As you and your significant other tie the knot, it’s time to spend some quality time together. While it may seem lucrative to spend your honeymoon at a romantic destination, you can enjoy your time more by indulging in some offbeat honeymoon locations instead.
Here’s a list of best offbeat honeymoon destinations from around the world curated to make your honeymoon memorable.
Best Offbeat Honeymoon Destinations In Africa
Zanzibar Islands, Tanzania
If your idea of a perfect honeymoon destination involves an intimate escape from reality, enjoying the natural beauty of blue waters along the backdrop of multiple sandy beach resorts, then Zanzibar Islands is one of the best romantic destinations to visit.
Known for its various tourist attractions, Zanzibar will introduce you to experiences such as snorkelling with dolphins, safari in Mikumi National Park, Dhow cruise rides, and a visit to the Forodhani Gardens.
Due to the year round sunny season, the best time to visit Zanzibar Archipelago is between July and September. The region is usually dry with less chances of rain, making it an excellent opportunity to participate in various activities.
Hwange, Zimbabwe
Hwange is a popular town in Zimbabwe, known for its biggest single tourist attraction, the Hwange National Park. Considered the most beautiful and offbeat honeymoon destination. In the past few years, the craze for Hwange national park has grown manifold.
While exploring a safari at this secluded honeymoon spot, you can enjoy cruise ships on the Zambezi rivers, take in the beautiful Victoria Falls, be amazed by the Elephant Sands and Chobe National park, finally ending your tour with a rich boma meal.
The months of June to October are considered the overall best time to visit Hwang. Due to the dry weather, it’s easier to spot the wild animals who come out in search of water, and blue skies are a regular sight for the visitors.
Masai Mara, Kenya
Known as nature’s epic masterpiece, the Masai Mara national reserve in Kenya is appreciated for its extravagant wildlife. From cheetahs to elephants, and zebras to lions, Masai Mara is the hub of Africa’s massive herds of wildebeest.
This unique honeymoon destination offers many activities apart from the game drives. Horseback riding, hot air balloon rides, local village visits and nature guided walks will help you appreciate the natural beauty around you.
If your idea of a perfect honeymoon spot is a wildlife filled safari, then the best time to visit Masai Mara is between July and October. However, the prices are also high during this time of year, so if you want a more quaint and budget-friendly safari experience, the months of November to May might be more suitable for you.
Mahe Island, Seychelles
If you want your honeymoon spot to be surrounded by charming and romantic beaches, Mahe Island is the perfect location. As Seychelles largest Island, Mahe is the perfect blend of pristine beaches and distant mountain peaks.
When you’re exploring Mahe, you can expect anything including but not limited to private hilly hiking trails, catamaran cruises, and wildlife tours. Some of the most beautiful sights that you’ll explore include Seychelles National Botanical Garden, Copolia Trail, Petite Anse, and Victoria Market.
The best time to visit Mahe Island is between May to September. For off-peak months, you should plan a honeymoon in November to March, especially for water based activities.
Antananarivo, Madagascar
Considered one of the best cities in Madagascar, Antananarivo is not only the capital of the country, but is also the perfect amalgamation of traditional and conventional culture. Considered among the lesser known honeymoon spots, Antananarivo has everything you need to have a good time in Madagascar.
The city is famous for its fun nightlife and varied wildlife. Some of the famous tourist attractions include the Lemur Park, Croc Farm, Madagascar Exotic Park, Analakely market, and the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga.
January to April are quite unsuitable months for Madagascar in terms of weather. The best time to visit the city is usually between the months of September, October, and November to visit the outdoor scenic landscapes, like the beaches and engage in fun activities.
Unique and Offbeat Honeymoon Destinations In Asia
Puducherry, India
Nestled in the southeastern parts of India, Puducherry is known as the French Riviera of the East. While the country of India boasts of many beautiful places with natural beauty, Puducherry takes the cake for one of the most popular honeymoon destinations.
During your stay in the former French colony of Pondy, you will come across ancient architecture, blossoming Bougainvillea, as well as the famous Shri Aurobindo Ashram. The best way to explore the city is through the City Bike tour with stops along paradise beach, French war memorial, as well as Pondicherry lighthouse.
Since the city is covered with pristine beaches, the best time to visit Puducherry is towards the cooler months, between October to March. The weather tends to be pleasant making it the best time for sightseeing.
Langkawi, Malaysia
Imagine you and your partner on a beautiful beach honeymoon, surrounded by many white sand tropical beaches. The tropical Langkawi region of Malaysia is known for it, making it one of the most perfect and romantic destinations for newlyweds.
Trips across the Langkawi sky bridge, underwater world, Gua Cerita, and Gunung Raya will help you understand the natural beauty of the Langkawi region along with your partner. To make your trip even more memorable, try the Langkawi cable cars, visit the Langkawi Wildlife Park, go scuba diving in the pristine beaches of the area, and go for street shopping at the Pekan Kuah night market.
The best time to visit Langkawi is between December and February. But if you want to go for a mid season romantic escape, then months from March to August will be more appropriate.
Luang Prabang, Laos
The town of Luang Prabang in Laos is a famous UNESCO world heritage site and also one of Asia’s unique honeymoon destinations. Considered among the lesser known honeymoon destinations, the town is known for its tropical forests, colonial architecture, and rich heritage.
For a wonderful experience, try taking tribal cooking classes, experience a romantic sunset in the sunset cruise, and visit the Mandalao Elephant Conservation. You can also visit the Living Land Farm, Royal Palace Museum, and Mount Phousi for a memorable honeymoon.
Luang Prabang stays comfortable for travel during the dry season, which usually lasts between November and May. If you’re planning a trip to Laos, the best time to visit would be during these months.
Loveliest Offbeat Honeymoon Destinations In Australia
The Great Barrier Reef, Queensland
As the world’s largest coral reef, the Great barrier reef is a natural wonder for all kinds of marine life and hundreds of tropical islands. Surrounded by beautiful beaches and seafood delights such as a variety of fishes, giant shrimps, lobsters, and clams, it’s the perfect place to enjoy food and view with a glass of wine in hand.
Some of the most sought after islands at the great barrier reef include the Whitsundays, famous for its scenic beauty and underwater activities like scuba diving. Bedarra Island is another famous island which is known for its beach resorts with all the luxurious amenities for those who want to experience only the best.
The best time to visit the great barrier reef is between May to October as it offers an opportunity to explore underwater activities while the water is still warm and clear.
Leura, New South Wales
If you want to experience the epitome of luxury on your honeymoon spot, you must add Leura on your honeymoon destinations list. A perfect combination of art and history, you can do everything in the mountainous region, from visiting antique stores, churches, cathedrals, and wildlife tours.
Leura Cascades, Gordon falls lookout, Lockleys Pylon walking track, and Lyrebird Dell walking track are some of the best places for sightseeing. But if you want to engage in outdoor activities, you can go for a private tour of the blue mountains, go for a fun-filled day at the zoo watching cute koalas and kangaroos, or book river cruise ships leading you to the centre of the region.
If you want to make the most of your time at Leura, it’s best to visit during Spring. The months of September to November are pleasant, the natural flora and fauna of the area is flourishing, making it the best time to visit the place for a fun honeymoon.
Kangaroo Island, Adelaide
How can you go to Australia and not experience the national symbol of the continent? Kangaroo island is filled with stunning landscapes, and beautiful white sand beaches, making it one of the perfect honeymoon spots for a romantic escape.
Don’t be fooled by the perfect cottage style stay. As much as the island is about connecting with nature, it’s equally romantic and relaxing with rejuvenating spas, hot springs and professional masseuse, giving you enough time for perfect surf breaks. Tammar Ridge, Kingscote and Pandara, American River, and other tourist attractions ensure that you won’t leave without making some amazing memories at this honeymoon destination.
The summer months of December to February are an ideal time to check out this honeymoon destination. The best time to visit would be January, which is usually the peak season.
Romantic Offbeat Honeymoon Destinations In Europe
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Amalfi coast is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. Located in Italy, this city is all about romance and love. With a rich culture and mouth watering delicacies, the city has been the backdrop for many romantic movies.
If you plan to visit this honeymoon destination, you can’t afford to miss out on the romantic city of Sorrento, known for hosting at least 500 weddings every year, much like this gorgeous Mediterranean Valley Villa inspired by Sorrento’s real architectural design. Afterwards, you can take a dip in the Bai de Leranto coast, with the natural marine life, maybe even some sea lions.
The boat rides from Capri to Blue Grotto are extremely popular, right after the trekking across Positano. The serene yet colourful countryside, combined with the natural beauty of the coast will take you on a trip to simpler and happier times.
The best time to visit and experience this city is in either May or September, as the weather is pleasant with a lot more opportunities to explore outdoor activities.
Reykjavik, Iceland
One of the most gorgeous cities of Iceland, Reykjavik is the perfect romantic getaway for newlyweds. From experiencing the wonder of Blue Lagoon to the ever-famous Northern lights, you are bound to have a wondrous honeymoon in this ideal honeymoon destination.
While there are numerous activities for you to explore with your partner during both the summer and winter season, managing your priorities can help you experience this honeymoon destination to the fullest.
For instance, Blue lagoon is available throughout the year, but you can only watch the Northern Lights during the winters. Alternatively, if you want to experience longer days and find the right time for whale watching or explore the Navagio shipwreck beach, April to September will be the best time to visit Reykjavik.
Palma De Mallorca, Spain
With gold and white sand beaches across the island, Palma De Mallorca has an old town vibe that makes it one of the attractive offbeat honeymoon spots. Being a part of Europe, there are a lot of signature experiences that you can have in Spain’s little town.
Wine tasting, laying on the beach, snorkelling, day cruises, jet boat rides, horseback riding, sailing and sightseeing are some of the fun ways to explore Palma De Mallorca. Palma Aquarium, Catedral De Mallorca, Calo Des Moro, and Castell De Bellver are some of the most popular places for sightseeing.
The best time to visit and enjoy the Mediterranean climate of Palma De Mallorca is between May and October. June is a rather peak season time as most of the sights are considered June attractions for the island.
Offbeat Honeymoon Destinations In The United States
British Virgin Islands, North America
If you want to experience the luxury marine life, the British Virgin Islands is the place to be. Regarded as one of the best honeymoon destinations in the USA, the islands are made up of 60 other big and small islands.
While the British Virgin Islands offer great value for money in terms of beaches, kayaking, hiking and snorkeling, it also features catamaran cruises and luxurious mega yachts to make your honeymoon special.
The best time to visit the British Virgin islands is between April and June. The dry weather ensures that you’re able to enjoy your time outside, and make the most of the comfortable treehouse resorts that the Islands boast about.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe in New Mexico is a small town famous for its gorgeous landscapes, adventurous outdoor activities and culinary delights. A beautiful blend of history and art, Santa Fe is a hidden gem and a unique honeymoon destination for the newlyweds.
From horseback riding, cultural theme tours, and unusual museums, to water sports, Santa Fe has all the amenities you need for a perfect honeymoon. The most famous places in New Mexico are the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assissi, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and Meow Wolf. The place also boasts of multiple ski resorts for fun lovers.
While Santa Fe is a great place to visit throughout the year, the best time to visit the place has to be during the off season of November through March.
Napa Valley, California
California is known for its beautiful beaches and thousands of wedding venues. But did you know that it’s also a very popular and offbeat honeymoon destination? Napa Valley, the wine county of California makes for an amazing honeymoon destination for those who love more offbeat locations to celebrate their special occasions such as honeymoons and weddings like a rustic ranch or farm.
Along with beautiful scenic landscapes and good wine, you’ll also get to experience the best ambience and traditional delicacies at Napa Valley. Castello Di Amorosa and Pine Ridge Vineyards are some of the best vineyards in the region. But there are so many vineyards that it’s better to take a private winery tour, with or without a concierge. There’s also a famous wine trolley that you can choose for a fun-filled day and visit all the beautiful vineyards with your partner.
The best time to visit Napa Valley has to be during the harvest season that lasts between May and October. Not only the wine but the food is also great during these months, especially if you’re planning to enjoy a delicious meal at Solbar, the Michelin star awarded restaurant.
Offbeat Honeymoon Destination For The Win
While all of the aforementioned honeymoon spots are splendid, your choice of offbeat honeymoon destination depends on various factors such as your budget, the amount of time you can get off work, and other priorities that you and your partner may have at the moment.
While it’s essential to plan a romantic escape as newlyweds, you must consider a domestic or international honeymoon based on your preference. While all of these alternative honeymoon destinations are absolutely gorgeous, here are our personal picks from each continent.
- Africa – Mahe Island, Seychelles because of the presence of both beaches and mountains.
- Asia – Langkawi, Malaysia is our favorite honeymoon destination because there are a lot of activities to do, both underwater and in air.
- Australia – The Great Barrier Reef in Queensland has to be the top pick for an adventurous honeymoon destination under water.
- Europe – Reykjavik, Iceland has a charm that bests every other place in the world. With gorgeous blue lagoons and northern lights, how can anyone resist this gorgeous natural wonder?
- United States – Santa Fe is an offbeat honeymoon destination that’s open all year round and has multiple adventure activities for newlyweds, making it one of the most unique honeymoon destinations in the USA.
Can you think of any other offbeat honeymoon destinations that should made our list? Be sure to share any missing ones that come to mind in the comments!
