That wedding was expensive. And we all felt it. Now, it’s honeymoon time and we need to do some thorough planning to stay on budget.
No need to fret! We have a list right here of the 7 best island honeymoon getaways on a budget. You can get all the luxuries, unique adventures, and authentic cultural experiences that you’re looking for with these 7 budget-friendly getaway ideas.
Jamaica
Jamaica is the land of powdery sands, rugged blue mountains, underground lakes (Green Grotto Caves, and foamy waterfalls. Negril, specifically, is especially popular for its gorgeous beaches, the Seven Mile Beach being a prime free attraction in Jamaica.
On the island, there are numerous resorts to choose from, including one of the best budget friendly Sandals Resorts for newlyweds seeking the ideal island honeymoon. Most of the resorts span the beach, ensuring that nearly all rooms offer beachfront views.
Many resorts, including Sandals Negril, offer all-inclusive packages that allow you to try out wake boarding, knee boarding, waterskiing, tubing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
Belize
This Caribbean paradise located in Central America is not an island itself, but Belize does sport hundreds of offshore islands for couples to explore on their honeymoon.
Look for budget-friendly accommodation options on the beach with all-inclusive packages (food, drink, and activities). There are tons on offer!
Belize boasts of spectacular beaches and lush jungles housing wildcats and jaguars. Spend your days trekking up a mountain to a stunning waterfall or historic Mayan ruins. Or hit the water and scuba dive or snorkel in amongst the second largest reef system in the world!
After a day of adventure, sip rum punch on a beach or experience Belize’s vibrant nightlife.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a pretty well-developed country with a thriving tourism industry. However, despite being more expensive than other Central American countries, you’ll pay peanuts compared to how much you’d spend in the US, Australia, UK, etc.
There are 79 Costa Rican islands to explore. You’re spoiled for choice with the beautiful beaches, incredible forests, remarkably unique flora and fauna (sloth-spotting, anyone?), and marvelous sunsets.
Go white water rafting and scuba diving with your significant other. And eat and drink like the locals to save money! Eat local food such as plantains, gallo pinto, and tamales, buy fresh local produce, and drink local spirits and beers. All your savings add up to an authentic Costa Rican experience.
Greek Island Hopping
Direct flights, internal flights, or boats can reach each of the 227 Greek islands. The ferries and dining options for two have rather low prices.
So, do your research, pick a small group of islands, and go Greek island hopping with the love of your life!
Consider visiting Crete, the birthplace of the mighty Minoan civilizations, if you and your significant other are history enthusiasts. You’ll find myriad historical palaces and fascinating museums, as well as 650 miles of sunny coastline.
Hot tip: don’t miss out on the world-famous Santorini sunset in this beautiful, welcoming ancient land!
Turks and Caicos
The Turks and Caicos Islands are another Caribbean paradise, an idyllic archipelago located south of the Bahamas and has some of the best beaches in the world.
Book a late spring getaway in Turks and Caicos to save money. The islands aren’t as popular during this time, but you’ll still get to bask in the pleasantly sunny weather on the public, free-access beaches.
Snorkel through shipwrecks, corals, and fish at Leeward Reef. Swim in a lagoon at Half Moon Bay. Lounge around with the Turks and Caicos rock iguanas at Grace Bay Beach, Sapodilla Bay, Mudjin Harbour, Bambarra Beach, and so many more rarely crowded coasts.
Thailand
Thailand offers a little bit of everything at exceptionally affordable prices, including accommodation, food, and activities. It’s one of thecheapest places to consider for your honeymoon.
Plan to visit between November and April for the best weather. Get to know Thai culture in floating markets and temples in Bangkok. Hike, climb mountains, visit more temples, and befriend elephants at an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai. Phuket, Koh Samui, and Koh Phi Phi are some of our favorite tropical Thai islands with majestic beaches.
Indulge in the cultural Thai tradition wherein new couples tie strings around their wrists and walk around town together to be blessed by monks.
Croatia
Couples can experience a unique and unforgettable honeymoon, even on a strict budget. The Croatian archipelago, with its multitude of islands, islets, cliffs, and reefs, is a fantastic option for a budget-friendly honeymoon getaway!
The most affordable islands to travel to in Croatia are Hvar, Brac, Pag, Losinj, Rab, Cres, and Krk.
Naturally, accommodation and food prices will be lower on the less touristy islands. On these islands, you can stay in luxurious hotels and soak up the sunshine on the coastlines. Go truffle hunting, sail with your new spouse, and indulge in world-class wine and food, such as local oysters, in the Winelands.