15 Most Frequently Overlooked Honeymoon Destinations
When couples dream of the perfect honeymoon, destinations like Bora Bora, Paris, and the Maldives often steal the spotlight. But what if you're looking for something less expected—somewhere that still delivers romance, adventure, and unforgettable moments, but without the crowds or clichés?
As a travel advisor, I’ve seen first-hand how overlooked destinations can become the most treasured. Whether you're hoping for pristine beaches, cobblestone streets, mountainside hideaways, or charming culture, these 15 hidden-gem honeymoon spots offer something unique—with all the magic and far fewer tourists.
1. Slovenia
Slovenia is like a fairytale come to life. Nestled between Italy and Croatia, this tiny European country offers lush forests, serene lakes, and a surprisingly stylish capital. Spend a romantic day in Lake Bled, complete with a castle on a cliff and a traditional rowboat ride to the island chapel.
Why it’s overlooked: It’s often mistaken as too similar to its neighbor, Croatia.
Best for: Nature lovers, outdoor adventurers, and culture seekers.
2. Isle of Skye, Scotland
Forget the tropics—some honeymoons are best wrapped in wool sweaters and Highland mist. Scotland’s Isle of Skye is rugged, romantic, and wildly dramatic. Think cozy stone cottages, waterfalls, coastal cliffs, and endless walking trails.
Why it’s overlooked: Many assume Scotland is too rainy for romance—but the moodiness is part of the charm.
Best for: Couples who love dramatic landscapes, road trips, and snuggling by a fire.
3. Patagonia, Chile & Argentina
For the couple that thrives on adventure, Patagonia delivers. Hike glaciers, kayak turquoise lakes, and enjoy remote luxury lodges with epic views of the Andes. It’s remote, it’s majestic, and it’s far from the crowds.
Why it’s overlooked: It’s not easy to get to and isn’t a beachy "relaxation" trip.
Best for: Outdoor adventurers and honeymooners who don’t mind lacing up their hiking boots.
4. The Azores, Portugal
This volcanic archipelago in the Atlantic feels like Iceland and Hawaii had a baby. With lush green landscapes, crater lakes, hot springs, and coastal cliffs, it’s the perfect blend of wild and romantic.
Why it’s overlooked: Most people just head to mainland Portugal.
Best for: Eco-conscious couples and nature lovers.
5. Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar is a dreamy blend of Indian Ocean beaches, Swahili culture, and spice markets. It pairs beautifully with a post-safari stay if you’ve just explored mainland Africa.
Why it’s overlooked: It’s often overshadowed by better-known beach destinations like the Seychelles or Mauritius.
Best for: Couples seeking an exotic beach experience with a cultural twist.
6. Colchagua Valley, Chile
For wine lovers who’ve already been to Napa or Tuscany, Chile’s wine country is a revelation. Rolling hills, luxury vineyard stays, and boutique hotels await—with a distinctly South American flavor.
Why it’s overlooked: Chilean wine still flies under the radar in the U.S.
Best for: Wine enthusiasts and foodies looking for something fresh.
7. Lofoten Islands, Norway
Above the Arctic Circle lies a chain of islands so stunning they seem surreal. With colorful fishing villages, dramatic fjords, and chances to see the Northern Lights, the Lofoten Islands are for couples craving something extraordinary.
Why it’s overlooked: It’s remote and misunderstood as too cold or seasonal.
Best for: Adventurous spirits and photography lovers.
8. Hokkaido, Japan
Skip Tokyo and Kyoto and head north to Hokkaido. Known for its flower fields in summer, snow-covered villages in winter, and incredible food year-round, it’s a peaceful, picturesque honeymoon spot with few foreign tourists.
Why it’s overlooked: Most travelers stick to Japan’s “Golden Route.”
Best for: Couples who love Japanese culture, skiing, or quiet beauty.
9. Slovakia
Bordering Austria and Hungary, Slovakia is full of charming castles, alpine lakes, and medieval towns. Bratislava offers a romantic, cobblestoned city experience without the price tag of nearby Vienna or Prague.
Why it’s overlooked: It’s often confused with Slovenia or skipped entirely.
Best for: Couples who want old-world Europe without crowds or cost.
10. San Juan Islands, Washington (USA)
If you don’t want to leave the country, the San Juan Islands offer a romantic escape with orca sightings, cozy cabins, and incredible sea-to-table dining. Ferries from Seattle make them surprisingly accessible.
Why it’s overlooked: Domestic honeymoons can feel “less special”—but this place proves otherwise.
Best for: Nature lovers and those who want Pacific Northwest charm.
11. Madagascar
Madagascar is wild, exotic, and full of otherworldly beauty—from baobab trees to lemur-filled rainforests to dreamy white-sand beaches. It’s like nowhere else on Earth.
Why it’s overlooked: Logistically tricky to get to and less developed for tourism.
Best for: Intrepid couples and animal lovers.
12. Seychelles’ Outer Islands
While the Seychelles archipelago is well-known, most tourists stay on the main islands. For true seclusion, head to outer islands like Desroches or Alphonse for barefoot luxury and marine adventures.
Why it’s overlooked: Expensive and remote—but 100% worth it.
Best for: Luxury-seekers and beach bums with a taste for privacy.
13. Tasmania, Australia
Wild and romantic, Tasmania blends rugged coastlines with rainforests, mountain hikes, and a thriving food-and-wine scene. It’s a perfect escape from Australia’s busier tourist hubs.
Why it’s overlooked: Even Australians sometimes forget about it!
Best for: Couples who love good food, great views, and minimal crowds.
14. Grenada
Known as the “Spice Isle,” Grenada offers Caribbean charm with fewer tourists than islands like St. Lucia or the Bahamas. Think lush rainforests, uncrowded beaches, and authentic local culture.
Why it’s overlooked: It doesn’t have the name recognition of flashier Caribbean islands.
Best for: Couples looking for low-key Caribbean romance.
15. Puglia, Italy
Forget Rome or Venice—head south to the heel of Italy’s boot. Puglia offers whitewashed villages, olive groves, cliffside beaches, and some of the best food in the country. Bonus: It’s much more affordable.
Why it’s overlooked: Most Italy-bound travelers stick to the big-name cities.
Best for: Foodies, beach lovers, and fans of slow travel.
Choosing the Right Destination for You
While there’s no “wrong” place to honeymoon, choosing a destination that reflects your shared interests and travel style will create memories that last a lifetime. The best honeymoons are not necessarily the most expensive or popular—they're the ones where you feel connected, inspired, and completely present.
So if Bora Bora or Paris doesn’t speak to your soul, don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path. Your dream destination might just be the one you hadn’t heard of—until now.
Need help planning a one-of-a-kind honeymoon? As a travel advisor, I’d love to help you find a destination that’s perfect for your style and budget. Reach out anytime—I’m here to make the planning as fun and stress-free as the honeymoon itself.
