8 Under-The-Radar Honeymoon Destinations for 2019
Enjoy stolen kisses and scenic views somewhere completely unexpected.
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Photo By: Visit Sedona
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Photo By: Pure Michigan and Alison Dopke
Photo By: Brasada Ranch
Photo By: Quebec Cite
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Photo By: El Nido Resort
Sedona, Arizona
While other lovebirds flock to the Florida Keys and Napa Valley, you and yours can slip away to Sedona, a hidden gem for adventurous honeymooners. Nestled in the desert, this city is surrounded by 1.8 million acres of national forest land and features red rock formations that seem to glow at sunset. Choose from over 300 hiking trails, explore the canyons by Jeep, take a hot air balloon ride or spend the day snuggled up with your sweetheart, wine glasses in hand, along the banks of Oak Creek. We'd also like to note that Sedona is LGBTQ-friendly, making it a dreamy destination for everyone.
The Outer Banks, North Carolina
There's a reason why so many Nicholas Sparks novels are set along the coast of North Carolina. With secluded beaches, white-painted cottages, lighthouses and marshlands, the Outer Banks are an enchanting and affordable alternative for couples seeking refuge by the water. For a truly romantic getaway, book a bed & breakfast in Manteo, a seaside town with fishing piers and Elizabethan Gardens, and then plan a day trip to Currituk county, the only place in the world where you can see the Wild Spanish Mustangs.
Grand Haven, Michigan
Michigan might not immediately come to mind when planning your honeymoon, but the Great Lakes State actually has a lot to offer those looking for some R&R (read: romance and relaxation). Situated on the state's western shore, Grand Haven is an idyllic coastal community with beaches and boardwalks for sunset strolls, a charming downtown area complete with trolley cars and a one-of-a-kind musical fountain. If you visit during the off-season, bundle up and enjoy a dune hike for two at Rosy Mound Natural Area.
Bend, Oregon
With places like Portland and the San Juan Islands becoming more popular among honeymooners, we'd like to point you towards Bend, a mountain town that's off the beaten path. Here, newlyweds can kayak down the Deschutes River, go skiing at Mt. Bachelor and then head to Jinsei Spa for a well-deserved couple's massage. Book your stay at Brasada Ranch, a luxury resort with spacious cabins, and you can enjoy this view and stargaze with your spouse, too.
Quebec City, Quebec
No, your eyes aren't deceiving you; Quebec City really does look like something out of a fairy tale. The only remaining fortified city north of Mexico, Quebec City exudes European charm, with cobblestone streets, clock towers and church spires, and a predominantly French-speaking population. Drop your luggage off at the historic Chateau Frontenac, which overlooks the St. Lawrence River, and then share a sweet treat at one of the city's many patisseries—all without flying across the Atlantic.
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Aruba, Belize, St. Lucia and Mexico are all hot honeymoon destinations this year, which means that now is the time to head to Costa Rica. Known for its white-sand beaches, tropical rainforests and volcanoes, Costa Rica offers the perfect blend of laid-back and action-packed activities for couples. For an intimate and luxurious experience, stay at Nayara Springs in La Fortuna, where you can swim and sunbathe on your private balcony or follow arenal bridges through the canopies.
Bratislava, Slovakia
If you want to experience Europe without the crowds of Paris or Florence, might we suggest Bratislava? Situated on the border of Austria and Hungary, Bratislava offers couples the unique opportunity to visit not one, but three European countries. As the capital of Slovakia, it's also home to baroque palaces and cathedrals, colorful town squares, museums and sprawling parks. While you're here, be sure to schedule a dreamy cruise for two on the Danube.
Palawan, Philippines
For a taste of paradise, head to Palawan, an archipelagic province of the Philippines. Here, couples will find crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, as well as tropical jungles with cliffs for diving. Together you'll hike through the forests, explore mangroves or simply spend the day lounging in your cottage on the water with El Nido Resorts.