Planning the Perfect Honeymoon: A Guide to Romantic Island Retreats

So, you’ve said your vows, tossed the bouquet and lived happily ever after with the love of your life. Now, all that’s left to do is explore the world at every turn with your life partner, starting with your honeymoon. And for that, there’s nothing better than going on an island getaway at a beach destination.

Everybody knows that the best romantic trips happen when you escape from the city and relax in a sunny, tropical, vibrant beach town. The marine adventures and rich culture of these destinations are just the cherry on top. Plus, it’s super romantic—think pink and purple sunsets and dinners by the beach. It’s everything a newly married couple would want!

But where exactly should you go for your beach destination honeymoon? Here are five romantic islands you should consider for your first trip together.

For Luxury-Loving Couples: Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Got a penchant for luxury and want to feel like absolute royalty during your honeymoon? Have your honeymoon in Bora Bora, the most lavish destination in French Polynesia and home to some of the most fabulous five-star resorts in the region. From the St. Regis to the Westin, the island has tons of luxury accommodations ready to give you and your love the VIP treatment you deserve.

Things to do:

• Book a stay in the island's iconic overwater bungalows and enjoy serene mornings and evenings right on Bora Bora’s turquoise waters

• Unwind by getting Polynesian treatments and massages at a luxury spa

• Go on a private catamaran cruise to explore the azure waters of French Polynesia

Best time to go:

May to October is considered the high season of Bora Bora, where the skies are at their sunniest, but the crowds are at their busiest, too. 

For Adventure-Seekers: Moorea, French Polynesia

While Bora Bora is known for its glamour, Moorea—another island in the stunning French Polynesia—is known for its more laid-back and less polished vibe. It’s abundant in beautiful waterfalls to swim in, rugged terrain to hike and spots where you can swim with marine wildlife, like stingrays and colourful fish. If you’re looking for the best beach destination for adventure trips for couples, this is the island for you.

Things to do:

• Hike to the popular Belvedere Lookout, where you can see a majestic view of Mont Rotui and the surrounding bays

• Go on an ATV tour to explore Moorea’s lush greenery while keeping your adrenaline pumping

• Snorkel or scuba dive in the lagoons, which are bursting with marine life

• If you catch them during your visit, swim with the humpback whales that grace the island’s waters once a year

Best time to go:

It’s best to plan trips to Moorea, French Polynesia, from May to October, when the climate is warm and sunny. If you’re trying to catch the humpback whales, go a little later, from July to November.

For Stunning Sunsets: Santorini, Greece

Dreaming of a honeymoon on an island that looks like an idyllic painting come to life? If so, the whitewashed buildings, stunning views of the caldera and sunsets that paint the sky pink, orange and purple that you’ll see in Santorini will give you your fill. The island’s cliffside towns also have so much to offer, from small, traditional Greek tavernas to wineries to local boutiques with handmade products. If you want to romanticise your honeymoon to the fullest, this is where you’ll want to be.

Things to do:

• Visit the most popular tourist attractions, like the Virgin Mary Catholic Church and the Red Beach

• Admire the sunset from Oia, a small town near the caldera

• Drink as much wine as your heart desires at a local winery, preferably one with a view of the Aegean Sea!

• Relax in Santorini’s volcanic black-sand beaches.

• Learn about the island’s rich history by visiting well-preserved attractions like the Akrotiri archaeological site and Ancient Thera

Best time to go:

To ensure a warm and sunny visit to Santorini, plan your trip between May and October. This time of the year is also when the most beautiful sunsets happen!

For the Practical Pair on a Budget: Phuket, Thailand

If you’re looking for honeymoon destinations on a budget, you won’t be disappointed with Phuket. This island, situated in southern Thailand, is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches and luxurious resorts, all without the hefty price tag. 

When you’re not lounging at the beach, there’s so much to do that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, from eating delicious, flavourful street food to visiting temples for free. It’s perfect for couples who want to experience a romantic island getaway somewhere new without breaking the bank.

Things to do:

• The best Thailand honeymoon itinerary always includes island-hopping, so you can see more of what the south has to offer

• Relax on Patong Beach during the day, then come back for the exciting nightlife in the evening

• Visit the beautiful Wat Chalong Temple, the largest in Phuket

• Eat authentic Thai street food, like pad Thai and tom yum goong 

Best time to go:

From November to February is the best time to visit Phuket, as the weather is neither scorching hot nor rainy. If you head there from March to May, it can be a tad bit too hot, so pack light clothing only. Try not to go in September and October—the wettest months on the island.

Explore the World’s Most Romantic Islands Today!

Your honeymoon destination sets the tone for your first chapter as a married couple. So, when picking out where you want to go on holiday with your love, choose a beach destination that fits what you’re looking to do together. If you’re looking for adventure, head to Moorea. Alternatively, if you’re more interested in saving money and learning about a foreign culture, explore the stunning island of Phuket. You can’t go wrong with any of the options above. As long as you’re with your life partner, you’re set to have the best romantic trip ever.

Ready to plan the perfect, most unforgettable honeymoon? Make it more convenient by booking one of Entire Travel Group’s holiday packages! From French Polynesia to Asia to Europe, we’ve got romantic itineraries that will let you explore and enjoy the most stunning islands in the world.