The perfect honeymoon sets the stage for the marriage and is an ideal opportunity for the married couple to bathe in wedded bliss. Naturally, the destination plays a huge part in this once-in-a-lifetime affair, so it's important to put a lot of thought into what's needed for an unforgettable time. While some couples may prefer exploring a bustling city, others might desire some quiet time for themselves. If your wedding has already stretched your budget thin, consider these romantic honeymoon destinations within America.
If you're looking for a tropical resort that's not too far from home, you can't go wrong with Lake Charles. Here, you'll find a fun Vegas gambling atmosphere and environment, but with more of an authentic, small-town vibe. We recommend boating on Lake Charles during the day and getting glammed up in the evening for the casino and party nightlife.
There are many luxurious hotels in the area, like the Golden Nugget and L'Auberge Casino Resort, and plenty of activities that you can partake in for an extended stay. It's the perfect honeymoon spot for couples who want the best of both worlds -- a little bit of Vegas and an intimate, outdoorsy destination.
There's something romantic about Santa Barbara. This timeless getaway exudes elegance and luxury from the impeccable beachfront resorts to the cozy boutique inns. This is the perfect place to unwind after a hectic wedding. You can sunbathe on one of the many beaches in the area or take a trip to a winery to enjoy some local products. We cannot recommend The Santa Ynez Wine Tour enough. It's beautiful, scenic, and features tastings at three local wineries. Even a midnight stroll around the city under the stars can be quite fun if you enjoy looking at stunning architecture.
If you're still on the fence, here's a fun fact: JFK and Jackie had their honeymoon here!
Hawaii is often one of the most suggested honeymoon destinations in America. It even attracts tourists from all over the world. Rather than choosing one of the more popular islands like Maui, we highly recommend Kohala Coast. This hidden gem offers plenty of beautiful scenery with the same exotic, tropical weather that you'd get on other islands. It's the perfect place to connect with your beau after the wedding.
The seaside resorts, like The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, offer an unforgettable luxurious experience. They overlook the ocean and offer plenty of amenities, like spa and fitness centers and 18-hole golf courses. Other great choices include Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Four Seasons Resort, and Kona Village Resort.
You don't have to go too far from home to feel like you're in a different part of the world. If you're used to living in a noisy, bustling city like downtown New York, consider slowing down for your honeymoon and going to Keuka Lake.
This is one of the major Finger Lakes in the U.S. and is known for its warm waters and shallow depths. It's an ideal place to swim and participate in all kinds of watersports. A twilight paddle can really bring the sparks back in your relationship. Visiting world-class wineries in the area can also add a dash of romance to the trip.
One of the best honeymoon spots in Florida is Sanibel Island. Here, you'll find lots of secluded beaches for romantic heart-to-hearts, a wildlife refuge, and plenty of outdoor activities. The sunsets here are well-known for their beauty, and there are plenty of nice spots for romantic photographs.
Island Inn, Seaside Inn, and Sanibel Inn are all excellent places for a romantic getaway. The atmosphere is serene and peaceful, and you get an amazing view of the beaches and are close to many trails and lakes.
If you love reading romance novels like Pride and Prejudice, you can't go wrong with planning a honeymoon trip to Charleston, South California. It'll offer the perfect atmosphere with its Southern gentility.
Take a stroll down the beautiful cobblestoned streets and breathe in the romantic history behind the city. Visit the picturesque churches in the area, and don't forget to stop for sweet tea. If you want to add a shimmer of luxury to your honeymoon, stay at The Sanctuary. It's a world-renowned luxury oasis that can cater to you and your partner's every need.
Another picture-perfect place that's great for photographs and for slowing down is Savannah. Here, you'll find beautiful trees draped in Spanish moss and can admire the city in all of its beauty with horse-drawn carriage rides through the Historic District. It's a beautiful place that gives off a classic, romantic vibe.
We highly recommend visiting the 30-acre Forsyth Park sometime during your honeymoon. It's famous for its picturesque fountain and is also a great place for a romantic picnic.
If you prefer a woodland retreat to a beach getaway, Jackson Hole should be at the top of your list. Not only is there plenty of mountain terrain for hiking, but you can also treat your sore muscles later with a soak at the Granite Hot Springs. Book a romantic horseback riding excursion that feels like it came straight out of a romance movie if you're ready for adventure.
While you're here on your honeymoon, we recommend splurging on a private hot air balloon ride at sunrise. The view is simply extraordinary and out-of-this-world!
If you're honeymooning in the winter, you can't miss out on the luxuries offered at Aspen. This small town provides a more intimate setting, whether you want to cuddle up to your bae while drinking hot cocoa or taking advantage of the powdery snow.
There are plenty of luxurious lodges, like The Little Nell or Hotel Jerome, that can handle your every need, and there's no better way to end the night than with a horse-drawn sleigh. If you're looking for a more intimate environment, you'll also be pleasantly surprised by the many bed-and-breakfasts in the area.
Another fun and charming honeymoon destination is Nantucket. It's a good destination year-round.
Regardless of what activities you want to partake in, you'll also find it relatively easy to book a trip here. There are plenty of luxurious hotels in the area for those looking to splurge, as well as bed-and-breakfasts for those seeking a more intimate experience. Nantucket is another beach getaway that's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and more, but don't just limit yourself to beach activities. Rent a moped and travel around the island with your partner!