Honeymoon Hot List

Australia's favourite honeymoon destinations revealed

A recent survey of more than 4000 couples has revealed a homegrown honeymoon is the top choice for Australian newlyweds.

The annual wedding industry report released by Easy Weddings earlier this year revealed that Queensland edged out honeymoon favourites like Bali and Fiji to win the hearts of Australian newlyweds.

Want to know more about Australia’s top ten places to honeymoon? Read on to see which destinations made the list and what makes them so special to happy couples.

 

Couple on white beach in queensland

1. Queensland

Home to warm weather, picture-perfect beaches and world-class resorts – Australian couples believe that there is no better place to decompress after their big day than Queensland.

Beating overseas destinations to take out the top spot, Queensland has everything Australian couples want from their honeymoon – uncrowded beaches, a balmy climate, luxury resorts, refined dining spots, incredible scenery and welcoming locals.

Key destinations for romance include the Sunshine Coast, with nature-fringed resorts in Noosa offering a peaceful hideaway from the world, and the Gold Coast with luxury accommodation boasting spa suites with mountain views, swimming pools, a boutique day spa and impressive dining options.  

Another bonus of honeymooning in Australia is avoiding jetlag, visas, vaccinations, currency exchange hassles, long transit times and the other stresses that come with overseas travel. Staying closer to home means couples can maximise their time together and truly immerse themselves in their break after tying the knot.
City of Santorini, Greece

2. Europe

For many couples, nothing beats the art, architecture, culture and romance of classic European honeymoon destinations such as Paris, Venice and Florence.
Love struck couples have been visiting these cities for centuries and this trend isn’t going anywhere soon.

Other popular honeymoon locations in Europe include the Greek Islands, Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast and the Mediterranean coast of Spain.

Tree swing near ocean in Fiji

3. Fiji

Accustomed to welcoming loved-up couples from all over the world, Fiji’s resorts know how to make sure honeymooners have a memorable stay. Offering secluded rooms and villas, spa treatments tailored to couples, romantic dinners created by private chefs and sunset cruises on stunning yachts, Fiji knows how to turn on the charm.

New York City skyline

4. Mainland USA

Whether it’s wine tasting in California, going for a romantic stroll around New York’s Central Park, hitting the white-sand beaches of Miami or staying in a glitzy hotel on the Las Vegas strip, mainland USA is still a hot honeymoon destination for Aussie travellers.

Over water villas in the maldives

5. Maldives

A honeymoon favourite with couples who yearn for privacy, the Maldives is one of those unforgettable places worth splashing out on. Over-water bungalows and villas are the ultimate indulgence, while adults-only resorts ensure that honeymooners experience peace and quiet on their post-wedding break.

Young couple in Jungle

6. Bali

A popular luxe-for-less destination, it’s easy to see why Bali rates highly with newlyweds. With your honeymoon dollar stretching further than most other honeymoon hotspots, Bali’s private villas and boutique hotels are a great option for couples who want access to infinity pools, butler service, and chauffeurs without taking out a loan to pay for it.    

Aerial view of Hawaiian island

7. Hawaii

Many couples still can’t go past the balmy climate, beautiful beaches and good vibes of Hawaii. Beyond the beach bars, luxe hotels and boutiques of Waikiki, Hawaii has many quiet corners perfect for a secluded break in nature where nothing is on the agenda except for beach walks, swimming and some serious hammock time.

Couple walking on trail in New Zealand

8. New Zealand

Home to world-leading wineries, stunning scenery and a vibrant cultural scene, New Zealand’s proximity makes it a winner for Australian newlyweds who want to avoid the stress, jetlag and steep costs associated with marathon flights to far-flung destinations.

Long tail boats on shore in Thailand

9. Thailand

Thailand’s coast has relaxation written all over it. Whether couples choose to have an active honeymoon packed with scuba-diving, snorkelling and kayaking adventures, a lazy break chilling by a five-star resort pool, or a trip filled with cultural experiences such as cooking classes, newlyweds can explore Thailand however they like.   

Women on street with umbrellas in japan

10. Japan

Japan has experienced a huge boost in visitor numbers from all types of travellers, and honeymooners are no exception. Couples heading to Japan for their honeymoon can look forward to enjoying everything from relaxing onsen experiences, to thrilling snowboarding adventures, late nights at quirky, themed bars and knockout cuisine delivered by chefs worshipped for their kitchen prowess.     

Planning a honeymoon? Find more destination inspiration here

Source: Easy Weddings, Australian Wedding Industry Report, 2019