Best Honeymoon Destinations in the US
Now that the wedding is out of the way, you and your partner can focus on your new life together, starting with an oh-so-romantic honeymoon. To help you kick-start your marriage (without the added stress of international travel), we've gathered together a list of the best honeymoon destinations found within our own borders. All of these places offer a little something special to make your trip as unique as the love you share.
Why Go: Robert Louis Stevenson once equated wine to "bottled poetry." Well, if you and your new spouse are fans of verse, you'll find plenty of bottled poetry in Napa Valley. In California's wine country, vineyards are the things that separate verdant golf courses, soothing spas and gourmet restaurants. So plan for days overflowing with Cabernets and Sauvignon Blancs and prepare for an intoxicating trip.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Napa Valley»
Why Go: This Hawaiian island says "Aloha" to hundreds of honeymooners each year who hop over the Pacific to reach dazzling beaches and palatial resorts. But Maui also caters to the more adventurous crowd: Jump-start your marriage with a hike through Haleakala National Park or a scenic drive along the Road to Hana. Then round off the day with some hula dancing at a traditional luau.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Maui»
Why Go: If you've already dismissed Hawaii as a mainstream honeymoon spot, you need to take a closer look at Kaua'i. The archipelago's northernmost island features all the highlights of a Hawaiian getaway -- tangerine sunsets, coffee-colored beaches, cerulean waves -- without the overbearing crowds found on Oahu. Kick off your marriage with a hike along the Na Pali Coast or a lazy afternoon on Kalapaki Beach.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Kauai»
Why Go: Surround yourselves with the color of passion in one of America's most beautiful places. Sedona's famed Red Rocks provide an incredible backdrop for romantic hikes and wine tastings, while the area's mystifying vortexes may help align you and your lover's energies for a lifetime of happiness. If you prefer a more physical form of bonding, book a couples' massage at one of Sedona's spas.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Sedona»
Why Go: Craving the Caribbean but want to avoid international travel hassles? The U.S. Virgin Islands are your easy solution. With three main islands to choose from (not to mention dozens of smaller islets), honeymooners have no problem finding the perfect postnuptial paradise. For opulent hotels and exciting activities, head to St. Thomas; for USVI's history and natural beauty, try St. John; and for peace and quiet, choose St. Croix.
Why Go: Singer-songwriter John Denver once described Aspen as a place with "Memories that can't grow old." Sure, this small Colorado town is ski-central, but you don't have to hit the runs in order to enjoy Aspen's cozy lodges and gourmet restaurants (unless you want to, that is). Boasting beautiful scenery year-round and a ritzy atmosphere, Aspen is a place that you and your spouse are sure to remember.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Aspen»
Why Go: For the laid-back beachcomber, the Monterey Peninsula along the central California coast is a great place to celebrate new nuptials. Quiet communities like Carmel-by-the-Sea provide a luxurious home base for serene strolls on the sand, while Pebble Beach and Del Monte Forest boast all the green you'll need to tee off your marriage.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Monterey»
Why Go: Start your marriage off with a taste of authentic Hollywood romance (Gone with the Wind-style) in Charleston. This low-key South Carolina city pours on the Southern charm like gravy on biscuits: Gas lamp-lined cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture set the scene, while gourmet cuisine followed by a horse-drawn carriage ride will set the mood.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Charleston»
Why Go: Although it's less than 100 miles from bustling L.A., Santa Barbara may as well be a world away. This small coastal community may have lost the role of "America's film hub," but sprawling beaches and a casually elegant atmosphere have kept Santa Barbara in the spotlight. What does this mean for honeymooners? Spectacular lodging, gourmet dining and romantic sunsets over the ocean.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Santa Barbara»
Why Go: Forget the overrun Oahu beaches and Maui resorts, and head to Lanai. This private island is home to jaw-dropping scenery; red lava cliffs overlooking azure seawater that seem almost ethereal. But the views aren't the only thing that's out of this world: Price tags here are sky-high.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Lanai»
Why Go: No words can do justice to Lake Tahoe's beauty, making it a great place to celebrate the splendor of married life. Plus, you can enjoy the crystal-clear waters and jagged mountain peaks from the windows of your luxury hotel room. As your heads are already in the clouds, we recommend savoring the scenery on a romantic hot-air balloon ride.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Lake Tahoe»
Why Go: If your perfect honeymoon includes quiet beaches, cozy B&Bs and succulent seafood, then Martha's Vineyard should be high on your prospective list. That is, if you don't mind sharing the island with Hollywood's finest. When you're not cozying up with your beau, keep your eyes peeled for the likes of Bill Murray or Reese Witherspoon (and be prepared for A-list price tags).
Why Go: Like Aspen, Vail has earned a reputation as prime powder-hound territory. But even if you aren't planning to hit the slopes, don't rule out this Colorado town as a honeymoon option. As well as renowned ski runs, Vail boasts a handful of stately mountain lodges, gourmet restaurants and relaxing spas. But be warned: Accommodations here charge top dollar, so prepare for cringe-worthy room rates.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Vail»
Why Go: If you and your better half are looking to keep things casual, consider honeymooning in Cape Cod. Life moves at a slower pace on Massachusetts' curling peninsula. You should indulge yourselves at the wide, honey-colored beaches and succulent seafood restaurants that line the Cape. And if you wish to escape the peaceful shores or the cozy B&B, spend a day exploring fun and funky Provincetown.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Cape Cod»
Why Go: Ignore the naughty limerick: Despite all the dirty words that rhyme with its name, Nantucket features a charming, refined atmosphere that complements honeymooners' needs. Couples can start their marriage off with lazy bike rides and days on the beach. And for a true taste of Nantucket, consider working together to catch your own seafood dinner or sample some local wine at Cisco Brewers.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Nantucket»
Why Go: When you hear the Alps calling your name, resist the urge and head north to Stowe instead. This Vermont town's exciting ski runs and rustic lodges mimic those found in European mountain villages. Don't believe us? This is where Georg Ludwig and Maria von Trapp (whose love affair was made famous by The Sound of Music) finally settled. Plus, a Stowe retreat is much cheaper than an Alpine getaway.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Stowe, VT»
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