Your honeymoon should be the light at the end of a stressful planning tunnel: The wedding goes off without a (pun-intended) hitch, and you’re off to relax on the beach or explore with your new adventure buddy without a care in the world. Unfortunately, planning the honeymoon can be another to-do on your never ending to-do list. Vendors, venues, flowers, cake, catering, music, fun surprises to wow your guests… guests – the guestlist, seating chart – sorry, did we stress you out again?
Take a deep breath. In, out. Good. Now let us make up for it by giving you a quick, fun and easy guide to planning the perfect honeymoon. And maybe when you’re done reading, let us help even more and book it for you.
Step 1: Setting the budget
I know, I know, this was supposed to be fun and easy and now I’m bringing up budgeting. I promise it’ll be quick. Budgeting for your honeymoon is an important step to making sure you and your soon-to-be spouse are on the same page. Whether you’re on a tight budget or money is no object, rest assured that there are plenty of amazing destinations for you.
While we’re on the topic of money, consider an all-inclusive vacation for your honeymoon so that you can stop thinking about the budget asap and focus on enjoying your idea of paradise with the love of your life.
Step 2: Picking a destination
With your budget in mind, it’s time to pick a destination. Are you dreaming of a honeymoon full of life-changing adventure, simply seeking a relaxing escape to paradise, or something in between? Below are our top recommendations for whatever you’re after.
For the adventurers:
The Hotel Xcaret Arte in Cancun, Mexico is a resort unlike any other. If you’re seeking adventure and relaxation in an artistic setting, this is the resort for you.
“Discover an artisan Mexico, that has captured through generations its history and culture in looms, paintings, clay pieces and symphonies, creating a unique marvel just in front of the Caribbean Sea that fusions a natural and artistic Mexico…..its unique concept will transform the hotel industry. Come and live art from its inception. We are Mexico, we are art.”
Xcaret Arte is more than an all-inclusive because staying there also grants you access to multiple theme, adventure, and water parks throughout the jungles and waterways of Riviera Maya. From adventure tours of cenotes, to whitewater rafting, to Xcaret park and its 50 natural and cultural attractions, you’ll never run out of things to do.
After your day of adventures, stop by the Muluk Spa, relax by the pool, or head to dinner prepared by one of two Michelin Star chefs at HA’ or Encanta. The Xcaret Arte also offers 5 workshops: dancing, pottery, weaving, painting and literature.
Of the 6 Casas at Hotel Xcaret Arte, we recommend the Casa De La Paz, which offers a tranquil retreat inspired by the spa.
Discover the stunning Palisades of Western Colorado on a luxurious adventure at Gateway Canyons. If your dream honeymoon includes romantic horseback rides in the mountains, a restorative natural spa, locally-sourced dining, and stunning accommodations, Gateway Canyons is the resort for you.
“Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa has you covered for a secluded retreat filled with adventures like none other in Western Colorado. Explore the serenity of our land while hiking, riding horses and driving UTVs. Leave the crowds behind and open yourself to nature, bucket-list worthy excursions & educational activities.”
The Lodges are home to cozy rooms and suites with king beds, fireplaces and private patios or balconies with fire pits and hot tubs.
Custom Europe Trip
What’s more romantic than sipping champagne while the melody of La Vie En Rose plays under a sparkling Eiffel Tower with your true love? Perhaps an evening stroll along the Thames, Island hopping in Greece, visiting the fairy tale castles along the Rhine, or a private wine tasting in Tuscany. Europe is full of romance and adventure for couples, and a custom tour lets you create your dream European escape. Let your travel agent handle the logistics while you dream about your bucket-list European cities.
For the toes in the sand couple:
Treat yourself to an “unparalleled adults only paradise” at Excellence Playa Mujeres in the Cancun area of Mexico. If you’re seeking relaxation and indulgence, this is the resort for you. “Cancun luxury is redefined at Excellence Playa Mujeres, a beachfront paradise that brings a fresh perspective to All Inclusive resorts. Here, elegant service meets effortless style, and guests are invited to make our home their own. From our world-class culinary offerings and entertainment to our sprawling suites, every detail has been created so you can experience the extraordinary.”
Pretty much everything is included at this resort, so while you’re there, you don’t have to worry about a thing. You’ll be pampered by the top-shelf staff and amenities. For an extra charge, visit the Miilé spa for world class couples massages and treatments. You can even have that iconic private dinner on the beach, or a champagne breakfast in bed.
Secrets Moxche is an AAA Five Diamond resort in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. With over twelve dining locations, plenty of activities and a stunning beach, this resort has everything honeymoon dreams are made of. “A romantic getaway at Secrets is mesmerizing ocean views, gourmet room service or walks on the beach at sunset. It’s also the experience of spending time alone together and being enveloped by luxury, concierge services and pure indulgences.”
The resort also has a full service spa. “The Secrets Spa by Pevonia is a sublime atmosphere and sanctuary of pure indulgence. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating facial, couples massage and outdoor hydrotherapy circuit – all located within this secluded spa sanctuary.”
Sandals is known for its impeccable service and gorgeous properties in almost every corner of paradise, but we recommend the Grande St. Lucian above them all. Located on its own peninsula on Rodney Bay — home to the calmest waters in all of Saint Lucia — the resort offers sweeping views of a mile long beach beneath volcanic mountains. The Grande St. Lucian boasts a palatial lobby with views of the ocean, five pools including a zero-entry pool, a championship-level golf course, twelve gourmet restaurants, and luxurious accommodations. This all-inclusive is also home to bucket-list over-the-water bungalows.
If you ever tire (impossibly) of relaxing at the beach or one of five pools, challenge your spouse to some friendly competition on the tennis courts. Make memories snorkeling the sparkling waters together, or enjoy the water from the surface on a kayak or paddleboard. Venture out into Saint Lucia with local adventure tours like horseback riding.
Unwind at the Caribbean inspired Red Lane® Spa. “European rituals are reinterpreted with a distinctive Caribbean flair. You’ll find a unique sense of tranquility with a selection of exclusive services infused with botanical products, transforming your quest for inner beauty into a journey of endless self-discovery.”
Finish your magical day with a private candlelight dinner on the beach.
If you're on a tight budget:
From island hopping in the Caribbean to seeing the cities of Europe, cruises are a fabulous way to see more and spend less. Cruises are a great honeymoon option because they’re all-inclusive and easy. All you have to do is step aboard and sail away. Onboard, your cruise has everything you want and need: amazing entertainment, great dining, pools, spas, gyms, and more. We work with the top-rated cruise lines and can help you pick the perfect escape.
Delray Beach, FL
Delray Beach is a hidden gem along Florida’s East Coast with stunning beaches, incredible dining, fun nightlife, and a focus on wellness. It’s also nearby West Palm Beach and Boca Raton. We love the Opal Grand Oceanfront Resort.
“Opal Grand Oceanfront Resort & Spa is a luxury Florida beach getaway with a new story to tell! Completely reimagined as a contemporary coastal escape, our luxury accommodations, thoughtful design refresh, buzzworthy new dining experiences, and peaceful holistic spa are here to transport you as the Atlantic ocean beckons from just beyond our doors.”
The resort has two pools with cabanas and daybeds and is only steps from the ocean. It also has an incredible spa and gym. Outside the resort, Delray Beach is a quaint town with a vibrant arts district, excellent golf courses, surfing, museums and more. You won’t run out of new things to try with your spouse in Delray.
Savannah, GA
Savannah, Georgia is another great US honeymoon destination. Savannah is full of historic charm, and is home to some of the most beautiful parks, and excellent dining. Couples can stay at one of many historic inns with a honeymoon package, or a chic boutique hotel. We recommend dining at The Olde Pink House for a meal you’ll never forget. The Georgian-style mansion was built in 1771, and some of its residents still haunt the decadent rooms. Aside from the ghosts, the food is incredible.
Nearby Tybee Island is a fun place to spend a day in the sun. With three miles of beaches, a lighthouse, plenty of water activities, and fresh seafood, you’ll get that beachy honeymoon feel in addition to the charm and history of Savannah.
For some extra romance, book a carriage tour through town.
If you’re looking for luxury:
Visit the gem of the French Riviera, the legendary Hotel Du Cap Eden Roc. From mentions in an F. Scott Fitzgerald novel (Tender Is The Night), to current celebrities instagram pages, Hotel Du Cap Eden Roc is a star in her own right. The hotel has hosted everyone from Hemingway to John and Yoko, to the Kennedys, and Matisse and inspired literature, film, art and music. Despite her fame, the Hotel Du Cap Eden Roc maintains a tranquil and casual atmosphere where guests can relax and enjoy the surrounding beauty.
“The gorgeous grounds at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc play host to a wealth of activities to enjoy under the warm Riviera sun. Timeless pleasures that encourage you to forget about time.”
A saltwater infinity pool, pro tennis courts, and the Dior Spa are only a few of the plentiful activities available. Not to mention, the hotel is situated in the Côte D’Azure nearby picturesque villages. Indulge in the history, culture, and beauty of the French Riviera on an unforgettable honeymoon that balances both relaxation and adventure.
The Rosewood Mayakoba is one of the finest luxury resorts in the world. Situated among verdant jungle and sparkling coastline in Riviera Maya, Mexico, this resort is a romantic, luxurious paradise. The resort has also paid special attention to sustainability.
“In this oasis of comfort and tranquility, subtle touches reflect the region’s Mayan heritage. Spacious bathrooms, plunge pools, boat docks, butler service and other thoughtful amenities contribute to an elevated stay.”
The Rosewood Mayakoba offers special experiences for honeymooners like romantic dinners on the beach and couples massages at Sense, their spa. Spend your days on the white sand beach, golfing on a PGA TOUR golf course, enjoying Mayakoba’s lagoons, or at one of many stunning pools. Spend your evenings enjoying their entertainment offerings or dining at one of their 8 dining locations.
A 5-Star, all-inclusive luxury resort nestled in an isolated corner of Antigua, Hermitage Bay is a dream honeymoon destination. “A luxury boutique resort nestled on the hillside of a hidden, sandy bay, where the scent of fragrant frangipani fills the air, the sound of waves rolling on the shore surrounds you, and experiences designed to restore, ignite, and soothe the soul await. Welcome to Hermitage Bay.”
The resort is home to beachfront suites, perfect for honeymooners, as well as the Garden Spa where you can treat yourselves to a couples massage. See Antigua together on a private boat tour, or rent paddleboards and explore at your own pace. The resort also puts an emphasis on sharing the Antiguan culture with their authentic Antiguan cuisine prepared fresh with ingredients from a local farm.
A host of available activities including fishing, golf, tennis, scuba, water sports, sailing and more will keep you occupied during your stay. Explore nearby historical towns, rainforests, and wildlife sanctuaries to truly experience everything Antigua has to offer.
Step 3: Find a Travel Agent
You only have one honeymoon (hopefully!) and you want to make sure it’s the best it can be. That’s where a travel agent comes in. Travel agents have booked many honeymoons and know which resorts go above and beyond for newlyweds and which to avoid. They can also help you narrow down your destinations, dates, and resorts to find the right place for you. All you have to do is point them in the right direction and they’ll take care of the research, planning, and booking. Most travel agents get paid by the resorts they book with, so there is no (or very low) added cost and tons of added value.
Tips + Tricks
Once you’ve got your perfect honeymoon booked, checkout our honeymoon collection for the perfect airport fits and more! Congratulations! We wish you happily ever after!