So you want to honeymoon in luxury? We have you covered. Take a peek at 18 of the most blissful honeymoon locations around the world. You might want to quit your day job before you leave though, because you definitely won’t want to come back.
Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa – Tahiti
Seventeen acres of lush tropical gardens front an aqua lagoon at Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa. Guests stay in thatch-roof, Polynesian-style overwater bungalows, and resort life centers on the water, from catamaran cruises to diving with sharks, barracudas and graceful manta rays. Dissolve any wedding-planning stress at Manea Spa, offering authentic Polynesian treatments and rituals such as a couple’s massage using local monoi oils.
Belmond Copacabana Palace – Brazil
This glamorous landmark has welcomed the rich and the famous (think Will Smith and Tom Cruise) since opening on Brazil’s most well-known beach in 1923. Its other claim to fame: Belmond Copacabana Palace is home to Rio de Janeiro’s largest swimming pool. Expect elite service (beach assistants watch your things when you explore) and a variety of tours, including day trips to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue at the top of Corcovado Hill and cable-car excursions to the peak of Sugar Loaf Mountain.
Capella Pedregal – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Capella Pedregal in Cabo San Lucas sits on the southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula — the very point where the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez meet. Guests access the resort via the only privately owned tunnel in Mexico, Dos Mares. The magical entrance will make you feel worlds away, but loads of activities are available within a 10-minute drive. Be sure to take advantage of the yacht charters in the marina before returning to your private plunge pool — each of the 66 rooms has one.
Casa de Campo – Dominican Republic
This 7,000-acre resort and residential community is unique from any other Caribbean destination — and not just because Beyoncé and Jay-Z vacation here. Located in La Romana on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Casa de Campo‘s white-sand beaches are just the beginning; think of the resort as a grown-up’s playground with world-class toys. Celebrated golf-course designer Pete Dye created 90 holes; an equestrian center, polo fields, tennis courts and a 245-acre shooting facility are also at guests’ fingertips. Nightlife is in full swing at Altos de Chavon, a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village perched high above the Chavon River.
Ciragan Palace Kempinski – Turkey
After a long day of travel, decompress with tailor-made spa treatments and heated infinity pools at Ciragan Palace Kempinski, situated on the European shores of the Bosphorus. Once you feel fresh and relaxed, explore Istanbul by boat, car, foot or even helicopter — the hotel is the only property in the city with its very own helipad, so take advantage with a magic carpet ride over Istanbul’s minarets.
Four Seasons Nevis
This little Caribbean isle is big on activities, from water skiing, sailing and diving to guided sunset or sunrise hikes, where you’ll descend into tropical ravines, explore a cave and spot monkeys in their natural forest habitat. Book a room at Four Seasons Resort Nevis for ultimate post-adventure pampering. The resort’s par-71 golf course offers breathtaking views of Nevis’ lush surroundings and the neighboring island of St. Kitts. Or channel your inner romantic and sail away on a sunset cruise for two, followed by a private dinner on the sparkling silver-sand beach.
Pink Sands Resort – Bahamas
Only 10 minutes from the North Eleuthera Airport, Harbour Island is known for its casual Bahamian vibe and 3½ miles of (for real!) pink sand. Opt for one of the 25 pastel-colored cottages scattered throughout the lush tropical grounds of Pink Sands Resort. Spend carefree days snorkeling, kayaking, dining alfresco at the beachfront Blue Bar, and experiencing unmatched nightlife at island hot spots like Valentines, Gusty’s and Daddy D’s.
Rosewood Mayakoba – Riviera Maya, Mexico
Emerald jungles and a mile-long arc of white sand surround Rosewood Mayakoba, a 1,600-acre Riviera Maya resort where deluxe overwater lagoon suites each come with a heated plunge pool, an outdoor deck and a boat dock. Culture buffs can admire the nearby Maya site of Chichen Itza, one of the “new seven wonders of the world,” from the air in a private plane. Or check out the Maya ruins of Tulum, the third-most-frequented historic site in Mexico and known for its spectacular Caribbean views.
Six Senses Yao Noi – Thailand
Located on a small island in Phang Nga Bay is Six Senses Yao Noi, where the philosophy is all about custom-creating exceptional experiences. Island-hop by traditional longtail boat, learn the martial art of Muay Thai boxing, or cozy up to watch a movie under the stars (parts of the 1974 James Bond flick The Man with the Golden Gun were filmed in this area). Six different pool villas offer sweeping panoramas of the bay’s towering limestone-rock formations. Enjoy a dinner of organic European cuisine in the dining room, which features a glass floor lending a peekaboo view of the creek meandering beneath.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah – Dubai
This sail-shaped resort is a symbol of modern Dubai. Surrounded by the glistening Arabian Gulf, Burj Al Arab has been repeatedly voted the world’s most luxurious hotel. Ultimate spoiling ranges from private butlers to chauffeur-driven Rolls Royces. Most indulgent of all: a six-course private dinner served in Addura, an exclusive dining room with an aquarium wall and a grand table covered in rose petals. (You can even surprise your lover with a personalized message displayed by a diver!) Another unique dining experience, Bab Al Yam, gives guests the chance to dine under the moonlit sky at a candlelit table for two.
Faena Buenos Aires – Argentina
When it comes to dining and entertainment, Faena Buenos Aires — a boutique hotel located just minutes from downtown — shines. Nightly acts include artists such as Banares, Europa Europa, Soulville, The Oreo’s, Cocktail Tour, Rano, Living SoulProject and Argentina’s best tango show, Rojo Tango. Faena is also home to El Cabaret, a 1920s-inspired restaurant. While in town, make sure to participate in a “blind dinner,” a romantic and sensual experience you’ll never forget — just be sure not to wear white!
Four Seasons Hotel Firenze – Italy
Tour the Galleria Dell’Accademia, which hosts Michelangelo’s famous David and Four Prisoners. Wander through Italy’s most important museum, the Uffizi. Take in the beauty of Florence’s churches. And stroll through Giardino di Boboli, the largest park in Florence, where you can savor a view of the whole city. Your home base in the center of it all: Four Seasons Hotel Firenze. After busy mornings of cultural exploration, relax poolside with the hotel’s famous tiramisu cocktail in hand.
Giraffe Manor – Kenya
What was initially built as a family home by Jock and Betty Leslie Melville — whose work with the endangered species of Rothschild giraffes became renowned worldwide — is now the perfect honeymoon spot for animal lovers. Giraffe Manor accommodates 25 people and a herd of Rothschild giraffes that peak their heads into the windows of the manor in the mornings and evenings to greet guests and sniff out treats. Just minutes away is Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, where you can adopt a baby elephant.
The House Hotel – Ireland
At The House Hotel in Galway, all 40 intimate rooms are individually decorated in bright color palettes. This four-star boutique hotel is located just a minute’s walk from the famous Quay Street, a quaint city center that offers food, drink, culture and Irish fun. Throw back a pint at the Quays, a 400-year-old pub nearby that offers live Irish music and, of course, fish and chips.
Kapama Private Game Reserve – South Africa
Occupying 32,000 acres between South Africa’s northern Drakensberg Mountains and Greater Kruger National Park, Kapama Private Game Reserve is home to more than 40 animal species, including the “big five”: elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos and rhinoceroses. Whether you’re venturing off on a game drive, floating in the infinity pool or getting a massage in the Wellness Center, wild animals are never far from view.
The King David – Jerusalem
Encompassed by magnificent lawns and gardens is The King David, Jerusalem’s most famous hotel. Perched on an elevated site with sublime views of the city’s walls, minarets and domes, the hotel hosts heads of state and other luminaries when they visit Jerusalem (notable guests include President Barack Obama, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Gere and Madonna). Stroll to the old city to explore museums and attractions such as David’s Citadel Museum and the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens.
La Mamounia – Morocco
Stay in the oldest palace of Marrakech, La Mamounia. The three-night honeymoon experience includes guided tours with a professional photographer, a private hammam ritual that will leave your skin glowing, and various wining-and-dining experiences in historic destinations like Gallery Majorelle. For a fresh perspective of Marrakech, jump on a camel and experience the beauty from an elevated level.
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe – California
At The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe outdoor fun beckons year-round. Head to Lake Tahoe, just 15 minutes away, to try activities like parasailing, Jet Skiing and stand-up paddle boarding through rocky coves. Pets are welcome (on request), and there are a variety of easy loops for you and your furry friend to hike around Sawmill Lake. During the winter, the midmountain hotel offers ski-in/ski-out access to Northstar California ski resort, featuring runs for all experience levels; mountain concierges work with ski valets to assist guests with boots, skis and poles. Need a break from the slopes? At the heart of the village is a 9,000-square-foot ice rink surrounded by cozy fire pits.
