6 Beach Honeymoon Destinations for Any Budget

Honeymoon
Written By Matthew Malkin

You’ve just poured your heart into planning the perfect wedding, and now you’re facing the pressure of creating an unforgettable honeymoon. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed by the endless options and fear of missing out on the perfect trip. Here at Catalina Quest, we believe your honeymoon should be an experience filled with joy, discovery, and deep connection – not stress. 

At Catalina Quest, we take care of all the logistics and planning so you can focus on the moments that matter. Just take our free and easy questionnaire to help us understand your dream trip. 

If a beach honeymoon destination tops your list, here are 6 curated places I recommend. Each one promises a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and connection, making your honeymoon a memory that will forever be part of your shared story. 

Two lounge chairs on a palm tree fringed, white sand beach

Warm tropical beaches await you for your ideal honeymoon.

Palm Beach, Aruba

If you’re dreaming of a more budget friendly honeymoon destination, might I suggest Aruba. With beautiful beaches, warm climate, and fun night life Aruba still packs a balanced punch of relaxation, exploration and celebratory vibes – a little something for every kind of couple. Located in the southern Caribbean, off the coast of South America, there are direct flights from cities such as Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago and Dallas reaching this tropical paradise is very easy! Plus, you’ll go through immigration and customs on the island, so you won’t encounter any long lines when you return to the US. I recommend visiting between December and May when the rain is minimal, and the air temperature is warm and pleasant. 

Must-Sees

Accommodation Recommendations

Excursion Recommendations


Travel Tip: Bring your essentials such as cosmetics and sunscreen as those items can be pricey on the island. Pack them before you go to save some money. 

Price: $$



Isabela, Puerto Rico

Are you a couple who enjoys a destination that offers a mix of local culture, adventure, and relaxation? Then look no further than Isabela, Puerto Rico. Since Puerto Rico is a US territory you can fly in from major cities without a passport (one less thing to worry about!). Known for its stunning beaches, surfing spots, and clear water which are ideal for snorkeling, Isabela offers everything you want from a warm honeymoon destination. In addition, Isabela is a quaint town ideal for self-exploring local culture and nature. 

Must-Sees

  • El Pastillo Beach: This beach is a hidden gem with a golden beach, unique rock formations, and natural tide pools. I recommend you visit for great surfing, boogie boarding, and to catch a beautiful sunset

  • Guajataca State Forest: If you enjoy exploring dense forests this a must-visit place to check out the winding rivers as you hike through the forest – I recommend you pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the quiet forest and be sure check out the local cave system.

  • Golfing at Royal Isabela: 200 feet above the ocean with natural sand dunes, this dramatic course offers spectacular views.

Accommodation Recommendations

  • Royal Isabela: Each room is a private hideaway with a plunge pool and terrace. Dine on farm-table meals while watching the sunset over the golf course and ocean.

  • Parador Villas Del Mar Hau: This simple yet comfortable property is perfectly situated on the beach


Travel Tip: Spend a few nights in San Jaun to save a little money before venturing to the smaller town of Isabela, just two hours away. 

Price: $$

Sandy, palm tree fringed beach with a small wave washing ashore

Puerto Rico offers miles of beautiful beaches. 

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

With direct flights from US cities like Boston, Chicago, Dallas, and Los Angeles getting to the beautiful beaches of the Grand Cayman Islands is a breeze and an affordable honeymoon destination! Once you arrive, you’ll discover this ideal beach honeymoon destination is full of breathtaking beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life. If you’re a couple who describes themselves as foodies, loves beaches, and are snorkeling or diving enthusiasts, Grand Cayman is for you! I highly recommend planning your trip to be between December to May to ensure low rainfall and warm temperatures. 

Must-Sees

  • Seven Mile Beach: One of the Caribbean’s most famous beaches, Seven Mile Beach is perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying a drink with your toes in the sand.

  • Stingray City: This is a unique spot where you can interact with southern stingrays on a shallow sandbar – I highly recommend arranging a day tour. 

  • Queen Elizabeth Botanic Park: Here you’ll discover a lush garden with local and exotic plant species. It’s a great spot for a romantic walk and an intimate picnic. 

Accommodation Recommendations

  • Grand Cayman Marriott Resort: Located on Seven Mile Beach, this resort offers stunning rooms and suites along with plenty of amenities.

  • Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa: Also on Seven Mile Beach, this resort boasts contemporary décor, spacious rooms, multiple restaurants, and an incredible infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea. 

Tour Recommendations


Travel Tip: Stock up on snacks as food and drinks (to enjoy on your balcony) can be pricey. If you’re comfortable driving on the left side of the road, renting a car for a bit of self-exploration can be cheaper than guided tours helping to create a more budget friendly honeymoon destination. 

Price: $$$

Cayman Island beach.

Mamanuca Islands, Fiji

Situated in the western part of Fiji, the Mamanuca Islands, a chain of 20 islands, are known for their amazing beaches, colorful corals, and vibrant culture. This is a haven for honeymooners who love beach time, great food, and generous locals. After flying into Nadi, you can take a short helicopter ride to the islands or a ferry transfer from Port Denarau. While selecting Fiji as your beach honeymoon destination requires a higher budget, it is worth it for the luxury and experiences. The best time to visit this South Pacific Island nation, I recommend going from mid-April to mid-November. 

Must-Sees

  • Snorkeling and Diving: The Mamanuca Islands offer amazing barrier and patch reefs to explore with a diverse fish and coral population.

  • Cultural Activities: Don’t miss the traditional Fijian Kava (an earthy drink that gives you a slight buzz) ceremony, a ritual that welcomes guests and fosters community.

  • Malamala Beach Club: The first island beach club where you can soak up the sun, paddleboard, or enjoy cocktails by the pool on a day trip to a different island.

Accommodation Recommendations

  • Six Senses Fiji: Offering luxurious beachfront villas and residences with private pools, lush tropical surroundings, and stunning views of the turquoise waters, this eco-conscious resort is perfect for a beach honeymoon. Six Senses combines relaxation, world-class dining, and unforgettable experiences like snorkeling, spa treatments, and romantic sunset cruises

  • Tokoriki Island Resort: Another great option with fantastic rooms and service, at Tokoriki you can choose half-board option to save money which is perfect if you’re not big eaters on vacation. 


Travel Tip: If staying in the Mamanuca Islands for a whole week is too pricey, I suggest you consider staying 2 or 3 nights in Port Denarau at the start of your trip to help your dollar go further. 

Price: $$$$

Couple on a secluded beach in Fiji.

Whitsunday Islands, Australia 

This chain of 74 islands is part of the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most famous coral reef systems, off Australia’s east coast. Known for its white sandy beaches, expansive natural beach, and relaxing island vibes it’s a dream beach honeymoon destination for couples who love snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, hiking and more. Due to its location, the Whitsundays can require a higher budget than other destinations on this list, but I highly recommend you consider the Whitsundays for beauty and luxury. I also highly recommend you visit sometime between mid-April and the end of July and mid-September to mid-November (do avoid Australian school holidays which typically land in mid-July).

Must-Sees

  • Whitehaven Beach: Famous for its squeaky white powdery silica sand, this beach is a must-visit for a day trip from Hamilton or Hayman Island. 

  • Heart Reef: Take a scenic flight for a bird’s-eye view to see this naturally occurring coral formation shaped like a heart

  • Dent Island: Home to the Hamilton Island Golf Course this 18-hole championship course offers panoramic views of the Whitsundays and Coral Sea.

Accommodation Recommendations

  • Beach Club: An adults-only resort on Hamilton Island with a stunning infinity pool and spacious rooms overlooking the beach and sea.

  • Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort: A short boat ride from Hamilton Island, this resort offers several restaurants, a spa, a state-of-the-art gym, and a dive shop. It’s a perfect getaway from the busier Hamilton Island.

Excursion Recommendations:


Travel Tip: Stop by the local grocery store to pick up alcoholic beverages and snacks to save you money on resort prices. 

Price: $$$$

Aerial view of the Whitsunday Islands.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia 

After an 8-hour flight from the West Coast of the US, then a 1-hour small flight to Bora Bora followed by a boat or car transfer to your accommodation, you have arrived at one of the most luxurious and romantic beach honeymoon destinations. Trust me, it’s well worth it! Settle in and soak up the stunningly beautiful lagoon surrounded by a barrier reef and a lush mountainous center. Bora Bora is ideal for couples looking to enjoy up-scale accommodation options in a dreamy paradise. 

Must-Sees

  • Pearl Farms: Famous for its Tahitian pearls, I recommend stopping by a pearl farm to pick up a unique piece of jewelry to remember your honeymoon. 

  • Bloody Mary’s Restaurant: If you’re a seafood lover, this is a must-visit spot that has a barefoot-friendly atmosphere. 

  • Sunsets: Wherever you stay, make sure to take in the stunning sunsets with the turquoise blue waters against Mount Otemanu (the dormant volcano and highest point on the island). 

Accommodation Recommendation

  • Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa: Located on the motu, this resort offers the best spa in French Polynesia and large rooms, including overwater and on-land bungalows. I recommend you go for the Overwater Villa Bora Bora Island if an overwater bungalow is a must for you. 

  • St. Regis Bora Bora Resort: One of the oldest and largest properties with large and comfortable rooms, it has a top view of sunsets behind Mount Otemanu. The property features a large “aquarium” so you can explore local marine life. 

Excursion Recommendation


Travel Tip: If Bora Bora is too pricey for an entire week’s stay, consider pairing your stay with a few nights in Tahiti at the Hilton Hotel Tahiti, which allows you to explore other islands and save some money. 

Price: $$$$$

Stingrays in a lagoon in Bora Bora. 

If you are starting your honeymoon planning process, let Catalina Quest help you design your once-in-a-lifetime trip to a beautiful beach destination. As an alternative to a traditional wedding gift list, our honeymoon gift service allows friends and family to contribute to the cost of your honeymoon.

Contact us today to remove the stress of planning a honeymoon. 







Matthew Malkin
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