From hidden beaches to candlelit dinners, these destinations know how to create the perfect setting for romance.
We reviewed the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best which recognizes the properties and locations that earn consistently positive reviews and ratings from the Tripadvisor community within a 12-month period. Out of more than 8 million listings they have, fewer than 1% achieve this status—making each destination on this list a standout for couples planning their dream honeymoon.
We subsequently asked for pro tips from travel experts who happen to oversee some aspects of tourism to those destinations. This is what was compiled below…
1. Mauritius
Often described as one of Africa’s most prosperous islands, Mauritius is a tropical sanctuary brimming with beauty and adventure. The capital, Port Louis, is a lively port city featuring a bustling marketplace and a modernized waterfront. Still, most honeymooners are drawn to the island’s serene coastal towns: Mont Choisy offers tranquil sands, Trou-aux-Biches is beloved for its calm charm, while the lively Flic en Flac is a hub for scuba diving enthusiasts. Those seeking thrill and sport can head to Rivière Noire, renowned for its deep-sea fishing.
For the Must-Do Experiences in Mauritius, we got tips from a Manager at Gragem Tours:
- Snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons
- Catamaran cruises into the horizon
- Exploring nature reserves and waterfalls
- Romantic guided tours through cultural landmarks
Highlights include the iconic Le Morne Brabant, the dramatic cascades of Les 7 Cascades, and the breathtaking Tamarind Falls, making Mauritius a paradise tailor-made for honeymooners.
2. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is the ultimate postcard brought to life. This Indonesian treasure combines white sandy beaches with cultural depth. Couples can bask in the sun, dive among vibrant coral reefs, or even explore a sunken WWII shipwreck. Inland, lush jungles shelter age-old temples guarded by cheeky monkeys, while Ubud, Bali’s artistic heart, offers dance performances, silver-smithing lessons, batik workshops, and rejuvenating yoga retreats.
These are the Top Things to Try in Bali, according to the General Manager of Viceroy Bali:
- Day trips through rice terraces and villages
- Guided jungle treks and waterfall tours
- Wildlife and nature excursions
- Private cultural or sightseeing tours
Bali perfectly balances spirituality, culture, and beach bliss, making it a honeymoon favorite.
3. Maldives
The Maldives needs little introduction. Utter the words, “I’m honeymooning in the Maldives,” and watch friends turn green with envy—especially during winter months. This Indian Ocean archipelago promises luxury villas over turquoise waters, endless snorkeling adventures, and unspoiled beaches where time feels suspended.
Tips about Romantic Activities in the Maldives, which were provided by Kari Bjorn, a wedding photographer:
- Sunset snorkeling with manta rays
- Island-hopping across secluded atolls
- Private day trips on traditional dhonis
- Wildlife tours surrounded by marine life
The Maldives is pure paradise—an unforgettable backdrop for romance.
4. Hoi An, Vietnam
On Vietnam’s central coast lies Hoi An, a UNESCO-listed city that once thrived as a major Southeast Asian trading port between the 15th and 19th centuries. Today, it enchants visitors with its old-world charm. On the 14th day of each lunar month, the city glows as electric lights are swapped for radiant lanterns. Iconic sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge and Quan Cong Temple bring history to life, while skilled tailors craft bespoke clothing for couples seeking unique souvenirs.
These are the Must-Experience Highlights in Hoi An, according to a local guide from the city:
- Private and half-day city tours
- Bustling flea and street markets
- Hands-on cooking classes with local chefs
Hoi An blends heritage, artistry, and romance in ways few places can.
5. Phuket, Thailand
Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is a magnet for beach lovers and divers alike. Its surreal sunsets and crystal-blue lagoons create a dreamscape honeymoon destination. While water sports dominate the agenda, Phuket offers more—wander its aquariums, botanical gardens, and sacred Buddhist temples when you’ve had your fill of the sun.
Romantic Things to Do in Phuket, as contributed by someone on the Tripadvisor listing:
- Jet boat or luxury yacht rentals
- Safari-style excursions through nature
- Exploring lively markets and cultural shows
- Scenic half-day island-hopping tours
Phuket delivers the perfect mix of adventure, nightlife, and relaxation.
6. Santorini, Greece
Few places are as instantly recognizable as Santorini, with its dazzling whitewashed houses clinging to cliffs and domed rooftops glowing blue against the Aegean Sea. Walk along black sand beaches, meander through quaint villages like Imerovigli, or head to Oia—famous for sunsets so vivid they look painted by an artist’s brush.
Here are the Honeymoon Highlights in Santorini, gleaned from Viator:
- Half-day guided tours of the island’s villages
- Romantic catamaran cruises across the caldera
- Sunset cruises along volcanic cliffs
- Relaxing beach escapes
Santorini is a timeless escape where every corner whispers romance.
7. Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
Located just 15 miles off Tanzania’s coast, the Zanzibar Archipelago offers honeymooners turquoise waters, shallow sandbars, and untouched islands where privacy reigns supreme. The historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of alleys, spice markets, and centuries-old architecture. For couples who prefer serenity, beach-hopping between fishing villages delivers a new favorite spot every day.
If you want to partake in some Romantic Activities in Zanzibar, a representative at Bloc suggested:
- Snorkeling in clear waters teeming with marine life
- Whale-watching excursions
- Relaxing on secluded white-sand beaches
- Safaris blending wildlife with coastal views
Zanzibar is exotic, enchanting, and endlessly romantic.
8. Florence, Italy
Florence is the beating heart of the Italian Renaissance, perfect for couples who love art, culture, and cuisine. Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpieces, or honor his legacy at the Basilica di Santa Croce, where he rests. The Ponte Vecchio bridge is a photographer’s dream, while the Piazza Santo Spirito is ideal for shopping and strolling. End the day indulging in Tuscan delights—fresh bread dipped in golden olive oil, paired with wine from the rolling countryside.
These are some Amenities and Activities to Try in Florence, according to Jared Lerner, who is the CEO of Nappr:
- Museum tours and art history walks
- Cooking classes steeped in Tuscan tradition
- Day trips into the countryside
- Exploring flea and street markets
Florence offers honeymooners a tapestry of art, romance, and gastronomy.
9. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
For couples seeking a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon, the Galápagos Islands deliver romance wrapped in adventure. This volcanic archipelago, famed for its unique wildlife and pristine landscapes, offers everything from snorkeling with sea lions to strolling along secluded white-sand beaches. Cruise between islands to witness giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies in their natural habitat. With luxury eco-lodges and intimate cruises, the Galápagos perfectly blends exclusivity with discovery.
These are the Top Honeymoon Activities in the Galápagos, according to Andre Robles of Voyagers Travel:
- Snorkel or dive among vibrant marine life
- Enjoy island-hopping cruises with panoramic views
- Spot giant tortoises and rare endemic species
- Relax on untouched beaches far from the crowds
The Galápagos is ideal for adventurous romantics who want their honeymoon to be as extraordinary and unforgettable as the destination itself.
10. St. Lucia
St. Lucia is a volcanic island where romance meets adventure. At La Soufrière, couples can literally drive into a dormant volcano before indulging in a natural mud spa treatment at Sulfur Springs. The island’s signature landmarks, the Pitons, invite hikers to explore their rugged beauty. For a quieter escape, Anse Mamin offers black-sand beaches and seclusion.
Honeymoon Highlights in St. Lucia, were listed for us by a representative at Contiki:
- Catamaran cruises along the Caribbean coast
- Guided tours of volcanoes and waterfalls
- Wildlife adventures in lush jungles
- Romantic beach days on private sands
St. Lucia is both dramatic and intimate—perfect for couples who want it all.
11. Guyana
Tucked away on South America’s northern coast, Guyana offers a unique blend of untouched wilderness and cultural richness. Known as the “Land of Many Waters,” this destination is perfect for couples seeking both adventure and intimacy. Explore the awe-inspiring Kaieteur Falls—five times taller than Niagara—or drift along the tranquil rivers through lush rainforest canopies. In Georgetown, colorful colonial architecture, botanical gardens, and lively markets add charm to this hidden gem.
Romantic Things to Do in Guyana, according to a representative at Jayway Travel:
- Visit Kaieteur Falls for breathtaking views
- Take a river cruise through the rainforest
- Stroll hand-in-hand through Georgetown’s botanical gardens
- Explore indigenous villages and share in cultural traditions
Guyana is an under-the-radar honeymoon retreat, ideal for couples who want romance interwoven with adventure, discovery, and authentic cultural experiences.
12. Mykonos, Greece
The jewel of the Aegean Sea, Mykonos is synonymous with golden beaches, vibrant nightlife, and iconic whitewashed buildings under turquoise skies. By day, couples can escape to the quieter north shore for seclusion. By night, the island comes alive with upscale parties, world-class dining, and beach clubs buzzing until sunrise. For the adventurous, activities include jet-skiing, windsurfing, horseback riding, and parasailing.
Romantic Activities in Mykonos, coming from a representative at GreeceInsiders:
- Walking tours through Cycladic villages
- Archaeological excursions to nearby islands
- Relaxing on famous golden beaches
- Half-day luxury tours and boat trips
Mykonos is where romance meets energy—a honeymoon filled with passion, fun, and unforgettable views.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s the cultural elegance of Florence, the volcanic allure of St. Lucia, or the barefoot luxury of the Maldives, each of these destinations has earned its place as a world-class honeymoon escape. Handpicked from the Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best, these spots offer more than beauty—they promise the experiences and memories that couples will cherish forever.
