14 Dreamy Honeymoon Destinations That Will Excite You More Than the Wedding

If your idea of the perfect honeymoon includes sparkling turquoise waters, sugary beaches, and laid-back island vibes, then this cluster of three tiny islands just off the coast of Lombok will exceed your expectations. Add in fewer crowds and expenses than more popular island destinations, and you've got the recipe for a little slice of paradise in the Pacific Southeast. Oh, and did we mention giant sea turtle sightings?

Flanked by steep canyon walls and luminous red-rock buttes, this gem of the Arizona desert is as wild and exhilarating as it is meditative and serene. Sedona is the ideal atmosphere to foster closeness and connection with your partner; peppered with energy vortices, the vivid desert is a place to heal and recharge. Stay at the remarkably romantic L'Auberge de Sedona, where, in addition to luxurious spa services, you and your new spouse can connect with nature in a tranquil forest bathing session. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, explore the spectacular landscape in an off-road Jeep tour or hike the iconic West Fork Trail.

Napa Valley's next door neighbour offers the same breathtaking vistas of the rolling countryside and delicious California wines, but with a slower-paced, more relaxed vibe (and more affordable price point). Skip the big name hotels and opt for a romantic boutique lodge or bed-and-breakfast (like the Tuscan-inspired Kenwood Inn & Spa) to relax between visiting the vineyards. And if you're not too afraid of heights, the best views of the valley are by air — hot air balloon, that is!

It might not be a white sand beach, but few places are more romantic than the "Land of Fire and Ice." Iceland is teeming with natural wonder; rent a car and explore the country via the Golden Circle, take a dip in the geothermal hot springs, and even climb a glacier for spectacular views. And if it's not truly a honeymoon without a beach, make the journey to Reynisfjara — a mesmerising black sand beach along the Southern edge.

Planted just off the toe of Italy's boot, this gorgeous Mediterranean island offers picturesque views, world-class cuisine, and unlimited romance. The island is bubbling with the most picturesque resorts you can imagine (check out the views at the Therasia Resort), but you can still enjoy all the splendor Sicily has to offer on a budget, as there's a huge bed-and-breakfast culture with rates well under $100 per night.

Escape to a faraway world and soak up all the fresh air and privacy you can imagine in this Scottish subarctic archipelago about 100 miles off the coast of the mainland. Imagine rolling green landscapes, precipitous cliffs, and deep blue waters as far as the eye can see. If a historic, peaceful, and super under-the-radar honeymoon destination is your vibe, this cluster of islands is worth adding to your itinerary.

While more popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos tend to get all the glory, this exquisite Greek island offers just as much charm without all the crowds. You'll still be treated to views of the same quintessential blue waters and white-washed houses the Greek Isles are famous for, and you'll be delighted by the world-class culinary culture.

Travel about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, and you'll stumble across an otherworldly wonderland. This volcanic archipelago in the middle of the Pacific Ocean is bubbling with adventure; considered one of the world's premier places to spot wildlife, the Galapagos Islands are thought to have existed untouched for millions of years. Think transparent turquoise waters set against sugary beaches — is there really a better backdrop for the most romantic holiday of your lives? Be sure to check out the black lava shoreline at Puerto Egas, where you'll also spot lava pools and a few marine iguanas.

Kauai is Hawaii's best-kept secret; yes, Maui is gorgeous and Honolulu has a lot going on, but the "Garden Isle" is simply surreal. Hawaii's oldest island, Kauai is smothered in emerald valleys, tropical rainforests, dramatic cliffs, and some of the best hiking you'll ever encounter. Actually, even if you've never been, you've seen the landscape before if you've seen Jurassic Park. Check out the Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach, where you can wake up to views of the Pacific Ocean crashing into the shore. Room service, anyone?

If you thought you felt like a princess on your wedding day, just wait until you arrive in Udaipur. Set against the glimmering Lake Pichola, this regal city is a magical mosaic of palaces, temples, pebbled streets, and old-world allure. For a truly opulent and unforgettable experience, stay in the Lake Palace, which is, as its name suggests, set in the middle of the lake.

Although its gained popularity in recent years, the Southernmost region of Portugal is still a wonderful under-the-radar choice for a romantic excursion. Picture charming fishing villages perched on cliffs overlooking the glassy waters, and sprinkle in adorable cafes, boutique hotels, and picturesque sandy coves. Algarve is much more intimate than many of its European neighbours, giving you the perfect blend of privacy and things to do. Don't miss the sunset at Cape St. Vincent!

Propped against New Zealand's southern alps, Queenstown is exploding with natural wonder and adventure at every corner. Your schedule can be as relaxed or full as you want it; take a helicopter ride to the mountains or drink in the views from a hot air balloon ride. There are wineries, lake cruises, guided tours, and, if you're feeling particularly brave, one of the world's tallest bungy jumps and swings. You can, of course, swing as a couple!