For many people, having a baby is a joyous occasion. But it can also be physically, emotionally, and mentally taxing. In fact, it is one of the biggest transitions expectant parents go through in life. Don’t expect everything to go back to what it used to be after the baby is born. Babies are adorable, but they can flip your world upside down. With diaper duties, sudden tantrums, and late-night feedings, life with a newborn can be hectic and chaotic.
Wouldn’t it be nice if you could have a bit of calmness before your baby arrives? Forget about nursery decorating and onesie shopping for a second and think about dreamy beach getaways and romantic city adventures. A relaxing babymoon is just what the doctor ordered.
What is a Babymoon?
A babymoon is a relaxing and romantic vacation before the birth of a new baby. Its main goal is for parents-to-be to enjoy one last escapade before the responsibilities of parenthood take over.
Do babymoons happen only once, like honeymoons? Most people have a babymoon before the arrival of their first child, but no one says you can only have one babymoon in a lifetime. On the contrary, you can do it with each pregnancy, whether it is your first or fourth child. You can even have a babymoon solo, without your partner, if you prefer.
Babymoons can be a week-long holiday or a two-day weekend getaway. You can have an adventure abroad or a quiet staycation closer to home. And while you are free to splurge, a babymoon doesn’t have to be expensive.
Why a Babymoon Is Great For Expecting Parents
Once your bundle of joy arrives, it will be hard to plan a getaway. Suddenly, you will find yourself caught up in parent duties. Plus, a newborn’s expenses can significantly tighten your budget. A babymoon may not be as essential as bottles and swaddles, but its benefits are plenty, even life-changing. It is not only a vacation but also a form of self-care, especially for mothers, as it helps promote a healthy pregnancy.
During a babymoon, you can clear your mind, pamper yourself, and indulge in luxurious comfort that you cannot access at home. Not only is a babymoon a great way to relax and recharge. It also allows you to relish quality time with your significant other so you can reconnect and reignite the romance. Moreover, a calm and peaceful environment is ideal for discussing and creating your parenthood game plan.
The Top 9 Babymoon Destinations
Jamaica
From its pristine beaches to its turquoise blue waters and spectacular weather, Jamaica is a bucket list destination for couples seeking fun in the sun. You can lounge on the sand all day or explore natural wonders, such as the Dunn’s River Falls and the Martha Brae River.
After frolicking in the sand or touring the local highlights, book a special pregnancy massage to improve your blood circulation and ease any back pain. Dads-to-be can also enjoy a wellness treatment beside you in your private cabana. Then spend the night sampling Jamaica’s culinary best while gazing out into the sea.
Resorts like Sandals Royal Caribbean have overwater villas with a private pool and private balcony so that you can indulge in ultimate relaxation and peace on your babymoon. The spa facilities, white sand beaches, and accommodations make this our top pick for your babymoon getaway.
St. Lucia
Relaxation and romance against a backdrop of emerald green mountains, sapphire blue waters, and dazzling golden beaches await expecting couples in St. Lucia. Despite its incredible natural beauty, St. Lucia remains one of the less-visited destinations in the Caribbean.
You can enjoy a quiet holiday and exclusive pampering without the noisy crowd of beachgoers. For ultimate luxury, check out the Coconut Bay Beach Resort and Spa, a 32-hectare paradise of tropical gardens, adults-only suites, and mesmerizing ocean views.
The Maldives
Your babymoon is the perfect time to visit a genuinely magical destination. In the Maldives, magic comes to life. This picture-perfect archipelago nation is home to shimmering beaches, swaying palm trees, private islands, and ultra-luxe floating villas. It is a haven for expecting mothers, with hotel packages that focus on health and wellness, including massages, yoga sessions, and organic meals.
But it isn’t all luxury and comfort. You can inject a tad of adventure into your babymoon. Go snorkeling with sharks, stargaze at the Kihavah’s Sky observatory, feed stingrays, or get on a sunset cruise.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
This mountain-meets-ocean setting offers more than just a beach getaway. You can bask in an impressive art scene, vibrant Mexican culture, phenomenal cuisine, and countless spa options. Shop for local handicrafts, book a guided tour of the Old Vallarta, go on a whale-watching cruise, sail to hidden beaches, and watch a spectacular show at an open-air theater in Las Caletas.
To make your babymoon extra special, reserve a spot at the Cuale Cultural Center and spend a day with your partner creating art, such as drawing, painting, sculpting, playing a new instrument, or learning a traditional dance.
Venice, Italy
The city of love is ideal for couples whose idea of relaxation is a private dinner on the rooftop of a palazzo, a gondola ride at sunset, or a stroll across the Rialto Bridge. In Venice, the food is exquisite, the architecture mesmerizing, and the overall vibe romantic.
Catch a Vivaldi concert in Scuola Grande di San Rocco and marvel at the Tintoretto paintings during intermission. Explore the sights at the Piazza San Marco, maybe sit down for espresso at a café or a gelato at a gelateria.
Québec, Canada
If you are in North America and dream of experiencing European charm without the draining cross-Atlantic flight, you do not have to go any farther than Québec. This stunning UNESCO-listed city is home to imposing cathedrals, quaint cafés, and tasty culinary treats that range from sweet and savory crepes to fresh seafood and flavorful meat pies. The best part? Quebec has no shortage of hop-on-hop-off tours to take you to the Palace Royale, the Plains of Abraham, the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, the Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum, even the slightly out-of-town Montmorency Waterfall.
Don’t forget to take a side trip to the famous Chocolaterie de l’Ile d’Orléans for its Belgian chocolates and the Chez Marie for its freshly-baked bread with maple butter.
Hawaii
Whether you are staying in vibrant Maui or laidback Kauai, nothing beats the serenity of golden coastlines and palm-tree fringed beaches. Hawaii is the perfect place to soak up the finer things in life. Go on a relaxing coastal hike or a carefree scenic drive, enroll in an outdoor yoga session or a ukulele class, relish a quiet dinner on a yacht or have a feast at a luau.
If you want to get fancy, splurge on a helicopter ride over the archipelago or sail around the islands. After a balmy afternoon of sightseeing, cool down with a chilled glass of pog, a mixture of passion fruit, orange juice, and guava. Do not forget to try the traditional lomilomi massage to relieve the aches, discomfort, and tightness any expecting mother might experience.
The Lake District, England
If you prefer sweaters over teeny bikinis and cuddling by the fire over lounging under palm trees, head to the Lake District. The landscape is postcard-worthy, but that’s not the only reason why the District is a favorite babymoon destination in the UK. You will never run out of fancy accommodation options here – from romantic hotels to lakeside villas to manor houses and cottages in the woods. Then there are the world-class spas, Michelin-starred restaurants, historic sites, and the famous lakes.
Despite its host of attractions, the Lake District’s must-see list is quite manageable, and you don’t have to cram so many activities in one day. So, if you feel the urge to go on an afternoon nap instead of going out, there is no reason you should not.
Marrakesh, Morocco
Not all exotic destinations are tropical beaches. Take, for instance, the medieval city of Marrakesh. This Moroccan hub boasts majestic mosques, fabulous palaces, enthralling gardens, 5-star restaurants, and world-class spas. Immerse yourself in the local culture and stay in a luxurious riad, a traditional house centered around a courtyard.
At night, witness the Djemaa El Fna come to life with its various colorful stalls, snake charmers, acrobats, musicians, and storytellers. Don’t forget to shop for cloth, pottery, jewelry, or spices at one of its many souks.
Top Activities To Do On Your Babymoon & Babymoon Ideas
Spa Treatments
Your pre-baby holiday is all about relaxation, and you can’t do a babymoon without a spa treatment. Pregnancy can cause a lot of exhaustion and an assortment of aches. Nothing invigorates a tired mother-to-be better than a trip to the spa. Luckily, most resorts and hotels offer packages with a prenatal massage that will relieve backaches, reduce swelling of the legs, and soothe migraines. An organic facial and a foot massage also help you feel rejuvenated. Try to stay away from steam rooms, saunas, jacuzzis, hot tubs, or heated body wraps to prevent the risk of overheating.
Enjoy the Food Scene
Whether you’re exploring a local restaurant, having a gourmet picnic, or ordering room service, indulging in gastronomic delights is one of the perks of a babymoon. It’s not only an opportunity to savor the culinary offerings of your destination but also a great way to satisfy your pregnancy cravings. While it’s crucial to eat healthily, don’t hesitate to treat yourself. After all, you’re on vacation and eating for two.
Take Photos
A babymoon is a wonderful time to create new memories, and photos serve as tangible souvenirs of your time together with your partner before the birth of your baby. Snap as many pictures as you want to preserve every moment. Better yet, ditch the selfie stick and book a photoshoot with a professional photographer. It may be a little pricey, but there’s no price tag to beautiful memories preserved in photos.
Walk Around
Walking around is exercise and excursion in one. If you’re in a historic city, scenic countryside, or a gorgeous beach, there’s no better way to sight-see than wander on foot around town. Besides, strolling along with your partner while holding hands has become one of the most romantic things you can do on your babymoon. Put on your comfy shoes, grab your water bottle and get ready to explore.
Sleep In
You don’t have to fill your itinerary with bucket list activities. You’re on a babymoon, and it’s perfectly okay to chill and do nothing. It’s a little therapeutic to stay in your hotel room, order breakfast in bed, read a book, or binge on your favorite show. Throw away the alarm clock and stay in bed long all day. It’s a luxury you’ll likely never enjoy again for a long time after your baby is born.
FAQ for Expectant Parents and Pregnant Travelers
What month do you go on a babymoon?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends timing your babymoon in the second trimester, about 14 to 28 weeks into your pregnancy. Morning sickness is typically worse during the first trimester but usually subsides during the second trimester. You don’t want to spend your entire holiday feeling nauseous and queasy. Also, your baby bump is not too big yet that it prevents you from enjoying activities. You’ll likely feel too tired and uncomfortable to travel in the final trimester. Additionally, there is always the risk of trip restrictions and even early delivery during the last weeks of your pregnancy.
How long is a babymoon?
There are no hard and fast rules on how long a babymoon should last. Most couples spend around two to five nights away from home. But if you prefer a week-long escapade, go for it. If you do not have enough time, settle for an overnight babymoon or even a day trip to a luxurious spa.
Why is it called babymoon?
British writer and childbirth educator Sheila Kitzinger coined the term babymoon. It originally referred to the period parents spend time with their newborn to develop bonding. Over the years, babymoon came to mean a holiday break taken by expecting parents before the baby is born. Its popularity skyrocketed when celebrities such as Kanye and Kim, Kate and William, and Beyonce went on a pre-baby jaunt. In the United States, more than two million parents-to-be go on a babymoon each year.
What should you do on a babymoon?
You can do almost anything you want, as long as it is not harmful to you or your baby. Most babymoons are laid-back and relaxed, full of luxurious and soothing experiences for parents-to-be. Expect couples’ massages, breakfasts in bed, lots of sleeping in, and general lazing around. But you can also be active, even a little adventurous. Have a sunset stroll on the beach, shop for souvenirs, catch a show, sample local delicacies, or visit a museum. Whatever you do, remember it’s all about pampering yourself and enjoying every moment with your significant other before your adorable bundle arrives.
