Visit Martha Stewart Weddings Weddings Wedding Travel Honeymoon The 50 Best Beach Honeymoon Destinations By Katie James Watkinson Katie James Watkinson Katie is a freelance writer for MarthaStewart.com. Editorial Guidelines Updated on May 29, 2019 Close Tim McKenna Whether you dream of traveling to the far-flung Maldives or prefer to stay close to home in Miami Beach, every honeymooner should have a chance to unwind among sand and surf. A beach honeymoon is the perfect post-nuptial escape because it can be as relaxing or adventurous as you like. After a weekend of parties, you may choose to spend all day napping on the sand. Or, you could decide to keep the excitement going and plan daily excursions on land and at sea. Our recommendation: Do a little bit of both. Each of these beach honeymoons offers the best of both worlds—stretches of powder-soft sand on which to relax and disconnect from the real world (you've earned it!) and adventure-packed potential among rainforests and coral reefs. Some are built with amenities in mind, like full-service spas and restaurants led by top chefs, while others take a laid-back approach to luxury, offering bespoke surf-town charms or European grandeur. Where you go will depend on what type of experience you're after, from private-island seclusion to see-and-be-seen glamour. After a few days recharging from the wedding weekend, be sure to get out and explore—you only get to honeymoon once, remember! And don't forget to pack your SPF. Click through here to discover the 50 best beach honeymoons, but be warned: It's going to be difficult to settle on just one of these luxe destinations. 01 of 50 Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Hawaii Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort The dramatic climates of Hawaii, a.k.a. the Big Island, are on full display at this glitzy resort, which borders a dramatic volcanic-rock coastline. You'll have a hard time deciding where to post up each day, since there are both saltwater and freshwater swimming pools. The saltwater pond is home to a few friendly manta rays, while the oceanfront infinity pool is surrounded by tropical vegetation. But always end your day at Beach Tree Bar, where you can watch the sun dip into the Pacific Ocean with a cocktail in-hand. 02 of 50 One & Only Le Saint Gerán, Mauritius Courtesy of One & Only Resorts The 720-square-mile island of Mauritius is famous for its white-sand beaches and abundant marine life. Now, it'll also be known for this top-notch resort, which reopened last December with three swimming pools, chic, contemporary guest rooms, and a host of restaurants serving everything from artisanal baked goods to pan-Asian cuisine. 03 of 50 The Brando, French Polynesia Courtesy of The Brando Legendary filmmaker Marlon Brando had a vision for an eco-luxe resort when he bought a private atoll in French Polynesia decades ago. The resort that eventually followed definitely goes above and beyond his original plans—and it will blow your mind, too. Spend the day hanging in the plunge pool of your secluded villa, explore uninhabited islands by private boat, or get a couples massage in a treehouse at the all-natural spa. 04 of 50 Le Sireneuse, Italy Courtesy of Le Sireneuse The allure of the Amalfi Coast is undeniable. Also undeniable: The charms of this classic Positano hotel, set on a hillside overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. It has everything Italian honeymooners dream of: round-the-clock prosecco on ice, alfresco, candlelit restaurants covered in bougainvillea, and more parmesan-topped spaghetti then you can (and should) eat. 05 of 50 Hotel Esencia, Mexico Courtesy of Hotel Esencia You don't have to be a celeb to honeymoon at this 40-room resort on a secluded stretch of Mexico's Riviera Maya. But you'll likely see some famous people lounging under the beachfront palapa next to you, or dining on smoked red tuna tiradito at the Peruvian-Japanese fusion restaurant, Mistura. 06 of 50 The Ritz-Carlton, Bal Harbour, Florida Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Bal Harbour If stunning ocean views are what you're after, you'll be hard-pressed to find a property that offers a better one than the Ritz-Carlton, Bal Harbour's—the beachfront property is situated on the corner of the North Miami Beach coast and the Intercoastal Waterway. During the day, soak up the sun on the beach or at the outdoor pool. Be sure to reserve a personal cabana, which is complete with a private hot tub and personal server. End your day by booking a table at the property's waterfront seafood restaurant, Artisan Beach House, and then retreat back to your newly-renovated and spacious suite. (There are only two hotel rooms per floor which allows for privacy and generously sized suites.) 07 of 50 Amanyara, Turks and Caicos Courtesy of Aman Resorts Grace Bay Beach is one of the most gorgeous spots in all of Turks and Caicos. But this resort isn't on Grace Bay Beach, it's actually on a quiet beachfront enclave on the western shore of Providenciales. It pays to be away from the most popular area when you're on your honeymoon—you'll love the soothing Asian design influences and flavorful yet light cuisine. 08 of 50 Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort This eco-luxury retreat—set on the 1,400-acre Peninsula Papagayo, on Costa Rica's northern Pacific coast—is fresh off a $35 million renovation. The 182 guest rooms now have a clean, contemporary feeling (but with the same amazing indoor-outdoor flow), the pool has new luxury cabanas, and the four restaurants were completely redesigned and rethought (with an emphasis on locally-sourced cuisine). 09 of 50 Faena Hotel Miami Beach, Florida Courtesy of Faena Hotel If you're the type of couple who can't imagine holing up at to some secluded beach resort, make flashy Miami Beach your destination of choice. This honeymoon-worthy retreat is set apart from the clubby glitz of South Beach, with some of the best food and drink in town. Take your pick of either modern Asian by top chef Paul Qui or South American live-fire cooking courtesy of Argentine grillmaster Francis Mallmann. 10 of 50 Alila Villas Uluwatu, Indonesia Courtesy of Alila Hotels Disclaimer: If you're afraid of heights, this may not be the spot for you. Set on a jaw-dropping cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, this all-villa resort has some of the most spectacular views and most interesting architecture in all of Bali (note the wood-slatted cabana lounge bar that juts above the dramatic Bukit cliffs). For the best views, request villa 409, situated at the highest point of the resort, with 180-degree ocean views. 11 of 50 Mukul, Auberge Resorts Collection, Nicaragua Courtesy of Auberge Resorts "Mukul" is the Mayan word for "secret," and this 38 room resort—set on a secluded, undeveloped stretch of the Emerald Coast—feels like just that. Vibrant tropical landscapes abound, whether you're at the championship golf course, the rainforest hydrotherapy spa, or the treetop Yoga Pavilion overlooking the Pacific Ocean. 12 of 50 Soneva Jani, Maldives Courtesy of Soneva Breakfast will never be so memorable as at this private-island resort. You'll wake in the darkness just before dawn and be escorted by your butler to a private section of sand. Once there, you'll watch the sun rise while seated at a table filled with eggs, organic fruits, yogurt, smoothies, crispy bacon, and more. 13 of 50 Cap Rocat, Spain Courtesy of Cap Rocat If this place looks like an ancient castle, that's because it is (sort of). Cap Rocat is set in a 19th-century fortress on the island of Mallorca, now a boutique, adults-only hotel. It spans 88 acres of pristine coastline overlooking the Bay of Palma. As you lie in bed in your sand-colored room and look out at your infinity pool, with the Mediterranean just beyond, you'll wonder where one starts and the other begins. 14 of 50 St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, French Polynesia Courtesy of St. Regis Bora Bora Resort You get a front row seat to Bora Bora's majestic Mount Otemanu at this classic resort, surrounded by the brightest blue lagoon you'll ever lay eyes on. Order room service breakfast and wait for the authentic Polynesian delicacies to be delivered straight to the dock of your overwater villa by canoe. Then head to the gym, where the resort's dedicated fitness coach helps cross-fit-loving couples keep up with their routine halfway around the world. 15 of 50 SLS Baha Mar, Bahamas Courtesy of SLS Hotels The latest development to land on the island of Nassau is a little bit Las Vegas on the beach, a lot bit amenity-packed enclave. Though there are two other resorts (the Grand Hyatt and a forthcoming Rosewood), millennial couples will love the hip vibes and chic design of the SLS. Get a drink at the low-lit Monkey Car before a Mediterranean-inspired meal at Cleo, where the za'tar pita is grilled directly in front of you and is out of this world. 16 of 50 UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa, Brazil Courtesy of Uxua Casa Think of Trancoso as the Tulum of Brazil—unwound and hippie-chic. Its premier resort is actually located in the quadrado, or town square, and half of its adorable casitas date back 500-years to the village's founding. 17 of 50 Hotel Le Toiny, St. Barts Courtesy of Hotel Le Toiny St. Barts suffered extensive damage during Hurricane Maria, but when its most romantic retreat reopens this fall, it promises to be better than ever. That's hard to top, considering each suite is essentially a mini-house with its own outdoor deck and pool. Spend your days lounging at the beach club—a rosé-all-day slice of South of France heaven in the Caribbean—followed by a candlelit dinner at the poolside restaurant, where your cacio e pepe pasta is prepared tableside in a giant wheel of parmesan cheese. 18 of 50 One & Only Palmilla, Mexico Courtesy of One & Only Resorts This Los Cabos resort may have all the full-service amenities you dream of—two infinity pools, a surf school, a 27-hole golf course, gorgeous Pacific Coast views, and restaurants led by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten—but it's hallmark feature is privacy and exclusivity. 19 of 50 St. Regis Princeville Resort, Kauai The St. Regis Princeville Resort You haven't really seen Hawaii until you've visited Kauai, otherwise known as the Garden Isle. The island's premier resort is like its own lush paradise: It has views of both Hanalei Bay and Kauai's rugged mountains, and rooms mimic the surrounding landscape with a rich, earth-toned palette. 20 of 50 Laucala, Fiji Courtesy of Laucala If you had a budget like Oprah's, you, too, would probably spend weeks at this private-island resort that's basically the epitome of luxury. You don't just have your own private butler, you have your own private everything: tennis instructors, golf coaches, scuba diving guides—you name it, someone is there to help. 21 of 50 Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, France Courtesy of Hotel du Cap Eden Roc Every summer, the glitziest of the glitz descend on this French Riviera grande dame. They come not just to see-and-be-seen at the Insta-worthy pool, but also to seclude themselves among centuries-old pines for a leisurely game of tennis, a romantic stroll, or an open-air spa treatment overlooking the Mediterranean sea. 22 of 50 Playa Vik, Uruguay Courtesy of Vic Retreats Cristobal Palma The laid-back beach town of José Ignacio is like the Montauk of Uruguay. Expect to see cool hipsters walking the golden-sand beaches near Playa Vik, the area's most upscale hideaway, during summer (remember, that's winter in the northern hemisphere). The titanium-and-glass main building, designed by Uruguayan architect Carlos Ott, stands in contrast with José Ignacio's modest, whitewashed cottages. Each casita is like it's own mini art studio, filled with contemporary works you'll want to hide in your suitcase upon check out. 23 of 50 'Alohilani, Oahu Courtesy of 'Alohilani Resort Oahu's Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous places in all of Hawaii. While most of the towering resorts that line the beach have been there for decades, this one is brand-new. Couples will love the modern décor and warm, airy palette in the rooms, which have views of either the beach or Diamond Head. 24 of 50 Hayman Island, Australia Courtesy of Hayman Island Australia's 74 Whitsunday Islands—which lie between the northeast coast of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef—are out-of-this-world gorgeous. Flat, white-sand beaches, azure waters, and reefs teaming with bright coral and electric-hued fish—you'll find it all at this private-island resort. 25 of 50 San Giorgio Mykonos, Greece Courtesy of Design Hotels This boutique hotel is perched high above where Mykonos's dramatic rocky shoreline meets the Aegean sea. Soak in the Mediterranean vibes on the beach or lounge in a poolside hammock before escaping to your whitewashed boho-style room or to Stella di Mare for an organic, locally-sourced feast. 26 of 50 Hotel San Cristóbal, Mexico Nick Simonite Few people had heard of Todos Santos, a sleepy surf town to the north of resort-filled Los Cabos. But that changed with the recent opening of super hip Hotel San Cristóbal, designed by Bunkhouse hotelier Liz Lambert. Here, Lambert brings the same stylish accents and laid-back cool as she did to El Cosmico, that glamping retreat in Marfa, Texas, you've definitely seen all over Instagram. 27 of 50 North Island, Seychelles Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris Suffice it to say if this resort was good enough for Will and Kate's honeymoon, it's good enough for yours. The most exclusive Indian Ocean private island has just 11 villas on a spit of land that's roughly the size of Monaco. Weave your buggy (golf cart) around the paths, which are covered in dense vegetation, in search of Aldabra giant tortoises before a soothing herbal couples' massage. 28 of 50 Andaz Maui at Wailea Courtesy of Andaz Maui Wailea Beach is home to some of Hawaii's top resorts for good reason: The wide crescent stretch of golden sand offers some of the best lounging by day and romantic scenery by night. Post up beside the three ocean-facing infinity pools (there's also a separate adults-only one) before dining on some of the freshest fish you've ever tasted at Morimoto Maui. 29 of 50 Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla Katie James Watkinson Anguilla was hard-hit by Hurricane Maria last year, so the reopening of the island's biggest and glitziest resort at the end of March will be a major feat. The Kelly Wearstler design has two pools that we guarantee you'll spend most of your day soaking in. Just make sure head to the infinity pool by sunset (cocktail in-hand) to watch the sun sink beneath the horizon of the Caribbean Sea. 30 of 50 Post Ranch Inn, California Courtesy of Post Ranch Inn The dramatic coastal scenery of Big Sur, California, is like no where else in the United States. In fact, you might recognize this cliffside stretch if you're fan of Big Little Lies (the HBO show was filmed in Monterey County). At the area's most epic retreat, you can go for hikes through the redwood forests before enjoying sundowner cocktails overlooking miles of Pacific Ocean. 31 of 50 Amanpuri, Thailand Courtesy of Aman Resorts Amanpuri means "place of peace" in Sanskrit. You'll see why when you check into your serene, pavilion-style room on a rainforest-covered peninsula. The resort is set on an idyllic private stretch of Pansea Beach. Spend all day lounging on the sand or in a shady poolside nook, getting up only for wood-fired snacks at the Beach Club, before enjoying a trendy Peruvian-Japanese dinner. 32 of 50 Borgo Egnazia, Italy Courtesy of Borgo Egnazia Resort Minimalism rules at this whitewashed Hellenic retreat in Apuglia, a lesser-known, yet no less scenic, Italian beach town. Take it all in on a walk along the shimmering coastline, through the ancient olive groves, or into the nearby UNESCO World Heritage town of Alberobello. 33 of 50 Le Taha'a Island Resort & Spa, French Polynesia Courtesy of Le Taha'a Island Resort & Spa There are just 57 suites and villas at this secluded resort on the tiny islet of Motu Tautau, facing the lush island of Taha'a on one side and the towering silhouette of Bora Bora on the other. The Relais & Chateaux-designated resort serves incredible traditional Polynesian cuisine (don't miss the red tuna), which is in line with the island's remarkably well-preserved local environment and culture. 34 of 50 Cuixmala, Mexico Courtesy of Cuixmala If Mexico's Coastlegre were a person, it would be the boho-chic friend whose wardrobe you always want to steal. Equal parts sophistication and gypset cool, this stunning resort on a wide stretch of sand is the ultimate Instagram fantasy. 35 of 50 Pangulasian Island Resort, Philippines Courtesy of El Nido Resorts Fronting nearly 2,500 feet of pristine white-sand beach, Pangulasian Island Resort is the definition of unspoiled. The 42 villas all have a private balcony that looks out on to the beach or the rainforest. Though you'll be tempted to stay put, don't sit there all day—grab a snorkel and head out to the nearby reefs to see thousands of jewel-colored fish and untouched, bright corals. 36 of 50 Jumby Bay Island, Antigua Courtesy of Jumby Bay Island The Caribbean doesn't have tons of private-island resorts, so this one, just a short boat ride from mainland Antigua, is the perfect honeymoon escape. Each room and is designed with privacy in mind, so you'll have plenty of space to unwind alone among flora, fauna, and tons of picture-perfect palm trees. 37 of 50 Turtle Inn, Belize Courtesy of Turtle Inn Francis Ford Coppola is not only legendary filmmaker, but also a winemaker and a hotelier. At this resort (one of three Coppola Hideaways in Central America), you'll wake in your Balinese-style hut, walk a seemingly endless stretch of white sand, and dive the world's second-largest barrier reef. 38 of 50 One & Only Reethi Rah, Maldives Courtesy of One & Only Resorts It will be hard to decide where to set up your lounge chairs on this private island resort—it has 12 powder-soft beaches. (But let's be honest: You're not really setting up your own chairs.) Once you do, you'll also have a hard time sitting still, what with the extensive amenities that include a PADI National Geographic dive center, sunset dolphin cruises, and movie nights, where films are screened directly on the beach. 39 of 50 Fregate Island Private, Seychelles Courtesy of Fregate Island This private-island resort lies just four degrees south of the equator—pack your SPF 100. You won't need much else, considering the six-to-one staff ratio and butler service. Each villa is built from natural teak and is secluded among palm trees and native flora and fauna, creating a relaxing, ultra-secluded ambiance that's perfect for couples who want uninterrupted Zen. 40 of 50 Six Senses Fiji Courtesy of Six Senses Resorts When it opens this April, Six Senses Fiji promises to rank among the world's most luxurious resorts. With a private golden sand beach that stretches more than 2,100 feet, you'll have tons of space to spread out. Not that you'll need it: Each of the 26 spacious pool bures (villa) has a private plunge pool, so you never even have to go to the beach to cool off. 41 of 50 Pacific Resort Aitutaki, Cook Islands Courtesy of Pacific Resort Aitutaki Scuba-diving couples should make a beeline for this private-island resort in the remote Cook Islands, some 2,000 miles off the coast of New Zealand. Take the five-hour cruise around Aitutaki Lagoon to explore nearby islands and hand-feed tropical angel fish and electric blue needle fish. 42 of 50 Amanera, Dominican Republic Courtesy of Aman Resorts The Dominican Republic has as many all-inclusive resorts as it has white-sand beaches. But this upscale retreat is worlds away from the all-inclusive fray in Punta Cana. Not only is it located on a secluded section of the island, called Playa Grande, but it has just 25 casitas spread out across a hillside, affording you ultimate in privacy. 43 of 50 Nihi Sumba Island, Indonesia Courtesy of Nihi Sumba Island From world-class surfing and sport fishing to hikes to remote waterfalls and ancient villages, Nihi Sumba Island is an eco-luxury retreat that's all about incredible experiences. Check into your understated yet luxurious villa and go for a morning yoga class on the outdoor deck; you won't be able to see Bali, located some 250 miles to the west, but you can try. 44 of 50 Hotel Santa Caterina, Italy Courtesy of Hotel Santa Caterina There are hotel pools, and then there are hotel pools. The watering hole at this Amalfi Coast resort is built into the cliffside and surrounded by fruit trees and olive groves—suffice it to say you'll never want to leave. 45 of 50 Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa, Rangiroa, French Polynesia Courtesy of Hotel Kia Ora The island of Rangiroa has some of French Polynesia's best scuba diving. It's worth the extra flight to get there just to have a chance to dive with whale sharks, tiger sharks, bull sharks, and nurse sharks—did we mention there are a lot of sharks here? If you'd rather stay safely on land, no worries; the overwater villas at the island's most luxe retreat will do the trick. 46 of 50 Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Seychelles Courtesy of Six Senses Resorts The island of Félicité is one of those tropical paradises you have to see to believe. But believe you shall once you step foot in your oceanfront villa (just one of 30 at this private-island resort), with nothing but the sound of serene teal waters lapping against the sandy beach's granite boulders for miles. 47 of 50 Rosewood Mayakoba, Mexico Courtesy of Rosewood Mayakoba The Riviera Maya development of Mayakoba has four different resorts, but the Rosewood is by far the most exclusive. Rooms are situated on a private lagoon to create a calming environment—perfect for couples that need to unwind after a jam-packed wedding weekend. The pristine white-sand beach and endless margaritas should help with that, too. 48 of 50 Jade Mountain, St. Lucia Courtesy of Jade Mountain If we could give an award for the most picturesque infinity pool, it would go to Jade Mountain. There's one in each room, which only have three walls. The open-air vibes will make you want to spend all day in your sunny pool, overlooking the Caribbean Sea and St. Lucia's famed Piton mountains. 49 of 50 Amanzoe, Greece Courtesy of Aman Resorts You almost don't even have to visit the real Acropolis: This private resort on the Eastern Peloponnesian peninsula is built like a modern Greek citadel, with towering marble pillars, surrounding olive groves, and panoramic views of the shimmering sea. 50 of 50 Kamalame Cay, Bahamas Courtesy of Kamalame Cay Ninety-six acres of swaying palm trees and tropical foliage make this private-island resort more like a lush oasis. Hole up in your secluded villa or head out into the warm Caribbean waters on a snorkeling excursion—the adventures of the day are up to you. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit