Honeymoon Hotspots
Alaska
When it comes to choosing the perfect honeymoon destination, many of today’s couples are making sure they factor personal taste and style into the decision. Places such as Hawaii and Jamaica still remain popular among honeymooners, and for good reason. But other locales are fast joining the ranks of newlywed vacation hotspots.
Try to settle on a romantic getaway that reflects both of your passions while still providing plenty of much needed post-wedding relaxation. Do the two of you love the idea of sipping wine together at a cozy vineyard? Or how about snuggling close in a rustic mountain hideaway? While a honeymoon doesn’t have to involve endless hours of lying on the beach, that can be a great option as well.
Below are five hip honeymoon destinations that offer some unique experiences as you jet-set together for the first time as a married couple.
Tap into your inner-adventurer by discovering the Alaskan wilderness. A major draw for ecotourists, Alaska is made up of five regions and boasts a wide variety of wildlife, majestic scenery and outdoor activity. In the Southcentral Region alone, you can enjoy a cruise or kayak excursion in Kenai Fjords National Park. There, you’ll see harbor seals, sea lions, humpback whales and other animals up close. Experience shops and restaurants in Homer while also checking out the phenomenal views of Kachemak Bay State Park and the Homer Spit. Average summer temperatures in Anchorage generally reach no higher than the mid-60s, but that’s a great excuse to cuddle with your new spouse at night.
Azores Islands
Located in the mid-Atlantic ridge about 950 miles west of Lisbon is a cluster of spectacular islands with a tranquil atmosphere and Old World appeal. Just a four-hour flight from Boston, the Azores Islands might be one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. They remain untouched by some of the commercialism that inhabits other honeymoon locations.
In addition to swimming with dolphins and whale watching, try cycling together along lovely flower-flanked roads in Sao Miguel, the largest island. Take a day to observe the beautiful 17th century Portuguese architecture. If the two of you get hungry, stop to indulge in local favorites of fresh fish, cheese and pineapple. Top off your trip with a visit to the “White Island” of Graciosa, for wine tasting and thermal bath soaks.
San Francisco
Often dubbed the “most European city in the United States,” San Francisco provides the opportunity to experience a whole new vibe without ever leaving the continent. With the city’s proximity to wine country, a San Francisco honeymoon almost offers two vacations in one. Feast on fresh crab chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf. Do some thrift store shopping in Haight–Ashbury.
A cable car ride is a must, as is a romantic bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. After a few days in San Francisco, rent a car and head to Napa Valley, where you can toast your new life together at charming vineyards.
Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park & Jackson Hole, Breathtaking landscape and the Teton Range offer an incredible backdrop to your honeymoon. Nearly four million people arrive annually in northwestern Wyoming’s Jackson Hole Valley to visit Grand Teton National Park.
Hiking, rafting and even fine dining are just a few activities newlywed couples can enjoy in the area. In the summer, enjoy fresh mountain air as you walk on boardwalks and browse Jackson Hole’s boutiques, galleries and restaurants. During the winter, check out the Jackson Hole Mountain resort for some skiing and The National Wildlife Art Museum for a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge.After an exhausting day of hiking and sightseeing, relax together in a hot tub at one of the area’s many quaint lodges.
Canary Islands
Sun-filled paradise and rich cultural history unite in this series of volcanic islands off the northwestern coast of Africa. With spring and summer-like temperatures and scenic views year round, the Canary Islands are drawing honeymooners with all types of interests. Explore the dozens of protected nature preserves offering an abundance of biodiversity. Take a hike in the mountains on the main island of Tenerife. Go on a scuba diving or snorkeling excursion or experience the thrill of whale watching on the island of La Gomera. Because the Canary Islands offer some of the best beaches off the Atlantic Coast, don’t forget to take a day to bask in the sun and do nothing.