10 Best Destinations to Honeymoon in October

aerial view of Italian countryside — Photo by Chris & Ruth

If you’re in search of the perfect destination for your October honeymoon, you’re in luck! There are tons of quality options to choose from during this autumn month, whether you want to relax on the beach, immerse yourself in wildlife, or explore a romantic city.

For October destination ideas and travel tips, we turned to travel expert John Spence and his team of destination specialists at Scott Dunn USA. His first piece of advice: don’t wait until the last minute to book your fall honeymoon. "I would start planning as soon as possible," Spence advises. "It costs the same whether you plan now or later, but by planning now you’ll get your first choice of accommodations, whereas you’ll likely have far fewer options later as places fill up."

Meet the Expert

John Spence is the president of Scott Dunn USA, a luxury travel agency.

Keep reading for our list of the 10 best honeymoon destinations in October.

The current outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. As the situation remains fluid, we’ll be sharing tips and stories from industry experts to give you of-the-moment advice and help you navigate wedding planning today. For the most up-to-date guidelines and latest on travel restrictions and requirements, check the CDC and U.S. Department of State websites.

01 of 10

Maldives

If the Maldives isn’t on the top of your honeymoon wish list, it’s about to be. October is a great time to see whale sharks and manta rays, which makes for a fun excursion. Couples should stay at Anantara Kihavah Maldives for a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon experience. The resort offers a special honeymoon package that includes daily breakfast and dinner, champagne, unique dining experiences, and a romantic "Slumber Guru Ritual."

02 of 10

Tanzania and Kenya

elephants in Kenya — Photo by Heather Waraksa

One of the most sought-after African honeymoon combinations is Tanzania and Kenya, and there’s no better time to visit and view wildlife than in the dry season. "I would recommend Tanzania and Kenya for a classic big game honeymoon safari," says Spence. "The Great Migration is still taking place in East Africa in October, so it’s a great time for viewing, and the lodges there are some of the most romantic."

03 of 10

South Africa

"South Africa is our number one destination for honeymooners this year, and for good reason," shares Andres Arrigara, Africa travel specialist at Scott Dunn. "In October the temperatures are mild and rainfall is low, but really, it's hard to beat some time in Cape Town and the Winelands any time of year."

For a honeymoon with an ideal mixture of adventure and luxury, start at Table Mountain to take in the panoramic views of the Western Cape, then head down to the waterfront to treat yourselves to artisan crafts and clothing made by South African creatives. To top off the trip, couples can drive to the Winelands or go explore a multitude of national parks and wildlife preserves, where the odds of seeing all of the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and African buffalo) are very high.

04 of 10

St. Thomas

A perfect destination for couples who want a Caribbean experience without actually leaving the country is St. Thomas. Since it’s part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, no passport is required! Stay at the luxury Ritz Carlton St. Thomas, which recently went under a $100 million renovation. Couples can book a sunset sail on the resort's very own catamaran, the Lady Lindsey. Pro tip: Make sure to book a Club Level room for exclusive access to a private beach area and the Club Lounge with unlimited meals, snacks, and beverages throughout the day.

05 of 10

Morocco

<p>amanjena</p> — Photo by Giuseppe Marano and Monica Leggio

"Morocco is wonderful in autumn and such a romantic destination," says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn. Rooftop dinners surrounded by candles, couples massages in marble-clad spas, and nights in a glamping tent under starry skies make for the most picturesque honeymoon memories. Be sure to book Morocco well in advance, as the best rooms and riads sell out. For a luxury stay, consider a riad at Royal Mansour in Marrakech.

06 of 10

Hawaii

While most U.S. cities turn chilly in October, Hawaii’s desirable warm weather remains. Hawaii is a classic honeymoon destination, filled with off-roading adventures, luxury hotels, and gourmet food. Couples can explore one of the state's most romantic treasures, Mauna Kea Resort, sip Mai Tais by the pool, indulge in a couples’ spa treatment, book a moonlight snorkel with manta rays, or learn about Hawaiian culture with programs like ukulele lessons or Hula classes.

07 of 10

Italy

Arguably the most romantic country in Europe, Italy makes a magical honeymoon spot. "Italy is a steadfast favorite of ours and our guests for romantic getaways, and October is a great time to go after the summer rush has died down," Spence tells Brides. For couples who want to take in history, art, and sightseeing, head to Rome, Venice, or Florence.

08 of 10

Madagascar

October is one of the most underrated times to visit Madagascar, as the weather is mild and tourists are at a minimum. For honeymooners wanting to bask in total seclusion, Miavana by Time + Tide is an ultra-exclusive private island off Madagascar’s northeast coast. The property offers couples access to 2,500 acres of wilderness, plus five uninhabited islands in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Guests can heli-surf to previously uncharted waves, dive with humpback whales, and take part in bespoke activities such as round-island races.

09 of 10

Mexico

In October, the weather is typically cooler in Mexico and there are fewer crowds. Couples can check into Hotel Esencia, an exclusive 50-acre private estate between Tulum and Playa del Carmen that prides itself on excellent service, gorgeous interiors, and the utmost privacy for those looking for a romantic honeymoon escape. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, stay in Tulum, which has increasingly become the ultimate wellness destination.

10 of 10

Antigua

October is one of the best months to visit Antigua as it’s the island’s off-season: Rates are cheaper and the weather rarely goes below 80 degrees. Stay at Jumby Bay Island, a secluded yet accessible private isle of white-sand beaches and bicycle paths, just a five-minute drive and a seven-minute boat ride from Antigua Airport. Surrounded by tropical foliage, the resort spans 300 secluded acres and is home to 4.5 miles of shoreline, presiding over some of the Caribbean’s most spectacular and fiercely protected beaches.

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