Alternatives to Popular Honeymoon Destinations

Though it’s normal to spend a lifetime dreaming about your perfect fairytale wedding day, when it comes right down to it, actually planning for the big even surrounding “I do” can be a serious headache. On the flip side, though the honeymoon is usually the last thing to check off on your checklist- it’s certainly the most fun to plan. 

Whether you’re working together to sort through the most exotic destinations around the world to find your own little slice of paradise, or you’re hustling along to surprise your spouse with the trip of a lifetime, you’re bound to have a blast imagining yourself at the top of mountains, lazing under swaying palms or sailing through crystal clear waters. 

Every couple has their own ideas of what the ideal honeymoon should be, from near to far, beach to a ski slope, active to lazy. You might be seeking adventure while others are looking for champagne and fine dining. At the end of the day, the perfect honeymoon location is a highly personal decision. Don’t be fooled by lists of the most popular honeymoon destinations that circulate the web. Sure, these cities are great. But what if you could be getting more? Once you know the vibe of the trip you want to have together, it’ll be a breeze to pick out a country that flies a little lower under the radar. 

Still not sure where to start? Here is a list of fantastic alternatives to the most popular honeymoon destinations that may have piqued your interest. 

Instead of Paris, Try Toulouse, France

Paris is known as the city of romance, so it’s no surprise that every year, millions of honeymoons flock for a kiss under the Eiffel Tower. Since this is such a bustling tourist destination, travellers who prefer a more leisurely vacation might find themselves frustrated with lineups and crowds. For a quainter and more authentic approach to the romantic French honeymoon, consider booking your stay in Toulouse. This city has all the historic charm of Paris, with vibrant art and culinary scene. 

We Recommend: Grand Hotel L’Opera

Instead of the Maldives, Try the Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

Secluded islands, pristine oceans and mega luxury- it’s not hard to understand why honeymooners adore the Maldives. But what if we told you there’s an even better, practically unheard of alternative just off the coast of Africa? This little group of Islands off of Mozambique pack a big punch with luxury villas as you’ve never seen before. You can have a romantic dinner for two on a sand bar, sail across the bluest waters in the world, or roll around in the sand. The best part is? You’ll have the whole place practically to yourself. 

We Recommend: Azura Marlin Beach 

Instead of the Amalfi Coast, Try Sintra, Portugal

Cinque Terre and the surrounding coast has been a long time favourite of couples looking for a romantic getaway and for a good reason. But the more attention it gets, the more the crowds have begun to take over the hidden cliff-face beaches. Though this hasn’t been a major deterrent yet, you might reconsider when you learn that Portugal has a Cinque Terre counterpart that’s waiting to sweep you off your feet. Full off cliffs, secret beaches and oodles of historic architecture, you’ll never run out of things to do with your lover. The views are so breathtaking; we’re surprised that Sintra has remained a secret for so long! 

We Recommend: Chalet Saudade

Instead of Tulum, Try Trancoso, Brazil. 

Everyone and their uncle seems to be raving about the allure of Tulum, and we don’t blame them. This bohemian, boutique hotel haven is an absolute oasis where the jungle meets the sea. But as its trendiness has begun to overpower and over-commercialize, many Tulum fanatics are ready to move onto the next big thing. Trancoso, Brazil is the perfect place to do just that with gentle turquoise waters, a sleepy pace of living and an innate hippie flare. 

We Recommend: UXUA

Instead of The Bahamas, Try Curacao

Islands, white sand, billowing sails and swaying palms? Talk about romance! Though the Bahamas are the obvious choice when it comes to booking the Caribbean getaway of your dreams, why not go a little further off-the-beaten-path for unspoilt beaches you’ve only ever dreamed of. Not only is Curacao a great choice for avoiding other tourists and living a quiet island lifestyle, but it’s also the pinnacle of luxury. Here, you’ll find some of the most exquisite boutique hotels in the world, top chefs, and million-dollar sailboats. Still, need convincing? It’s actually relatively affordable considering its high-life tourism standards, and when compared with other luxury Caribbean islands. 

We Recommend: Baoase

Instead of Bali, Try Goa, India

Bali has made its way into the hearts of many and the bucket lists of even more. However, when planning your honeymoon, you might want to opt for something a little bit less trendy; a secret destination just for the two of you. If you always thought a destination like Bali would be perfect for you, that’s where Goa comes in. This lesser-known beach paradise in India has everything you love about Bali-and more. Think bohemian-chic accommodation, jungle living, yoga, meditation, and of course sandy beaches. It doesn’t really get much better than that. 

We Recommend: Palm Grove Beach Resort

Instead of Hawaii, Try the Whitsunday Islands, Australia

When you think about the appeal of Hawaii, chances are you’re picturing crashing waves, expansive beaches, turtles in reefs, a colourful but quiet atmosphere and stunning wildlife. Well, you can find all this (and more) in the Whitsundays. This slice of paradise is much quieter, with a far less saturated tourist market. You’ll find more boutique hotels than resorts, which are better suited to the honeymooner, and you can expect higher luxury at a more affordable price. The Whitsundays are also home to the famous heart-shaped reef, which is an absolute must-see on a romantic getaway. Opt for the aerial view and take a helicopter ride over the reef, which is another itinerary favourite in Hawaii. 

We Recommend: Elysian Retreat

Instead of Santorini, Try Rhodes, Greece 

Santorini is a favourite for a good reason- it’s famous for stunning sunsets, painting-worthy houses and hills, and fresh Mediterranean cuisine. Frankly, any of the less travelled Greek islands would be a great choice, but we particularly like Rhodes for honeymooners because it maintains some of the hustle and bustle of Santorini. You might not have as many blue-capped houses, but you’ll certainly never run out of things to do or new bistros to try. Some of the other Greek islands would provide a more secluded, private getaway feel, but Rhodes is the best alternative island that shares the same “vibe” as Santorini. You can go sailing, shopping or listen to live music all within a few steps on your front door. 

We Recommend: Kokkini Porta Ross

Instead of Morocco, Try Tunisia

Morocco has just recently crept its way onto the honeymoon hotspot lists, but it’s come in hot and heavy. If you’ve already been hearing too much about Morocco, consider giving its next-door neighbour, Tunisia, a shot. Tunisia is criminally overlooked for vacationers of all sorts, and it’s always been unclear why. After all, you can embrace the Arabian culture and cuisine, the gentle breeze of the Mediterranean Sea, and of course, access to the Sahara Desert. You’ll get that cultural, old-world feeling you love about Morocco, from its buildings of stone and clay to its intricately woven textiles, while also getting the island-living vibe that everyone loves about the Balkans. It’s a win-win! 

We Recommend: Anantara Sahara Tozeur

Instead of Costa Rica, Try Ecuador

The appeal of Costa Rica for honeymooners is undeniable. Who wouldn’t want to hang out in the clouds above the tree canopy? But we’ve got a secret. By visiting Ecuador instead, you can all the perks of a Costa Rica vacation (hello jungle hikes, morning yoga and wilderness lodges), along with bragging rights. After all, not everyone can say they have stayed in the Amazon rainforest! Many of these luxury eco-hotels have ultra-secluded locations, plunge pools, saunas and private villas, so you’re sure to feel alone with nature and your spouse. It’s a lover’s paradise!

We Recommend: Hamadryade Lodge