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10 Best Honeymoon Destinations in the U.S.

While many people think of Caribbean islands or European countries as the best honeymoon destinations, you don’t have to go abroad to have an amazing romantic honeymoon. There are plenty of incredible honeymoon destinations in the U.S., from exciting cities to breathtaking beaches to rejuvenating outdoor adventure spots.

An advantage to honeymooning in the United States is that you don’t need a passport, and you can either drive or take a short flight to get there. This makes a U.S. honeymoon much easier, which can be especially welcome after a busy wedding.

Here we’ve rounded up our picks for the 10 best honeymoon destinations in the U.S. to help you find the perfect place for you.

Best U.S. Honeymoon Destinations Quick Picks:

Best Tropical Honeymoon Destination in the U.S.: Key West, Florida

Best City Honeymoon Destination in the U.S.: New York City

Best U.S. Honeymoon Destination for Outdoorsy Couples: Colorado

Best U.S. Honeymoon Destination for History Buffs: New Orleans, LA or St. Augustine, FL

Best Honeymoon Destination in the U.S. for Foodies: New York City, New Orleans, or Miami

Key West, Florida

For an exotic tropical honeymoon without needing a passport or long flight, honeymoon in Key West. This vibrant yet laidback island feels like another country, but it’s just a few hours by air from most major airports. You can also take a scenic and fun 166-mile road trip from Miami to get here.

While Key West is known for its lively nightlife and all the bars on Duval Street, there’s so much more to it. Head off that main drag to wander through more peaceful areas and enjoy the brightly colored architecture, tropical foliage, and funky vibe.

Other Key West must-dos include visiting the Southernmost Point in the United States for a picture next to the giant buoy, touring the Ernest Hemingway House (look for the 6-toed cats, descendants of his cat), and exploring President Truman’s Little White House, as well as climbing to the top of the Key West Lighthouse.

After all the walking around, you’ll need a break. Head toward the waterfront and have a refreshing cocktail as you gaze south toward Cuba, just a few hundred miles away, or lounge on the sand at Smathers Beach. For stunning ocean views and a lovely beach plus some history, check out Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park at the southern end of the key.

KEY WEST, Florida Keys — The southernmost city in the continental United States, Key West lies at the tip of the 125-mile Florida Keys island chain and is located just 90 miles from Cuba. With an average temperature of 77 degrees, the island is a popular visitor destination. Attractions include a rich cultural community, historic architecture and a relaxed, laidback charm. (Rob O’Neal/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Watersports abound here. Scuba diving and snorkeling is very popular in Key West due to the offshore reefs and wrecks. You can even snorkel off the shore at the Key West Marine Park, on the southern side. You can also go deep sea fishing; rent jet skis, paddleboards, and kayaks; charter a boat to explore the surrounding water; or relax on a sunset sail.

Be sure to feast on some Cuban food while you’re in Key West. Some of the best Cuban restaurants are El Siboney, El Meson de Pepe’s, The Original Sandy’s Café, Ana’s Cuban Café, Frita’s Cuban Burgers, Five Brothers Grocery and Sandwich Shop, and Amigo’s Tortilla Bar for fusion Cuban and Mexican.

Schooner Wharf serves a huge selection of delicious fresh seafood plus all sorts of specialty cocktails in its casual open-air, waterfront setting at the foot of William Street.

Blue Heaven is a whimsical restaurant that offers al fresco breakfast, lunch and dinner in a courtyard filled with tropical foliage, as well as indoor dining. There’s live entertainment on the weekends, and while the setting is casual, the food is sophisticated and top notch.

For a romantic and elegant dinner, go to Latitudes. Take a short boat ride from the Opal Key Resort & Marina to get to this fine dining restaurant, set on the water on the island of Sunset Key. Be sure to make a reservation and dress up a bit.

Other excellent restaurants in Key West for dinner include Louie’s Backyard, Dinner Bel Mare, Nine One Five, and Santiagos Bodega. Great breakfast and lunch spots include Moondog Café and Breakfast Club Too; Hogfish on Stock Island; Sandy’s Café; and The Café (also serves dinner).

Will Soto performs a juggling and high-wire act at the Sunset Celebration in Key West, Fla. Soto has been entertaining for over 30 years at the nightly celebration in Mallory Square that draws crowds of people to watch buskers perform, browse vendors wares and applaud as the sun sinks below the horizon beyond Key West Harbor. Photo by Rob O’Neal/Florida Keys News Bureau.

Another romantic thing to do on a Key West honeymoon is go to the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square. This daily party features all sorts of activities and performers entertaining the crowds who gather to watch the glorious sunsets and watch for the elusive green flash as the sun sinks into the sea.  

After sunset, there is plenty of nightlife in Key West. You can bar hop along Duval Street, stopping at the famous Sloppy Joe’s where Ernest Hemingway liked to hang out. This bar is also known for its excellent and creative house cocktails and good food, as well as live local music every day (and dancing at night). 

For something different on Duval, head to the Little Room Jazz Club and enjoy the romantic atmosphere and sophisticated music. You can also see live music at laidback places like the Green Parrot.

The Sunset Tiki Bar at The Galleon gives you front-row seats to Key West’s famous sunsets in addition to delicious drinks and live music. For a classic local dive bar with live music, be sure to visit The Chart Room, the site of Jimmy Buffett’s first gig.

A peaceful and luxurious honeymoon resort is the waterfront Pier House Resort & Spa. Centrally located at the foot of Duval Street, this tranquil oasis features a private white sand beach, posh accommodations, and a swanky spa (the only full-service spa in Key West), as well as a pool overlooking the water, a fitness center, and 3 restaurants and bars (including The Chart Room mentioned above).

Lounge on the beach, swim in the ocean, relax at the beach bar, and dine overlooking the water at the outstanding One Duval restaurant for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Oceanview Suites have separate living rooms with sofabeds plus excellent water views from private furnished balconies. The unique Dockside Suite is located on the edge of the building for incredible sunset views from the expanded infinity balcony.

For a B&B feel, The Gardens Hotel is an adults-only resort that offers rooms and suites in a historic home plus cottages with private pools on the lushly landscaped grounds. Luxurious and charming accommodations feature private decks or balconies, marble bathrooms (most with whirlpool tubs), minifridges, Keurig coffeemakers, luxe linens, and robes. This boutique hotel often features live jazz in the gardens and has two heated pools, a pool bar, complimentary breakfast and Wifi, and a self-serve wine gallery,

Set on a private island just minutes away from Key West by boat, Sunset Key Cottages is family-friendly but still romantic. It features the famous waterfront restaurant Latitudes, as well as a pool (with bar), spa, and beautiful white-sand beach. Spacious and airy cottages range from 1 to 4 bedrooms and offer separate living areas, kitchens, and private outdoor spaces. One-bedroom cottages only have garden views; you’ll have to upgrade to a 2-bedroom or higher for oceanview and oceanfront options.  Boat transfers are included.

Miami, Florida

Miami is a vibrant city with cool architecture, hip hot spots, amazing shopping, beautiful beaches, an incredible foodie scene, and beauty around every corner. Great things to do in Miami include exploring historic neighborhoods like Coral Gables, browsing galleries and shops in the Design District, cruising Ocean Drive on South Beach with its stretch of pastel-colored Art Deco hotels, and checking out the nightlife.

Tour the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, which features a restored Gilded Age mansion and breathtaking formal gardens on the 10-acre estate set along Biscayne Bay. This is one of the most romantic things to do in Miami. The Italian- inspired villa was built in 1916, and construction of the surrounding gardens was completed in 1920. The villa is filled with antique treasures and rare artworks, while the European-style pleasure gardens are home to peacocks and rare breeds of plants.

When you’re hungry, head to Little Havana for some fantastic Cuban food. One of the best Cuban restaurants in Miami is Versailles Restaurant. Be sure to get a café con leche and some flan for dessert. You can also sample Cuban burgers at El Rey de las Fritas.

Speaking of restaurants, Miami is a foodie favorite. The restaurant scene is lively, with new hot spots popping up constantly and plenty of Michelin-starred eateries offering innovative cuisine. Some top restaurants in Miami include The Surf Club Restaurant by Thomas Keller, Boia De, Cote Miami, Amara at Paraiso, Zuma Miami, Stubborn Seed, Carbone, and Joe’s Stone Crab.

If you like nature, take a day trip from Miami to Everglades National Park for a wildlife tour. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, dolphins, and the sleek Florida panther as you cruise along the waterways of this remarkable nature preserve in either an airboat or kayak. For a quick visit, just go to the visitor center and walk the short Anhinga Trail boardwalk through the marsh. Be sure to wear plenty of mosquito repellant!

The Fontainebleau in Miami Beach offers sleek modern accommodations in a glamorous oceanfront setting. A celebrity favorite when it opened in the 1950s, the building’s unique curved design set the standard for the “Miami Modern” look. The hotel has been updated and features a gorgeous freeform pool; 12 restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Hakkasan; a spa with steam baths; a gym; and the hip nightclub LIV.

The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables opened in 1926 and is set in an ornate Mediterranean building that was renovated in 2018 but keeps its elegant, luxurious feel. Surrounded by 150 acres of lush landscaping, the resort offers plush accommodations, a spa, tennis courts, an 18-hole championship golf course, 4 restaurants, and one of the largest pools in the United States.

The Faena Hotel Miami Beach is a romantic and swanky oasis with a glamorous pool and gorgeous beach, as well as unique amenities like a breathtaking gilded theater that offers original productions and cabaret shows. The 22,000-square-foot Tierra Santa Healing House offers unique restorative treatments, there are live DJs in The Living Room cocktail bar, and there’s a full fitness center. Oceanfront rooms and suites have private balconies, elegant furnishings, marble bathrooms, and walk-in showers.

Photo courtesy of St. Augustine Visitors’ & Convention Bureau

St. Augustine, Florida

This is one of the best honeymoon destinations in the U.S. for couples who like history and food. Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously settled city in the U.S., and it has a very European feel. Easily walkable with beautiful architecture and fascinating historic sites, St. Augustine also has a waterfront and is close to beaches.

Stay at a charming bed and breakfast like the Bayfront Marin House or St. Francis Inn, or book a room in the elegant and historic Casa Monica Hotel. No matter which one you choose, you’ll be centrally located.

Rated the #1 waterfront hotel in St. Augustine, Bayfront Marin House is gorgeous, sophisticated, and romantic. It’s also a popular site for weddings. Set in a quiet section of the historic district within easy walking distance of everything, this elegant bed-and-breakfast on the bay offers rooms and suites in several buildings—most with outdoor space and amazing views of Matanzas Bay, the Bridge of Lions, and the St. Augustine Lighthouse.

The tastefully decorated rooms and suites are light, bright, and spacious. Each room’s décor is different, with some feeling more modern and some more traditional. All offer private entrances and individual thermostats; some have fantastic extras like fireplaces, oversized jetted or soaking tubs, rain showers with body jets, dual showers, mini refrigerators, and private porches or patios. Some of the rooms are pet-friendly, and there’s an accessible room as well.

No matter where they’re staying, all guests are welcome to sit in the beautiful courtyard and enjoy the breezes off the water as they take in the calming bay views. Amenities include a gourmet hot Southern breakfast delivered each morning to your door, luxury bath products, WiFi, cruiser bikes, and free off-street parking. Happy hour is held in the courtyard each day.

St. Francis Inn offers rooms in several historic buildings that are set in the oldest part of the city, within easy walking distance of everything but in a quiet neighborhood. The grounds feel serene, private, and romantic, with multiple lovely spaces to hang out in. There’s a heated pool tucked behind the main building and a shady courtyard with tropical plants and a fish pond.

More than your typical bed and breakfast, St. Francis Inn includes so many amenities you’ll feel completely spoiled. In addition to a full breakfast with a menu that changes daily, you also get access to coffee, tea, hot chocolate, water, and sodas all day long; sweet treats like cookies; a happy hour; an evening dessert; evening s’mores around the firepit in the courtyard; bicycles; pool towels; WiFi; TV with Hulu; toiletries; off-street parking (with charging stations for electric vehicles); and sherry.

St. Francis Inn offers a variety of rooms and suites in 4 buildings, including a 2-bedroom/2-bath cottage; 2 suites in the 1894 House; and 2 suites plus 1 room in the Wilson House. Each room is unique and furnished with antiques or reproductions; some have fireplaces, some have whirlpool tubs, and most have outdoor spaces.

Both Bayfront Marin Inn and St. Francis Inn also have rentals available on the beach, if you prefer a waterfront retreat.

Charming historic St. Augustine is not very big so it’s easy to explore on foot or by bike. St. George Street is one of the main streets, and it’s full of shops, historic sites, restaurants, and art galleries. You can also take a trolley tour or a themed walking tour.

Stroll along the waterfront, visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, tour the Lightner Museum and Flagler College, go for a sail or paddleboard excursion in the bay, or head to the beach for some sun and sand.

After all that exploring, take a break with a magical spa experience. One of the most unique things to do in St. Augustine is also one of the most restorative and romantic things to do in St. Augustine. Salt Spa St. Augustine offers a wide range of services for couples, including massages and facials for two, but its most distinctive offerings are the Himalayan salt cave and float tank salt therapy. These salt treatments reduce stress, decrease pain and inflammation, improve mood, boost your immune system, and increase energy.

In the evening, take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride as the sun sets, then head to one of the many fantastic restaurants in St. Augustine.

A few of the most romantic restaurants in St. Augustine are the award-winning Collage, a gourmet global fine dining restaurant with a great wine list; the casually elegant Michael’s, which serves inventive dishes featuring steak and seafood with a Spanish influence in a charming historic home with outdoor seating; and Sainte-George Restaurant, a tiny bistro. For authentic Spanish cuisine in a gorgeous setting, don’t miss Columbia Restaurant.

If you’re in the mood for drinks, locals love the craft cocktails, delicious food, and romantic ambiance at the hip lounge Forgotten Tonic, tucked away on Aviles Street, as well as the wide selection of wines, cheeses, and charcuteries at Casa de Vino 57.

Little Palm Island Resort

Little Palm Island, Florida

How about a complete private island experience, again without needing a passport?

The only private island resort in the United States, Little Palm Island delivers barefoot luxury in a breathtaking setting. Just off the coast of the Florida Keys, Little Palm Island features thatched roof bungalows, lush tropical landscaping, and an indoor-outdoor Balinese-inspired spa.

Your island beach vacation begins at the Shore Station, where you enjoy a cocktail, then board the classic speedboat for a short ride over sparkling water. Each romantic bungalow is furnished in British West Indies décor and features ocean views, private furnished deck, separate living area, soaking tub, and indoor and outdoor showers. Island Romance Suites also offer outdoor soaking tubs and an exclusive sand beach with fire pit, for the ultimate privacy.

Savor water views along with delicious fresh cuisine at the beautiful restaurant, then head to one of the waterfront lounge areas to enjoy a peaceful evening by a fire and under the stars. You won’t be surprised that Little Palm Island was named one of the best new hotels in the world and one of the top ten resort hotels in Florida.

You can choose all-inclusive packages here with a 2-night minimum stay; the Culinary Paradise Package includes a bottle of champagne and a $100 spa credit per person per night, plus daily breakfast, 3-course lunch, and a 4-course dinner for two.

Since it’s located just an hour’s drive from Key West and two and a half hours from Miami, you could combine a stay here with a visit to either of those popular Florida honeymoon destinations as well.

New York, New York

Heading to New York City could be one of the most ambitious things a newlywed couple could do at the start of their marriage, but this vibrant and fascinating city provides a wealth of opportunities for romance and creating lasting memories.

Unlike other destinations where you may spend a lot of time relaxing, NYC is more fast-paced and offers unlimited things to do. Each season brings a new set of activities, making it an amazing honeymoon destination in the U.S. no matter the time of year.

If you’re there between Thanksgiving and Christmas, don’t miss strolling Fifth Avenue to see all the department store window displays. Also during the colder months you can ice skate at Rockefeller Center or in Central Park, and snuggle up on a romantic carriage ride.

Speaking of Central Park, be sure to spend at least a few hours exploring this gorgeous natural retreat in the midst of all the nonstop action. It’s filled with charming paths, romantic bridges, and fun things to do. A romantic spot for a bite or a drink is The Boathouse with its lovely views.

Central Park

You can also shop on 5th Avenue; sightsee at famous spots like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Rockefeller Center; and soak in all the art the amazing Metropolitan Museum of Art and Modern Museum of Art.

Walk over the Brooklyn Bridge, especially at night when you can see a wonderful view of the NYC skyline. Another great spot for walking with excellent views is the Highline. You can also have fun just wandering around the various neighborhoods, such as Greenwich Village.

Be sure to see at least one Broadway show while you’re there, and then head out for sophisticated cocktails somewhere chic (like Dante, Ophelia, Death & Co., or Please Don’t Tell) or classic (like The Bar Room at Beekman Hotel, Chumley’s, or Bemelman’s Bar). Hidden in Grand Central Station is a unique romantic spot for drinks, The Campbell, a swanky Art Deco lounge.

And of course, eat at all the amazing restaurants you can fit in. This is an excellent city to try a Michelin-starred restaurant, but there are plenty of less fancy and expensive options that will deliver an incredible experience. New York is one of the best U.S. honeymoon destinations for foodies.

Some of the top romantic restaurants in New York are Le Bernadin, The River Café, Manhatta, Rezdora, Buvette, One If By Land/Two If By Sea, Le Pavillon, La Grenouille, Peak, Daniel, Acquavit, Les Trois Chevaux, Oiji Mi, and Grand Central Oyster Bar.

Brooklyn Bridge

Stay in a classic hotel for the ultimate New York experience. Iconic for its history and luxury, The Plaza offers huge rooms overlooking Central Park with touches like gold-plated bathroom fixtures. It also has an exceptional spa and 24-hour butler service. Other romantic hotels in New York are The Beekman, The Carlyle, The Ludlow, the St. Regis, The Surrey, Archer Hotel, and The Algonquin Hotel.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Another of the best honeymoon destinations in the U.S. for foodies is this romantic city. With a rich history, French and Spanish heritage, and a culture that celebrates eating out like nowhere else, New Orleans offers a huge range of charming restaurants serving extraordinarily delicious cuisine.

It’s also full of music, art, architecture, charm, cocktail culture, history, and fun, making it one of the most interesting places to honeymoon in the U.S. In fact, it will feel a little like you’ve left the country. 

While the historic and scenic French Quarter is what most people think of first, and there are plenty of fun things to do in that area, some of the best things to do in New Orleans are outside of it. Here are just a few.

Take a guided tour of the Garden District, a residential area just a few miles from downtown, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you marvel at the ornate architecture and beautiful gardens. Afterwards, ride the streetcar up St. Charles Avenue. You’ll pass grand old mansions, ancient oak trees dripping colorful Mardi Gras beads from prior parades, beautiful Audubon Park, and the lovely campuses of Tulane and Loyola universities. You can also take the streetcar all around the downtown, riverfront, and Mid-City areas.

One of the best free things to do in New Orleans is to wander around the Warehouse District, which is the arts center of the city. You’ll find tons of galleries and shops to check out, as well as fun cafés and bars when you need refreshment. You can also head to Magazine Street, which parallels St. Charles Avenue and is lined with all sorts of shops and restaurants.

For something different, explore the lovely City Park, a 1400-acre oasis in MidCity with lagoons, boat rentals, an old-fashioned amusement park, and golf. It’s also home to the New Orleans Museum of Art.

And of course, you’ll want to feast on the famous local cuisine. New Orleans is known the world over as a foodie capital. From Cajun and Creole to Italian and French, from neighborhood dives to gourmet fine dining restaurants, there is an astonishing array of delicious and delightful places to go.

For a classic New Orleans fine dining experience, go to Antoine’s, Commander’s Palace, Broussard’s, Arnaud’s, Dooky Chase, Café Sbisa, and Mr. B’s Bistro. The historic Brennan’s restaurant is famous for its breakfast and brunch.

Reservations are a must at these restaurants, and there are dress codes so be sure to ask what’s required. It’s customary in New Orleans for meals at the finer restaurants to take several hours so that you can truly savor the experience; don’t go to any of these if you’re in a hurry. Enjoying a meal at one of these restaurants is one of the most romantic things to do in New Orleans for couples.

There are also some relatively newer fine dining restaurants that offer inventive menus in elegant surroundings, such as Restaurant August, Gabrielle, La Petite Grocery, Herbsaint, Gianna, Cochon, Coquette, Compere Lapin, Saba, Patois, Chemin a Mer, and Miss River. For a more social experience that is hard to rival for fun and incredible food, head to Galatoire’s on a Friday afternoon.

For a fun evening, head The Chloe on St. Charles Avenue, a bar, restaurant, and boutique hotel in an old mansion. Not only are the cocktails and food incredible, but the ambiance is perfectly New Orleans: sophisticated and romantic, with a quirky twist. The restaurant menu even features a night’s stay in one of the rooms for guests who can’t bear to leave.

New Orleans knows a thing or two about cocktails. If you enjoy a finely crafted drink, be sure to stop at one or more of the city’s iconic lounges. This is definitely one of the most romantic things to do in New Orleans for couples. The Carousel Bar in the Hotel Monteleone features a round bar that rotates (very slowly, no worries!) around the center so your view always changes. This glamorous lounge also offers excellent live music.

The Sazerac Bar at the Roosevelt Hotel has been named the best hotel bar in the U.S. multiple times. Tiny and elegant with Depression-era murals and a gorgeous wooden bar, this is the original home of the Ramos Gin Fizz and is named after the Sazerac cocktail, which was also created in New Orleans.

There are hundreds of venues where you can see great live music; New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and it’s also known for funk, brass brands, and blues—not to mention a smattering of the Cajun dance music, zydeco. Some of the best places to see bands are Tipitina’s, the Maple Leaf, Rock’n’Bowl, the Spotted Cat, the Howlin’ Wolf, the Toulouse Theatre, and the House of Blues. For jazz, you can’t beat the acts at Snug Harbor and the Preservation Jazz Hall.

You’ll have plenty of fabulous choices when it comes to picking where to stay in New Orleans. Located in a superb 1863 building, The Roosevelt New Orleans is an iconic New Orleans hotel with plush rooms and suites and the historic Sazerac Bar, as well as a rooftop pool.

One of the newest luxury hotels here is the Four Seasons New Orleans, offering swanky suites that overlook the Mississippi River and some of the city’s hottest restaurants and bars in a convenient downtown location.

Also downtown is The Ritz-Carlton, a luxury hotel with stately rooms and suites featuring stunning neoclassical furnishings, marble bathrooms, and balconies with breathtaking city views. Among the lavish amenities, you will find an extravagant pool and fitness center, as well as a high-end spa.

Hotel Roosevelt New Orleans Holiday Light Display

Nearby you will find Hotel Monteleone, a luxe grande dame hotel with an opulent lobby, plush traditional rooms, an upscale restaurant, the famous Carousel Bar, a spa, and a rooftop pool. And if you want to stay on historic St. Charles Avenue, check out The Chloe or The Pontchartrain.

San Diego, California

San Diego is a great U.S. honeymoon destination for couples who like to explore and discover new areas in a laidback setting. It has the perfect combination of sights to see, romantic restaurants, relaxing beaches, and outdoor activities.

If you’re looking for consistently good weather for your honeymoon, San Diego is a good bet. The sun is nearly always shining! San Diego averages about 260 sunny days a year but doesn’t get too hot. Summer highs range around 80 degrees, and in the winter it can get up to 65-70 degrees.

Take a walk around the cultural hub of Balboa Park, home to numerous botanical gardens, museums, and theatres. Explore the many maritime museums to soak up some history. The region also offers some of the best vineyards in the country, so why not take in a romantic wine tasting tour for two? And of course, there’s the famous San Diego Zoo.

Going on a gondola ride through the canals of Coronado Cays is a must for honeymooning couples. Enjoy a whale watching cruise and make sure you go to the Coronado Bridge where legend has it a kiss will bring you luck and fortune.  Head to La Jolla Cove, one of San Diego’s most photographed places for a reason.

When you’re ready to relax, go to the beach. You can choose from the beachfront on the mainland, or drive over to historic Coronado Island. This charming spot is fun to explore, in addition to enjoying the broad sand beaches.

If you’re a big foodie, San Diego has a wealth of culinary delights to satisfy your taste buds. Since the city has a mix of cultures and ethnicities, there’s no one signature cuisine–perfect for if you want to try something different every day! This is a great city for a food tour. It’s also a hot spot for craft beer.

Top restaurants in San Diego are The Prado in Balboa Park, The Marine Room, Dobson’s Bar and Restaurant, Juniper & Ivy, June et Jolie, George’s at the Grove, AR Valentien, Buona Forchetta, Cucina Urbana, Born & Raised, and Kettner Exchange (book a rooftop cabana!).

Stay in a central location like the Omni San Diego Hotel in the heart of downtown, which boasts views of the bay from the floor to ceiling windows. A perfect romantic getaway, it also has a full-service spa and in-room or poolside dining.

Or, head to the storied Hotel del Coronado, which is set on Coronado Island just moments from downtown San Diego. It’s a beautiful historic building with charming Victorian-era décor, set on a wide beach. Famous as the setting for the classic movie “Some Like It Hot,” it has been fully renovated and has a very sophisticated feel.

There’s a wide range of accommodations options in multiple buildings, a full menu of resort activities, a spa and salon, shopping, a fitness center, pools, beach yoga, and a selection of restaurants and bars (including beachfront settings).

Another option is an elegant beach honeymoon resort set on 175 acres overlooking the ocean just north of San Diego, the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach. Stylish rooms and suites have plush bedding, spacious living areas, and private terraces with gorgeous views. There’s a huge main pool with two infinity edge hot tubs plus a family pool and an adults-only lap pool, an oceanfront golf course, and a swanky spa. The private beach club offers a vast stretch of pristine sand, an oceanfront restaurant and bar, chairs and umbrellas, and watersports equipment and instruction.

Complimentary fitness activities include tennis, yoga, meditation, beach hikes, and exercise classes. You can also walk or bike around the resort to enjoy beautiful views and see Monarch butterflies. Multiple restaurants and bars give you a choice of gourmet cuisine, fresh seafood, and more in oceanfront, oceanview, and open-air settings.

Los Angeles, California

L.A. is another good bet for excellent year-round weather. More sophisticated and glamorous than San Diego, Los Angeles still offers plenty of natural beauty and a gorgeous beachfront in addition to tons of things to do. Outdoorsy couples can go hiking or biking in the hills around the city, horseback riding, or surfing at the beach.

Tour Hollywood, look for celebrities, drive past palatial mansions in Beverly Hills, go shopping, check out Chinatown, have fun at the Santa Monica Pier, and feast to your heart’s delight at an extraordinary range of restaurants.

Romantic things to do include exploring the Venice canals, going to the Griffith Observatory, seeing a live performance at the Hollywood Bowl, and wandering the Descanso Gardens or Huntington Gardens. There’s also vibrant nightlife, and if you want to add even more excitement you can hit the road to Las Vegas.

Los Angeles has a fabulous restaurant scene, with a huge variety of cuisines available including all sorts of Asian and hot new spots opening all the time. Top restaurants to check out in LA are Musso & Frank Grill, Providence, Camphor, Antico Nuovo, The Rose Venice, Otium, Ronan, La Casita Mexicana, Tam’s Noodle House, Ruen Pair, Soban, Hamasaku, and N/Naka. Classic casual spots are Pie’n’Burger, Bludso’s BBQ, Langer’s Delicatessen, and the Serving Spoon.

Swanky and fun bars include Apotheke, Employees Only, The Let’s Go! Disco & Cocktail Club, and The Varnish. Be sure to hit at least one rooftop bar, like Melroseplace LA, Spire 73, The Broken Shaker, Merois, The Highlight Room, LP Rooftop Bar, Elephante, Harriet’s Rooftop, Skybar, and Bar Lis at the Thompson Hotel.

For a beach honeymoon resort in the Los Angeles area, check out Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes, 30 minutes to the southwest. It has a stunning setting on more than 100 acres of the Palos Verdes Peninsula along the Pacific coast. Go hiking on the nature trails, relax on the private beach, enjoy watersports, or take a complimentary shuttle to play tennis.

The spacious accommodations offer amazing ocean views, elegant furnishings, and private balconies. Your stay here becomes almost all-inclusive with the Ocean Oasis package, which gets you a daily $500 resort credit and free parking when you stay 3 or more nights in a bungalow, casita, or villa.

This honeymoon resort features 8 restaurants (each with an outdoor area offering incredible views), a beautiful spa with an oceanfront yoga studio, a fitness center, an oceanfront golf course, and 4 fabulous heated pools—not to mention literally hundreds of fire pits.

If you want to stay in town, the Sunset Marquis is just off the Sunset Strip, but feels a world away. It’s tucked in lush gardens and has a Spanish villa vibe, gourmet restaurant, hip bar, spa, two pools, and posh rooms and suites. Or check out the historic Hotel Bel-Air, which has been recently renovated and features a chic yet relaxed atmosphere on 12 acres with two pools, a La Prairie Spa, a fitness center, a fabulous restaurant, an elegant bar—and a lake with swans. Glamorous rooms and suites evoke the golden age of Hollywood—you’ll feel like celebrities yourselves.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada is the perfect place for a fun honeymoon or elopement. This fast-paced city’s numerous activities, shows, events, music, cuisine, casinos, and resorts will not disappoint newlywed couples.

No matter what time of year you choose to visit, Las Vegas has all sorts of excitement to explore. Of course there are all the casinos you could possibly want, but when you want a break from gambling, there are plenty of things to do in Vegas not gambling-oriented.

Besides the Las Vegas Strip, Fremont Street is one of the most iconic places for tourists to visit. This is where it all started, so you’ll get a feel for “old Vegas.” You will also find a variety of live concerts and shows, which are typically free.

You can even have a beach honeymoon experience in this desert town. Mandalay Bay is an 11-acre iconic resort on the south end of the Las Vegas strip. While here, you can dip your toes in real sand, hang in the wave pool, or mingle at the high-end bars and lounges.

Walk the Las Vegas Strip and check out the unique facades and travel destination reproductions, like the Eiffel Tower in Paris. See the famous Bellagio Hotel fountain show along the way. Take a ride on the High Roller, the world’s largest observation Ferris wheel.

During the hot summer months, take a romantic gondola ride at the Venetian hotel and float past restaurants and Italian-style architecture. Adventurous couples can zipline over the downtown area on the SlotZilla Zipline, which takes you 10 stories up and launches you 1,750 feet across Fremont Street at a top speed of 40 miles per hour.

If you don’t want to book a flight to Paris, then you can get the whole Eiffel Tower experience in Las Vegas. While it’s half the size of the real Eiffel Tower, it’s still worth checking out as a top romantic thing to do in Las Vegas. Another romantic thing to do is visit the Stratosphere, the largest observation deck in the United States, and have a cocktail at night overlooking the city lights.

You can also choose from a wide variety of live entertainment, including top musical acts, magic shows, comedians, and spectacles like Cirque du Soleil. 

Just outside the city, you can visit the incredible engineering marvel of the Hoover Dam, tour the Grand Canyon, or explore the Valley of Fire or Death Valley National Park.

Las Vegas is also a top honeymoon destination in the U.S. for foodies, with a huge variety of gourmet options available including outposts of famous spots like Nobu as well as Michelin-starred restaurants. Some of the best restaurants in Vegas include Restaurant Guy Savoy, Picasso, Bardot Brasserie, Twist by Pierre Gagnaire, Joel Robuchon, Mizumi, Delilah, Lakeside, Barry’s Downtown Prime, Wing Lei, Estiatorio Milos, Cipriani Las Vegas, and Bavette’s Steakhouse & Bar.

There are tons of luxury hotels and resorts in Las Vegas, including some jawdroppingly beautiful and romantic spots. The Palazzo at The Venetian is a luxurious Italian-themed hotel with a vast array of restaurants, shows, pools, and spas, as well as a casino to play the night away. It includes a beautiful waterfall and atrium garden, Wolfgang Puck’s CUT restaurant, and romantic Vennice-inspired suites. You can even take a 90-minute tour of the hotel’s famous architecture.

The Bellagio Hotel and Casino offers a sophisticated setting and elegant nightlife experiences. Relax at the Chihuly Lounge and listen to famous pianists play as you sip delicious cocktails. Watch the nightly fountain show that takes place in front of the hotel from the comfort of your beautiful Fountain View King Suite. During the day, enjoy the enormous pool and swim-up bar.

The hip Cosmopolitan is located in the heart of the Strip. Enjoy the easy access to nightlife, or stay in for the night, see one of the many inhouse shows, and dine and drink at the multiple bars and restaurants in the hotel. You can also swim in one of the five pools and try your luck in the gorgeous casino. 

The Cosmopolitan’s Wraparound Terrace Suites are great for honeymooners. They feature glass doors that open to an expansive wraparound private terrace with panoramic views of the Strip including the Bellagio Fountains. They also boast amenities not typically found in a hotel room, including a sleek wet bar with a Sub-Zero wine chiller.

Another fantastic option for honeymooners in Vegas is the luxe, Art Deco style Four Seasons Hotel. The lavish hotel offers sophisticated rooms and suites featuring stunning floor-to-ceiling windows and gorgeous views. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Strip and surrounding mountains, The Premier Panoramic Suite is the best option for sunrise lovers.

The Four Seasons offers a chic Italian restaurant and an upscale steakhouse. Among the amenities are a well-equipped spa, a fitness center, and a charming outdoor pool with private cabanas and a cool waterside bar.

Colorado

Colorado is known for its rugged mountains, stunning scenery, and vast range of outdoor activities. With something to offer in all seasons whether you enjoy hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter, Colorado is an ideal honeymoon destination for couples who like the outdoors.

The obvious thing to do during a winter honeymoon in Colorado is to head to the mountains and ski. But there are plenty of other unique winter experiences, like snowmobiling, dog sledding, outdoor ice-skating, and snow tubing.

With a summer honeymoon in Colorado, you can enjoy the outdoors without the winter crowds. It is a perfect time to go horseback riding, hiking, paddle boarding, boating, fishing, and swimming. There are hundreds of hikes and biking trails that lead through picturesque meadows, canyons, and waterfalls. If you are looking for adventure, try zip-lining or choose between 6 different rivers on which to go white water rafting.

No matter which season you honeymoon in Colorado, you have tons of options. Even if you choose a city-based honeymoon in Denver, you’ll still be close to a wide range of natural wonders like Red Rocks, Garden of the Gods, hot springs, and national parks. Here are some of our top recommendations for Colorado honeymoon spots.

Vail

Vail is the second largest ski area in the U.S. with a Swiss-inspired village that makes you feel like you’re in the Alps. The combination of over 5500 acres of skiable terrain, a plethora of restaurants, and tons of activities makes it a great option for a honeymoon in Colorado.

For a unique and romantic dining experience, check out Brano’s Cabin. To get to this 5-course meal, you take a 20-minute open-air sleigh ride with amazing views of Grouse Mountain and Larkspur Bowl. When you arrive, you are welcomed by a warm fire and open kitchen. 

While many enjoy Vail for the ski season, the summer offers beautiful weather, zip lines, ropes courses, scenic hikes, horseback riding, and plenty of activities on the Colorado River. For a thrill, try whitewater rafting or kayaking. Depending on your comfort level and river conditions, you can either rent a raft and go at your own pace or have a guided trip.

An uber-romantic family-owned hotel in the heart of Vail Village is Sonnenalp, which has won numerous awards and is the #1 hotel in Vail. It features charming accommodations, five gourmet dining options, and a spa with Turkish steam rooms, saunas, and a full menu of treatments.

If you’re looking for a ski honeymoon, Copper Mountain Resort is located about 20 miles from Vail. Three pedestrian-friendly village areas provide a vibrant atmosphere with lodging, retail outlets, restaurants, bars, and activities.

During the winter months, Copper Mountain offers world-class skiing for all skill levels. Each summer, the mountain transforms into an unspoiled playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and all those seeking a genuine Colorado experience.

Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs is located about 3 1/2 hours from Denver by car. There is also an airport nearby. The Steamboat ski resort provides access to 6 peaks; other winter activities include snowmobiling or going for a ride on the Outlaw Mountain Coaster.

The area has several hot springs including one in the middle of the old town. The summer in Steamboat Springs is even busier than the winter; you can go hiking, tubing, fly fishing, or many other activities.

Tucked away about a 50-minute drive from Steamboat Springs is our top pick for a honeymoon resort in Colorado, Vista Verde Ranch. One of the top-rated all-inclusive resorts in Colorado, Vista Verde is an amazing luxury ranch. The property is stunning and the service is fantastic.

All-inclusive vacation packages at Vista Verde Ranch include cozy and charming private cabins stocked with snacks and drinks every day.  Imagine snow gently falling outside while you’re snuggled by the fire. Or soak in the outdoor hot tub after horseback riding or a backcountry ski outing. 

Every morning and evening the staff will find you to confirm or adjust your upcoming plans and activities. In the winter that means horseback riding, snowmobiling, tubing, skiing, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and more. In the summer you can learn to fly fish or go mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Meals are delicious and feature local influences. 

a romantic denver bridge perfect for honeymooners

Denver

Away from all the ski resorts is Colorado’s capital city with plenty of charm of its own to offer. The city is known for its gorgeous setting, elevated food scene, breweries, and fun activities. Consider going on a food tour or walking the Denver Beer Trail to explore more than 20 breweries. Explore the different parts of the city and check out museums, shopping, and more.

For an amazing natural setting in the city, check out Denver’s City Park. It’s home to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science and the Denver Zoo as well as lakes, picnic areas, and sports fields.

The Art Museum is famous for its large collection of Native American art. If you come at the right time, you can also catch a concert at the one-of-a-kind Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater, known for its natural acoustics.  Even if you don’t go to a concert, you can still explore the area and take in the incredible vistas.

Originally opened in 1891, the award-winning Oxford Hotel offers 80 individually decorated guest rooms, each with unique features such as clawfoot bathtubs, floor-to-ceiling Chinese silk curtains and French and English antiques. Located in the heart of downtown Denver’s LoDo district, the hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and houses an extensive collection of Western American art.

The Oxford is also home to the Oxford Club, Spa & Salon and Denver’s quintessential Art Deco martini bar, the Cruise Room. Honeymooners can enjoy The Oxford’s intimate downtown setting and historic beauty with the Vintage Romance package, which includes luxurious accommodations, cocktails for two at The Cruise Room, a complimentary upgrade and valet parking.

Located inside the recently renovated Denver Union Station (which is worth a visit on its own), The Crawford Hotel offers another option for a Denver luxury honeymoon. It features 112 uniquely decorated guest rooms that reflect the different eras of the building’s history. The “Pullman-style” rooms on the second level evoke train travel at its heyday with a subtle Art Deco nod.

The “Classic” guestrooms are inspired by the building’s Victorian-era beginnings, with a touch of modern elegance. “The Loft” rooms in the former attic feature exposed wood timbers and vaulted ceilings. The Crawford also offers four 1-bedroom LoDo Suites and the 726 square foot Crawford Suite, which features a Butler’s pantry, separate living and dining rooms, a powder room, and a master bedroom with a sitting area.

Amenities include luxury Tesla car service (within 2-mile radius), access to the Oxford Club, Spa & Salon, and room service from Denver Union Station restaurants Snooze, an A.M. Eatery and Next Door Union Station. The Denver Date Night package includes two signature cocktails and an appetizer in Denver Union Station’s romantic Cooper Lounge, complimentary valet parking, and a free upgrade.

Colorado Springs Honeymoon

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a perfect location for a summer, spring, or fall honeymoon. Stay here to be close to the Garden of the Gods, a must-see. This natural landmark features magnificent sandstone pillars you can tour on foot or by bike, or you can take a guided tour in a Jeep, on a Segway, or on horseback.

Wander the paths and trails admiring the magnificent sandstone pillars. Don’t forget to steal a smooch underneath the famed Kissing Camels rock formation before enjoying a hike, picnic, horseback ride, or rock climbing lesson in this free city park.

Couples can relax with a massage or treatment at one of the area’s luxurious spas like MX Spa located inside The Mining Exchange Hotel, or Alluvia which is part of the Country Club of Colorado. Fine dining can be enjoyed at places like The Penrose Room (the only five-star restaurant in the state of Colorado), The Famous, The Peppertree and Carlos’ Bistro.

Enjoy a Rocky Mountain Food Tour of Downtown Colorado Springs or join the Food Network frenzy with stops at places like Spice Island Grill, Rasta Pasta and Front Range BBQ (all featured on Diners Drive-Ins and Dives). Experience a new and adventurous activity together whether it is ice climbing, whitewater rafting, or a sunrise hot air balloon ride.

For an amazing landscape view, visit the summit of 14,115-foot Pikes Peak, America’s Mountain, which is a must when in the area. Drive the twists and turns of the Pikes Peak Highway, hike Barr Trail, or take the world’s highest cog train to catch views like no other.

Perched high atop a mesa, the luxurious Garden of the Gods Collection is a fantastic honeymoon resort offering stunning views of snow-capped Pikes Peak and the natural red rock formations of the Garden of the Gods National Landmark. The Garden of the Gods Collection has a romance package as well as multiple couples’ experience packages at the newly opened Spa and Salon.

The Fuel the Fire Romance Package includes luxury accommodations with mountain views and an in-suite fireplace. Enjoy and in-room dining credit for an intimate meal by the fire.

Cheyenne Mountain Resort is our pick for the biggest bang for your buck. The four-diamond resort has an array of options for things to do including all-season hiking, tennis, and golf. When it is warm, the resort’s lake and beach are a perfect place to relax.

The Cheyenne Mountain Resort has several romantic packages allowing you to choose what fits your preferences with add-ons available. There is also a spa package for two which is totally worth the indulgence.

Now that you’ve read all about our picks for the 10 best honeymoon destinations in the U.S., which one appeals to you the most? Let us know in the comments. And if you need help planning your honeymoon, consider talking to one of our trusted travel advisors!