Looking for the most epic honeymoon destinations in the US? Here at GWS, we get to see SO MANY dreamy honeymoon ideas, so we decided to round up our favorite destinations for the ultimate romantic getaway right here in the USA. These are the best places to honeymoon for an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience — no passport required!
We get it: after months of planning your dream wedding, a long-haul international flight may be the last thing on your wishlist. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up an epic travel experience! The US has some of the best places to honeymoon in the world, from intimate beach retreats to nature-fueled mountain adventures, and we’re here to break down all of our favorite ideas.
But first, a few travel hacks!
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How to Choose the Best Honeymoon Destinations in the USA
When choosing the best destinations in the USA for your dream honeymoon, the first step is to think about the time of year you’ll be traveling. Certain locations shine during specific seasons, so it’s important to consider when you’ll be going in order to get the most out of your destination.
For example, US honeymoon desert destinations like Joshua Tree are perfect in the spring and fall, when the temperatures are mild and the sunsets are to die for. You may also want to schedule your honeymoon around a seasonal activity at a specific US destination, such as skiing in Aspen or whale-watching in Maui.
While narrowing down the best places to honeymoon in the US based on seasonality, we suggest thinking about peak seasons vs. shoulder seasons. Peak seasons are when a location is at its best (usually during summer) — but that also means more crowds and higher price tags.
On the other hand, traveling to a US destination during the shoulder season (typically in the spring or fall) is great if you’re planning a honeymoon on a budget.
How Far In Advance Do You Need to Plan Your Honeymoon?
You should start planning your honeymoon around 6-8 months in advance for destinations in the US (compared to about one year in advance for international destinations). This will give you plenty of time to settle on the perfect US honeymoon destination, find the best accommodation, and come up with some ideas for things to do while you’re there.
After all, the last thing you want to do is leave your honeymoon planning for the last minute, even if you’re looking at local destinations and ideas in the US. Skip the stress and plan ahead!
Now buckle your seatbelts, because we’re taking you on a journey to all the best places to honeymoon in the US, including a few ideas for what to see (and where to stay) at each destination. Let’s get into it!
1. Explore the Rugged Cliffs of the California Coast with a Big Sur Honeymoon
The Best US Honeymoon Destination for Couples Who Love Dramatic Coastlines
The rugged, serene coastline of California is on its own level, but it’s particularly special in Big Sur. Once you spend a sunset watching the waves crash into the cliff sides, you’ll never want to leave. Spend your honeymoon driving along the US coastal highway, seeing all the sights that this rugged destination has to offer.
Definitely make sure to drive on the iconic Bixby Bridge while you’re out there, and don’t be afraid to stop along the side of the road for an epic “just married” photoshoot. This is one of our favorite US honeymoon ideas for couples who want to kick off married life with unbeatable views and plenty of quality time.
Looking for the perfect honeymoon crash pad in Big Sur? We’re loving this gorgeous stone house with oceanside views and this luxurious home with a pool, spa, and epic view of the Pacific.
2. Spend Your Honeymoon Exploring the Lush Greenery near Portland, Oregon
The Best Honeymoon Destination in the US for Lush Forests + Epic Waterfalls
The city of Portland is home to some of the US’s best craft coffee shops, beer, and truly incredible food (seriously, swing by Pine Street Market for a bite to eat and one of Portland’s countless donut shops for a sweet treat).
But what really makes Portland shine is the incredible nature surrounding the city. The destinations around Portland are home to some truly breathtaking waterfalls and hiking trails that are perfect for a romantic US honeymoon getaway.
And if you ask us, the best way to honeymoon in and around Portland is to stay in a cozy A-frame cabin surrounded by lush nature!
3. Take Your US Honeymoon Adventures to the Deserts of Joshua Tree
The Best Place to Honeymoon in the US if You Love the Expansive Peace of the Desert
If you’re looking for the full desert experience on your honeymoon, Joshua Tree is a must-see destination in the US.
What we particularly love about this honeymoon destination is that Joshua Tree and Palm Springs are only an hour away from each other, which means you get to visit two epic USA desert locations in one trip!
Swing by Palm Springs for the colorful mid-century modern architecture, then head into Joshua Tree National Park for some epic outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery.
Pro tip: The best time to honeymoon in this dreamy US destination is early spring and late fall, since it won’t be scorching hot in the desert!
And if you need the ideal honeymoon lodging option, this modern desert dwelling is to die for! Spend your honeymoon watching the sun set from the hot tub, indulging in the outdoor shower, and stargazing next to the backyard fire pit.
4. Soak Up the Fall Colors on a Honeymoon in Aspen, Colorado
The Best US Honeymoon Destination for Dramatic Mountains and Epic Sunrises
Aspen is one of Colorado’s most iconic towns and a truly luxurious US honeymoon destination (there’s a reason it’s a celebrity hotspot after all!).
If you visit in the colder months, you’ll have access to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country, but fall is really when Aspen shines. As the name implies, there are a ton of aspen trees in Aspen, and they are absolutely breathtaking in autumn. Yellows and oranges are everywhere, dotting mountain passes and alpine lakeshores.
So if you’re looking for the best places to honeymoon in the fall, it doesn’t get better than this scenic US destination! We recommend visiting in the second half of September, as that’s when the colors tend to peak.
For lodging, we really love this beautiful, modern condo with a hot tub and ski access.
5. Take Your Honeymoon to NYC and See All the City Sights
One of Our Favorite Honeymoon Ideas for Couples Who Love the Vibe of a Busy City (And Amazing Pizza!)
Do you and your partner love the city vibe? Why not take your US honeymoon trip over to the city that never sleeps?!
Grab a slice at one of NYC’s many walk-up pizzerias. Stroll down the Brooklyn Bridge. Wander hand-in-hand through Central Park. See a Broadway play or dance to live music. Watch the sun rise and set from the windows of this gorgeous NYC apartment.
We could talk ALL DAY about the magic of New York City and how perfect it is as a US honeymoon destination, but you’ll just have to see it for yourself.
6. Rent a Camper Van and Travel The Entire US On Your Honeymoon
The Perfect Honeymoon Idea for Couples Who Can’t Choose Just One US Destination
Can’t decide on an epic honeymoon destination in the US? No worries! We LOVE the idea of renting a camper van and driving across the country. Who said honeymoons have to be limited to one location?!
The western US has so much open space and lots of rad campgrounds that make van life much easier, so head westbound and explore the wild landscapes and unforgettable destinations on your epic honeymoon adventure!
Spend your days hiking through the country’s best national parks, visiting quirky roadside attractions, and listening to your favorite road trip playlist with the windows down. Then unwind together under the stars each night, cuddling next to a campfire and forgetting about the rest of the world. The dream!
7. Take Your Honeymoon to the Ocean in Newport Beach, CA
The Best Place to Honeymoon For Couples Who Want the Ideal Beach Town Experience
If you’re looking for the ultimate southern California experience, you’ll adore Newport Beach. We love the idea of renting out a sailboat and heading out to sea to experience the coastline from an entirely different perspective.
Bring some champagne and a picnic and experience everything this Pacific Ocean destination has to offer, or enjoy takeout from the rooftop of this epic oceanside home that’ll make for the ideal place to stay on your USA beachside honeymoon.
P.S. This is also one of the best US honeymoon ideas if whale watching is on your bucket list! No matter when you go, you’ll get a chance to see some amazing marine life. Be sure to book a whale-watching cruise while you’re there!
8. Try Your Post-Wedding Luck in Las Vegas
The Best Honeymoon Destination in the US for the Couple Who Loves to Party and Entertain
Eloping in Vegas is pretty iconic, but we LOVE the idea of honeymooning there too!
As we’re sure you know, Vegas is the go-to spot for casinos and nightlife, so if you and your partner love to entertain and be entertained, this is one of the best honeymoon destinations in the US for you!
Live it up in a luxurious penthouse suite, treat your tastebuds to Michelin-star restaurants, and enjoy shows from some of the best acts in show business.
Not to mention, the landscapes right outside of Vegas are also stunning. If you want to be blown away, Valley of Fire State Park is incredible, and well worth the drive out of town.
9. Explore the Awe-Inspiring Granite Cliffs in Yosemite
The Best Place to Honeymoon in the US for Couples Who Want to Be in Awe of Nature
Yosemite is hands-down one of the most iconic national parks in the US, and if you ask us, it’s also an incredible honeymoon destination. The great thing about Yosemite is how accessible it is: it attracts both experienced outdoors people and recreational travelers.
Relax in the meadows and watch the climbers summit El Capitan at night (it’s so cool seeing their headlamps shining as they climb!) or get up early and watch the sunrise at Glacier Point. With some of the most stunning views the USA has to offer, Yosemite is totally worth adding to your list of epic honeymoon ideas!
If you’re able to snag a coveted campsite at one of Yosemite’s designated sites, be prepared for the most unforgettable night under the stars. Looking for more luxurious honeymoon lodging ideas? We love the cozy cabin vibes of this scenic home, just 10 minutes away from the valley floor.
10. Travel to Maui for the Ultimate Beachside Oasis
The Best Honeymoon Destination in the US for Sand and Sun
When we think of classic US honeymoon destinations, Maui instantly comes to mind.
If sipping tropical cocktails on the beach, watching the waves crash on the shore from the jacuzzi of your private beach house rental, and soaking up the sun while it sets over lush greenery-covered cliffs sounds nice to you, Maui is your perfect honeymoon destination. Pack your cutest swimsuit and book that flight!
Plus, there are so many awesome adventures you can go on in Maui, making it one of the best US honeymoon destinations for just about anyone. Take surfing lessons on one of the famous beaches or explore the forbidden coastline developed by the eruption of Mt. Haleakala. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience to celebrate your newly married status, look no further!
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Carousel11. Honeymoon in the Epic Wilderness Near Anchorage, Alaska
The Ultimate USA Honeymoon Destination for Backcountry Wilderness Lovers
If you and your partner love the untamed wilderness, Alaska is the US honeymoon destination for you. It’s absolutely breathtaking in the summer months, when you can see awe-inspiring glacial lakes and wildlife that have come out from their winter slumber.
Stay in Anchorage and make the drive up Hatcher Pass for some of the most incredible mountain views you’ll ever see. Or visit Kenai Fjords National Park and take a kayak out on the freezing waters.
Want to take your honeymoon adventure to the next level? Rent a helicopter and see this wild US destination from above, enjoy sightseeing from the water with an all-inclusive Alaskan cruise, or spend your honeymoon experiencing nature from an epic mountain cabin!
12. Explore the Retro Beachside Vibes of Miami
The Best Honeymoon Destination in the US for Delicious Food, Incredible Coffee, and Beachside Adventures
It goes without saying that Miami beaches are beautiful, but the Cuban influence also makes it one of the best places to honeymoon for couples looking for epic food and coffee.
Miami is also notorious for its nightlife, so if you and your partner love the idea of partying on your honeymoon, this is an awesome US destination.
If you’re on the hunt for a luxury home to stay in when you’re honeymooning in Miami, prepare to fall head-over-heels for this gorgeous villa with a private pool. Or for something off the water, check out this stunning beach-front rental where you can watch the waves roll by as you cuddle up on the balcony!
13. Opt for the Complete At-Home Honeymoon Experience
Where You Can Be a Kid Again and Relax
Sometimes the best place to honeymoon is your own home! Rather than hitting the road, spend a week at home, forgetting all responsibilities and just being a kid again.
Grab some fairy lights, cozy blankets, cute wine glasses, and an adorable self-care kit, and make a full week out of pampering yourselves. After that long wedding planning process and weekend of celebrations, you could probably use a quiet week at home.
Want more info on planning the most epic at-home honeymoon? Check out our full staycation guide here!
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Carousel14. Plan a Desert Honeymoon in Santa Fe
The Perfect Honeymoon Destination in the US for Artsy Couples
Santa Fe is such a fun and unique desert town that’s known for its art scene, with several art festivals and hundreds of galleries in town. But the artsy city is also one of the best places in the US for an adventurous honeymoon, with skiing and hiking located a short drive outside of town.
If you’re looking for a honeymoon destination in the USA that balances a relaxed, laid-back city with plenty of opportunities for exploring the outdoors, Santa Fe is a must-see. And don’t forget to try the green chile (and a margarita or two) while you’re there!
And you haaaaaave to book a stay at this absolutely adorable adobe. Seriously, that wooden hot tub, lush outdoor entertaining space, and cozy fireplace are too perfect. This spot is basically made for honeymooners!
15. Indulge in the Incredible Food, Drink, and Music in New Orleans
An Eclectic US Honeymoon Destination for Music Lovers
New Orleans is unlike any other city in the USA, making it a truly unique honeymoon destination. It has Creole charm, incredible Jazz music (it’s actually considered the birthplace of Jazz!), and the most charming architecture.
And if you don’t swing by Cafe du Monde for some beignets, did you even visit New Orleans?
If you’re looking for a stunning place to stay in NOLA, definitely book a room at the Ace Hotel New Orleans. Each Ace Hotel is built and designed to honor its location, and the Ace New Orleans is no exception.
Or for a non-hotel stay, this charming little home near the French Quarter is a total beauty. We love the private deck!
16. Experience the Otherworldly Landscapes of White Sands in New Mexico
For the Honeymooning Couple Looking for a Surreal Escape
White Sands National Park is like the ultimate adult playground, with pristine white sand stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s also one of our favorite US honeymoon destinations if you love the idea of peace and quiet with your other half.
With New Mexico getting so many sunny days, there’s also a good chance you’ll come across an iconic sunset over the sand, with pastel colors lighting up the sky in the most beautiful way. Talk about the perfect way to spend your honeymoon!
For a nearby stay, you’ll love this gorgeous secluded retreat, with 60 acres of breathtaking space and unobstructed views. But be warned: you may never want to leave!
17. Explore the Wonders of Death Valley National Park
The Best Honeymoon Destination in the US for Couples Looking to Break the Mold
If you’re visiting Death Valley National Park for your honeymoon, you’re in for a total treat. This park is home to some of the most epic, wild landscapes in the US, making it the perfect honeymoon destination for nature lovers.
From salt flats to sand dunes to desert mountain ridges, Death Valley honestly feels like it’s part of another world. It makes for a wild, ethereal, and adventurous honeymoon destination in the USA.
Want to make your experience even more unforgettable (and romantic)? Boho couples will love honeymooning in this converted Airstream located in the nearby Death Valley Hot Springs. A hot spring dip after a day of exploring? Sign us up.
18. Honeymoon Amongst the Greenery and Waterfalls in Chattanooga, Tennessee
The Best Honeymoon Destination in the US to Explore the Lush Greenery of Appalachia
In case you didn’t know, the southeastern USA has some of the most beautiful, lush waterfalls in the country — talk about a hidden gem of a honeymoon destination!
Chattanooga, TN is nestled in the Appalachian Mountains and has some truly gorgeous sights for outdoor adventurers. Enjoy your honeymoon from this tiny blue cottage that’s within walking distance of beautiful hiking trails and photo-worthy waterfalls.
As a bonus, Nashville is only a little over 2 hours away, so we highly recommend visiting both Chattanooga and Nashville for a complete Tennessee experience.
Enjoy your scenic hiking adventures in Chattanooga then swing by Nashville for epic coffee shops, the best hot chicken you’ve ever eaten, and the country music that makes this southern city so famous!
19. Experience the Charm of Charleston, South Carolina
The Best Honeymoon Destination in the US for Romantic Southern Charm
Colorful buildings. Stunning coastal architecture. Swoon-worthy landscapes. Charleston, South Carolina is a total dream of a US honeymoon destination. And if you can’t tell by the photo above, it’s also where The Notebook was filmed — it doesn’t get much more romantic than that!
If you want to experience southern charm at its finest, look no further than this adorable coastal city. From the cobblestone streets to the horse-drawn carriages, it’s one of our favorite US honeymoon ideas for couples who are total hopeless romantics.
And you absolutely HAVE to stay at this charming pink coastal home. WE. ARE. IN. LOVE.
20. Immerse Yourselves in the Slot Canyons and Desert Landscape of Page, Arizona
The Best USA Honeymoon Destination for Dreamy Desert Adventures
Desert adventure meets breathtaking views with this stunning US honeymoon destination, and we couldn’t be more obsessed!
The Arizona town of Page is home to the stunning Lake Powell, where you can take helicopter tours to remote, inaccessible portions of the lakeside. It’s also where you’ll find the iconic Antelope Canyon — which, if you’re anything like us, is definitely on your travel bucket list!
For an unforgettable lodging destination while you’re there, book your US honeymoon at this custom built mansion rental. You have to see those views to believe them!
21. Plan an Epic Waterfall Honeymoon at Havasu Falls in Arizona
The Best US Honeymoon Destination for Couples Looking for a Hike with Epic Rewards
We don’t know if there are words to describe how epic and stunning Havasu Falls in Arizona is. The dramatic red-orange cliffs and vibrant aqua-colored waterfall pools are mesmerizing, making this one of the most breathtaking honeymoon destinations in the USA.
It’s a bit of a trek to get to these views, but if you and your partner are interested in some hiking or backpacking on your honeymoon trip, Havasu Falls is a must!
For ideas on where to stay when visiting this must-see US destination on your honeymoon, we’d suggest looking in the Lake Havasu area. It has ultra scenic lakeside lodging options that are close to Havasu Falls — plus the original London Bridge!
22. Relax, Explore, and Adventure in Honolulu, Hawaii
The Perfect USA Honeymoon Destination for Couples Who Want a Little Bit of Everything
Can’t choose between a tropical beach escape or a glamorous cosmopolitan adventure? With this US honeymoon destination, you’ll get the best of both worlds!
Like the other Hawaiian islands, Honolulu is known for its sun-soaked beaches and crystal blue water. But unlike destinations like Maui, this USA honeymoon hotspot also has a buzzing city vibe that’s perfect for couples who love to explore. Balance your tranquil beach days with world-class shopping, glitzy dining, and unforgettable nightlife!
Complete your romantic honeymoon getaway with a stay at this gorgeous beachfront resort (which also has the ultimate city location). Or for something a bit more off the beaten path, this tropical jungle rental has views of a private waterfall!
23. Get the Full Luxury Experience With a Honeymoon in Amangiri, Utah
The Best Luxury USA Honeymoon Destination For Other-worldly Vibes
If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury lodging destination in the USA, you’ll want to book your honeymoon at the incredible 5-star desert getaway: Amangiri. STUNNING.
The Utah landscape will make you feel like you’ve traveled to another world (or the original Wild West), while the luxury amenities will make you feel like royalty. Enjoy sweeping views of canyons, mesas, ridges, and gorges as you lounge by the swimming pool, dine under the stars, and snuggle up on your private terrace.
It’s one of the best places to honeymoon in the US if you’re looking for quality time, a taste of luxury, and some swoon-worthy scenery. Say less!
24. Savor the Best Wine in the World With a Napa Valley Honeymoon
The Best US Honeymoon Destination for Wine (and Nature) Lovers
Calling all wine lovers! If no honeymoon would be complete without a few romantic nights connecting over a bottle of red, then Napa Valley is the perfect US destination for you!
With hundreds of hillside vineyards just waiting for you to visit (and the famous vintage Napa Valley Wine Train to take you to each one), Napa Valley is a wine lover’s paradise. Sip on the best grapes in the country as you indulge in fine dining restaurants, relax at your rustic chateau, and wander around the California landscape.
And don’t miss out on a romantic hot air balloon ride while you’re there! This is one of our favorite ideas for experiencing this dreamy US honeymoon destination to its fullest.
25. Reconnect With Nature (and Each Other) in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
The Best Honeymoon Destination in the US for a Luxury-Meets-Nature Experience
Jackson Hole, Wyoming is without a doubt one of the best places to honeymoon in the US if you’re looking to disconnect from the rest of the world and reconnect with your partner. Hello, romance!
In the summer and fall, go off the grid at Grand Teton National Park — which has hundreds of miles of awe-inspiring trails — then relax and unwind in the Astoria Hot Springs. In the winter, Jackson Hole is also one of the best US honeymoon ideas for ski lovers!
Soak up all the best mountain views that this USA honeymoon destination has to offer at the luxurious Hotel Jackson. With in-room fireplaces, private balconies, and outdoor hot tubs, it’s MADE for honeymooners.
26. Enjoy an Island Getaway With a Romantic Honeymoon in the San Juan Islands
The Best US Honeymoon Destination for Soaking Up Unbeatable PNW Views
Looking for the ultimate island destination for your honeymoon, but don’t want to leave the US? Skip the long-haul flight and head to the San Juan Islands in Washington!
While this isn’t your typical tropical island destination, the San Juan Islands definitely bring the romance for your USA honeymoon getaway.
Made up of 172 different islands and reefs, this honeymoon hotspot offers unbeatable travel ideas for everyone — whether you want to relax on your private patio or kayak the pristine waters (while keeping an eye out for orca whales)!
27. Eat and Drink Your Way Through Santa Ynez, California
The Best USA Honeymoon Destination for Foodies and Wine Connoiseurs
Get the same vibes of an Italy honeymoon (without ever leaving the country) with this stunning destination right here in the USA!
Santa Ynez in California is renowned for its wine, food, and rolling hills. It’s definitely one of the best places to honeymoon in the US if you’re looking for a little luxury (and great wine) with your getaway.
Dreaming of sunrise vineyard views with your love? We’ve found the perfect lodging for you! Seriously, those romantic views will have you convinced you’re in Tuscany rather than southern California. All that’s missing is a delicious bottle of local wine.
Found the Perfect Place to Honeymoon in the US? We’ll Help You Plan the Rest of the Wedding.
Now that you’ve found the perfect destination (and best travel ideas in those places) for your US honeymoon, it’s time to get back to wedding business!
Keeping with the travel theme, check out these stunning wedding venues in the US, as well as these wedding backdrops to make them pop.
And if you’re currently on the hunt for the perfect ‘fit for the big day, we’ve got you covered with our guide to finding the best wedding gowns online — as well as this bridesmaid gown guide for your leading ladies!
Is this article giving you major wanderlust? Don’t wait for your honeymoon to plan a trip thanks to these epic bachelorette party ideas and destinations!
Which of these dreamy US destinations and ideas are you loving for your honeymoon (and beyond)? Share your travel plans with us in the comments below!
Wow, there are so many places on here that I’ve never heard of. I like how you’ve included a variety of destinations around the U.S. and a lot of them are not ones you’d traditionally think of when planning a honeymoon. I also appreciate that most of these seem to offer an amazing outdoor experience. I definitely feel these suggestions would be both relaxing and full of adventure at the same time.
super article j’adore les ptit tips ! En ce qui nous concerne, nous avons ouvert une liste de cadaux pour notre voyage de noces sur votre voyage de noces.fr. Je vous conseille d’aller faire un tour c’est un site top si vous souhaitez que vos invités participent à votre lune de miel !
Wow, that waterfall in Oregon though!!! Incredible.
Wow, Such nice places you tell in this post I love to go with my bf soon thank you for such a great post
Love the ideas on this list! Another possible one in California is Lake Tahoe which is similar in vibes to Big Sur.
Thank you for putting this together. These are beautiful pictures and great ideas for honeymoon destinations.
Maui Photographers
Thank you for putting this together. These are beautiful pictures and great ideas for honeymoon destinations.
WOW! What an amazing guide for unique honeymoon destinations! Thanks so much for sharing these, I can’t wait to show this guide to my couples!
Wow! Beautiful photos and inspiring information about each destination. Each destination is different and I like that each one seems to bring out the personalities of the couples.
I’m sure every bride and groom can imagine themselves in many of these surroundings for their wedding day. Mountains are the most striking to me with their vast vistas.
Thanks for sharing this, weeding season here !!!!