15 Must-Visit Tropical Honeymoon Destinations for a Relaxing Getaway


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If you're searching for turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and world-class amenities, consider one of these islands.

Published on May 08, 2025 09:00AM

Photo by 515 Photo Co.

In the lead-up to your big day, there are a number of aspects to look forward to, including spending time with loved ones, seeing your vision come to life, and, most importantly, saying "I do" to your partner. However, there's another key tradition that may generate just as much excitement for you and your soon-to-be spouse: going on your honeymoon. While some couples depart for this getaway immediately following their weddings, others wait weeks—or even months—before jetting off. Regardless of when you choose to head out on this adventure, you're likely envisioning a relaxing vacation that will allow you and your partner to spend quality time with one another and decompress from the stress of planning your nuptials. If that's the case, you're likely searching for a tropical honeymoon destination.

Vacationing in an island location offers you the best of both worlds; in addition to having pristine beaches, you'll also be able to enjoy a number of excursions and adventures—from snorkeling and hiking to sailing and jet-skiing. Due to their proximity to the water, many of these spots also offer tons of fresh seafood, making your dining experience that much more impressive.

Meet the Expert

  • Dr. Terika L. Haynes is the CEO and founder of Dynamite Travel, a luxury travel and media consultancy.
  • Queen Meador is the founder of and bespoke travel consultant for You Deserve It Vacations, a boutique travel agency.

If you're searching for a tropical honeymoon destination, we've got you covered. Here, two travel experts break down some of their favorite islands for newlyweds, as well as provide recommendations on where to stay, what to do, and where to eat. Read on for all of the must-know details.

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St. Lucia

Courtesy of Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort

"This destination is great for honeymooners and couples because of the romantic landscape," says Dr. Terika L. Haynes, the CEO and founder of Dynamite Travel. You and your partner will be in awe of the Pitons volcanic mountains, cobalt blue sea, and the sandy beaches. She recommends staying at Ladera, the only resort that's built on a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other relaxing options include Jade Mountain and Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort.

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Turks and Caicos

Courtesy of COMO Parrot Cay

Just a short flight away from the continental U.S., Turks and Caicos is the perfect spot for a relaxing and stress-free honeymoon experience. Queen Meador, the founder of and bespoke travel consultant for You Deserve It Vacations, recommends taking a sunset yacht charter, snorkeling at Smith's Reef, and booking a private beach picnic on a sandbar. Stay at Amanyara, a secluded luxury resort, or COMO Parrot Cay, which is set on its own 1,000-acre private island. With perfect sand and clear waters, Meador adds that this island offers peace, privacy, and five-star indulgence.

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Jamaica

Courtesy of the Geejam

"Jamaica has positioned itself as a honeymoon destination for many years," Haynes says. The island’s many idyllic resorts, including Geejam and Round Hill, continue to host couples seeking privacy, beauty, and fun. Regardless of your interests, we're sure you'll find something to enjoy on the island, whether you opt for a snorkeling expedition, hiking adventure, or just some leisure time in the sun.

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Fiji

Mark Meredith / Getty Images

Fiji isn't just one island but rather a collection of 333—and many of them are the perfect spot for a tropical honeymoon. "This destination is great for couples who want to island hop and have multiple stays in one trip," says Haynes. With palm tree-lined beaches, clear lagoons, and impeccable conditions for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and surfing, this location is the ideal place to head to celebrate your recent nuptials. She recommends staying at the Namale Resort or the LikuLiku Lagoon Resort, a wilderness island retreat.

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Phuket, Thailand

Courtesy of Amanpuri

Rainforests, mountains, and, most importantly, beautiful beaches lined with crystalline water define Phuket, Thailand. This island in the Andaman Sea is iconic for good reason: It’s home to countless postcard-worthy spots, which has made it a popular filming destination (The Beach and Bridget Jones to Star Wars and 007). "This destination is great for couples who like to have fun," Hayne says. Amanpuri, the flagship location for Aman, and Banyan Tree Phuket are bucket-list resorts that will make you feel as though you’re living in paradise.

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Curaçao

Tim Drivas Photography / Getty Images

"With its Dutch-Caribbean charm, Curaçao is both vibrant and off-the-beaten-path—perfect for couples wanting culture with their luxury," Meador says. While on the island, she recommends exploring downtown Willemstad, snorkeling at the Blue Room Cave, or booking a romantic dinner on a floating dock. Stay at Baoase Luxury Resort, which Meador calls "a Balinese-inspired beachfront oasis with private villas, plunge pools, and top-tier dining."

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The Bahamas

BenDower / Getty Images

Traveling to this country of 700 islands requires just a short flight from the continental U.S. As one of the closest tropical honeymoon destinations, the Bahamas offer "unmatched convenience, barefoot luxury, and unique experiences like private island excursions," Meador says. Start in Nassau and then hop to other popular hotspots, like the Exuma Islands and Paradise Island. As for where to stay? We love the Rosewood Baha Mar on Cable Beach; come for the seaside views and sprawling luxury resort—and stay for the flamingos that roam on the property.

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St. Barths

Nancy C. Ross / Getty Images

Talk about an island paradise. St. Barths boasts chic hotels perfect for a romantic getaway. Meador advises booking a stay at Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France, which fuses French sophisticated with island glamour. "This is the Caribbean’s most stylish island—a favorite for fashion-forward couples and jet-set romantics," she adds. Head downtown for some designer shopping, go beach-hopping, or make a reservation at Shellona, which is known for its live music offerings.

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Bali, Indonesia

raquel arocena torres / Getty Images

"Spiritual, exotic, and culturally rich, Bali offers luxury with soul, ideal for couples craving romance with meaning," says Meador. Wellness-obsessed couples should head to Ubud for yoga, rice paddies, sunrise volcano hiking, and raw vegan eats; Meador recommends staying at Mandapa, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve. For the best surfing and beaches, head to the southern end of the island—and stay at Bvlgari Resort Bali. However, make sure to also reserve some time to explore a few spots that are off the beaten path by renting a motorbike and cruising around.

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Mauritius

LeoPatrizi / Getty Images

You may not be familiar with Mauritius, an African island in the Indian Ocean, where the primary language is French, but you should be. "This destination is a bucket-list dream for many couples because of the gorgeous beaches," Haynes says. Home to the Black River Gorges National Park (for rainforest hiking), botanical gardens, and extensive reefs, this small country has so much to offer you and your partner as a tropical honeymoon destination. Haynes recommends booking a stay at the One&Only Le Saint Geran, a luxury five-star resort.

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Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Denise Johnson / Getty Images

It didn’t get its reputation as the honeymoon island for nothing. "For many, it’s the pinnacle of paradise—remote, romantic, and undeniably breathtaking," says Meador. Book your stay at the Four Seasons Bora Bora, Conrad Bora Bora Nui, or St. Regis Bora Bora. There's so much to do in Bora Bora. Meador recommends jet-skiing, going snorkeling, or having a beachside dinner under the stars.

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The Maldives

Levente Bodo / Getty Images

There's a reason why the Maldives are a famous tropical honeymoon destination. "The Maldives are all about luxury in seclusion, offering ultimate privacy and over-the-top honeymoon pampering," says Meador. She advises staying at Soneva Fushi or The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort for "for exceptional butler service and unforgettable villas." Spend your days swimming side by side with unique sea creatures (including clownfish!), exploring a private sandbar, or getting pampered with a spa treatment.

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The Seychelles

fokkebok / Getty Images

"With giant tortoises, granite boulders, and wild beauty, the Seychelles are untouched elegance at its finest," says Meador. This group of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean offers helicopter tours, hiking, and snorkeling adventures. She recommends staying at Six Senses Zil Pasyon or North Island, a Luxury Collection Resort, both private retreats that embody the concept of an eco-luxury experience.

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Taha'a, French Polynesia

Courtesy of Le Taha'a Island Resort & Spa

Bora Bora doesn’t have a monopoly on Polynesian honeymoons. Its neighboring island, Taha'a, is also stunning, which isn't surprising considering the fact that they share the same electric blue waters. Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa, located on a private island just a few minutes away from Taha’a by dinghy, boasts dreamy overwater bungalows with views of the sunrise and sunset, mouthwatering food, and easy access to the life-changing drift snorkeling at Coral Gardens.

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Zanzibar, Tanzania

Courtesy of Baraza Resort & Spa Zanzibar

The semi-autonomous island nation of Zanzibar—just off the coast of Tanzania—is the perfect place for a tropical honeymoon. Spend time floating in the turquoise water or lying on the sandy beaches. When you want to explore, check out the Stone Town of Zanzibar, a UNESCO site, or the tiny fishing villages scattered throughout the archipelago. Book a stay at Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa or Baraza Resort & Spa.

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