Honeymoon Planning: 5 Great Destinations

After the wedding dust has cleared and the last guest has left the reception, you and your new spouse get to head to the honeymoon destination of your dreams. Erica Preston of Whim Wave Travel and Laura Frazier of Bliss Honeymoons share exceptional locations in which to begin married life.

Trip #1: Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, Mexico

When to visit: Located on the Pacific Coast in the Mexican state of Guerreo, Ixtapa is a spot Preston suggests visiting December to April.

Must-see sites: At Delfiniti Ixtapa, you can swim with dolphins. Nature lovers should make time to check out Ixtapa Island, where you can snorkel and scuba dive.

Where to stay: Capella Ixtapa resort, located right on the ocean, is easily accessible from the international airport. In addition to stunning ocean views, guests can take cooking classes, go horseback riding, deep-sea fishing and more. In between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean lies Club Med Ixtapa where, along with all-inclusive resort accommodations, you can take flying trapeze lessons and learn to sail.

Average cost: With flight and hotel, a trip for two costs $4,000 to $6,000 per week.

Alternative: Many Puerto Rican resorts offer all-inclusive packages, guaranteeing you can swim, hang out on the beach, eat and relax without worrying about ruining your carefully crafted budget.

Trip #2: Costa Rica

When to visit: The rainy season in Costa Rica is in the fall, so pick a time other than September and October.

Must-see sites: Frazier suggests heading to Guanacaste National Park to enjoy hiking, nature walks and more. Animal observation is also a huge draw in this area, so be on the lookout for howler monkeys and a wide variety of birds.

Where to stay: Found on the northern Guanacaste region of Costa Rica, Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica is a new hotel perfect for couples looking for an all-inclusive experience. Surrounded by mountains and jungles with the beach at your feet, you can enjoy gourmet dining, a world-class spa and watersports, all offered by the hotel. They also offer honeymoon packages for those who’d like a little help in planning their stay.

Average cost: If you and your fiance have your hearts set on Costa Rica, you’re in budgetary luck: A trip here can range from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the type of accommodations you choose.

Alternative: Jamaica offers many all-inclusive resorts for couples—and a similar laidback vibe.

Trip #3: Mauritius

When to visit: Couples visiting this island off of the southeast African coast should plan their trip toward the end of the year, from September to December, or at the beginning of summer.

Must-see sites: Preston suggests checking out Chamarel Waterfall, the highest waterfall on the island. Those interested in exploring the hills should visit Black River Gorges National Park, which is home to the majority of the island’s rain forests. You’ll find the park is thriving with wildlife, exotic birds and plants, and there are plenty of trails for exploring.

Where to stay: Sugar Beach Hotel is a five-star hotel located on the west side of the island. It offers a full-service spa, a golf course, martial arts classes and numerous bars and restaurants. Shandrani Resort and Spa, found in southern Mauritius on a private peninsula, offers three separate beaches, a sailing club and a diving center.

Average cost: With the flight and hotel, Preston estimates a trip to Mauritius costs between $4,000 and $6,000 for a week.

Alternative: The Dominican Republic is a great second choice with an exciting combination of culture and scenery.

Trip #4: St Lucia

When to visit: St. Lucia has great weather year-round and—although it sits within the hurricane belt—it has had only one direct hit in the last 20 years.

Must-see sites: A catamaran sail around the island is a must, Frazier says, and couples who want to get to know the island on land should rent Segways. There are also tourable cocoa plantations, and you can even take a drive through the La Soufriere volcano.

Where to stay: Couples looking for a more unique hotel experience should check out Jade Mountain Resort, which was constructed along the side of a mountain. Those interested in an all-inclusive option have St. Lucia Sandals Resort, where guests enjoy a sheltered beach.

Average cost: Airfare to St. Lucia can be expensive, so it will cost approximately $5,000 for an adult only all-inclusive resort (factoring in air and travel insurance, too).

Alternative: Couples interested in more budget-friendly island options should check out Aruba or Punta Cana.

Trip #5: St. Kitts and Nevis

When to visit: The best time to visit this twin-island country in the West Indies is from December to June.

Must-see sites: Stop by the Botanical Gardens of Nevis, located outside Mount Nevis. There you’ll find a rainforest conservatory with parrots and butterflies, beehives and Asian and Pre-Columbian art. Stroll through the 5-acre garden and stop for a bite in the Oasis in the Gardens restaurant. To experience more of the sand and surf, Preston says to head to Oualie Beach, which offers breathtaking views and the crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling.

Where to stay: If you don’t want to leave Oualie Beach, book at Oualie Beach Resort, which offers a spa, scuba diving and activity packages like kayaking, snorkeling and a rainforest hike. Adventurers should look into Montpelier Plantation and Beach, located in Mount Nevis, where you’ll discover old sugar plantations and visit the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton. This hotspot also offers hiking and yoga, fine cuisine and rum tastings.

Average cost: Depending on hotel and time of flight, trips for two cost from $2,400 to $4,000.

Alternative: For a less expensive location, check out the southern Caribbean island of Curacao.