Let’s be honest, after planning a wedding, budgeting for a honeymoon can feel like one more thing on your to-do list. But here’s the truth: a magical honeymoon doesn’t have to come with a five-star price tag. Whether you’re planning on a tighter budget or simply looking to make your money go further, there are beautiful destinations (yes, even romantic ones) that give you all the dreamy, just-married feels without draining your savings account.
Think of this list as a matchmaking service, but for travel styles. The way you vacation says a lot about the kind of couple you are. Do you bond best over a candlelit dinner and quiet strolls, or are you your happiest selves when you’re chasing waterfalls or exploring new cities? Whether you’re foodies, road trippers, beach loungers, or thrill seekers, there’s a perfect destination here with your name on it.
We’ve also included a pricing legend to give you an idea of what to expect. All destinations listed are budget-friendly, but some may require a little more flexibility or seasonal strategy:
- $ = Under $150/day (lodging + meals + activities)
- $$ = $150–$250/day
- $$$ = $250+/day (but with deals or off-season rates that can drop it into budget territory)
“We want something romantic and relaxing.”
Think cozy strolls, charming stays, and slow mornings with no alarm clocks.

Savannah, Georgia ($$)
Savannah is a southern dream come true. Spanish moss drips from oak trees lining cobblestone streets, and everything about this city whispers romance. If you and your new spouse are the type who love good food, good company, and a little history with your honeymoon, Savannah checks every box.
Sample itinerary:
- Morning coffee from a local cafe, followed by a walk through Forsyth Park
- A visit to the historic district and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
- Afternoon riverboat cruise or a tour of Bonaventure Cemetery
- Dinner at The Grey or Elizabeth on 37th (check for prix fixe specials!)
- Evening drinks at a rooftop bar or a cozy wine cellar
Bonus tip: Book a bed and breakfast instead of a hotel. They usually come with complimentary breakfast and that cozy, lived-in charm that feels just right for newlyweds.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California ($$$)
This charming coastal village feels like something out of a fairytale. Picture quaint cottages, crashing waves, and a town that seems like it was built just for long walks and hand-holding. If you’re the kind of couple who loves a mix of beachy vibes and artsy ambiance, Carmel delivers. While it can be on the pricier side, traveling mid-week or during shoulder season can unlock surprisingly affordable stays.
Sample itinerary:
- Grab lattes and pastries at a local bakery before strolling Ocean Avenue
- Take a scenic drive down Highway 1 to Big Sur and stop for a romantic clifftop picnic
- Spend the afternoon visiting art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and boutique shops
- Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant like La Bicyclette or Flying Fish Grill
- End the night cuddled up in a blanket on Carmel Beach and watch the sun dip gently into the Pacific
Bring it: A foldable picnic blanket and a set of travel-friendly Cadence containers to keep your skincare routine intact while looking effortlessly chic.
“We’re down to road trip.”
You like freedom and flexibility, and your best conversations often happen somewhere between mile markers.

Asheville, North Carolina ($)
Asheville is where quirky meets cozy in the best possible way. If you and your partner crave a mountain escape packed with charm, this artsy town delivers with panoramic hikes, quirky galleries, and plenty of places to toast your newlywed status. It’s the perfect mix of active and laid-back.
Sample itinerary:
- Wake up with coffee and a bagel from a downtown cafe before heading out for a hike in Pisgah National Forest or the Blue Ridge Parkway
- Enjoy a casual lunch at White Duck Taco or a rotating food truck
- Spend the afternoon exploring the River Arts District or perusing antique stores
- Visit the Biltmore Estate if you’re feeling fancy, or just stroll the estate gardens for a small admission fee
- Wrap up your evening brewery-hopping with live music and shared flights (there’s no shortage of cozy patios to cuddle on)
Bring it: The REI Flash 22 backpack for day hikes, and a cooler tote for brewery snacks and lunch stops on the go.

Finger Lakes, New York ($$)
If your ideal honeymoon involves rolling hills, vineyard views, and cozy lakeside mornings, the Finger Lakes will steal your heart. The pace is slow, the food is good, and the wine is even better. It’s the perfect region for couples who want to explore without rushing.
Sample itinerary:
- Watch the sunrise over Seneca or Cayuga Lake from your cottage or inn
- Hop between some of the region’s best wineries for tastings (try Dr. Konstantin Frank or Hermann J. Wiemer)
- Picnic near a waterfall at Taughannock Falls State Park, or hike Watkins Glen’s stunning gorge trail
- Indulge in a romantic dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant like FLX Table or Ports Cafe
- Finish the night under a blanket of stars, perhaps with a local bottle of wine in hand
Bring it: A packable rain jacket and a soft-sided cooler for safely transporting wine back home.
“We want a little adventure.”
You bond best over adrenaline rushes, breathtaking views, and the occasional “we did that together” moment.

Moab, Utah ($)
Moab is a nature lover’s playground filled with dramatic red rock formations, jaw-dropping sunsets, and the kind of landscapes that look too surreal to be real. For couples who bond over a shared sense of wonder and aren’t afraid to get a little dusty, this is a honeymoon they’ll never forget.
Sample itinerary:
- Catch the sunrise over Delicate Arch in Arches National Park (go early to beat the crowds and heat)
- Refuel with a hearty breakfast in town before hitting the trails in Canyonlands National Park or renting bikes for the Slickrock Trail
- Spend the afternoon on a guided jeep tour for panoramic views and adrenaline boosts
- Have dinner at Moab Brewery or a local taco stand with outdoor seating
- End your day camping under the stars or glamping in a luxury tent with just the right amount of rustic romance
Bring it: Breathable hiking shoes and a solar-powered charger to keep your phones ready for capturing canyon views.

Lake Tahoe ($$)
With alpine air and crystal-clear water, Lake Tahoe is a year-round stunner. But for honeymooners looking to balance adventure with cozy downtime, spring and fall are the perfect seasons to visit. Think lakeside picnics, kayaking, and cuddling by the fire.
Sample itinerary:
- Start your day paddleboarding or kayaking along the shoreline (rentals are often affordable off-season)
- Grab sandwiches for a mid-hike picnic at Eagle Lake or Cascade Falls
- Treat yourselves to a couple’s massage at a local spa (weekday rates are often lower)
- Have dinner at a cozy local restaurant like Base Camp Pizza or The Lake House
- Spend the evening in your cabin playing board games or roasting marshmallows by the fire
Bring it: A compact waterproof daypack and a set of packable puffer jackets for chilly lake evenings.
“We want a beach, but can’t splurge on Hawaii.”
You want sunshine, sand, and salty air—without the $800 plane ticket.

Gulf Shores, Alabama ($)
Gulf Shores might be one of the best-kept secrets for honeymooners craving a classic beach trip without the hefty price tag. The white sand beaches stretch for miles, and the seafood is as fresh as it gets. If your idea of romance includes toes in the sand and sunset dinners with ocean breezes, this southern gem is worth the drive.
Sample itinerary:
- Early morning beach stroll with coffee in hand (extra points for a sunrise cuddle photo!)
- Rent a tandem kayak or take a dolphin cruise through the back bays
- Refuel with a shrimp po’boy or fish tacos at a local seafood shack
- Hit the pier for a sunset walk, or check out live music at LuLu’s or The Hangout
- Book a beachfront condo or rental with a private balcony and ocean views
Bring it: A portable beach tent to create your own shaded retreat and a universal waterproof phone pouch so your beach pics don’t cost you a phone.

San Juan, Puerto Rico ($$)
San Juan brings the best of beach, culture, and history into one incredibly colorful and wallet-friendly destination. With no passport required, you can have a Caribbean escape with ease—and plenty of tropical romance.
Sample itinerary:
- Wander the vibrant streets of Old San Juan and snap photos in front of the pastel buildings
- Visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro and enjoy the breeze from the cliffs
- Grab lunch at a local café (try the mofongo with shrimp!)
- Relax at Condado Beach or take a short ride to Piñones for a quieter afternoon
- Sip cocktails at La Placita, where the nightlife heats up after dark
Bonus tip: Book a boutique hotel or guesthouse near the beach to keep things walkable and wallet-friendly.
“We want to go somewhere, but don’t want to plan a thing.”
You’re all about the ease of all-inclusive, with zero stress and maximum chill.

Cancún or Tulum, Mexico ($$–$$$)
All-inclusives get a bad rap sometimes, but for couples who want a dreamy escape without itinerary stress, they’re a total win. With turquoise waters, romantic dinners, and spa treatments just a few steps away, you can focus on each other—and not your calendar.
Sample itinerary:
- Enjoy a slow morning with room service and coffee on your private balcony
- Float between the pool and beach all day with frozen drinks in hand
- Book a couple’s massage or participate in a cooking or dance class offered at the resort
- Try one of the on-site restaurants for a date night feel without the reservations hassle
- Take an optional excursion to nearby cenotes or Mayan ruins (often included in packages)
Bring it: A packable duffel bag for souvenirs and a plug-in travel steamer to keep outfits wrinkle-free.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic ($$–$$$)
Punta Cana is all about white sand beaches, warm breezes, and those romantic resort vibes. If you’re dreaming of a luxurious, all-inclusive feel without blowing your budget, this spot delivers. Bonus: many resorts offer honeymoon perks like complimentary upgrades, spa credits, or even champagne waiting in your room.
Sample itinerary:
- Start your day with a beachside breakfast buffet and a long morning walk
- Take a catamaran ride or a snorkeling tour for some aquatic adventure
- Spend the afternoon at the pool bar or napping in a beach cabana
- Enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach or in a candlelit restaurant
- End the night with live music or dancing under the stars
Bring it: A pack of travel cubes to stay organized and matching luggage tags to give your bags that “honeymoon” touch.
Happy Honeymooning!
Your honeymoon doesn’t have to be extravagant to feel unforgettable. Whether you’re soaking in the hot springs in Asheville, sipping wine in the Finger Lakes, or watching the sun set over the Gulf, the magic is in the company, not the cost.
Now that you’ve picked your destination, check out our Step-by-Step Honeymoon Planning Guide and don’t miss these Ten Travel Essentials for Your Honeymoon. Then, pack your bags and get ready to kick off married life with a trip that’s dreamy, memorable, and totally budget-friendly.