- States:
- New York
- Nevada
- Hawaii
- Louisiana
- Wyoming
- Florida
- California
- Puerto Rico
- Washington
- U.S. Virgin Islands
The venue has been chosen, the photographer’s been hired and the band is booked. Now for the fun part – planning your honeymoon.
The best honeymoon destination is preferably somewhere neither of you has been, someplace that offers plenty of romantic accommodations, as well as attractions and activities aimed at couples – in short, somewhere you can make lasting memories together. The USA is chockfull of perfect honeymoon spots to suit every taste, from iconic to surprising. Take a look at these great honeymoon locations and start planning. Of course, there’s no need for these to be once-in-a-lifetime trips – anytime is a good time for a romantic getaway.
The Majestic Wonder of Niagara Falls
In Niagara Falls, New York, the mesmerizing falls get well-deserved top billing. Seek out romantic accommodations and dining with views of the falls and their colorful nightly light displays. Splurge on a helicopter tour of the Whirlpool Rapids and American Falls, descend into the Niagara Gorge to feel the power of the falls from the Hurricane Deck and take a day trip to the charming and picturesque Finger Lakes wine region.
Getting an up close view of the falls on the Maid of the Mist boat tour from Niagara Falls State Park
Glitz, Glam and Indulgence in Las Vegas
Las Vegas, Nevada, has long been known as a honeymoon capital of the USA, with its iconic luxury resorts, world-famous shows, glitzy casinos and fine-dining restaurants. Pamper yourselves with sumptuous spa treatments, a gondola ride on a Venice-inspired canal and a helicopter tour of the incomparable Grand Canyon.
Exploring The Venetian resort on a romantic gondola ride
Tropical Island Escape in Maui
The second largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui tempts honeymooners with tropical weather, powder-sand beaches, lush foliage and palatial resorts. Discover hidden coves and waterfalls on a jeep tour, hike in Haleakala National Park and tour plantations to taste fresh pineapple and other tropical fruit. In the evening, sample Hawaiian foods and watch a hula performance during a traditional luau.
Couple admiring the sunset while cruising off the coast of Maui
The Romantic Flair of New Orleans
“Let the good times roll” is the unofficial slogan of New Orleans, Louisiana, where every day is a reason to celebrate. Listen to jazz and blues in intimate clubs and courtyards, sample authentic Creole and Cajun food at romantic restaurants, and explore charming, historic neighborhoods on foot or by streetcar. Enjoy a jazz dinner cruise on the Mississippi River, and join in the parade during New Orleans Pride or a second line.
Dancing as street performers play music on Royal Street
Mountain Retreat in Jackson Hole
Beyond its fame as a winter playground less than 8 kilometers from Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is a year-round honeymoon destination. In winter, snuggle together during a horse-drawn sleigh ride around this mountain retreat or go snowmobiling through undisturbed backcountry. In summer, take in stunning panoramic views on a private hot-air balloon ride at sunrise and ride horseback through scenic valleys carpeted with wildflowers. Relax after it all with a soak in a hot spring.
Golden-hued trees and majestic mountains at Oxbow Bend in Grand Teton National Park
Offbeat Island Vibes in Key West
At the southernmost end of the Florida Keys, Key West is a walkable, fun-loving town with luxury resorts and charming inns. Check out historic sites including the Hemingway House and nearby lighthouse, or attend the Pride celebration in summer and Fantasy Fest in October. Come evening, watch the sunset from Mallory Square or take to the water on a tall ship, then join in the lively nightlife on Duval Street. To really get away from it all, take a ferry or seaplane 113 kilometers west to Dry Tortugas National Park to snorkel, birdwatch and explore Fort Jefferson.
One of Key West’s famous sunsets, as seen from a local pier
From Coast to Vine in Monterey Bay
Big Sur’s dramatic cliffs make for a stunning backdrop in Monterey County, California. Rent a convertible and go for an epic drive down coastal U.S. Highway 1, stopping for a hike and picnic amid redwoods at Limekiln State Park or a stroll on tranquil Pfeiffer Beach. Keep an eye out for soaring California condors and humpback whales offshore. Sign up for a fabulous wine and food tour, followed by a spa treatment at a quaint inn.
Strolling and sipping through Wrath Wines, a Monterey County vineyard
Vieques: Tiny Island, Endless Adventure
Vieques, a small Caribbean island 11 kilometers east of mainland Puerto Rico, is prized for its secluded beaches lined with white, golden or black sand. Swim and snorkel on colorful reefs in crystal-clear water or take a kayak tour in Mosquito Bay to see bioluminescent microorganisms glow in your wake. Wander around the 19th century Spanish fort and museum, tour the ruins of a sugar plantation or join locals as they gather at the old pier in the small town of Esperanza on Sunday afternoons.
Gorgeous blue waters and cliffs framing the island’s Black Sand Beach
Pacific Northwest Perfection in the San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands are a rocky archipelago set in the Salish Sea off the northwestern coast of Washington State. Take a car or passenger ferry to reach the four main islands – Lopez, Orcas, San Juan and Shaw. Once there, honeymooners can take a sea kayaking tour, go zip-lining through the forest and look for orcas from Lime Kiln Point State Park. Walk around the compact, vibrant seaport of Friday Harbor, visit iconic lighthouses, eat fresh seafood and sip West Coast wine.
A classic Pacific Coast sunset behind Lime Kiln Lighthouse in Lime Kiln Point State Park
Natural Caribbean Paradise on St. John
Two-thirds of St. John – the smallest of the three main U.S. Virgin Islands – is covered by Virgin Islands National Park. On this unspoiled, mountainous island, hike through pristine forests to see petroglyphs and swim at a different beach each day. Rent a jeep and explore the island’s twisty, hilly roads (drive on the left, and watch out for donkeys). Take a day sail on a comfortable catamaran with snorkeling and lunch included. Shop and dine on island dishes in lively Cruz Bay or tiny Coral Bay.
Aerial view of Cruz Bay and the surrounding clear, blue Caribbean waters
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