11 One-of-a-Kind Vacation Ideas for Your Dream Honeymoon
The infinity pool at Casa Chameleon in Costa Rica / Photograph courtesy of Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas
Which style of trip is best for you? Here, you’ll find ideas, tips, and advice for an unforgettable journey together.
The Earlymoon: Palm Beach
The White Elephant’s cheery exterior / Photograph courtesy of White Elephant Resorts
A break from the whirlwind of planning with a jaunt before the Big Day. Keep reading …
The Minimoon: Québec City
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac’s prime position in Québec City / Photograph courtesy of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
A short escape after the wedding, a much-needed holder for a future bucket-list trip. Keep reading …
The Buddymoon: Finger Lakes
Inns of Aurora / Photograph courtesy of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa
A weekend getaway with your best pals, whether it’s two of them or 10. Keep reading …
The Latermoon: New Zealand
Roys Peak Track hike overlooking Lake Wānaka in the Otago region / Photograph courtesy of Tourism New Zealand
A bucket-list trip, taken months after the actual wedding — but worth the wait. Keep reading …
Take a Cruise!
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Luminara / Photograph courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Stylish options for the couple who wants to hit the water
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s third watercraft, the Luminara (above), launched this summer, adding another way for newlyweds to experience the brand’s hospitality by boat. Each of the 226 suites offers a private ocean-view terrace, while onboard amenities include fine dining (five restaurants), a wine vault, pools, and a spa. As for journeys? Upcoming cruises include a five-night trip departing from Barcelona in October — complete with a visit to where Philly’s own Grace Kelly said “I do.”
Responsible tourism brand Wayfairer Travel, which has an outpost in Wilmington, creates curated itineraries for eco-conscious cruises to places such as Antarctica — a 14-day excursion could include small-boat trips to the mainland, kayaking, and a visit to the South Shetland Islands. Trips run from October to March.
For a river cruise, consider andBeyond’s new yachting trip through the Peruvian Amazon. While the Explorer won’t launch till September 2026, it will accommodate no more than 32 guests and will feature a pool deck and lounge, an interactive cooking station, and decor inspired by the region. Excursions will include guided walks (you may spot a sloth!), fishing for piranha, and conservation opportunities that seek to support the area’s ecosystem.
For Over-the-Top Adventure: Amangiri
The pool at Amangiri / Photograph courtesy of Amangiri
For the couple who wants to live on the edge, and indulge a bit too. Keep reading …
For a Tropical Trip: Costa Rica
Casa Chameleon’s villas and public spaces / Photograph courtesy of Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas
For the couple who wants to soak up the sun, lounge on the beach — and savor plenty of ocean views. Keep reading …
For a European Escape: Athens
The Erechtheion of the Acropolis / Photograph by Iryna Chubarova/Getty Images
For the couple who wants culture, cuisine, and sun-drenched beaches. Keep reading …
So, How Do We Plan This Trip?
Illustration by Guzaliia Filimonova/Getty Images
Sully Montero, founder of South Jersey’s Teach Travel Discover, shares her tips.
1. Put your deposit down on the wedding venue and your trip — ideally the flights and hotel — at the same time. If you’re traveling right after your wedding, look at whether that’s peak season. If it is, then you need to plan a year or more in advance.
2. Stay local-ish for a minimoon. Recuperate from the wedding, then splurge for the traditional honeymoon later.
3. Timing isn’t as much of an issue for latermoons. You can play with dates and availability. If you go during off-peak season, your budget goes further.
4. Consider an earlymoon for flexibility. I have a couple who want to get married in the winter, but they found a summer deal for their honeymoon. Their winter wedding is the final event, which is cool.
5. Make your buddymoon a long-weekend stint. And plan private activities for you and your spouse.
6. With tariffs likely impacting travel, it’s crucial to lock in current rates. Add travel insurance when you book your flights or rooms.
7. Try a honeymoon fund. A lot of my clients don’t register for traditional gifts because they already live together. A honeymoon fund can be enjoyed later on.
8. Hire a photographer. Many newlyweds book a day where the photographer takes photos of them in this gorgeous location that they might only get to once in their lives. — As told to K.S.
Published as “Honeymoons, Unpacked” in the summer/fall 2025 issue of Philadelphia Wedding.