You don't need to jet off to Africa, Asia, or even Europe to have a spectacular honeymoon. Whether you're looking to stay close to home, save a bit of money, or just don't have a ton of PTO to use on this post-nuptial vacation, opting for a U.S.-based experience is never a bad idea. "We often overlook the incredible destinations we have in our own backyard,” says travel adviser Julia Gregory. "With the right guidance, a domestic honeymoon can be just as special as an international honeymoon."
There are a few different aspects that make this type of honeymoon so attractive. "The most appealing thing about a domestic honeymoon is the ease of travel," says Gregory. "You’ve just spent six-plus months planning one weekend. Now, all you want to do is relax and bask in the memories. Whether you’re planning a road trip through the national parks or mini-mooning at a luxury hotel in California, [a U.S. honeymoon] gives you the chance to slow down, travel less distance, and be more present." However, even though you may be intrigued by the concept of a U.S. honeymoon destination, it can be difficult to know where to look. You may find yourself asking: How do you ensure that this getaway is a bit more romantic, unique, and celebratory than your typical weekend trip?
Here, we break down some of the best spots that the country has to offer—from impressive hiking expeditions in Colorado and Maine to relaxing coastal retreats in California and Nantucket. Read on for the 25 best honeymoon destinations to consider.
The 25 Best U.S. Honeymoon Destinations
From sandy beaches to remote mountains, there are so many incredible domestic honeymoon destinations to choose from. Here are 25 to consider for your post-nuptial vacation.
01 of 25
New Orleans, Louisiana
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Eat, drink, and celebrate your recent nuptials in New Orleans, home to a number of high-design hotels, including Peter & Paul and Maison de la Luz. In between cozy meals at romantic spots like Coquette and La Petite Grocery and drinks at the backyard wine bar Bacchanal, take time to walk around and explore the city. For a unique day trip, head across the 24-mile Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, one of the longest over-water bridges in the world, to explore the quaint small towns of Covington and Abita Springs.
02 of 25
Sedona, Arizona
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Wellness-focused couples looking for active adventures will want to head straight to this desert destination. "Hot air ballooning, hiking—the activities are just endless," says Gregory. Book a stay at the Ambiente Sedona. "The hotel design is totally unique for Sedona," Gregory adds. "It's got floor-to-ceiling glass walls, which allow for panoramic views of the Red Rocks from your rooms. Some of the rooms even have a rooftop terrace. The sunset views are going to be incredible."
03 of 25
Block Island, Rhode Island
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Looking for a U.S. honeymoon destination with a small-town vibe? Take a ferry to this Rhode Island paradise: Block Island. Stay at the modern Block Island Beach House and spend a long weekend biking around the small island, which is just seven miles long and three miles wide. Despite its size, the island is home to over 40 restaurants: Dead Eye Dick's has a backyard-like feel—while Persephone's is the spot for coffee and lunch. Be sure to take the 141 steep steps down the Mohegan Bluffs. The rocky beach at the base is one of the most beautiful you'll ever see, whether you're honeymooning stateside or abroad.
04 of 25
Newport, Rhode Island
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Prefer to stay on the mainland? Head to Newport, Rhode Island. If the picture-perfect seaside local and stunning Gilded Age mansions don’t get you, maybe this detail will: JFK and Jackie Kennedy chose Newport as the site of their 1953 nuptials. While you're there, enjoy sailing, tennis, and tours of grand historic homes like The Breakers and The Elms along the Cliff Walk. With stately rooms done up in Regency and Louis XVI décor, The Chanler at Cliff Walk is often described as one of the most romantic boutique hotels in the country.
05 of 25
Cape May, New Jersey
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Located at the southernmost tip of the Garden State, Cape May—America's oldest seaside resort town—is both a historic landmark (thanks to the high concentration of Victorian architecture) and a bustling hotspot for domestic honeymooners. Stay at the iconic Congress Hall or in a cottage at the bucolic Beach Plum Farm. Start your day with an iced coffee at Ostara's Coffeehouse, travel off the beaten path to Higbee Beach to lounge oceanside like a local, dine at Mayer's Tavern next to the marina, and end the night with a martini on the porch at the Virginia Hotel's Ebbitt Room.
06 of 25
Charlottesville, Virginia
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While you may associated this college town with the University of Virginia, there's so much more to discover. Stay at Keswick Hall, which boasts an infinity pool, golf course, clay tennis courts, and a fine-dining concept by famed French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Spend the rest of your days touring picturesque vineyards such as Pippin Hill and King Family Vineyards (check the schedule for polo matches!) and strolling the pedestrian-only streets of downtown. New restaurants at The Wool Factory, a preserved textile mill, are proof that the city is truly one of the best new food destinations.
07 of 25
Yellowstone National Park
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Touching three states, Yellowstone National Park spreads across Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. "Start in Jackson, hike the Grand Tetons, then make your way into [the park]," says Gregory. "The wildlife is so abundant and the terrain is incredibly varied." Her top choice for honeymoon accommodations? Sage Lodge in Montana, which offers everything from a full-service spa to rafting adventures and painting classes.
08 of 25
Hudson, New York
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One of the best parts of this upstate New York spot is that you don't need a car to reach it—trains depart regularly from Penn Station and drop off right in town. The hotels, particularly The Maker and Rivertown Lodge, embody the concept cozy-chic, and the main drag of Warren Street is dotted with dozens of cute restaurants and shops. If you do drive, historic mansions, open-air art museums, and beautiful hikes await in neighboring towns. such as Rhinebeck and Beacon.
09 of 25
The Florida Keys
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Cruising through the islands that comprise the southernmost part of the continental U.S. makes for the perfect low-key, warm-weather honeymoon. Start your road trip in Miami for a dose of big city vibrancy, then cruise through Key Largo and Islamorada for scuba diving, seaplane tours, and plenty of meals featuring fresh-caught fish and tropical rum drinks. Favorite accommodations include Parrot Key in Key West and the private cottages of Moorings Village in Islamorada, where the Netflix thriller Bloodline was filmed.
10 of 25
Big Sur, California
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A more secluded (but still spectacular) strip of the central California coast, Big Sur is known for its craggy cliffs, misty vistas along winding roads, and serene lodges, such as Post Ranch Inn and Ventana Big Sur, nestled amongst the massive cypress trees. "In addition to the outdoor experiences, the food and wine is top-notch," says Gregory. "There are great vineyards over in Carmel Valley that are rustic and authentic."
11 of 25
Highlands, North Carolina
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Nestled along the Georgia-North Carolina border, this quaint mountain town specializes in stunning surroundings, Southern hospitality, and accommodations steeped in rustic luxury. When you’re not antiquing, reading by the fire, or digging into a hearty brunch at Blue Bike Cafe, enjoy the scenery with a hike up Whiteside Mountain or to Secret Falls. Favorite resorts in the area include the Old Edwards Inn, Highlander Mountain House, and, in nearby Cashiers, High Hampton.
12 of 25
Kauai, Hawaii
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According to Gregory, Kauai is starting to get more exposure. This lesser-developed island feels beautifully wild, but a few resorts along the southern coast, particularly Ko'a Kea, still offer all the trappings of a traditional Hawaiian honeymoon. On the North Shore, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay stands out for its stylishly serene interiors, private poolside cabanas, and rejuvenating wellness and fitness programs.
13 of 25
Nantucket, Massachusetts
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“There’s beautiful architecture and homes, impeccable gardens, and delicious seafood,” says Gregory of this famous New England island. It also offers a range of stylish hotels, from resort-style accommodations at The White Elephant and The Wauwinet to more boutique options such as The Greydon House. After a night at Galley Beach, where you can enjoy your dinner on the sand, make sure to head to The Juice Bar, the town's go-to spot for homemade ice cream.
14 of 25
The Low Country, South Carolina
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The coastal marshes of South Carolina conjured romance long before Allie and Noah fell in love in The Notebook, and multiple destinations in the area remain popular with honeymooners. “If couples are wanting a buzzier honeymoon with a lot of great restaurants and shopping, Charleston would be a good fit,” says Gregory. “If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe with beaches, golfing, and good food, the area by Hilton Head is great.” In Charleston, make a reservation at Church and Union, an old church converted into an American restaurant, or Husk, which serves up locally-sourced Southern fare.
15 of 25
Santa Ynez Valley, California
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One hour inland from Santa Barbara, this up-and-coming wine region in central California is a delightful mix of rustic-meets-luxurious ranches, casual tasting rooms, and delicious farm-to-table restaurants. After sipping your way through Grenache Rosés and Sauvingon Blancs in Los Olivos, cap off an evening with a multi-course Michelin-rated meal at Bell’s in Los Alamos. Alisal Ranch, The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, and Hotel Ynez are three unique honeymoon-worthy spots to book your stay at.
16 of 25
Saugatuck, Michigan
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For an underrated U.S. honeymoon destination, head to the western coast of Michigan. Cruise the waters of Lake Michigan in a speedboat, sip hard ciders, or relax on the white sands of Oval Beach, which is frequently touted as one of the best in the country. The under-the-radar foodie destination is also known for great restaurants such as The Southerner and Pennyroyal Provisions. For a luxe glamping experience, book a tent at The Fields of Michigan.
17 of 25
Savannah, Georgia
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Savannah, Georgia has all the essential elements of a romantic getaway: stately garden squares with dreamy Spanish moss hanging from the live oaks, romantic bars, and restaurants, a robust arts and music scene, and, in certain sections, no open container laws, which means you can carry a cocktail while you stroll. Though there’s no shortage of great hotels downtown, the nearby Montage Palmetto Bluff is the premier resort of the area.
18 of 25
Puerto Rico
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For an island honeymoon that doesn’t require a passport, head to this tropical U.S. territory, which is an easy three-and-a-half-hour flight from Atlanta. There’s a vibrancy to the capital of San Juan that can’t be matched, and nights out in the Old San Juan neighborhood are best spent dancing while sipping on a mojito. Craving beach time? Book a suite at one of the luxury oceanfront resorts that span out along the coast. Both the St. Regis Bahia Beach and the Ritz-Carlton’s Dorado Beach keep you close to the city.
19 of 25
Southwest Colorado
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If you're searching for an unplugged mountain honeymoon experience, head to the secluded southwest corner of Colorado, which offers outdoor adventure aplenty in both the winter and summer months. "Because it's so much more remote, you'll find more all-inclusive packages at lodge-style accommodations," says Gregory, whose top resort picks in the area are Dunton Hot Springs and Taylor River Lodge. "All meals are included, plus guided activities like rafting, fishing, and horseback riding. It’s off-the-grid, but you're very well taken care of."
20 of 25
Palm Springs, California
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This desert oasis in Southern California is known for its pool parties, colorful retro motels, and mid-century modern furniture stores. While Parker Palm Springs best embodies the aesthetic, Sensei Porcupine Creek in nearby Rancho Mirage is perfect for wellness-obsessed duos. "There’s 230 acres; the grounds are stunning; and the food and service—they have a Nobu—are next-level," says Gregory. "Day guests are also not allowed, so the property is going to be extremely private and exclusive." Another option? The Rowan Palm Springs—a desert oasis located in Downtown Palm Springs, with stunning views of the San Jacinto Mountains, five-star dining on property, and a rooftop terrace that boasts a pool.
21 of 25
Coastal Maine
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Ready for a honeymoon road trip? Start in Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park before heading down the coast. "This area is for couples that are less excited about luxury accommodations and more excited about biking, hiking, kayaking and all the activities," says Gregory. "But once you go further south into Ogunquit and Kennebunkport, that’s where you’ll start finding more of the quaint Ne w England vibe. [This area] also offers several luxury hotels—and great lobster." Book a stay at Hidden Pond, which boasts top-tier dining, charming hideaways, and a slew of engaging activities perfect for newlyweds.
22 of 25
Santa Fe, New Mexico
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"Santa Fe tops my list for clients wanting a more cultural honeymoon," says Gregory. "It’s steeped in Native American tradition, and you'll find tributes to that heritage throughout the art, food, and wellness experiences. The collision of nature and culture is also incredible in this area." For lodging, it doesn’t get any more perfect than the freshly renovated Adobe-style Bishop's Lodge.
23 of 25
Alaska
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The most remote portion of the continental United States offers natural wonders unheard of in the Lower 48. Whether you're observing brown bears catching salmon on Kodiak Island or heli-skiing in the Chugach Mountains, your Alaskan honeymoon itinerary will be packed with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for adventure. Plus, the rugged lodges and resorts will envelop you in warmth and luxury each night when you arrive home. In the summertime, you'll benefit from 11 p.m. sunsets.
24 of 25
Napa Valley, California
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Luxury-oriented honeymooners will love the easy romance of Northern California's Napa Valley. Home to posh hotels, world-renowned vineyards and wineries, and, of course, The French Laundry and plenty of other Michelin-starred restaurants, Napa makes it fun to indulge in food and wine. Be sure to budget time for nearby Sonoma and Healdsburg while you're there.
25 of 25
The Catskill Mountains, New York
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In the Catskills, small southeastern New York towns like Livingston Manor, Narrowsburg, and Andes are filled with cool restaurants, distilleries, and antique shops. Come fall, there's also the beauty of the changing leaves, which are best observed with a hike along the Tusten Mountain Trail or up Overlook Mountain. Book a stay at one of the area's newer spots—Inness, Piaule, and Wildflower Farms—or opt for a popular classic, such as Foxfire Mountain House and Scribner’s Catskill Lodge.
