As you plan your special day, you’re likely also dreaming about your honeymoon. But with all the expenses that come with a wedding, you might be looking for ways to save money on your post-nuptial getaway. Don’t worry — a romantic and memorable honeymoon doesn’t have to break the bank.
Whether you’re considering sailing from Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean or exploring other options, there are plenty of budget-friendly choices available. Here are five honeymoon destinations that offer plenty of romance without emptying your wallet.
1. Puerto Rico: Tropical Paradise Without the Passport
Puerto Rico is a fantastic option for couples who want to experience a tropical paradise without the hefty price tag of some other Caribbean destinations. As a U.S. territory, you won’t need a passport to visit, which saves you money on travel documents.
What to do: Puerto Rico offers a diverse range of activities for honeymooners. Explore the colorful streets and historic sites of Old San Juan, where you can wander through ancient fortresses and charming colonial architecture. Or you can relax on beautiful beaches like Luquillo and Flamenco, known for their pristine sands and crystal-clear waters.
For nature lovers, a hike through El Yunque National Forest —the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest system— is a must-do experience. End your days with a magical bioluminescent bay tour, where you can witness the ethereal glow of microscopic organisms in the water.
Money-saving tips: To make the most of your budget in Puerto Rico, consider visiting during the off-season (mid-April to mid-December) for lower prices on accommodation. Stay in an Airbnb or guesthouse instead of a resort to save on lodging costs, and use public transportation or rent a car to explore the island.
2. Tulum, Mexico: Beach, Culture, and Adventure
Tulum offers a perfect blend of beach, culture, and adventure at a fraction of the cost of more popular Mexican destinations like Cancun or Cabo San Lucas.
What to do: Your Tulum honeymoon can be filled with so many amazing experiences, such as visiting the stunning Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea, or swimming and snorkeling in cenotes filled with crystal-clear freshwater.
During the day, you’ll spend your days relaxing on pristine beaches with powdery white sand and turquoise waters. And in the evenings, explore the hip town center with its boutique shops and restaurants, offering a perfect blend of local culture and modern amenities.
Money-saving tips: To keep your Tulum honeymoon budget-friendly, travel during the shoulder season (April-May or November-early December) when prices are lower and crowds are thinner. Consider staying in town rather than on the beach for cheaper accommodations and eating at local taquerias and markets instead of touristy restaurants to save money and experience authentic Mexican cuisine. For transportation, take colectivos (shared vans) which offer cheap and efficient ways to get around the area.
3. Bali, Indonesia: Affordable Luxury in Paradise
Bali might seem like a far-flung luxury destination, but it can actually be quite affordable, especially if you avoid the most touristy areas.
What to do: Bali offers a rich variety of experiences for honeymooners. Visit beautiful temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu, where you can witness stunning architecture and breathtaking ocean views, and explore the lush rice terraces of Tegalalang, offering picturesque landscapes that seem straight out of a postcard.
Don’t miss out on immersive cultural experiences such as taking a cooking class to learn about Balinese cuisine. And of course, no trip to Bali is complete without relaxing on its beautiful beaches or trying your hand at surfing.
Money-saving tips: To make your Bali honeymoon more affordable, consider staying in areas like Ubud or Canggu instead of more expensive regions like Seminyak. Eat at local warungs (small family-owned restaurants) for delicious, cheap meals that will give you a taste of authentic Balinese flavors. If you’re comfortable, rent a scooter to get around — it’s much cheaper than hiring drivers or taking taxis.
4. Greece: Island Hopping on a Budget
While Santorini and Mykonos get all the attention, lesser-known Greek islands like Naxos and Paros offer similar beauty at a fraction of the cost.
What to do: You can fill your Greek island honeymoon with the most romantic experiences, from exploring charming villages with white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches to relaxing on beautiful beaches with balmy waters and soft sand.
Visit ancient ruins and museums to dive into the rich history of these islands. And of course, enjoy delicious Greek cuisine and local wines, savoring long, leisurely meals as you watch the sun set over the Aegean Sea.
Money-saving tips: To keep your Greek honeymoon budget-friendly, stay in family-run guesthouses or apartments instead of hotels and enjoy a more authentic and affordable experience. Use the local ferry system to island-hop, which is much cheaper than flying between islands, and enjoy picnics with local produce and products instead of eating out for every meal. Not only will this save money, but it’s also a romantic way to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
5. Costa Rica: Nature and Adventure on a Budget
Costa Rica offers an incredible mix of beaches, rainforests, and wildlife, making it perfect for nature-loving couples on a budget.
What to do: Costa Rica is an adventure-lovers paradise where you can hike through national parks like Manuel Antonio and spot diverse wildlife and stunning natural scenery. The country’s beautiful Pacific or Caribbean beaches each offer a unique charm and wildlife enthusiasts will love the opportunity to spot animals like monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds in their natural habitats.
Money-saving tips: To make your Costa Rica honeymoon even more affordable, consider visiting during the green season (May-November). While you might encounter some rain, prices are lower and crowds are fewer.
Stay in eco-lodges or small hotels instead of large resorts for a more authentic and budget-friendly experience. Use public buses for longer journeys, which are much cheaper than renting a car or taking shuttles and eat at sodas (small, family-run restaurants) for cheap, delicious local food.
Pack Smart
No matter which destination you choose, packing for your vacation is an important part of the planning process. Make sure to research the climate and activities at your chosen destination so you can pack appropriately. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications. You’ll also want to pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits, save space in your luggage, and potentially avoid extra baggage fees.
The Honeymoon of Your Dreams
A budget-friendly honeymoon doesn’t have to mean sacrificing romance or adventure. With these tips, you can have the honeymoon of your dreams without starting your married life in debt. Whether you’re relaxing on a beach in Bali, exploring ancient ruins in Greece, or hiking through a Costa Rican rainforest, the memories you make will last a lifetime. So choose a destination that speaks to you as a couple, plan wisely, and get ready for an unforgettable start to your married life.
Hey there, I’m Jennifer M. Lowes, but my friends call me Jenn. Born and raised in sunny California. By day, I’m a freelance makeup artist transforming everyday people into their best selves. By night, I’m here on this blog, sharing my favorite nail designs, makeup tips, hair styling techniques, and much more.