The Most Splurge-Worthy Honeymoon Destinations

By Melissa Biggs Bradley
Chris Saur
If you're going to spend big on your honeymoon, make sure your spot is worth it. These escapes will leave nothing to be desired.
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Chris Saur

Few journeys come with greater expectations than a honeymoon. It marks the official start of married life and carries with it signs of what your future will hold. There's no better way to start a lifetime together than with an unforgettable journey where you and your new spouse create tons of new memories. This once-in-a-lifetime vacation should fulfill your most fabulous travel dreams.

We partnered with Indagare, a luxury travel company, to dream up the most splurge-worthy honeymoon destinations, from opulent palaces in India to overwater bungalows in French Polynesia and stylish safari camps in South Africa. Here you'll find a full list, broken down by region, of the places that are worth visiting.

Since we know traveling can be expensive and because no one wants to overspend (or accidentally choose a lackluster location), this list ensures that wherever you choose will be completely worth the price tag. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled destination or a beachy, blissful escape, there's a country or region in this roundup that's sure to deliver. We all want to be informed before we take a dip into our wallets—we're here to guarantee that you're making an educated decision. 

Bonus: Indagare is offering Martha Stewart Wedding readers complimentary memberships. To learn more and redeem, click here

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South Africa and Seychelles

Courtesy of North Island

South Africa's incredible landscape offers a dramatic scope of experiences that will both enchant and pamper honeymooners. Commence the journey in the dynamic and design-focused capital of Cape Town, then temper the action of the city in the bucolic Winelands. Afterwards, head into the bush on a safari, where honeymooners can spend days on game drives spotting wildlife up close and evenings at sumptuous lodges where suites boast canopied beds, infinity-edge plunge pools and marble bathrooms. Cap off the fabulous adventure at the Seychelles' North Island, a private island jewel in the Indian Ocean.

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The Silo

Courtesy of The Silo

This stylish boutique hotel housed inside a transformed grain silo exhibits eclectic chic interiors and offers breathtaking views of Table Mountain, the V&A Harbor, and the ocean.

The Silo, from $1,361 per night, indagare.com

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La Residence

Courtesy of La Residence

Originally designed as a grand private home, La Residence feels like an exquisitely personal retreat in the winelands with opulent rooms and memorable gastronomy.

La Residence, from $657 per night, indagare.com

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Royal Malewane

This uber-stylish bush camp resembles a luxurious six-star hotel rather than a safari lodge, with Oriental-meets-Colonial design and impeccable service.

Royal Malewane, from $1,784 per person per night, indagare.com

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North Island

Courtesy of North Island

In the unspoiled Seychelles archipelago, the private isle retreat of North Island carefully blends into the landscape while providing the ultimate in barefoot-chic luxury.

North Island, from $6,873 per night, indagare.com

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French Polynesia

Tim McKenna
Honeymoon Diary: Bora Bora and Moorea

After the festivity of a wedding, there's no greater luxury than escaping to the privacy of a beachfront villa or bungalow with five-star service. And for this, French Polynesia is perfect: A seductive archipelago with aquamarine waters, lush tropical landscapes, and extravagant accommodations. Marlon Brando's private Polynesian atoll has been transformed into an eco-resort where every element, from the magnificent villas to the beautiful landscape and warm local staff, is top-notch. Another equally fabulous option can be found in Bora Bora, where you'll stay in a luxurious over-water bungalow.

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The Brando

Tim McKenna

You'll certainly want to visit Marlon Brando's once private island paradise, which was transformed into an luxury retreat. Stay in a beachfront villa and enjoy the beautiful landscape and warm local staff.

The Brando, from $3,760 per night, indagare.com

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Four Seasons Bora Bora

Courtesy of Four Seasons

The Four Seasons Bora Bora boasts luxurious over-water bungalows sprinkled throughout a serene lagoon, all with views of the atoll's dramatic volcano.

 Four Seasons Bora Bora, from $1,282 a night, indagare.com

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India and the Maldives

Courtesy of Aman
10 Common Indian Wedding Traditions

India's palatial properties and pampering hospitality make it a wonderful destination for honeymooners looking for true indulgence. Kick off an extraordinary journey with a stay in the gorgeous city of Jaipur, then retreat to Udaipur, a peaceful and picturesque lake town. Conclude your time in India at one of the world's most lavish monuments dedicated to love, the Taj Mahal. For the grand finale, jet to the Maldives, arguably the nation's most stylish and cossetting abode, and stay in a sleek beachfront villa or over-water bungalow.

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Amanbagh

Courtesy of Aman

This palatial boutique resort, spread across 24 acres, feels like an oasis in the Rajasthani desert, with proximity to Jaipur's historic forts and archaeological sites.

Amanbagh, from $850 per night, indagare.com

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Oberoi Udaivilas

Courtesy of Oberoi

Overlooking Lake Pichola, the Udaivilas bring the splendor and romance of India to life with domed pavilions, verdant gardens, rippling fountains and lavish marble interiors.

Oberoi Udaivilas, from $1,248 per night, indagare.com

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Oberoi Amarvilas Agra

Courtesy of Oberoi

This grand yet romantic Mughal-style hotel offers incredible views of the Taj Mahal and evokes a romantic atmosphere with lush gardens, reflection pools, and opulent pavilions.

Oberoi Amarvilas Agra, from $1,404 per night, indagare.com

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Cheval Blanc Randheli

Courtesy of Cheval Blanc Randheli

Cheval Blanc Randheli is one of the Maldives' most pampering resorts, with contemporary villas and overwater bungalows that make the most of the stunning scenery with enormous glass doors and cathedral ceilings.

Cheval Blanc Randheli, from $3,300 per night, indagare.com

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New Zealand and Fiji

Courtesy of Annandale
The 17 Most Romantic Hotels in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific

New Zealand's cinematic topography, ranging from alpine mountains to windswept cliffs, never ceases to amaze. That's what makes it a particularly great honeymoon destination for active and adventurous couples. Experience these jaw-dropping landscapes from sumptuous, modern retreats or secluded properties. The choice is entirely your own. Crown your daring adventure with a stay at a tropical hideaway in Fiji, where you can enjoy some serious R&R.

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Kauri Cliffs

Courtesy of Kauri Cliffs

Picturesque Kauri Cliffs is an extraordinary retreat in the northern Bay of Islands with an acclaimed golf course, five-star service, and a sophisticated atmosphere.

The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, from $1,014 per person per night, indagare.com

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Huka Lodge

Courtesy of Huka Lodge

One of New Zealand's original super lodges, this intimate and refined escape is set in a pine forest on the banks of Taupo's Waikato River, amid lush, manicured grounds.

Huka Lodge, from $1,116 per person per night, indagare.com

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Minaret Station

Courtesy of Minaret Station

A family-run, 65,000-acre farm set in a stunning glacial valley in remote Fiordland (it's only accessible by helicopter), the Alpine Lodge at Minaret Station offers thrilling adventure activities.

Alpine Lodge at Minaret Station, from $1,785 per night, indagare.com

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Annandale

Courtesy of Annandale

Overlooking a gorgeous bay, the four-villa Annandale spans 4,000 acres of a working farm. The contemporary, design-focused Seascape cabin, set in its own cove, is a couples' haven due to its private location and stunning views.

Annandale, from $869 per night, indagare.com

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Laucala

Courtesy of Laucala

The private island escape of Laucala, which was formerly owned by Malcolm Forbes, is an unparalleled tropical escape with crystalline coves, flowering greenery, and around-the-clock pampering.

Laucala, from $3,800 per night, indagare.com

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Thailand

Courtesy of Iman
A Dreamy Seaside Wedding in Thailand

Thailand is imbued with a deep spirituality and respect for its glorious natural landscapes and the people that inhabit them. Experience the energetic Thai capital of Bangkok by touring the gilded temples and lively street markets. Afterwards, head to the lush hillside of Chiang Mai, where our favorite resort offers couples a chance to hone their kitchen skills during Thai cooking classes. Prefer something a little more daring? Travel further afield to a camp that offers an authentic safari experience (including meeting and bathing elephants). Conclude the memorable trip by taking in Thailand's unspoiled coastline and mystical archipelagos.

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Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental

With a desirable location on the Chao Praya, the soulful Mandarin Oriental in historic Bangkok is a perfect fit for couples in search of modern comforts with a distinct sense of place.

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, from $485 per night, indagare.com

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Four Seasons Chiang Mai

Courtesy of Four Seasons

This stunning and peaceful retreat boasts Thai-style pavilions, villas, and private residences, respectfully built among the rice fields.

Four Seasons Chiang Mai, from $677 per night, indagare.com

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Four Seasons Golden Triangle

Courtesy of Four Seasons

Scattered across expansive, landscaped grounds, the Four Seasons Tented Camp offers a true elephant safari experience with just 15 spacious, ultra-private tented suites.

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, from $2,797 per night, indagare.com

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Amanpuri

Courtesy of Aman

This resort sits on a Thai hillside above the Andaman Sea. It's the original Aman, and is known for its Zen vibe.

 Amanpuri, from $1,050 per night, indagare.com

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France

Courtesy of Hotel Ritz
The 10 Most Romantic Places to Honeymoon in France

France's sophisticated l'art de vivre and beautiful scenery, from the elegant architecture of Paris to the glittering Côte d'Azur, make for a spectacular honeymoon. Toast the beginning of your marriage at an exquisite hotel with gilded furnishings. Then, escape to the rolling countryside of Provence before enjoying the pinnacle of Riviera glamour at a hotel that juts into the Mediterranean Sea.

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Hotel Ritz

Courtesy of Hotel Ritz

A time capsule of Belle Époque decadence, this historic hotel exudes Old-World luxury and glamour in an iconic location on Paris's Place Vendome.

Hotel Ritz, from $1,534 per night, indagare.com

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Villa La Coste

Courtesy of Villa La Coste

A modern art wonderland in a blissfully remote corner of Provence, this boutique hotel and open-air museum boasts sleek, sophisticated rooms, an on-property vineyard, and architecture by the likes of Tadao Ando and Renzo Piano.

Villa La Coste, from $1,410 per night, indagare.com

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Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

Courtesy of Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

The pinnacle of Riviera glamour and a timeless icon of a resort, the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc commands a stunning peninsula that juts into the Mediterranean Sea with elegant suites and villas.

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, from $1,410 per night, indagare.com

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The Caribbean

Courtesy of Parrot Cay
The 18 Most Romantic Hotels in the Caribbean and Atlantic

The Caribbean offers an extraordinary array of island hideaways that honeymooners will surely enjoy. Stylish twosomes will adore a stay in St. Barth's at a Provençal-inspired resort. Fancy yourself more of a peace-seekers? You should book a ticket to a private isle in Turks and Caicos, which exudes understated elegance and romance. For more adventurous couples, St. Lucia beckons with rigorous hiking trails and excellent snorkeling and diving.

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Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France

Courtesy of S. Candito

The beachfront Cheval Blanc, with its elegant French design and glamorous crowd, caters to couples who want to recline on the stunning beach and get a taste of the hotel's convivial house-party atmosphere at the weekly fashion show.

Cheval Blanc Saint-Barth Isle de France, from $1,034 per night, indagare.com

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Parrot Cay

Courtesy of Parrot Cay

Located on its own private cay in the turquoise waters of Turks and Caicos, COMO Parrot Cay evokes a castaway beach feel with its airy and chic design and private stretch of sand.

Parrot Cay by COMO, from $725 per night, indagare.com

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Sugar Beach

Courtesy of Sugar Beach

Nestled in the valley between St. Lucia's dramatic Piton Mountains, Sugar Beach has one of the most picturesque locations in the Caribbean and its luxe hillside villas offer spectacular views.

Sugar Beach, from $915, indagare.com

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