Franklin Dean
Planning a wedding can be expensive, and with the average cost of a honeymoon ranging from $5,000 to $5,700, newlyweds may be looking for more affordable options for their first vacation as a married couple. Fortunately, there are plenty of budget-friendly destinations around the world that won't break the bank, from the beaches of the Caribbean to the mountains of Canada. Here are some of the cheapest honeymoon destinations to consider when planning your dream romantic getaway.
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What You'll Learn
All-inclusive resorts in Jamaica
When planning a honeymoon, it's important to keep it budget-friendly by travelling off-peak, setting priorities, booking early, and considering all-inclusive resorts. A study by The Knot found that couples spent an average of $5,700 on their honeymoons in 2023, while Honeyfund's 2024 survey indicated that the most common honeymoon budget is around $5,000.
Jamaica is a popular honeymoon destination, with its natural wonders, rolling mountains, and endless white-sand beaches. Here are some all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica to consider:
Sandals Resorts
Sandals Jamaica features six all-inclusive resorts located across the island, from Negril’s Seven-Mile Beach to Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. Sandals Resorts offer luxurious honeymoon suites, access to pristine beaches, exclusive tours, and a world of gourmet cuisine. Guests at one Sandals Resort in Jamaica get access to all six resorts, including their beaches, swimming pools, restaurants, and bars. Sandals Negril is located on the beautiful Seven Mile Beach and offers a more laid-back atmosphere. For a livelier vibe, Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals Ochi are known for their vibrant atmospheres.
Couples Resorts
Couples Resorts offer all-inclusive honeymoon experiences in Jamaica, including the popular Couples Sans Souci in Ocho Rios. The resort features excursions to Dunn's Falls, snorkelling, and scuba diving. Couples Negril is another option, known for its low-key atmosphere.
Grand Decameron Montego Beach
The Grand Decameron Montego Beach resort is a highly-rated all-inclusive option in Jamaica, offering private balconies for guests.
Jewel Paradise Cove
Jewel Paradise Cove is an oceanfront all-inclusive resort in Jamaica that offers a relaxed vibe, impeccable service, comfortable rooms, and varied food options.
In addition to these options, there are several other all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica that cater to different preferences and budgets. It's worth exploring the various choices to find the one that best suits your needs and ensures a memorable honeymoon experience.
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Beachside resorts in Mexico's Puerto Vallarta
When it comes to choosing a honeymoon destination, couples often look for a balance of luxury and affordability. While the average honeymoon budget is around $5,000, it is recommended to budget at least $7,000 per person for a seven-night stay, and $10,000 per person for high-end accommodations or travel during the high season. To keep costs down, consider travelling during the shoulder season, when prices tend to be more budget-friendly.
For a beachside resort in Mexico's Puerto Vallarta, consider the award-winning Velas Vallarta. This all-inclusive resort is located on the emerald waters of Banderas Bay, just 20 minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta and a 10-minute drive from the international airport. Spanning ten lush acres along the beachfront, Velas Vallarta offers stunning ocean views, gourmet cuisine, and a rejuvenating spa. The resort features spacious suites, three pools, and a daily entertainment program, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.
Another option is Casa Velas, an adults-only boutique hotel located in Puerto Vallarta. Casa Velas is surrounded by a golf course and tropical gardens, offering an infinity pool, a private beach club, and a gourmet restaurant. With its tranquil atmosphere and luxurious amenities, Casa Velas provides a serene escape for couples seeking privacy and relaxation.
Puerto Vallarta itself is known for its shopping, dining, and culture. For those seeking a mix of nightlife and relaxation, the charming fishing village of Sayulita is just 30 minutes away. Sayulita offers picturesque beaches, charming restaurants, and a laid-back atmosphere where tourists and locals mingle. Whether you choose to stay in Puerto Vallarta or explore the nearby towns, you can create a memorable and budget-friendly honeymoon experience in this vibrant region of Mexico.
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The Algarve in Portugal
While it may not be as well-known as France or Italy as a honeymoon destination, the Algarve in Portugal is an excellent option for a reasonably priced trip to Europe. With your dollar stretching further than in other European honeymoon hotspots, Portugal is a perfect destination for honeymooners who love history, food, wine, and beautiful scenery.
Portugal is steeped in culture and history, with medieval buildings, palaces, and beautiful cities to explore. It is also known for its port wine, and wine tourism has become a sought-after activity. Many wineries have opened their doors to curious wine lovers, offering grape harvest, wine-tasting, and wine cellar tours.
The Algarve region has a lot to offer, with over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, hundreds of miles of spectacular sandy coastline, and a temperate climate. The beaches in the Algarve are incredibly diverse, with no two beaches being alike. You can find tranquil white sandy beaches, dramatic coastlines with some of the best surfing spots, or black sands with specks of emerald green.
The fishing town of Tavira, in the southern Algarve region, combines Moorish architecture and a golden beach. Here, a labyrinth of cobbled streets winds past houses tiled in the traditional Portuguese style. The town of Albufeira, situated in a cliffside location, is famous for its 20 beaches and vibrant nightlife. It was once a quaint fishing village influenced by the Moors in the 8th century.
For those seeking a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere, the town of Carvoeiro, also a former fishing village, is flanked by sandstone sea cliffs. Its horseshoe-shaped bay is hailed as one of the Algarve's best beaches, with golden sand and whitewashed Mediterranean houses.
The Vilamoura area offers a diverse range of experiences, from quiet pine forest walks and Atlantic beaches to a casino, nightclubs, and golf courses. The area also boasts a preserved Roman site and the Museum of Cerro da Vila, showcasing the region's rich history.
With its stunning beaches, varied landscapes, leisure activities, history, and culture, the Algarve in Portugal is an ideal destination for a memorable and affordable honeymoon.
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The Cook Islands
If you're looking for a cheap honeymoon destination, you might consider Vietnam, which offers a less expensive alternative to Thailand's more touristy spots. Or, if you don't want to travel too far, Bermuda is just over a two-hour flight from NYC and offers pink-sand beaches and turquoise waters.
However, if you're looking for something a little more exotic, you might consider the Cook Islands, an island nation of 15 volcanic islands and coral atolls in the South Pacific Ocean. Named after the famed navigator Captain James Cook, the Cook Islands offer unspoiled nature, five-star boutique hotels, and a romantic getaway.
The islands offer a range of activities, from swimming and snorkelling in the lagoons to relaxing on the white-sand beaches. You can also explore the volcanic landscapes, hidden waterfalls, and energetic nightlife. The main island, Rarotonga, is a great place to start, with its lovely beaches and palm trees. Another popular island is Aitutaki, which offers incredible lagoons and an uninhabited, alabaster beach lined with swaying palm trees.
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Vietnam
One of the most popular honeymoon spots in Vietnam is Da Lat, nestled in the South Central Highlands. The region is known for its romantic atmosphere, with French architecture and natural wonders such as the Valley of Love, Langbiang Mountain, pine forests, and the Lake of Sorrow. Hanoi, the capital, is another great option, offering scenic lakes, pagodas, and the Old Quarter night market. The city also has a charming French Quarter, with romantic streets and authentic dishes. For beach lovers, Halong Bay is a must-visit, with its clear waters, limestone cliffs, and secluded beaches. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering boat cruises and kayaking opportunities.
If you're looking for a more active honeymoon, Vietnam has plenty of hiking options. Explore the Muong Hoa Valley or climb Fansipan Mountain in Sapa. For a blend of romance and culinary delights, head to Hoi An, where you can enjoy a romantic street food tour guided by a local expert. Phu Quoc Island is another popular choice, known for its beautiful beaches, national parks, and delicious seafood.
The best time to visit Vietnam for a honeymoon varies by destination. Hanoi is pleasant during autumn (September to November) and spring (March to April), while Halong Bay is ideal for cruising and swimming from October to April. The central coast, including Vinh Hy Bay, is best from February to May, with moderate temperatures and minimal rain. Da Lat is most comfortable from December to March, and the blooming flowers add to the romance. Hoi An and Danang are ideal from April to August, with long hours of sunshine and minimal rain, making them perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many cheap honeymoon destinations, both in the US and abroad. Here are some options:
- Jamaica: This Caribbean island offers all-inclusive resorts, white sand beaches, and a vibrant nightlife.
- Belize: With idyllic beaches and tropical forests, Belize has resorts with all-inclusive packages, such as Chaa Creek and Belizean Dreams.
- The Algarve, Portugal: This southern region of Portugal is known for its historic and rugged scenery, as well as its affordable beach resorts, such as Hotel Algarve Casino.
- Cook Islands: This 15-island archipelago in the South Pacific offers unspoiled scenery, white sand beaches, and turquoise lagoons, all at a lower cost than other nearby islands.
- Banff, Canada: For those who prefer mountains to beaches, Banff offers skiing, hiking, and fine dining, with a range of accommodation options depending on your budget.
Here are some affordable honeymoon destinations within the US:
- Key Largo, Florida: The largest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo offers white-sand beaches, snorkelling, and other water-focused activities.
- Gatlinburg, Tennessee: This mountain town is the gateway to the Great Smokies National Park, offering outdoor activities and scenic views.
Here are a few tips to find affordable honeymoon destinations:
- Consider travelling to a destination during its shoulder season when crowds are smaller and prices tend to be lower.
- Look for all-inclusive resorts or packages, which can include meals, drinks, and activities, helping you control your budget.
- Use a travel agent or a honeymoon specialist, who can help you find little-known destinations and save money.
- Book early and consider travelling during off-peak seasons to get better deals.
Asia has several affordable honeymoon destinations:
- Vietnam: Vietnam offers a less expensive alternative to Thailand. For hiking, try Muong Hoa Valley or Fansipan Mountain in Sapa. For culture and food, visit Hanoi. For beaches and relaxation, head to Côn Đảo, an archipelago off the coast.
- Da La, Vietnam: Nestled in the South Central Highlands, Da La offers French architecture, the scenic Valley of Love, and Langbiang Mountain.
Europe has a few budget-friendly options for honeymoons:
- Porto, Portugal: With hotel rates averaging $80 per night, Porto offers wine, music, and a scenic riverfront.
- Bermuda: With flights from NYC of just over two hours, Bermuda offers pink-sand beaches and turquoise waters. While accommodations can be pricey, there are many free or affordable activities, such as walking the Royal Naval Dockyard and snorkelling.
