Planning a winter wonderland getaway or a tropical escape? Whatever your style, there’s no denying that November to February is an incredible time to take off on your dream honeymoon. As the Northern Hemisphere cools down, many of our favorite destinations come alive with unique experiences and breathtaking backdrops. From snow-capped mountains to sun-kissed beaches, this season offers a wide range of possibilities for lovebirds looking to escape the ordinary.Of course, it’s essential to double-check that your dream destination is currently open to visitors during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Most of our featured destinations are welcoming travelers, but be sure to research any necessary requirements, such as vaccine proof or negative test results. We’ve curated a list of top honeymoon spots that we can’t wait to visit once restrictions ease.One of the best reasons to opt for a winter honeymoon is the savvy advantage it offers over summer getaways. Many popular destinations are less crowded and more affordable during this time, with ideal weather conditions and stunning scenery. You’ll have ample opportunity to relax and recharge before returning to reality in the new year.Whether you’re celebrating a fall or winter wedding, or simply looking forward to a romantic escape after your big day, a winter honeymoon is an excellent choice. To get started, check out our top picks for destinations between November and February. And don’t forget to bookmark our ultimate guide on how, where, and when to book your dream honeymoon – plus the essential gear you’ll need!
The Baja
Villa Santa Cruz in Todos Santos
Hotel San Cristobal in Todos Santos
Encuentro Guadelupe in Valle de Guadelupe
Mexico’s Baja California and Baja California Sur are undergoing a renaissance, offering travelers a wealth of new experiences to discover. The Sea of Cortez is now a haven for divers, with opportunities to spot whale sharks, dolphins, rays, and more. Meanwhile, Mexico’s wine country has become the epitome of chic, thanks to hip boutique hotels and luxurious resorts that celebrate the country’s heritage through organic farm-to-table cuisine.For couples seeking a vibrant city on the beach, San Jose del Cabo is an ideal choice. This charming sister city to Cabo San Lucas boasts a range of hip hotels, authentic eateries, and luxurious resorts built into the desert, celebrating Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. Foodies will revel in ACRE’s culinary delights, while those seeking indulgence can lounge by the pool at Zadun, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve hotel.Alternatively, surfers and free-spirited travelers can escape the crowds by driving an hour up the Pacific Coast to Todos Santos, where charm oozes from every corner. This tiny town on the Pacific offers privacy, laid-back vibes, stunning ocean views for whale watching, and exceptional cuisine. Stay at Claire’s wedding venue, Villa Santa Cruz, with its private bungalows and lavish suites, or opt for the hip Hotel San Cristobal, which combines Palm Springs-style chic with beachside relaxation.Wine enthusiasts will appreciate how easily accessible Mexico’s burgeoning wine region is – Valle de Guadalupe. Just an hour’s drive from San Diego, this arid desert valley is one of the world’s up-and-coming destinations for wine lovers and foodies alike. You’ll be spoiled by unique Mexican wines and farm-to-table cuisine at Encuentro Guadelupe’s modern all-glass suites, offering breathtaking wine country views. Alternatively, opt for El Cielo Winery & Resort, which offers a more classic and food-forward experience.
Hawai’i
Escape the Northern winter and find your tropical haven in the Hawaiian Islands, where eight major islands offer a unique destination for every couple. From lush rainforests and luxurious villas on Kauai, to all-inclusive beach getaways on Maui, or secluded island retreats like Molokini – there’s something for everyone. For the adventurous couple, the Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit, boasting active volcanoes, black sand beaches, deserts, ranchlands, and sacred valleys, as well as plenty of space to explore and get your hearts racing. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adrenaline-fueled escapades, the Hawaiian Islands have got it all.
The Caribbean
The Cotton House in Mustique
Sublime Samana in the Dominican Republic
Utah
The allure of the American West has intensified during this era of domestic travel. Not only can couples embark on road trips across the country, but Utah and its surrounding states offer a unique opportunity for social distancing amidst breathtaking natural landscapes. National Parks and expansive open spaces provide an ideal setting for a romantic getaway.
As we previously shared in our Post-Coronavirus Honeymoon Guide, Utah’s Amangiri Resort is a must-visit destination for any couple looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, as the winter season approaches, we’re drawn to the luxurious spa resorts in Park City, Utah. Imagine skiing or snowboarding down the slopes, followed by a cozy evening spent by the fireplace with your loved one.
The tranquility and seclusion offered by these resorts make them an ideal setting for a romantic winter honeymoon. The perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and quality time with your partner awaits in Utah’s Park City.
The Swiss Alps
W Verbier Hotel
The Cambrian
Gstadd Palace
For couples seeking an immersive winter wonderland experience, Switzerland is the ultimate destination. This picturesque country boasts breathtaking Alpine resorts that offer a unique apres- ski atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway. Klosters, a royal favorite, St Moritz, Davos, Gstaad, Wengen, and Verbier are just a few of the top-notch destinations that provide an unparalleled winter scenery. While skiing and snowboarding are popular activities, there’s more to do than just hit the slopes. Less adventurous couples can unwind in thermal spas, explore quaint villages, or take leisurely lake cruises. If all else fails, snuggle up by the fire with a rich hot chocolate and your new partner – the ultimate winter romance.
The Canary Islands
Royal Garden Villas & Spa in Tenerife
Salobre Hotel Resort & Serenity in Gran Canaria
Occidental Lanzarote Mar in Lanzarote
The Canary Islands, now fully open and safe after a recent volcanic eruption, offer Europeans and travelers alike a sun-kissed escape from winter’s chill. From December to March, the European islands off Morocco’s coast enjoy pleasant temperatures averaging 70°F (20°C). But which island is best suited for your getaway? While Tenerife, the largest and most populous, boasts sophisticated hotels, it would be a shame not to explore at least one or two smaller islands. La Palma, for instance, celebrates nature with natural preserves and serene tranquility. Fuerteventura’s beaches await sun-seekers, while Gran Canaria promises diverse adventures. La Gomera offers an authentic glimpse into Canary Island life, while Lanzarote is a unique experience… The Canary Islands are not just idyllic beach retreats; they also boast one of the world’s most distinctive wine cultures. Vineyards here grow their grapes within volcanic craters, resulting in wines like Lanzarote’s, which seductively blend hints of smoke and ocean saltiness – perfect pairings for that fresh seafood.
Southern Thailand
Banyan Tree Samui in Koh Samui
Six Senses Yao Noi in Koh Yao Noi
The Pavilions in Phuket
Escape the ordinary and treat your loved one to an unforgettable winter getaway in Southern Thailand. This picturesque region is a treasure trove of unique honeymoon experiences, from lavish resorts to secluded beach huts. The dramatic coastline along the Andaman Sea, featuring iconic landscapes on Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi, and Ko Lanta, offers breathtaking scenery. On the eastern side, the Gulf of Thailand reveals tranquil white sand beaches and world-class diving opportunities on Koh Tao, Koh Samui, and Koh Pha Ngan. While the region is renowned for its delectable cuisine and vibrant nightlife, it’s not impossible to find a slice of serenity, privacy, and romance amidst the excitement. With careful planning, you can create an intimate retreat that will leave your partner feeling loved and cherished.
Tanzanian Serengeti
Mahali Mzuri
Olare Mara Kempinski
Lapland
Hotelli Iso-Syöte
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
Imagine starting your winter honeymoon in a real-life wonderland, where the snow-covered landscapes of Northern Finland’s Lapland region transport you to a magical world. While it may be most famous for family breaks to meet Santa Claus, Lapland also has a charming adult side, complete with unique igloo hotels, treehouses perched atop snowy fells, and cocktail bars crafted from ice. But that’s not all – this winter wonderland offers an array of adventurous activities, including husky tours, reindeer sleigh rides, backcountry skiing, and even ice-swimming. As if that weren’t enough, the region is also a prime spot to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights, visible almost every clear night from September to March. And for those visiting during December and January, the polar night, or Kaamos, offers a unique experience of near-constant darkness over the course of about a month. While this might require some adjustments, it’s an unforgettable experience you’ll cherish forever.
Indian Ocean Islands
Resort Kandolhu in Maldives
Fregate Private Island in Seychelles
