Best Honeymoon Destinations for 2024

Bora Bora's out-of-this-world scenery is just the tip of the iceberg – or, rather, the volcano. The epitome of an agenda-free beach honeymoon destination, Bora Bora gives newlyweds their pick of gorgeous white sand beaches and lagoons for sunbathing, snorkeling and sailing. Plus, luxurious spas and romantic overwater bungalows abound. Hotel rates on this French Polynesian island are high, but honeymooning between December and March (if you're willing to put up with some extra showers and humidity during the wet season) or on an adults-only cruise through the Pacific Ocean can help cut costs.

If you're seeking a luxurious Caribbean honeymoon with just the right amount of adventure, look no further than St. Lucia. You'll find white sand beaches and lush mountains dotted with all-inclusive boutique resorts (many of them with open-air rooms perfect for appreciating the island's natural beauty). Should you need a break from the sand, visit the Soufrière area to see natural attractions, such as the Pitons, Sulphur Springs and Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths. You and your sweetie will love hiking, taking mud baths and relaxing together in geothermal pools.

Fiji's serene, powder-soft beaches offer a quiet respite for postnuptial relaxation. Luxe resorts will pamper you and your new spouse, and you won't soon forget activities like snorkeling with manta rays in the Yasawa Islands and surfing near the Mamanuca Islands (which were featured in the movie "Cast Away"). And, of course, no trip would be complete without a private couples massage on the beach. You'll also have the opportunity to embrace Fiji's friendly, "bula" culture through village visits to get to know local hosts and traditions.

If you and your sweetheart truly want to get away from it all, head to this remote island chain in the Indian Ocean. Maldives resorts (many of which are on private islands) offer extravagant services and amenities that will make you never want to leave your ultra-luxe bungalow or overwater villa. When you're ready to venture out, visit the nearest tranquil beaches and spas or take an excursion to neighboring islands. And since the Maldives are home to more than 2,000 distinct coral reefs, snorkeling and scuba diving are also a must.

With towering volcanoes and stone temples, Bali, Indonesia, provides an unforgettable backdrop for any honeymoon vacation. Take in cliffside views at Uluwatu Temple, explore the serene rice terraces of Ubud or lounge together on Karma Beach's warm golden sand. When you're ready for some adventure, set your alarm for a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise hike up Mount Batur. If some rest and relaxation is more your speed, you can admire it all from the comfort of your resort's infinity pool.

Forever the poster child for vivid sunsets and romantic escapes, the Hawaiian island of Maui is a great place to vacation with your new spouse. Couples can sprawl across miles of shoreline or attend a luau with traditional Hawaiian fare, live music and hula and fire dancing. For the more active lovebirds, Maui offers forests to explore, volcanoes to tour and trails to hike. Must-dos include driving along the scenic Road to Hana and splurging on a helicopter tour of the island's upcountry for views of rolling green hills and Haleakala National Park.

The Amalfi Coast's colorful villages, crystal-clear water and rugged shoreline help make this part of Italy a one-of-a-kind honeymoon destination. Couples can explore some of the region's 13 towns on foot or by boat, or simply spend their vacation relaxing on one of the picturesque beaches. For a real treat, duos can have a romantic candlelit dinner in the gardens or on the terrace of a charming villa, or experience one of several Michelin-starred restaurants in the area. To avoid rubbing elbows with hordes of tourists, visit in May or September to capture the enjoyable weather without the crowds.

This Portuguese archipelago might be a bit more rugged than Europe's typical romantic locales, but Madeira's culture and wondrous scenery are sure to bring newlyweds close together. The main island of Madeira enchants adventurous twosomes with its sweeping sea cliffs and rigorous hikes. But it also offers authentic hospitality, a thriving capital city and rich cuisine (think: award-winning wine and centuries-old seafood preparations) that give it wide-ranging appeal. Meanwhile, the smaller Porto Santo is known for its 6-mile stretch of golden sand and turquoise waters, ideal for unwinding.

Known for its brilliant sunsets, rich Greek food and ultra-romantic hotels, Santorini, Greece, is almost tailor-made for newlyweds. Honeymooners can lounge on red and black sand beaches before taking in the ruins at Akrotiri and Ancient Thira. Wine aficionados will love sampling white varietals at the island's wineries, and those who enjoy boating should consider taking a catamaran cruise around the caldera. Later, enjoy an intimate dinner with a view from one of the cliffside restaurants in Oia. 

This Hawaiian island is an ideal back-to-nature honeymoon destination. Active twosomes can hike along the Napali Coast, explore Waimea Canyon State Park and kayak down the Wailua River. Helicopter tours of Kauai's most scenic spots are also sure to provide newlyweds with lifelong memories. But Kauai offers plenty of opportunity for relaxation, too. Luxury resorts and spas and secluded stretches of sand like Salt Pond Beach Park and Haena Beach Park are ideal for those seeking a restful escape.

French Polynesia's largest island is sometimes passed over by newlyweds, but it's just as romantic as more exclusive honeymoon destinations. Hole up in an oceanside resort, sunbathe on black sand beaches, take a day trip to the stunning Moorea (a quick flight or ferry ride away) or head to the capital of Papeete to sample world-class cuisine and revel in the nightlife. Couples honeymooning between May and October will enjoy the best weather, but they may have to deal with crowds and high hotel costs.

Newlyweds travel to the City of Light for the ultimate experience in sophistication and romance. From the quiet ambiance of fine dining establishments to swoon-worthy sights like the Tuileries Gardens and the Louvre, the capital of France was practically made for lovers. Take in the sights from a Seine river cruise or meander through the charming streets of Montmartre. Later, treat yourselves to something sweet at La Maison du Chocolat, and when the sun sets, hold your loved one close and watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle.

Florence, Italy, is a city renowned for its art, history and mouthwatering Italian cuisine. Spend your honeymoon walking hand in hand through the labyrinth of stone streets, exploring the greenery of the Boboli Gardens and gazing at Michelangelo's David and the Duomo's ornate cupola. Stop at a cafe or gelato shop when your feet need a rest. After watching the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, save your nights for enjoying unhurried dinners and visiting cozy wine bars.

Made up of about 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, this archipelago off the eastern coast of Africa is ideal for sailing, diving and spotting Aldabra giant tortoises. Visit the Vallée de Mai, a nature preserve so beautiful it was once thought to be the original Garden of Eden, and marvel at the park's legendary coco-de-mer trees. If a romantic picnic on the beach is more your speed, head to the tranquil shores of Beau Vallon or Anse Source d'Argent. The region's largest island, Mahé, as well as smaller private islands offer luxurious five-star accommodations.  

Couples who dream of eating crispy conch fritters and lounging on secluded beaches while celebrating their nuptials should head to the Turks and Caicos Islands. Newlyweds can dive or snorkel among colorful coral reefs, play golf, horseback ride and more. However, duos won't find much in the way of nightlife here, so after savoring a romantic seafood dinner, twosomes can head back to one of the islands' boutique resorts to enjoy some quality time together.

The French Caribbean island of St. Barts offers the best of both worlds: chic hotels in a laid-back setting. Breathtaking beaches are plentiful here, though each appeals to a different kind of couple. Active newlyweds will love the water sports at Grand Cul de Sac Beach, while those who desire privacy should visit Colombier Beach. If you and your new spouse are feeling extra daring, pay a visit to Saline Beach, which is known for its nude sunbathers. And for those ready to let loose, explore the nightlife in Gustavia, which offers plenty of lounges and clubs.

Mauritius may be off the beaten path, but its turquoise waters, abundant wildlife and luxe resorts make it an ideal choice for honeymooners. Frequently dubbed Paradise Island, this small African island east of Madagascar is a haven for birds and aquatic animals. Plus, its beaches are prime spots for kitesurfing, scuba diving and lounging. Couples drawn to exploration can also hike the lush Le Pouce mountain, or spend some time in the culturally diverse capital city of Port Louis. To save some coin, stay at a hotel that offers honeymoon packages.

Bordering the Ligurian Sea, this remote coastal region in northwestern Italy features beaches and coves that are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Plus, twosomes can enjoy breathtaking views while hiking Cinque Terre's cliffside footpaths or explore the five pastel-hued villages that make up Cinque Terre National Park. But remember, the villages aren't easily accessible by car, and high-end hotels are limited. Autumn honeymooners will enjoy pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds.

Located in about 50 miles north of Milan, this Italian lake's stunning setting attracts celebrities – and honeymooners – in droves. Couples can pass the time traversing the water on sleek wooden boats, enjoying gourmet Italian cuisine on a terrace or simply sunbathing by their five-star hotel's lakefront pool. Start your marriage off on the right foot by strolling the "walk of lovers," a short, scenic promenade in the quiet village of Varenna. Then, to see how the region's wealthy residents live, duos can tour elegant properties like Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello.

While it may seem like an unconventional honeymoon destination, Tanzania's wide-open terrain, starry skies and natural wonders make it an ideal place for you and your new spouse to connect. Whether you're gazing at Mount Kilimanjaro or witnessing the great migration on a safari in Serengeti National Park, you'll make memories to last a lifetime. To top it off, since Tanzania's all-inclusive safari camps are often equipped with pools, spas and swanky lodging, you won't have to rough it. At the end of a busy day, toast to your happy future together with a sunset drink, or "sundowner."