Top Honeymoon Spots for Spring: Exuma Bahamas and Beyond
Exuma, Bahamas
Beach bums should consider Exuma, a collection of 365 individual islands that are all part of the Bahamas. Great Exuma and Little Exuma are characterized by their laid-back allure, while The Exuma Cays are a favorite of jetsetters and A-listers. No matter where you are in this idyllic archipelago, sapphire waters and untouched coastlines are aplenty. Don’t miss an excursion to swim with pigs or a feed the iguanas! When it comes to lodging, you can do no better than Lumina Point or Sandals Emerald Bay.
Did you know that the Bahamas also boasts one of the world’s most beautiful pink sand beaches?
Osaka, Japan
Spring in Osaka is synonymous with sakura, aka cherry blossoms, and hanami, also known as the “cherry blossom festival,” is a time-honored Japanese tradition. The annual celebration draws people from near and far who come to appreciate the beauty of these pink blooms. Indulge in seasonal sake, brewed tea, and wagashi (sweets). Plan a picnic at Nishinomaru Japanese Garden in Osaka Castle Park.
Santorini, Greece
Few places are more romantic than Santorini with its volcanic cliffs, white-washed houses, blue-domed churches, and spectacular sunsets. Spring is a great time to visit this legendary Greek isle as you can expect sunny days, a lack of crowds, cheaper airfare, wildflower-swathed hillsides, and lower room rates at upmarket properties like Grace Santorini. Sure, it may be a bit chilly to take a dip in the sea, but a heated infinity pool with picture-perfect panoramas more than makes up for it.
Jamaica
Recreation and relaxation—Jamaica has the best of both. Trek through the rainforest, explore the famous cascades of Dunn’s River Falls, or kick back with a Red Stripe or rum punch on the beach. Savor jerk chicken, curry goat, ackee, and saltfish (cod) at local eateries. To avoid spring breakers, book at upscale, couples-oriented resorts such as Half Moon or Sunset at the Palms.
Like soaking up the sun? Here are 11 amazing beaches to add to your bucket list ASAP.
Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley is among the most romantic honeymoon spots in America, and spring is prime time to visit this vino-centric locale. Temps are in the mid-60s, plus it’s easier to score reservations at top restaurants, wineries, and hotels. Even the most discerning travelers will be delighted by the refined ambiance and five-star service at Las Alcobas Napa Valley. Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa is a roadside motel turned retro-chic retreat with VW camper-inspired rooms and throwback amenities.
Seychelles
Expect sunny skies, low rainfall, and calm waters in the Seychelles. If seclusion and sophistication are what you’re after, live out your castaway fantasy at the new Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island. It offers privacy and freedom to roam the unspoiled stretches of white sand. Not surprisingly, this luxe respite made our list of the most anticipated lodging debuts for 2018.
Paris
Is there anything more romantic than spring in Paris? Walk along the River Seine. Spend a leisurely afternoon in the flower-filled parks. Watch the wooden boats sail around the pond at Jardin du Luxembourg. Explore the magnificent gardens of Versailles. Share a bottle of vino at sidewalk cafes along the Champs-Élysées. Treat yourself (and your better half) to a few nights at Hôtel Barrière Le Fouquet’s or Hotel Plaza Athénée.
Be sure to commit these essential French phrases to memory before you go.
Bodrum, Turkey
Bodrum is a wonderful honeymoon choice for spring. If you fancy somewhere serene and scenic, head to Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay, a cliffside hideaway overlooking the Aegean Sea with complimentary breakfast, yoga, and an infinity pool. Bonus: It’s a short drive to storied attractions such as Bodrum Castle and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.
Ambergris Caye, Belize
World-class diving, crystalline waters, sandy beaches, mangrove swamps, eco-chic accommodations, and a laid-back attitude make Ambergris Caye the crown jewel of Belize tourism. Off the eastern shore of this idyllic island (a 10-minute boat ride from the town of San Pedro) is its star attraction, the Belize Barrier Reef, teeming with an abundance of marine life and iconic dive sites including the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the 406-foot deep Blue Hole. Find out more about the most popular destinations in Central America.
Amsterdam
Spring is the loveliest time of the year to visit Amsterdam. Leafy trees line the picturesque canals, tulips erupt into colorful bloom, the sun illuminates the outdoor cafés buzz, and cycle paths fill with people. Adding to the allure are internationally acclaimed museums and Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market.
Just beware of these common travel scams when visiting Europe.
Maui, Hawaii
Spring is perfect for a Hawaiian-style honeymoon, when, after the holiday tourism boom, things return to “normal.” The weather is beautiful, as it is year-round. There are a handful of cultural events such as Maui AgFest and Taro Festival. Wondering where to stay? The award-winning Hotel Wailea is an adults-only haven with spectacular views, holistic activities, and charming cottages.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
For an ultra-relaxing seaside escape, look no further than Bora Bora. April is the best month to visit (March and May aren’t far behind). The tropical climate is pleasant with lots of sunshine, gentle sea breezes, and warm waters. Luxury lovers will adore at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui and St Regis Resort, Bora Bora.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is one of the most popular travel locales in Eastern Europe—and for good reason. The City of a Hundred Spires may be known for its Christmas stalls, but its farmers’ markets along the river and in Old Town are equally atmospheric with music, food, and crafts. Score tickets to a ballet or opera performance at the Prague National Theatre. For an unforgettable experience, book a hot air balloon ride over Prague.
Douro Valley, Portugal
Douro Valley is Portugal’s premier wine-producing region. Come spring, honeymooners can enjoy comfortable temps, fabulous vino, and colorful landscape. The rolling hills emerge from their winter slumber with verdant vines and grapes. There’s also excellent restaurants, scenic cycling routes, and honeymoon-worthy hotels.
Fiji
Fiji is a fantasy getaway. Sure, the flight may take 20 hours to get there, but white sand beaches, sparkling turquoise seas, pampering spas, and five-star properties with floating bures like Likuliku Lagoon make it well worth it. Plus, it’s shoulder season, which means better prices!
