If your wedding is in the winter or you’re delaying your honeymoon until the winter, you might be dreaming of a romantic, warm weather getaway. Odds are that you’re not the only ones looking to travel to a warm weather destination this time of year, though, which means that many popular winter vacation spots can often be crowded with tourists and more expensive to travel to. Choosing a honeymoon destination can be a tough decision, so we did some research to find a few affordable spots—with plenty of sunshine—that would be perfect for a winter honeymoon!
Cozumel
Cozumel is an island located off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula. It’s settled in the Caribbean sea near the second-largest reef in the world, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. If you visit Cozumel from January through February, you’ll beat the humidity and scorching hot summer temps. Expect temperatures in the mid-80s Fahrenheit. Winter is also Cozumel’s dry season which means a lower chance of rain during your trip, and more time to enjoy the beach or outdoor activities! Historically, late January is known to be the cheapest time to travel to Cozumel, with affordable roundtrip airfare from major airports.
Oahu
With sunshine year round, there’s never a bad time to visit any of the Hawaiian islands. However, Oahu is our top pick if you’re planning a trip in the winter months. Not only is winter peak whale watching season, but you’ll also find the cheapest airfare and lower hotel prices in February and March. Score a stay at the 4-star Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort for less than $300 a night! The only drawback to visiting Oahu in the winter is that you’ll be visiting during the rainy season. To avoid wetter weather and find calmer ocean conditions, it’s recommended to stay on the south and west coast of the island. Here you’ll find it easier to swim, snorkel, scuba dive, or just relax on the beach next to calm waters!
Miami
If you are looking for a honeymoon spot in the states, Miami can be a great escape from the cold! Known as the hottest city in the USA during the winter, temperatures in Miami average in the upper 70s from December to February. This time period is also the area’s dry season, making for the lowest chance of rain. Miami is a popular destination for spring breakers, so visiting in the winter means fewer crowds and less traffic. This makes it the prime time to enjoy popular beaches and even score a reservation at an award-winning restaurant.
Antigua
Antigua is one of the warmest Caribbean islands, located only 17 degrees above the Equator. If you visit in the winter, you can expect temperatures in the mid-70s Fahrenheit and a low chance of rain, since their dry season runs from December through April. Typically the cheapest time to visit the island is early December, but many of the hotels run travel deals throughout the winter making it a budget-friendly option for your honeymoon. Known for its 365 beaches—one for every day of the year—this warm weather destination is the perfect spot for a relaxing honeymoon in the sun.
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena is becoming a popular travel destination for American travelers, and it’s not hard to see why! Located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, this city has amazing beaches, great food, and plenty of history-rich sightseeing opportunities. Tourism in Cartagena slows at the end of January, making it an affordable honeymoon spot in the winter. Although there may be fewer tourists, there’s no shortage of events. February is packed with parades and festivals, like the Carnival Barranquilla, one of Colombia’s most important celebrations and one of the biggest carnivals in the world. You’ll experience winter weather here around 80 degrees Fahrenheit with low humidity, plus an ocean breeze.
