When you are trying to decide on a honeymoon destination, there are so many places to choose from all around the globe. When we were planning our honeymoon we considered tons of places. We found there are plenty of places that make perfect honeymoon destinations close to home, here in the USA. Whether you can not get too much time off work, are on a tight budget, are looking for a shorter trip and planning a bigger honeymoon later or you don’t have time to worry about passports and the additional planning required for an international trip you can still have an amazing honeymoon in the states.
Here are a few of our top recommendations for places to honeymoon in the USA.
Hawaii
Hawaii is on the top of pretty much everyone’s list for a place to honeymoon, providing a tropical paradise without leaving the country. There are several Islands to choose from, each with their own vibe and benefits.
Kauai
Recommended by Patti and Matilda from The Travel Sisters.
The island of Kauai, rightfully nicknamed the Garden Isle, is one of the best honeymoon destinations in the United States. Although all of Hawaii is pretty popular with honeymooners, I consider Kauai the most romantic island as it is full of beautiful lush scenery and not as developed. Still, there is no shortage of fun things to do whether interested in beaches, snorkeling, paddleboarding, surfing, kayaking, golf or even laying by a pool. One of the biggest draws is the opportunity to take an amazing hike, including the famous Kalalau Trail along the stunning Napali Coast. Helicopter tours are one of the best ways to see most of the island and view some places that would be otherwise unreachable. For honeymooners looking to splurge, couples can’t go wrong with the St. Regis Princeville Resort. Located on Kauai’s north shore overlooking Hanalei Bay, this resort offers stunning mountain and ocean views from its infinity pool, terrace and even some rooms. Bonus, this is also one of the best spots in Kauai to catch a gorgeous Hawaiian sunset while sipping champagne.
Maui
Recommended by Dave and Deb of ThePlanetD.com
St Thomas & US Virgin Islands
Recommended by Sarina from The Dating Divas
If you are looking for a destination near the east coast, the US Virgin Islands provide an amazing destination for a honeymoon. Here is our post about romantic honeymoon destinations.
We asked our team for their suggestions and a lot of them said St. Thomas (or pretty much all of the US Virgin Islands). Our Diva Sarina said: “Picturesque views everywhere, perfect temperatures, delicious island food, other nearby islands to explore (St. Johns was amazing!), lots of less know beaches (so not over crowded), good shopping and my favorite – unique and romantic activities! They have a gondola-like thing to take you to the top of a hill where there is a restaurant overlooking the island/water and a ferries wheel. We also had a fancy dinner on a yacht at sunset.
Check out 100+ more romantic vacations and honeymoons from The Dating Divas
New Orleans
Recommended by Yulia from The Foodie Miles
New Orleans might have a reputation for having outrageous night life and crazy parties, but it also has a completely different side – charming, quiet and romantic. To spend honeymoon in New Orleans is to walk the narrow streets of French Quarter marveling at the fern plants on every balcony, to ride a street car into Garden District and get lost among historic mansions (some of which belong to celebrities), to eat mind-blowingly delicious food prepared by world-renowned chefs or street food that is equally good and so much more! To make a fairy tale complete take a carriage ride through French Quarter or even a sunset gondola ride in City Park. Finish the day off with a cocktail at one of the many jazz clubs because what can be more romantic than listening to jazz in the city of its origin?
Check out where to eat in New Orleans
Vermont
Recommended by Amy & Nathan from Two Drifters
Vermont is a wonderful choice for a honeymoon in the US. One of us Two Drifters lived in VT for more than 10 years, so we may be biased, but Vermont is gorgeous and spectacular in all seasons. It’s truly one of New England’s quintessential romantic destinations.
Summer is verdant and warm, with hiking, boating, and enjoying the sunset over Lake Champlain. It’s also a time for sipping wine or tasting beer at one of Vermont’s many breweries.
Autumn is sensational, with the best foliage around. Romantic activities include apple picking, scenic drives, and sampling local, season far at cozy restaurants.
NYC
New York City holds a special place in our hearts. It was the first trip we took as a couple. The city is full of amazing things to do and see. On our short list would be enjoying some fine dining together at one of the top restaurants. We like to go during lunch time for an affordable meal of the same quality as dinner, but usually half the price or less. Go on a walk through central park, stopping at the romantic bridges. Go to a musical on Broadway and walk through Times Square. Spend an afternoon strolling The MET. Go to the Highline and enjoy the views seeing all of the major buildings as you walk and a view of the statue of liberty. Make your way to the Top of the Rock for an amazing view of the beautiful city. We recommend going just before sunset allowing you to see the city during the daylight through the sunset and see the city lit up at night. You really can find something for everyone so take some time to research your own interest to make your NYC honeymoon your own adventure!
California
San Francisco
San Francisco, known as the City by the Bay, offers a multitude of adventures and experiences for any newlyweds. With some of the nation’s best restaurants, upscale stores, and charming boutiques, incredible museums, charming neighborhoods, welcoming hotels, beautiful scenery, and convenient day trips, San Francisco is an ideal honeymoon destination. Consider a hike in Marin, a ferry ride to Sausalito, or a wine tasting day in Napa. Explore Golden Gate Park, the iconic Ferry Building, or the culture of the Mission District. Celebrate with spectacular views, delicious cocktails, and then relax and recharge in luxury.
For a beautiful boutique hotel, check out the recently renovated Inn at Union Square was inspired by the iconic, Victorian homes of the city, featuring signature touches that evoke the feeling and comforts of home. This high-end, boutique hotel offers room service from Morton’s Steakhouse, complimentary wine & cheese receptions each evening, and complimentary breakfast, while the stunning Spreckels Suite features a spacious living area with wood burning fireplace and half bath, a walk-in closet, and a spa-like bathroom with a sitting area and dual shower heads with several body sprays. Simply put, it is a stunning, luxurious honeymoon suite tucked away within the bustle of San Francisco.
Cambria
Recommended by Jared Brown
Cambria is the town I find truly breathtaking, Cambria, California. This is a very relaxed coastal town, one that is surrounded by magnificent natural beauty as well as the Pacific Ocean. The town takes about 4-hour drive from cities, Los Angeles and San Francisco, which makes it a perfect weekend getaway place for couples and honeymooners. It’s got everything that honeymooners might look for, from historic museums, beautiful old homes, romantic walk by the beach, hiking trails and famous festivals, and much more.
When I went there with my wife, Nancy, I did not expect the place to be so good because it is not mentioned a lot of the more popular travel blogs. But Boy, we were surprised. There are Plenty of fun activities to do and a number of great restaurants ( our favorite is Black Cat Bistro )
San Diego
To enjoy the amazing weather and beautiful beaches, San Diego is a perfect honeymoon destination in the US. You don’t have to go to Venice to enjoy a gondola ride. Going on a gondola ride through the canals of Coronado Cays is a must for honeymooning couples. Enjoy a whale watching cruise and make sure you go under the Coronado Bridge where legend has it a kiss will bring you luck and fortune. For a day on the coast, enjoy La Jolla Cove, one of San Diego’s most photographed places for a reason. There really are tons of things to do in San Diego for a newlywed couple.
Napa Valley
With its stunning natural beauty, ideal climate and renowned wines perfectly paired with world-class cuisine, the Napa Valley is one of the ideal destinations in the world for any celebration, especially a honeymoon. Couples may choose from a variety of accommodation options including lavish five-star resorts to intimate B&B’s. The valley’s thriving culinary scene boasts more than 150 restaurants with farm-to-fork fare and more Michelin stars per capita than any other wine region in the world. While Napa Valley wineries are one of the most alluring reasons people visit, activities go beyond wine tasting. Options include riding in a hot air balloon; health and wellness (think spa treatments and volcanic mud baths); hiking; biking; canoeing or paddling on the Napa Valley River; or exploring the more than 10,000 works of art seen across the valley at 70 different wineries and more than 40 arts and culture establishments.
Washington State
For a honeymoon in the Pacific Northwest, head to Washington. Stay in Seattle and enjoy the city for a few days. Go to Pikes Place Market, to the top of the space needle and enjoy the Chihuly Garden and Glass. We really enjoyed the milkshakes and molten chocolate cakes at Hot Cakes for dessert.
After a few days in the city, make your way up to the San Juan Islands. Just over an hour and a half drive from Seattle, you can take a ferry from Anacortes to the San Juan Islands. The essential thing you must do is to go whale watching. We took the Zodiac tour with Western Explorer and had an amazing time. This isn’t like the large whale watching boats. Instead, you are suited up for the wind and speed out on the type of speed boat they coast guard uses. From what we understood you have roughly a 50% chance of seeing orcas, but a pretty high chance of seeing some type of whale. We saw two humpback whales and one baline whale on our trip.
Florida
Orlando
Recommended by Gemma from Two Scots Abroad
Where do the big kids go to have fun? Orlando, Florida! Nothing says I’m crazy about you more than going loop da loop on the Incredible Hulk Coaster, taking the enchanting ride on the Hogwarts Express or sipping cocktails on iDrive. The energy of Orlando will keep your honeymoon alive and who knows, maybe the next time you return will be with the mini me!
The theme parks in Orlando alone could fill up itineraries for weeks. Some couples may spend their entire honeymoon in Disney World alone. The firework show is amazing and you can enjoy time discovering the world in Epcot.
Just down the highway is Universal Studios where may 20 or 30-somethings will be amazed by the Wizarding World of Harry Potter that has been a part of their childhood through adult life.
Once you have ridden all the rollercoaster you can handle, take some time to go to a nearby beach. Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach are both about an hour away from each other.
Check out 6 essential experiences every honeymoon couple should have in Orlando.
Miami
Recommended by Luke from Back Street Nomad
Year-round sun, cocktails the size of your head, and beaches for days are just a few of the reasons Miami is perfect for a honeymoon. If you are after a relaxing honeymoon, you could happily park yourself on South Beach for a week and not think twice about it. But you’re the type that can’t sit still for longer than an hour then there is still a big city hiding behind Biscayne Bay, including our Cuban friends (and their cigars) just waiting to be explored. And if reading on the sand loses its shine, take a break by taking in a basketball game, hire some bikes, or going on a jet ski tour around the island. And of course, with so many bars lining the beautiful art deco precinct, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to keep well lubricated as well.
Check our 10 ways to dial up the romance in Miami.
What do you think? Have we missed any places you recommend for a honeymoon in the USA?
He is an expert travel advisor and enthusiast. He has traveled extensively in the USA, Central American, South America and Europe. He has visited every Sandals Resort and is one of a select few Diamond Elite members of the Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club.
Dan graduated from Johnson & Wales University with an associate degree in Culinary Arts. Later he graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a focus on people and culture.
Karla
Saturday 9th of September 2017
I have always loved San Francisco as a city and it's also near Big Sur for the great out doors. I love it.
Jennifer Melroy
Wednesday 6th of September 2017
I would rather go to St. John than St. Thomas. Fewer tourists and major hotels. I would also add Alaska to this list as well. That would be amazing to just rent a cabin and spend some time watching the stars.
Annika
Tuesday 5th of September 2017
Since I am still single, this is a helpful post. I have always imagined going to Hawaii for my future honeymoon. There are some other great choices on your list as well that I will keep in mind.
Anna @ shenANNAgans
Tuesday 5th of September 2017
I'd pick Napa Valley if I was off on a honeymoon (lets be honest, I'd go on my own too) in the USA. All about the wine, bout the wine! :)
MEAGAN
Monday 4th of September 2017
I'm somewhat familiar with most of these places, but have never heard of Cambria until now. Sounds just as gorgeous and unique as all these other locations! For honeymoon locations, check out the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. Especially in fall, you can get some breathtaking mountain/valley views absolutely coated in autumn colors :)