So, you’ve planned your wedding—picked out your design ideas, chosen a cake flavor, assembled your dream squad, and said “yes” to the dress. Now what?
It’s time to plan your honeymoon! Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical escape, a mountain retreat, or a city adventure, I’ve rounded up some incredible honeymoon destinations to inspire your travels. As a destination wedding photographer, I’ve had the chance to visit some of these places and highly recommend them!
Top Honeymoon Destination Ideas
HAWAII
I chose Hawaii for my honeymoon, and let me tell you—it’s more doable than you might think! While it has a reputation for being pricey, a little planning can go a long way in keeping costs manageable.
Money-saving tips:
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Stay in an Airbnb instead of a resort.
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Stock up on groceries at Costco to cut down on dining costs.
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Pick one island to explore to avoid extra travel expenses.
Hawaii offers four main islands, each with its own vibe:
- Kaua’i – Secluded with lush trails and gardens. Ideal for nature lovers!
- Maui – Known for stunning beaches and hiking. A perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
- Big Island (Hawai’i) – Home to volcanoes and diverse climates, great for outdoor enthusiasts.
- O’ahu – A lively mix of city life and attractions, including Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor.
👉 Planning to visit Maui? Check out my guide: ‘Hawaiian Honeymoon in Maui!’
The Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
For couples who love the outdoors, the Smoky Mountains are a dream honeymoon spot! Matt and I stayed in the cutest Airbnb here and loved every second of it.
🥾 Top hiking trails in The Smoky Mountains:
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Charlies Bunion (Hard)
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Clingman’s Dome (Moderate)
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Alum Cave Trail (Moderate)
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Grotto Falls (Moderate)
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Laurel Falls (Easy but busy!)
Other fun activities in The Smoky Mountains:
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Watch the sunrise over the mountains.
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Visit Gatlinburg (though it’s touristy, so be prepared!).
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Take a scenic drive through Cades Cove for amazing wildlife views.
Pro Tip: Download the app All Trails. This app can help you guide your way, view the length as well as the difficulty!
Charleston & Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Ah, South Carolina—one of my favorite places! If you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway with charming streets, stunning beaches, and incredible food, Charleston and Hilton Head Island should be on your list.
Why visit?
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Relax on the beach or take a boat cruise.
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Explore Charleston’s historic streets and pastel-colored homes.
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Jet ski, shop, and unwind in Hilton Head.
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Bonus: Take a day trip to Savannah, Georgia, for its gorgeous landscapes and rich history!
👉 Planning to visit Charleston? Check out my guide: Charleston Planning Trip Guide
Jackson, Wyoming & The Tetons
This destination is unlike anything I had ever seen before. If you love breathtaking landscapes and a mix of adventure and relaxation, this is the place to be.
What to do in Jackson Hole?
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Explore Grand Teton National Park.
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Stroll through the charming downtown area.
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Take in the views from scenic pull-offs.
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Eat—seriously, the food here is next-level!
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Visit Mount Rushmore and the Badlands in South Dakota if you’re up for a road trip.
Arizona & The Southwest
Oh man the love I have for Arizona…this place is one of the coolest places I’ve visited on my bucket list.
My fave hiking trails in Sedona:
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Sugarloaf Trail (Moderate) – An underrated hike with breathtaking panoramic views.
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Cathedral Rock Trail (Hard) – A short but steep climb with rewarding panoramic views.
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Devil’s Bridge Trail (Moderate) – Hike to the largest natural sandstone arch in Sedona.
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West Fork Trail (Easy/Moderate) – A scenic trail through a lush canyon with creek crossings.
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Bell Rock Pathway (Easy) – A great beginner-friendly trail with iconic red rock views.
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Soldier Pass Trail (Moderate) – Features the famous Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole and Seven Sacred Pools.
🎉 Other fun activities in Arizona:
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Watch the sunset over Sedona’s red rocks.
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Take a scenic drive to Page, AZ, for even more desert beauty.
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Explore Sedona’s arts scene and charming local shops.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
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Big Sur, California – Stunning coastal views.
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Lake Tahoe – A mix of beaches and mountains.
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Seattle, Washington – Coffee, culture, and waterfront views.
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Nashville, Tennessee – Music, nightlife, and amazing food.
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Orlando, Florida – Disney World & Universal Studios!
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Bar Harbor, Maine – A charming, coastal escape.
How to Save Money on Your Honeymoon
Stay in an Airbnb or VRBO – More budget-friendly than resorts!
Book in advance – Plan 10–12 months ahead to score the best deals.
Be flexible with your dates – Traveling in the off-season can save you big.
Limit dining out – Buy groceries and cook some meals to save on food costs.
Find cheap flights – Use Google Flights and browse in incognito mode to avoid price hikes.
Whether you’re planning a tropical escape, a cozy mountain retreat, or a city adventure, your honeymoon should reflect your love story. As a destination wedding photographer, I love capturing love in the most beautiful places—so if you’re planning a wedding destination photography session or even a surprise proposal, let’s chat!
READ NEXT:
The Benefits Of Hiring A Destination Wedding Photographer
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