We compiled the best summer honeymoon destinations from the overwater bungalows in Tahiti to the pink-sand beaches of Bermuda.
Best Honeymoon Destinations for Fall | Best Honeymoon Destinations for Winter
Bermuda
The pink sand and coral cottages of this British isle have long lured honeymooners. Bermuda’s location (650 miles off the coast of North Carolina) makes it less susceptible to hurricanes and the most inviting from June to August, when temps range tend towards the mid-80s — perfect for swimming and snorkeling. To avoid pollution, rental cars aren’t allowed here; instead, get the lay of the land by renting a scooter or push bike. Bermuda’s also a popular fishing retreat, and history buffs will love the island’s landmarks like St. George’s, the oldest continuously inhabited English town in the New World
Greek Islands
Santorini’s blue-domed churches, black-sand beaches and breathtaking views are iconic. Island-hopping here is a must; explore the ancient ruins of Knossos on Crete, or dance the night away on Mykonos. The less-frequented Ionian Islands offer pristine beaches, while the Cyclades islands, with summer temps reaching the mid-80s, are perfect for swimming and sailing. Rejuvenate on the Dodecanese islands, home to Kos’ famed hot springs. Peak season is July and August, with August 15 marking the Day of the Panagia. Many Greeks travel to their hometowns for this religious holiday, so bigger cities will be quieter, making for easier sightseeing.
Tahiti
Couples flock to the iconic overwater and beachside bungalows year-round, but July through September, aka Tahiti’s winter, is truly prime time for this summer honeymoon destination, with the most sun and best underwater visibility. Venture to one of the better-known isles like Bora Bora or Moorea, or seek even more seclusion in the sleepy Tuamotu atolls, all accessible via inter-island flights from Tahiti proper. July brings the month-long Heiva celebration, with costumes, music, dancing competitions and sporting events.
Masai Mara, Kenya
Get up close with herds of zebra, giraffes, elephants and gazelles with an excursion from Nairobi to the Masai Mara, a wildlife game reserve in Kenya containing 950 square miles of open plains and acacia woodlands. This is amazing terrain any time of year, but for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, plan a trip between August and September, when more than 1 million wildebeests migrate into the Mara from Tanzania. Accommodation options range from basic campsites, where couples can snuggle up in a platform tent, to luxurious safari lodges with creature comforts like plunge pools and wine cellars.
Chile
Does the word powdery evoke visions of snow rather than sand? Summer is winter in the Southern Hemisphere, meaning Chile is a hot spot for ski fanatics when Northern Hemisphere runs have melted. Snowfall begins in June and July, making August and September choice skiing months. The Andes mountain range is the world’s longest, offering challenging terrain for the most seasoned skiers. Some popular areas like Portillo, Valle Nevado and El Colorado are easily accessible by day trip from Santiago, Chile’s capital. The country’s Latin influence makes après-ski spicy too, with hopping bars and nightclubs open until the wee hours.|
Edinburgh, Scotland
Scotland’s capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts medieval lanes and a towering castle juxtaposed by modern galleries and clubs. Weatherwise, July and August are optimal, but remember, even in summer Scotland’s weather can be fickle, so come prepared. In August, the cobblestone streets come alive during the Edinburgh Festival, an array of events like the theater-loving Fringe Festival, the International Film Festival and the Jazz and Blues Festival.
