Love islands

If there were ever a year to plan an escape to paradise, this would be it. A global pandemic may have postponed travel plans for millions of people, but there’s finally a light at the end of the tunnel; and these properties, located in the world’s most scenic regions, will be ready to welcome those who wish to celebrate. For couples who love sand, sunshine, and turquoise waters, these island destinations are the ultimate pick for any honeymoon, anniversary trip, or romantic getaway.

With its remote location and unparalleled natural beauty, Bora Bora is undoubtedly one of the top honeymoon destinations among discerning travelers. Known as “the Pearl of the Pacific,” Bora Bora is home to several luxury resorts, with each offering a different experience. The St. Regis Bora Bora boasts the largest overwater villas in the South Pacific, complete with glass panels and 24-hour butler service – a St. Regis signature. Date nights may include anything from a romantic dinner for two at Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges, or a secluded picnic reserved on a private beach.

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is another fantastic option for honeymooners who want to indulge in a bit of everything. With Mount Otemanu looming overhead, couples can sip champagne and watch the sun set from a private plunge pool; relax at the resort’s spa, which is located at the edge of a lagoon and specializes in ancient Polynesian treatments; or dive into Bora Bora’s azure waters for a colorful snorkel safari.

Not far from Bora Bora lies the island paradise of Moorea – a relaxed destination, easily accessible from the French Polynesian capital of Pape’ete on Tahiti. Aptly nicknamed “the Magical Island,” Moorea’s mountainous landscape is as stunning as its pristine beaches. Visitors may stay at the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa for a trip that includes everything from 4x4 tours, to snorkeling with stingrays, to dining at Moorea’s only over-water restaurant. The property’s “eco-friendly” status makes it even better, demonstrating how luxury need not compromise sustainability.

Without a doubt, Hawaii is going to be a hotspot as soon as travel resumes. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea has been a longtime favorite among honeymooners, allowing them to experience Hawaii nei surrounded by tranquility and the natural mystique of the island. If couples are lucky, they may catch a glimpse of a humpback whale from the privacy of their oceanfront suite.  

The South Pacific will always be a go-to honeymoon destination, but there’s a reason why celebrities and socialites continually flock to the Maldives. This small archipelago in the Indian Ocean has some of the most surreal waters, beaches, and bungalows that travelers will ever see. Here, top luxury resorts aren’t lined up along a beach – they’re situated on their own private island. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is ideal for both honeymoons and family vacations, while Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru is located on a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve dedicated to innovation and conservation. Regardless of where a couple checks in for a Maldives honeymoon, there’s one “must” for an epic experience: diving or snorkeling with the magnificent manta rays.

A mere three hours away by plane, Seychelles is another Indian Ocean island destination that caters to romance and seclusion. The villas at Four Seasons Resort Seychelles are simply exquisite; Le Syel Spa is pure bliss; and the various dining options include locally sourced ingredients to ensure the highest quality of fruit, vegetables, and seafood.

Up north, the Greek isles are the epitome of Mediterranean glamour. With Greece and Italy being so popular for destination weddings, a luxury honeymoon in Mykonos is the perfect follow-up. Couples may choose to sail a yacht around the isles or do some island hopping; but spending some time relaxing at the Myconian Imperial should absolutely be on the itinerary. This stylish hotel is perched above a long beach, offering sweeping views of the sea and many hidden lookout points to explore. A world-class spa and gourmet dining with provisions from local farmers and fishermen make the experience even more heavenly.

It may not be an island, but there’s no denying Mexico’s allure when it comes to honeymooning along the coast. In Cabo, Las Ventanas al Paraiso is a magnificent destination for weddings, elopements, and honeymoons alike, while Viceroy Los Cabos is an architecture lover’s dream, displaying a concept created by Miguel Angel Aragonés. On Mexico’s Caribbean side, NIZUC Resort & Spa is an award-winning resort and spa in Cancun that offers everything from romantic spa treatments for two, to family-friendly activities on the water. It’s a wonderful blend of relaxed luxury and a modern take on Mayan-inspired style.

For the quintessential Caribbean honeymoon, Sandals Royal Caribbean is a beloved and iconic luxury resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica. The all-inclusive accommodations may come in the form of a private, over-water villa with a patio, soaking tub, floating water hammocks, glass floors, infinity pool, and butler service, allowing couples to fully relax and take in the splendor of their surroundings.

Some honeymooners may prefer a “home away from home” option that still offers plush accommodations and bespoke service. In this case, it doesn’t get any better than the ultra-luxurious Amanyara resort in Turks & Caicos. Nestled on an 18,000-acre nature reserve, Amanyara’s villas are second to none when it comes to elegance, privacy, and quietude. Everything can be personalized, whether couples want to wake up to breakfast prepared by a personal chef within the comfort of their own villa or enjoy a starlit dinner in a secluded cove on the beach. Each moment of the Amanyara experience is designed with wellness in mind, making it the best Turks & Caicos destination for an unforgettable and restorative honeymoon.