts, and luxury boutique hotels (complete with butler service, if you like).
Saint Lucia is a great choice for couples who are looking for a relaxing, laid-back honeymoon experience. The sparkling Caribbean water and the mountains that reach up and speak for themselves.
Lanai, Hawaii
Lanai is the smallest of the Hawaiian Islands and is considered by many to be the most romantic of the bunch. It’s a secluded paradise that offers the warm waves, white sands, and picturesque sunsets that Hawaii is known for.
It’s a privately owned island that remains largely uninhabited. Only 3,000 people live on the island (bought by the owner of Oracle in 2012). The main city, Lanai City, is really more of a cozy village. It’s ideal for honeymooners who want to sidestep the heavy tourism that you’ll find at other Hawaiian destinations.
You and your partner can hike to Pu’u Pehe, also known as Sweetheart Rock. Sweetheart Rock is an 80-foot rock jutting out of Mandele Bay, best seen at sunrise as the rising sun mixes a sorbet sky over the towering rock. A sunrise hike to this iconic location turns Pu’u Pehe into a monument to your love and marriage.
Surf at Hulopoe Bay, sail during sunset, and enjoy a stay at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, regarded as one of the most luxurious resorts in all of Hawaii.
Nassau, Bahamas
The Bahamas is another ideal honeymoon destination for anyone who wants to spend the majority of their stay in a plunging one-piece. With miles of pristine beaches, colorful coral reefs, and tropical weather, Nassau is a certified elite honeymoon destination with beaches you won’t want to leave.
Another plus is that Nassau is an accessible location compared to other locations on this list. There are nonstop flights from most major U.S. cities, usually for under $500. Saving money on airfare means that you can splurge on something more fun once you get there. Spa treatments, guided photography tours, and champagne dinners await.
You might even consider staying at the British Colonial Hotel, a stunning location in not one but two Sean Connery-era James Bond films.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora has been a popular vacation spot since the 1950s and has become a hot spot for extravagant honeymoons. Swim in clear water lagoons with scenic views of Mount Otemanu, the twin-peaked volcano at the centerpiece of the island (don’t worry though, your honeymoon won’t be interrupted by a volcanic eruption, it’s no longer active).
Invented in the 1960s, the overwater bungalows in Bora Bora are now a symbol of the destination and an inspiration for beach resorts everywhere. They’re a draw for honeymooners looking for a unique luxury experience. Jennifer Anniston and Justin Theroux, as well as Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban spent their honeymoons in Bora Bora beach bungalows.
Fiji
The island of Fiji is exciting and adventurous for those looking to explore one of the most beautiful destinations in the South Pacific Ocean. If your idea of the perfect honeymoon is a dreamlike private island, Fiji might be your spot. Fiji is actually a collection of 300 islands, some of them uninhabited, so you might be able to discover a spot and have it all to yourself.
Allow a good amount of time to enjoy your Fijian honeymoon — there is plenty to discover. Island hopping, boutique shopping, watersports, and lounging are some favorite activities. It also takes anywhere from 11 to 17 hours for a direct flight to Fiji, so it’s not a minimoon for most.
July through September are the ideal months to visit Fiji because it’s their dry season. The rest of the year is pretty humid — very humid. In which case you can just tie your hair up, throw some cutoffs over a ribbed one piece, and you’re good to go.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is a strip of southern Italy only 34 miles long, but you could spend years there and still not discover it all. A honeymoon to the Amalfi Coast is as romantic as it gets and will blow you away with postcard-like scenery, delectable Italian cuisine, and rich history.
Peruse art galleries and museums, bike along cliffs 500 feet tall, walk and visit 13 seaside pastel-colored seaside towns. Hold hands and walk along cobblestone streets. Rent a Vespa and go for a scenic ride. Eat authentic meatballs, pizza, and lasagna, and sip decadent wine on a private terrace.
Not to mention, there are 100 beaches to choose from, so make sure to pack your bathing suit and expect the trip of a lifetime.
Mykonos, Greece
Whitewashed seaside towns, fluorescent Mediterranean waters, and perfect beach sunsets are just a few reasons why newlyweds might choose Mykonos as their honeymoon destination.
There are beaches to explore that appeal for different reasons. Some beaches are covered with sunbeds for those looking for a leisurely day at the beach while getting some sun. Other beaches are catered towards water activities and still others welcome you and your partner to enjoy the warm sand and water in the nude.
Not only does Andie make swimwear of the best fit and quality, they actually have a flattering one-piece appropriately named The Mykonos. This could be a sign that the Mykonos is your honeymoon destination, your next swimsuit purchase, or both — even if you plan on skinny dipping once you get there.
Phuket, Thailand
Like the destinations previously mentioned, Phuket offers beautiful beaches, stunning views, and luxurious resorts that you’re looking for in a beach honeymoon.
But the island also has a mountainous rainforest to explore, busy markets, and lively nightlife.
Phuket is the beach destination for honeymooners who want to keep the party going. The nightlife is hard to beat. With cabarets, beach clubs, and go-go bars, entertainment is not hard to come by.
Even while you enjoy the happening scene of Phuket, couples can get away to nearby islands to find more privacy and seclusion. You’ll definitely want some of that during your honeymoon getaway.
Oh, and there are monkeys — lots of monkeys. Beware though, Phuket monkeys will take your food.
Make Your Honeymoon Magical
These destinations are some of the most coveted in the world for newlyweds to escape and celebrate their new life together. But whether you get to take an extravagant honeymoon or not, the love between you and your partner is what really makes it magical. Congratulations!
Sources:
How Oracle's Larry Ellison Owns Most of Hawaiian Island Lana'i | Business Insider