Why opt for a winter honeymoon? Even if you can’t resist a warm, sandy beach, resorts will be less crowded and less expensive during the winter months.
For those who prefer to cuddle by a fireplace, a winter landscape provides a calm not found at any other time of year. Yet winter sports, sleigh rides, and majestic mountains are the essence of a winter getaway. Best yet, it is the most festive time of the year, with holiday lights and Christmas markets wherever you turn. Soak up the scenery while celebrating your new life together.
Curacao
A bit off the beaten path, the Dutch island of Curacao is a gem with year-round sunshine and clear, blue waters. It’s the perfect escape from the winter blues elsewhere.
Curacao offers a tropical honeymoon for those who embrace the outdoor life and look forward to a refreshing swim in February. Adventurers come here looking for first-rate diving, great snorkeling, a few sunken ships, and picturesque beaches on the small offshore island of Klein Curacao, believed to have some of the best beaches in the Caribbean.
All-inclusive, adult-only Sandals Curacao has 8 restaurants and 13 bars available on an unlimited basis, as well as fabulous accommodation in private bungalows and island suites with pools and/or gardens. Many come with 24-hour butler service.
Sandals Curacao offers sheer all-inclusive indulgence. Guests can avail themselves of PADI certified Scuba diving and all imaginable water sports. Comfortable pool cabanas are serviced by beach butlers. The resort has nightly entertainment, such as themed parties, live entertainment, karaoke, and beach parties.
Things to do:
Couples can cuddle on a scenic catamaran nine-hour daytrip to uninhabited Klein Curacao located six miles from the main island. Here, they will find the best beaches for lazing, swimming, snorkeling, and watching the turtles on the beach. The trip includes lunch and drinks.
Couples should put exploring Willemstad on their to-do list. Curacao’s capital is filled with wonderful things to do, such as crossing the iconic floating Queen Emma Bridge. Or strolling through the Punda district with its rows of colorful buildings painted in different shades. The markets are well worth visiting. The floating markets, mostly boats from Venezuela, sell fish and other fresh items. Then there are the booths selling clothing, jewelry, and much more.
Grenada
January and February are the best times to visit Grenada. It is the dry season, and the temperatures haven’t reached the summer extremes. For couples, the black and white beaches create a marvelously exotic getaway. In addition, Grenada, known as “Spice Island,” is the right place to spice up a honeymoon.
All-inclusive Sandals Granada defies conventions with pools floating in the sky. Butler suites come with pool, balcony, and/or soaking tubs. This exotic resort has been named one of Grenada’s leading resorts, one of the world’s leading all-inclusive resorts, and one of the top resorts in the Caribbean.
Ten all-inclusive restaurants are included for all guests. Like all Sandals resorts, this one has PADI-certified scuba-diving and unlimited water sports. Evening entertainment includes live music, beach parties, and talent shows. The spa provides massages in individual rooms or on the beach.
Things to do:
Couples can indulge in a relaxing lobster and champagne cruise on a spacious catamaran. Lobster will be served on Hog Island, and there will be time for a swim and some snorkeling before returning.
Honolulu, Hawaii
The weather in Hawaii varies by only a few degrees all year round, so it is a wonderful escape from the cold. Swimming is great in December, and the average temperature of 80 degrees makes exploring the tropical jungle a treat. A honeymoon in Hawaii checks all the boxes, from scuba diving and snorkeling to hiking, helicopter tours, and romantic cruises. Honolulu has a vibrant nightlife and one of the world’s best beaches, Waikiki, although all the beaches are first-rate. For calmer waters, it is best to visit the beaches on the western and southern shores.
The Kahala Resort has been the resort of choice for royalty and celebrities. The spacious suites with balconies and kitchenettes overlook the Pacific and the Ko’olau mountain range. Guests can depend on personal concierge services, coffee in the lobby, and mini-refrigerators.
The choice of dining includes the elegant Hoku, poolside service, or the Veranda for cocktails.
The Sunset Sweethearts package includes a four-course dinner at Hoku, wine, welcome drinks, and chocolate-covered strawberries. Some packages include an hour-long couple’s massage, as well.
The hotel can arrange for off-site golf and tennis sessions. There are daily onsite yoga and meditation sessions.
Things to do:
When in Honolulu, a hike up Diamond Head will be rewarded with incredible scenery. It is a relatively moderate hike.
Hawaii and Honolulu are deeply invested in Polynesian culture. The Bishop Museum has a huge collection of artifacts relating to Hawaii’s natural history, including an intact sperm whale skeleton and heirlooms once owned by the island’s former royal family.
For some adventurous honeymoon activity you’ll want to share on Instagram, Shark Adventures has caged diving with sharks in their natural habitat excursions. Divers may meet humpback whales and dolphins, as well. Many couples believe this to be the high point of their trip. But then, it’s always nice to make new friends.
Malawi, Africa
Malawi is a small, landlocked African country that is bordered by Tanzania, Zambia, and Mozambique. Lonely Planet named it Best in Travel Top Countries for 2022. It is frequently referred to as the “Warm Heart of Africa.” With Africa’s third-largest lake and incredible landscape, it is easily one of Africa’s most stunning countries.
The Blue Zebra has won the Safari Award for Best Safari Property in Malawi, Best Family Safari Experience in Malawi, Best Marine Safari Experience in Malawi, Most Romantic Safari Property in Malawi, and Best Community Focused Property in Malawi. It certainly captures the attention of its guests.
The lodge is on its own island by Lake Malawi and its crashing waves, and couples can become a part of the natural beauty of the island by strolling along the 2.3-kilometer trail which ends up with a fabulous view.
The Blue Zebra offers private chalets or safari tents for different types of experiences. Both options offer luxury and comfort in a deluxe glamping style that will create ideal honeymoon memories. The infinity pool overlooks the lake where guests can kayak, scuba, snorkel, and take a sunset cruise. The majestic lake is one of Africa’s hidden gems. It has approximately 1,000 species of fish, more than all lakes and rivers of North America and Europe put together!
Things to do:
Mount Mulanje is Malawi’s highest mountain as it towers 10,000 feet over the terrain. Several paths and trails lead visitors closer to the clouds passing beautiful waterfalls.
Seychelles
The winter months in Seychelles are a comforting 80 degree, paradise for those attempting to escape the winter cold elsewhere. There may be a few rain showers, but these will be over quickly.
The Seychelles islands in the Indian Ocean are for couples who want something different. This is not an average honeymoon destination. An archipelago of over 100 islands beckons the world’s elite travelers, although only a small portion of these islands are inhabited. But those that are offer five-star accommodation, first-rate dining, and unique activities. Mahe Island is the most active of the islands, but island hopping is encouraged.
Anantara Maia Villas is an exclusive resort with 30 private villas facing the beach or the forest. Privacy here is guaranteed. All villas have a private pool, an open-air sunken tub, and a personal host.
Guests can dine in the main dining room or enjoy an intimate private meal in the wine cellar. The pool bar offers the best cocktails along with snacks.
The Romantic Escape begins with champagne and a bath for two. This is followed by a helicopter rider over the island, with the evening ending with a candlelit dinner. Breakfast will be served in the morning.
Things to do:
Zil Air is the luxurious way to admire the Seychelles islands from above and explore multiple islands.
Seychelles’ capital, Victoria on Mahe, provides insight into the island’s culture with its museums and statues. While in Victoria, couples can have fun taking a Creole cooking class at the city’s Four Seasons Resort. Won’t the family at home be surprised?
Saigon/Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh was formerly Saigon, but people still use the names interchangeably. The name doesn’t particularly matter, however, because a winter honeymoon in Ho Chi Minh City translates into plenty of things to do and great weather in which to do it.
Following the war, Ho Chi Minh City developed a positive economy with hotels and restaurants that are very tourist-centered. The landscape is a mixture of skyscrapers and old pagodas reflecting a bright future and a rich history.
Four Seasons Nam Hai by the beach offers the privacy of tranquil villas. Breakfast packages are available, as are couples’ packages that include daily breakfast, cocktails, barbeque on the beach, and a soothing bath. The resort also has three infinity pools, 4 tennis courts, a basketball court, yoga, and water sports.
As a special nod to foodies and as part of the resort’s Cooking Academy, each morning, a chef will discuss how to enhance meals by taking guests on a market adventure and presenting a cooking demonstration. Impressive meals don’t just happen.
Things to do:
Really get to know Ho Chi Minh City by taking a four-hour dinner cruise with entertainment along the Saigon River passing the city’s amazing skyline.
Once back on land, couples can upgrade the romantic evening with a cocktail at the Social Club Rooftop Bar with its view of the city below. The wine list is extensive, and the menu is creative. It’s the perfect evening out. The bar has repeatedly been named the best rooftop bar in Saigon.
Laos
Getting married is entering an entirely new relationship. It therefore makes sense to spend your honeymoon in an entirely new, exciting, and different culture. For a natural adventure, Laos has much to offer during the winter. It is the country’s dry season, and the temperature varies from the 70s and the 80s.
Couples can begin their journey in the capital of Vientiane and continue to explore this magical country.
The Don Chan Palace in Vientiane is the tallest and largest Laos hotel situated by the Mekong River. Its height and view make it an ideal honeymoon getaway, as do the five international restaurants and top-rated rooms with a view. The Top Club is the highest restaurant in the city with a magnificent view of Vientiane and the river. Guests can also enjoy the pool while the spa offers rejuvenating treatments, including a memorable three-hour couples’ massage.
Things to do:
A romantic dinner cruise down the Mekong River awaits couples, complete with hotel pickup and a Laos dance show.
The Tham Nam Water Cave near Vientiane is a must-see. Visitors can wade through these caves or float in a tube. The adventure takes approximately 1 hour, with the sole light coming from a flashlight. Tour guides will direct visitors in the right direction.
Central Climbers offers different types of climbing lessons and will take visitors to see the best sights in Vientiane.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a breathtaking city with majestic architecture and castles as a reminder of its past emperors and empresses. Beethoven and Mozart lived here, providing it with its nickname, “City of Music.”
A stay in December can guarantee one of the most festive destinations in Europe, with more Christmas markets than any other city, and the decorations will linger long into January. Vienna is also a mere train ride away from amazing alpine skiing. Of course, the famed Vienna Opera House is not to be missed. There are also 50 other museums and opera houses. This is Mozart’s city, after all. Culture, music, and beauty rule here.
Hotel Imperial, with 79 rooms and 59 suites, was once the home of Duke Philipp of Württemberg, and it retains its royal charm and elegance, from hand-ironed newspapers to silken wallpaper, and precious antiques. The hotel was voted one of the 500 best hotels in the world by Travel & Leisure.
The rooms and suites are sumptuous, and the Royal Suite belonged to the actual prince. The décor and art are lavish. Private butlers for all accommodations are available upon request.
The dining is exquisite, and the Imperial Torte was created specifically for Emperor Franz Joseph I. You should expect this kind of royal treatment on your honeymoon.
Things to do:
Couples can visit Schloss Schoenbrunn, another royal residence. The magnificent gardens (which rival Versailles) and the interior, with its art and Baroque antiques, are one of Vienna’s most crucial cultural destinations and should be seen by taking a tour. There are, of course, many other palaces waiting to be explored.
The City of Music has one of the best orchestras in the world, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. For anyone visiting in the winter, it produces a highly awaited New Year’s Day concert every year. The Vienna Boys’ Choir is well-renowned, and jazz enthusiasts will love the performances at the Porgy & Bess jazz club.
The Sacher Torte is undoubtedly the most famous cake in the world – and another Austrian dessert created for a royal prince. It was first served at the Sacher Hotel, where this slice of heaven still tops the menu.
Italian Alps and Venice
During the winter, Venice has several marvelous ski resorts nearby for couples who yearn for a good swoosh down the Alps.
Venice, unarguably one of Italy’s most scenic cities, is known as the “floating city” due to its system of 177 canals and 417 bridges. Couples can take the famed gondolas even in December – we do suggest a close snuggle.
Even bigger than the gondola rides is the annual Carnival in February dating back to the 12th century which has become one of the major social events in all of Europe. Wearing masks was a critical part of the celebration as it made it easier for the fun-loving Venetians to engage in a tryst or two. Many shops sell masks.
The Carnival begins with an opening parade down the Grand Canal. Then, for ten fabulous days, people strut about in costumes and attend the parties and balls that overtake the city.
The J.W. Marriott Venice Resort near St. Mark’s Square on the private island of Isola delle Rose is a five-star hotel with lush gardens and amenities. Accommodations consist of suites and rooms as well as private villas hidden throughout the gardens.
The restaurants serve a tempting menu, and the resort’s cooking class shares some of its cooking secrets and explains how to create an entire menu when entertaining. The Sagra Rooftop Restaurant has a stunning view of the city, while the Rose Bar Lounge offers the perfect whiskey and cigar pairing.
Things to do:
The Doge’s Palace, the palace of Venice’s leader, was built in the 10 century and has been the home of 120 different doges. It is now a museum offering the extraordinary history of Venice with tours such “the hidden treasures of the Doge,” and the “secret itinerary of the Doge’s palace.” The building is a Gothic work of art that has group and private guides.
For a romantic drink with a view, couples can drop by the Danieli Rooftop Bar, share some prime Italian wine, and enjoy the panoramic vista.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona has milder winters than much of Europe, fewer crowds, and lower prices. It is meant to be explored by urban-loving, cosmopolitan couples reveling in tapas, art galleries, beaches, and Barcelona’s incredible architecture which can add an extra sparkle to any honeymoon.
Hotel Arts Barcelona looms high from the 44th floor and offers a two-Michelin-starred chef, two rooftop pools, and lovely accommodations. The penthouse comes with its own Mini Cooper for traveling around the city and special concierge services.
The exclusive Club has its own rooms, a private lounge, and dining area that serves buffets all day long. It has a private concierge team, as well. The Enoteca Paco Pérez Restaurant is supervised by two-time Michelin-star-winning chef Paco and serves innovative Mediterranean cuisine. Seven hundred different wines help celebrate this menu.
Things to do:
When visiting Barcelona, couples should visit Park Guell, one of the world’s most stunning parks designed by Antonio Gaudi. He intended it to be a private city, but it evolved into a collection of colorful and unique structures.
More architectural marvels can be found at the La Sagrada Familia, a building that has been under construction since 1882 and is yet to be finished. This, too, is one of Antoni Gaudi beautiful masterpieces.
The Parc del Laberint d’Horta is Barcelona’s oldest park with gazebos, a hidden house, and beautiful lawns. Its system of mazes isn’t easy to maneuver, and every decision can move you further from the center and/or the exit. Time to hold on tightly to each other.
Couples who long for a wild dating weekend in Barcelona should head straight for the Razzmatazz, which is the equivalent of five vibrant clubs in one, depending on the musical preference. The place goes wild on weekends until the early morning hours with the best DJs ruling the night.
US Virgin Islands
The US Virgin Islands are a part of US territory in the Caribbean and are easy to get to from the US. There are three islands in total, St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix. The capital city of Charlotte Amalie is on St. Thomas, which boasts great duty-free shopping, inviting bars, and remarkable beaches.
The 180 rooms and suites at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas offer a stunning view of the Caribbean. Guests have a choice of four restaurants, several pools, and a jacuzzi. Couples can upgrade their stay with the Club Lounge, which has its own special concierge, four meals each day, and a private lounge. Honeymoons are for spoiling, so why not?
The Ritz Carlton has a large catamaran available for cruises, which, of course, includes gourmet food and liquor. It also offers full body massages for couples in a cabana by the beach as the waves gently roll in. Does life get any better?
Things to do:
Couples need not spend all their time alone. At the Coral World Ocean Park, they can stroll through several aquariums and stop at the Dolphin Splash for a swim with friendly dolphins.
The St. Thomas Botanical Garden is a two-acre paradise overflowing with tropical orchids and other breathtaking blooms. It was made for a hand-in-hand stroll.
Las Vegas, Nevada
With an average winter temperature between 65 and 75 degrees, Las Vegas is a favorite winter destination. In addition to countless casinos and bars, Las Vegas has a cultural and active side and many top-rated shows.
The Bellagio Resort is the royal palace of Las Vegas and ideal for a honeymoon. A VIP upgrade allows couples access to the VIP Lounge with its dessert counter, delicacies throughout the day, laptops, priority seating, and a view of the Bellagio Fountain.
The rooms and suites are all spacious and teeming with luxury, and most of them have a fountain view.
The resort has more restaurants than many small towns, and each of them offers a unique dining experience. Evenings are filled with shows such as the Cirque de Soleil and several nightclubs providing music and dancing. Of course, there is 24-hour gambling.
For a special treat, the Mayfair Supper Club is a London-inspired supper club that takes guests back to a more elegant time. Mayfair After Dark has live entertainment every weekend. The Club Privé is a high-limit gambling lounge with its own opulent bar with high-end spirits and a selection of special cigars.
Things to do:
Even if not staying at the Bellagio, couples should visit the fountain which dances to classical music every 15 or 30 minutes, depending on the time of day.
Get the full view of Las Vegas from 550 up high while riding the High Roller.
Venice is not the only city with gondola rides. The Venetian Hotel has a recreation of the canals, singing gondoliers, and both indoor and outdoor gondolas.
Couples can take a helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon which includes a spectacular view of Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and the Mojave Desert.
Aspen, Colorado
While some couples seek the beach, others flourish in the snow. Aspen, with its renowned white powder, apre-ski, and luxurious surroundings, creates a memorable winter honeymoon. The opportunity for snow bunnies is limitless, as there is fresh snow throughout the winter months. These are also the months when Aspen is at its most popular and most expensive.
The St. Regis Aspen is a five-star spa resort by Aspen Mountain. The resort is known for its spa with its indoor and outdoor heated tubs. The hotel was initially conceived by John Jacob Astor IV, whose vision of luxury was the grandest. His intent was to create “the finest hotel in the world.” He succeeded marvelously with the St. Regis Aspen butler program, designed to fulfill the wish of every guest.
Guests enjoy Michelin-rated dining with a view of the mountains or while sipping a cocktail to live entertainment at the Social Bar.
Travel & Leisure named the St. Regis spa the “world’s best hotel spa in Aspen.”
Things to do:
Above It All Balloon Company has sunrise balloon rides over Aspen – champagne brunch is included.
The Aspen Carriage and Sleigh Ride will take couples through Aspen’s white wonderland. Bundle up and enjoy the ride.
For cross-country skiers, the Go Cross-Country Skiing trail allows for great skiing and an incomparable view.
