Once you say I do, the next step is to decide where you want to spend your first family vacation. Many couples anticipate their honeymoon as it is a time when they come together as love birds to create long-lasting memories.
The good news is that there are a myriad of choices when it comes to deciding where to have your honeymoon. The bad is that with all these choices, it can be confusing to settle on one.
Choosing the right destination is important as it makes the experience memorable. Some factors, like season, come into play when making this decision. Many couples lean towards the summer months because of the pleasant weather, which allows them to spend quality time outside.
July is the most favored month. The first half of this month is usually cheaper since the school holidays have yet to start. If you’re booking for late July, make sure you book early.
Let us look at some of the best summer destinations to create a lifetime of memories.
Key Takeaway
- Choosing the right honeymoon destination is crucial for creating memorable experiences, with factors like weather, budget, and personal preferences playing key roles.
- Popular summer honeymoon destinations include the Maldives, Italy, Santorini, Kenya, Paris, Bora Bora, and Saint Lucia, each offering unique attractions and romantic activities.
- Summer is peak season, so making early bookings for flights and accommodations is essential to avoid high prices and crowded locations.
- Consider lesser-known destinations and flexible travel options to save money and find more secluded and intimate settings for your honeymoon.
7 Best Honeymoon Destinations in Summer
1. Maldives
Perfect for couples looking for a secluded place!
The Maldives is the ideal location for beach lovers. Its white sand beaches allow couples to take picture-perfect images, and the place is also surrounded by crystal clear waters, making it picturesque.
Natural beauty, welcoming locals, excellent service, and good food make the Maldives one of the best places to spend your honeymoon in summer. Maldives should be your top pick if you are after beautiful beaches and sublime hotels.
Food
On the menu, expect an abundance of fresh local seafood, such as lobster, crab, tuna, mahi mahi, and snapper. These can be grilled, curried, or prepared using special Maldivian coconut milk broth. International restaurants serve various dishes, including Indian, Arabic, Italian, and Japanese cuisines.
Romantic dining spots allow visitors to soak in the beauty of the islands, and many resorts offer overwater restaurants. Some of the best romantic dining options include:
- Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
- SEA at Anantara Kihavah Maldives
- 5.8 Undersea at Hurawalhi Maldives
Best time to visit
- December to April for the best weather
- May to November for fewer crowds and lower prices
The Maldives experiences brief showers in May and plenty of sunshine. June usually sees more rain showers; July is the wettest, although the showers are short-lived. August offers sunny weather with slim rain chances; September is typically dry, and October is the driest.
Activities
Expect a delightful combination of:
- Water activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding and windsurfing
- Romantic experiences like spa massages, sunset cruise tours, dinner with stunning ocean views
- Relaxation activities like swimming in the ocean, bathing in Jacuzzis and private infinity pools
2. Italy
Suitable for a short summer honeymoon destination!
If you prioritize staying in world-class, high-end restaurants, Italy is the perfect place to visit. There are many romantic spots where you can enjoy a perfect time with your loved one.
You will enjoy tantalizing food, stunning landscapes, and beautiful beaches, among other natural wonders. The country offers something unique for everyone and gives France, its closest competitor, a run for its money.
Food
Guests are treated to fresh and seasonal ingredients. Juicy melons, plump eggplants, fresh herbs, and tomatoes are plentiful. These ingredients are used for salads, pasta dishes, pizzas, and grilled vegetables.
Popular dishes include fresh seafood, vegetables, panzanella bread, and Insalata caprese. In summer, Gelato (Italian ice cream made with fruit, cream, and milk) is popular. Also, look out for regional specialties.
Romantic places to dine include:
- La Sponda at Le Sirenuse, Positano
- Grotta Palazzesse, Polignano a Mare
- Solo Per Due, Vacone
- The Library, Rome
Best time to visit
The best time may differ depending on what you want for your romantic getaway. June offers pleasant weather and a few crowds compared to July and August. But prices of things begin to hike this month.
- July is the warmest month. This is the best time for swimming and spending time at the beach. Many festivals happen throughout the country. However, it is also a peak season, attracting large crowds and higher prices.
- August is still warm, and some places are less crowded. But the weather may be hot in some places.
- September enjoys pleasant weather and fewer crowds. But most businesses close down for the harvest.
Generally, Italy’s summer climate is hot and dry, although there may be seasonal variation.
Activities
- Explore charming towns and cities like Venice, Pisa and Rome
- Outdoor activities include hiking, wine tasting, gondola rides, stargazing, and hot air balloon rides.For honeymooners, consider capturing stunning hot air balloon wedding images to create breathtaking memories and a unique keepsake of your romantic getaway..
- Romantic dinner cruises or cooking class
3. Santorini, Greece
Perfect for couples who love watching the sunset!
Santorini is renowned for its breathtaking views, beautiful sunsets, and the city of Akrotiri. There are so many fantastic things to do, from exploring the villages to spending time in relaxation spas. You and your loved one can enjoy a romantic dinner or take a wine-tasting tour to sample some of the region’s best wines.
Food
Santorini restaurants use seasonal ingredients and vibrant flavors in their food. Since summer is the peak produce season, expect Santorini tomatoes, fresh herbs, white eggplants, and fava beans in plenty.
Shellfish and fresh fish are a must. Order a grilled octopus, steamed muscles, or a bowl of spaghetti alle vongole. You can also indulge in Greek Maze, Santorini tomato dishes, and grilled specialties.
Some romantic places to dine include:
- Lauda Restaurant, Oia
- Karma Restaurant, Oia
- Lycabettus Restaurant, Oia
Best time to visit
Summer is a good time of year to visit Santorini for a Greek island experience. The best weather is in June and September. You will enjoy sunny weather, refreshing evenings, and fewer crowds. Prices are also affordable during these two months.
July and August are dry seasons with hot weather. It’s a perfect time for couples who enjoy swimming and sunbathing. Overall, Santorini’s summer weather is sunny and low humidity. Rain is rare, but occasional showers are not uncommon.
Activities
Santorini is for the adventurous couples. Some activities to make your honeymoon unforgettable include:
- Romantic activities like a private catamaran cruise, romantic dining with stunning views, candlelit dinners, and couple spa massages.
- Outdoor activities like wine tours and tasting, donkey rides to Oia, hiking from Fire to Oia, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddling.
- Relaxing activities like basking on the sandy beaches.
4. Kenya
Suitable for wildlife lovers!
If Africa is on your bucket list, Kenya is a perfect honeymoon destination. The country is popular for its lodges and landscapes of the Masai Mara and its diverse wildlife species. You can find other lodges in Meru National Park or the entire Laikipia region.
The country is also perfect for those who want to enjoy luxurious and romantic seclusion. The coast is full of car-free islands, warm waters of the Indian Ocean, and fantastic coral reefs. Several luxury hotels offer scenic views and other impressive attractions.
Food
Kenya’s summer food scene is filled with fresh and seasonal products. You and your loved one will enjoy fresh fruits like mangoes, passion fruit, and avocadoes in plenty, as well as fresh vegetables like spinach, kale, and green beans. These are used in making salads, stews, desserts, and dishes.
Order traditional dishes like Ugali (a dish made from maize flour), sukuma wiki (stewed collard greens or kales), nyama choma (grilled meat), and fresh fruit juices.
Seafood lovers rejoice in fish dishes like fried fish, coconut-curried fish, and fish stews. Also, don’t forget to order millet porridge sweetened with mangoes or sweet potato stews.
Romantic dining options include:
- Mara Serena Lodge, Masai Mara
- Lewa Safari Camp, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
- The Moorings Floating Restaurant, Mombasa
- The Talisman Restaurant, Nairobi
Best time to visit
Kenya’s summer is between December and March and coincides with the rainy season. The weather is generally warm during the daytime and cool at night. But you may experience showers and thunderstorms, especially in the afternoon. Please consider this as it will affect the activities, accommodation, and road conditions.
Activities
- Wildlife viewing in national parks
- Birdwatching and horseback riding
- Hot air balloon rides and scenic helicopter tours
- Luxurious spa treatments
- Romantic dinners under the stars
5. Paris, France
For a romantic getaway…
Pleasant weather, a vibrant atmosphere, and long summer days make Paris perfect for a summer honeymoon. During these months, you can fully embrace the outdoors, from rooftop diners to bike exploration with your significant other; there is so much to do in this vibrant city.
However, because of the crowds it receives, it is best to book flights and accommodation early, especially if you’ve planned your honeymoon on popular dates.
Food
The food scene in summer is filled with fresh fruits like melons, strawberries, peaches, and cherries. Colorful vegetables like asparagus and zucchini are also in season. So, expect to find them in salads and other foods.
You’ll be treated to chilled soups, seafood dishes, fresh baguettes, cured meats, crepes, and ice cream. Summer drinks include chilled rose and fresh fruit sorbets.
Luxury resorts include:
- Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris
- The Peninsula Paris
- Shangri La Paris
- Le Bristol Paris
Best time to visit
Paris enjoys pleasant weather, boasting warm days and cool evenings. June may be a perfect choice for a honeymoon as it offers a balance between good weather and crowds.
The month is generally warm and sunny, but occasional rain showers might occur. July and August are the hottest months and receive thunderstorms at times. Plus, crowds are at their peak during these months.
Activities
- Seine River Cruise when the sun sets
- Diner with a stunning rooftop terrace
- Outdoor cinema in parks or gardens
- Garden picnics
- Bike tours on the Seine River
6. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Perfect for an intimate dining experience!
The main draws to this place are the coral reefs, crystal clear lagoons, and overwater bungalows.
Visitors are welcome to enjoy water activities and soak in privacy and luxury in the world-class resorts. Many places offer romantic dining, giving you and your spouse quality time.
Food
Savor tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and watermelon, or order drinks, salads, and desserts that incorporate them. Indulge in seafood, sampling mahi mahi, snapper, and tuna.
There are many places to enjoy Bora Bora food flavors, including:
- Lagoon Restaurant, St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
- Farniente Restaurant, St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
- Le Corail Restaurant, Le Meridien Bora Bora
Best time to visit
Bora Bora’s summer is from December to March and is also the rainy season. The warm water during summer allows swimming, diving, and snorkeling. Also, fewer tourists visit, especially in December.
Activities
- Snorkeling and diving visibility allows
- Enjoy a lagoon cruise
- Jet skiing across the lagoon
- Couple spa treatments
- Sunset cocktails and in-villa dining in luxury resorts
7. Saint Lucia
For those who’d like to spend time in the islands…
St. Lucia is a perfect honeymoon destination for those visiting the Caribbean Island. It is located between the Atlantic and the Caribbean and is mostly known for its twin volcanic peaks, Gros and Petit Pitons.
Visitors can participate in festivals, relax in pools, and savor delicious treats.
Food
Tropical fruits are in abundance and are incorporated into drinks, desserts, and savory dishes. Seafood is also available in plenty, with many restaurants serving freshly caught fish like tuna, snapper, and mahi-mahi.
- The Cliff at Cap Maison
- Jade Mountain Club Restaurant
- Boucan by Hotel Chocolat
- Treetop Restaurant
Best time to visit
Saint Lucia’s summer is between June and August. This month, the city receives the warmest weather and plenty of sunshine.
Although the atmosphere is vibrant, summer marks the onset of hurricane season, and the crowds are also large, which reduces the availability of flights and accommodation and increases their prices.
Activities
- Explore the best beaches, including black-sand and white-sand beaches
- Embark on a catamaran cruise
- Spend time partaking in water activities like kayaking
- Enjoy a mud bath at Sulphur Springs
- Hike the scenic landscapes of the city
Other popular honeymoon summer destinations are South Africa, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the Amalfi Coast.
Factors to Consider When Planning a Summer Honeymoon
With thousands of honeymoon destinations, choosing one can seem daunting. Here are some factors to consider that will help you decide and plan a perfect summer honeymoon destination.
Weather
Summers are different in different places. While some experience warm days and cool nights, others receive rain and hurricanes.
Choosing a place with pleasant weather is wise to allow you and your spouse to enjoy the outdoors and indoors. At the same time, consider microclimates within a specific destination to ensure that you are comfortable and pack the right garments.
Ask yourself whether you enjoy spending time in hot and sunny weather or prefer something milder. If you’re bothered by rain during your honeymoon, please pick a destination with a dry season.
Also, research a place to determine its susceptibility to natural disasters like hurricanes, typhoons, etc.
Seasonal Attractions
Seasonal attractions are one of the best ways to enhance your honeymoon. Make sure you look for unique summer experiences.
For instance, those traveling in Alaska will enjoy whale watching in the summer, and those heading to Europe can participate in summer festivals.
At the same time, remember that summer weather significantly influences the activities you will do. Stargazing is only possible in clear skies in a desert, and you will need warm waters to snorkel or hike in a mountain range.
Budget
Summer is often a peak season in many places. Flights, accommodation, dining, and activities tend to be more expensive.
Here are some ways you can save on a summer honeymoon:
- Consider less popular honeymoon destinations that affordably offer the same activities and unique experiences.
- Be flexible with destinations, compare flights and accommodation, and choose places that suit your honeymoon style without denting your pocket.
- Consider flying on weekdays as it is generally cheaper than on weekends.
- Take advantage of flight deals when they arise and ensure you book your flight in advance.
- Opt for free or cheap activities and look for package deals that resorts/travel agencies offer
Crowds
During peak season, popular destinations get crowded, especially in summer. This leads to long lines at restaurants, attractions, and for transportation, and reduces availability in these places.
Crowds also make it difficult to find secluded spots for romantic moments. Additionally, increased demand results in higher prices for flights, activities, and accommodations.
It’s best to avoid popular destinations and opt for lesser-known gems. For instance, if you plan to spend your honeymoon in North Carolina, opt for smaller parks like Rock Island State Park instead of going to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Accessibility
Accessibility determines the experience you’ll have in your chosen location. While choosing a place that allows you to create long-lasting memories is crucial, it’s also important that you don’t stress accessing the area. Research on the transportation options available in that location.
Some places are car-free, others can only be accessed by rail, and some require a public bus. Make sure you’re comfortable with the available method before booking.
At the same time, look into the visa requirements of that particular place and whether you meet them. Lastly, ensure that flights are easily available to and from.
Accommodation
Since summer is a peak destination, it’s wise to book your accommodation in advance. You don’t want the panic and stress that comes with last-minute booking. Scout for romantic places in that area and make a reservation in parks, hotels, or other attractions.
When choosing your accommodation, consider your budget. Some options include:
- Luxury resorts are the most expensive, but most of them are elegant and beautiful
- Boutique hotels are cheaper but may not match the elegance and class of luxury hotels.
- Cozy AirBnbs are affordable, although some may not have all the necessary amenities.
Remember that expensive doesn’t always mean the best. You may find affordable places with quality services and vice versa.
Safety
No one wants to worry about theft, scams, or violence during their honeymoon. For this reason, it is wise to choose a safe destination that reduces the risks and offers peace of mind. Choose destinations that have a stable political climate and low health risks. You’ll have to do some research on this online.
At the same time, make sure you have travel insurance. Your insurance should cover travel delays, baggage and belongings, medical emergencies, and cancellations.
Lastly, read the safety guidelines of a location online and the necessary health precautions you should take when visiting that location to remain safe.
Personal Preferences
Personal preferences don’t need to be emphasized. You must choose a place that suits your interests, activities, and experiences. Choose a destination that both of you can enjoy. Ideally, the place should cater to both your hobbies and interests.
Conclusion
Choosing a honeymoon destination doesn’t have to be difficult. What’s important is that a place caters to you and your partner’s interests, budgets, and safety. The above summer destinations are all great ideas to consider.
Just bear in mind that summer is a peak season for many places. So you must plan ahead of time for a memorable experience. Scout for the best places and book flights, accommodations, and attractions.