Cheap Honeymoon Destinations in US:
Many people think a perfect honeymoon must be very costly, but we don’t agree. You don’t have to travel to a distant, glamorous location to have a wonderful honeymoon. There are plenty of great and inexpensive honeymoon destinations right here in the US where you can have a memorable trip without spending too much money. This blog guides amazing honeymoons designed for couples on a budget. We’re talking about lesser-known places in the US that offer beautiful scenery, unforgettable memories, and the best for a honeymoon without costing a fortune.
1. Savannah, Georgia:
This lovely city in the South is full of charm, with its beautiful live oak trees covered in moss, old squares, and historic buildings. During the day, you can visit attractions like Forsyth Park, the Bonaventure Cemetery, and the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. In the evenings, try tasty Lowcountry food at one of Savannah’s restaurants, or take a walk along the Riverwalk. Explore the diverse collections of the Telfair Museums, ranging from American and European art to decorative arts and African American art.
Romantic Activities:
- Step back in time with a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district. Hold hands and enjoy the charm of the city as you pass old mansions.
- Watch the sunset while walking along the cobblestone streets of River Street. Experience the lively atmosphere, street performers, and beautiful views of the Savannah River.
- Explore the Savannah River in a new way by taking a tandem kayak tour. Paddle through the mangroves, breathe in the fresh air, and have fun navigating the waterways together.
Nearest Airports:
Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is situated 10 miles northwest of downtown Savannah and handles domestic and some international flights, serving as the primary airport for the region. Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH) is about 45 miles northeast of Savannah in South Carolina. While not directly in Savannah, it serves the Hilton Head Island area and provides limited commercial flights.
2. Lake Tahoe, Nevada:
Lake Tahoe is a beautiful lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is located on the border of California and Nevada. This place has lots of romantic things to do and outdoor fun. It’s perfect for couples on a budget who want a memorable honeymoon.
Romantic Activities:
- Lake Tahoe is a beautiful place with clear water, big mountains, and cute towns, making it perfect for a special honeymoon full of great experiences. Here are some romantic things you can do there to make memories together:
- Start your day with a peaceful walk across the glassy lake, watching the first rays of sunlight that paint the mountains in golden shades. Whisper sweet words and enjoy the peacefulness as nature wakes up
- Explore hidden tracks like the Rubicon Trail or Sugar Pine Point State Park, hand-in-hand, soaking in the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Prepare a picnic for a romantic lunch surrounded by beautiful scenery.
- Get away from bright lights and go to a place like the UC Davis Lake Tahoe Environmental Research Center or Round Hill Pines Resort to enjoy a romantic night under the stars. You can learn about star patterns, talk about your hopes and dreams, and enjoy the amazing sights of the universe together.
- Choose a restaurant with breathtaking lake views like The Grille at Round Hill or The Beacon Restaurant for a romantic ambiance. Taste delicious food, enjoy the gentle breeze, and share heartfelt conversations under the soft glow of candles.
Nearest Airports:
- The closest airports to Lake Tahoe on the Nevada side include Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), which is 44 miles away and approximately a 55-minute drive, and Sacramento International Airport (SMF), located 123 miles away with a 2 hours and 7 minutes drive.
- Other options include Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) at 141 miles with a 2 hours and 46 minutes drive, Oakland International Airport (OAK) at 197 miles with a 3 hours and 39 minutes drive, and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) at 204 miles, taking around 3 hours and 49 minutes to drive. These airports offer various choices for travelers visiting the Lake Tahoe area on the Nevada side.
3. Sonoma, California:
Sonoma, California, located in the middle of California’s wine country, could be just right for you. While Napa Valley (A short drive away from Sonoma) gets a lot of attention, Sonoma is a cheaper option that still has charm and fun things to do.
What to Do:
- In Sonoma, there’s a lot more than just wineries to see. You can walk among tall redwood trees in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, paddle a kayak along the pretty Russian River, or explore the lively tide pools at Bodega Head.
- If you enjoy food, you’ll like the fresh meals at farm-to-table restaurants and the delights at local markets. And if you’re interested in history, there’s plenty to learn about the Spanish missions at Sonoma Plaza.
Romantic Activities:
- Enjoy romantic candlelit dinners at cozy restaurants, take hot air balloon rides over the valley in the morning, or treat yourselves to a couples massage at a fancy spa. Sonoma has many ways for you to pamper yourselves and make special memories.
- Pack a picnic basket with local cheese, fresh bread, and a bottle of your favorite Sonoma wine, and have a romantic evening watching the sunset among the vineyards.
Nearest Airports:
The nearest airport to Sonoma County is its own Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport (STS). It has flights every day from three big airlines.
Sonoma offers a wider range of cheap accommodation options, from cozy bed and breakfasts and pretty inns to vacation rentals and even campgrounds. There are wineries where you don’t have to pay to taste wine or where they give discounts to couples. Also, you can explore charming towns, have picnics in vineyards, and do outdoor activities for free.
4. Havasupai, Arizona:
Havasupai Falls, found in the Havasupai Indian Reservation close to Grand Canyon National Park, gives you a honeymoon like no other. You can enjoy stunning turquoise waterfalls flowing in the lush green plants in the middle of a red-rock canyon. It’s a breathtaking & romantic sight.
Unique Adventure:
Getting to Havasupai Falls is like going on an adventure. The only way there is by walking 8 miles with a 600-foot change in height. It’s tough, but it means you don’t have to pay for transportation and you get to have a more basic, off-the-grid experience.
Romantic Activities:
- You can have a great time watching the beautiful sunset at Lake Havasu. Relax and have a picnic at Rotary Community Park, surrounded by calm and pretty scenery. Explore Lake Havasu State Park to enjoy nature’s peace. Don’t forget to see the amazing views from the Lake Havasu Lighthouses.
- For an unforgettable adventure, go on a hike to Havasu Falls, one of the most stunning waterfalls in the US, where you’ll see water flowing down in a beautiful landscape.
Nearest Airports:
- The nearest airport to the reservation is Lake Havasu City Airport, which is about six miles from Lake Havasu City. However, this is a small local airport. The nearest big airport is in Las Vegas, and it’s about a two-and-a-half-hour drive away.
- Because the area is protected, don’t expect to find many tourist facilities. Be prepared to camp during your trip because the only option for staying in the reservation (apart from the campgrounds) is the Havasupai Lodge.
Havasupai Falls gives adventurous couples a memorable honeymoon in beautiful nature without spending too much money. But, get ready for a tough physical journey, few comforts, and a simple environment. If you’re excited about adventure and value special experiences more than luxury, Havasupai could be the ideal honeymoon spot for you.
5. Taos, New Mexico:
- When you visit Taos, you’ll understand why New Mexico is called “The Land of Enchantment.” The town has been a famous art community for a long time, but that’s not all it’s known for. Taos also has a popular ski resort called Taos Ski Valley and a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Taos Pueblo, which includes one of the most famous churches in the United States. Have a picnic among the wildflowers in the Rio Grande Gorge. Enjoy the pretty scenery and each other’s company.
- The town is encircled by mountains and tall desert plateaus. But that doesn’t mean there are no rivers nearby where you can enjoy top-notch water activities like fly fishing, rafting, kayaking, and paddle boarding. And finally, after a busy day, you can end it with a fancy dinner.
Romantic Activities:
- There are plenty of things to do around Taos that you’ll love. You can start by exploring the ancient ruins of Taos Pueblo, where you can learn about the fascinating history of the area.
- Then, take a scenic drive around the Enchanted Circle to soak in the breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
- For a peaceful break, have a picnic at Williams Lake, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Finally, take a stroll around Wild Rivers Recreation Area, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and maybe even spot some wildlife along the way.
Nearest Airports:
The closest airport to Taos is Los Alamos County Airport, which is 60 miles away. If you’re looking for an international airport, Albuquerque International Sunport is the nearest one, located 130 miles away from Taos.
6. Jackson Hole, Wyoming:
If you want an exciting honeymoon and love nature, Jackson Hole in Wyoming is a great choice. There are lots of outdoor activities to do no matter the time of year. In the spring and summer, you can hike in Grand Teton National Park for free, go hang-gliding, or take a ride in a hot air balloon. In the winter, you can ski, try other winter sports, enjoy the snowy landscapes, or ride a snowmobile. And if that’s not enough, Yellowstone National Park is just an hour and a half drive away, and Boise isn’t too far either.
Romantic Activities:
- You can have an amazing time in Jackson Hole with plenty of fun activities to try. Get a bird’s-eye view of Grand Teton National Park with a hot air balloon ride. Enjoy the scenery while horseback riding or exploring Ski Corbet’s Couloir.
- For a refreshing adventure, take a hike to see waterfalls at Jenny Lake or try kayaking on Jackson Lake. If you’re up for some excitement, go rafting on the Snake River.
Nearest Airports:
Jackson Hole has its airport, Jackson Hole Airport, which is unique because it’s the only airport in the US inside a national park, Grand Teton. Idaho Falls Airport is just an hour and a half away, and Salt Lake City Airport is four hours away by car.
7. Charlottesville, Virginia:
Charlottesville, located in Virginia, is a lovely town known for three main things: its university campuses, beautiful countryside, and, of course, its wine. If you love history, you’ll be glad to know that Charlottesville is a significant historic city in the US. It is home to the renowned University of Virginia, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s where two American presidents, Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe, were born. While the city may not hold the same importance as it once did, it remains one of the top and affordable destinations for wine vacations across the country.
Romantic Activities:
- There are plenty of fun things to do around Charlottesville. You can start by exploring Ivy Creek Natural Area, where you can enjoy nature walks and see local wildlife.
- Then, head over to Carter Mountain Orchard to pick delicious fruits right from the trees. If you’re a fan of wine, don’t miss a visit to Knight’s Gambit Vineyard for some wine tasting and beautiful vineyard views.
- And of course, no trip to Charlottesville would be complete without touring Monticello, the historic home of Thomas Jefferson.
Nearest Airports:
Charlottesville has its airport called Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport. It offers daily flights to Chicago, Atlanta, New York, and Philadelphia.
8. San Juan Island, Washington:
The San Juan Islands are a group of beautiful islands in the Salish Sea near Washington state. They’re really pretty and not too expensive. You can see amazing nature, and cute little towns, and do lots of fun things without spending too much money. It’s a great place to make special memories.
Romantic Activities:
- Rent a sailboat and go on a romantic journey while the sunset makes the sky colorful. Sail on peaceful waters, laugh together, and make a special memory that you’ll never forget.
- Treat yourselves at a spa such as Earthbox Inn & Spa or Friday Harbor Massage with soothing massages and refreshing treatments. Relax together in a peaceful setting and enjoy some deserved rest and rejuvenation.
- Pick a restaurant with stunning views, similar to The Bluff on Orcas Island or Cinda Lou’s on San Juan Island. Enjoy yummy food and have nice talks under the soft candlelight.
- Go to a nearby winery such as San Juan Vineyards or Lopez Island Vineyards for a romantic wine-tasting adventure.
Nearest Airports:
- The closest airport to the San Juan Islands, Washington, is Anacortes Airport (ATT). It’s a small regional airport primarily serving flights from Seattle, making it convenient for ferry connections to the islands.
- An alternative option is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), which is larger and offers more flight choices but requires a ferry or seaplane connection to reach the islands.
