From MSN
Little Palm Island, Florida Keys
Little Palm Island, Florida Keys
Why go: Once you step foot on this serene, palm-fringed island, you’ll be shocked that you’re still in The States—perfect for passportless couples or those who aren’t up for a long plane ride after their wedding.
Where to stay: The island’s only lodging, exclusive Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, promises privacy by the boatload. Surprise your groom by preordering off their amazing menu of arrival amenities—from a pitcher of the hotel’s famous Gumby Slumber to a fancy caviar and champagne spread (from $690, LittlePalmIsland.com).
What to do: Indulge in a Madrugada water massage (the therapist stands in the ocean while you lie supported above the crystal-blue waters), and then dine in private by the glow of tiki torches, with your toes in the sand, at Harbor Point.
Aruba
Aruba
Why go: This southern Caribbean favorite isn’t called “one happy island” for nothing: Besides wide expanses of sand, you’ll soak in seemingly endless sunny days (it rarely rains), a hopping nightlife, and a variety of activities on land and at sea. You’ll be one happy couple, that’s for sure.
Where to stay: Fronting gorgeous Palm Beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba opened last year and is pretty much the definition of posh. Have breakfast alfresco every morning—all 320 rooms come with balconies with partial or full ocean views (from $449, RitzCarlton.com/aruba).
What to do: During the day traverse rugged terrain via Land Rover before refreshing together in the Natural Pool (DePalmTours.com). Before sunset, head downtown to Oranjestad’s Pinchos Grill & Bar (PinchosAruba.com), a casual but über-romantic, above-water eatery that’s located along a picturesque pier.
Barbados
Barbados
Why go: Rihanna’s beautiful birthplace offers more than 70 miles of sun-drenched beaches and a warm blend of English, African and West Indian influences that separates it from more vanilla seaside spots.
Where to stay: At Little Good Harbour, one of the last family-run oceanfront hotels on the west coast of Barbados, you’ll find casually luxurious cottages and warm and attentive staff who will make you feel right at home (from $310, LittleGoodHarbourBarbados.com).
What to do: A must-hit on Fridays? Oistins Fish Fry, where you’ll hang with locals and chow down on tuna, marlin and mahi-mahi. Dinner starts at 7 p.m., but go early (grab a cab—it’s about a 45-minute drive) for a chance to feed the turtles.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Why go: From may US cities, a quick flight lands you on the powder-soft beaches of this lush stretch outside Cancun. Amenity-packed lodgings provide creature comforts while eco-parks, historic ruins and water sports keep you as busy as you want to be.
Where to stay: An antidote for post-wedding stress, the chic adults-only Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraíso sits on a large strip of sand and exudes tranquility. For a little variety, stroll over to four neighboring Iberostar hotels, where Grand Hotel Paraíso guests have full access (all-inclusive from $247 per person, Iberostar.com).
What to do: Visit Tulum, and go way (way!) back in time as you marvel at ancient Mayan ruins—not to mention one of the area’s most breathtaking beaches.
Yasawa Island, Fiji
Yasawa Island, Fiji
Why go: Plenty of places call themselves “paradise,” but this far-flung South Pacific island that’s home to epic white-sand beaches is the real deal.
Where to stay: Yasawa Island Resort and Spa is this destination’s sole sanctuary for visitors. We’re obsessed with their exotic beachfront bures (thatched-roof bungalows); book the secluded honeymoon bure that they call Lomalagi. The translation? “Heaven” (from $1,800 including food and most activities, Yasawa.com).
What to do: Pack a lunch, snorkel gear and a walkie-talkie and have the staff leave you on a deserted island for the afternoon. For more aquatic sightseeing, visit the Blue Lagoon caves.
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