How to plan the Perfect Honeymoon in South Florida

With world-class beaches, big-city swagger, and culture in spades, South Florida is an ideal honeymoon destination that’s as accessible as it is memorable. So it’s no wonder that when Expedia surveyed 1,500 people in relationships about where they’d like to go on their honeymoon, both Miami Beach and Palm Beach were among the top 10 destinations. When asked about planning their ideal postnuptial getaway, 54% of respondents said they prefer romantic activities, 52% crave relaxation and pampering, and 48% want to visit museums, art galleries, and shows. South Florida meets all these criteria and more, so if you’re ready to hit Ocean Drive with your ride-or-die, follow this South Florida honeymoon guide.

About South Florida

Fly into Miami International Airport (MIA) and rent a car, so you can explore the expansive swath that encompasses Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. Miami neighborhoods to scope out include glitzy Miami Beach, elegant Coconut Grove, mural-covered Wynwood, and Cuban-flavored Little Havana. After a few days of hustle and bustle, head up the Atlantic coast to indulge in some R&R in swanky Palm Beach.

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What to see and do

Starting in Miami, set the mood with a visit to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, which overlooks Biscayne Bay in the upscale Coconut Grove neighborhood. Stroll hand in hand through 10 acres of gardens and the stately 1916 villa that once served as the winter retreat of wealthy farm machinery entrepreneur James Deering.

Time-travel to the 1920s and ‘30s on the Miami South Beach Art Deco Walking Tour. Not just for architecture aficionados, this 2-hour excursion is rated 4.9/5 stars by Expedia travelers; it includes the Versace mansion and famous film locations. Art lovers should also visit Miami’s Design District, a “creative neighborhood” chock full of galleries and boutiques—the perfect place to find a honeymoon souvenir.

Virginia Key Beach Park with its mile-long stretch of shoreline, seaside antique carousel, and secluded hammock trails is ideal for couples. Rent beach cruiser bikes via the Virginia Key Outdoor Center, then stick around for a moonlit kayaking tour. 

In Palm Beach, relaxation is the name of the game. Indulge in retail therapy at Antique Row or the Palm Beach Outlets, then take a sunset catamaran cruise aboard the aptly named Hakuna Matata.

Palm Beach also offers highly rated snorkeling excursions, such as the Private Scuba & Snorkel Tour with Laura Parke, where you’ll have the chance to spot manatees, more than 650 species of fish, and 250 types of coral. Professional underwater photos are included.

Where to eat

In Miami, class things up in Wynwood with sushi at Hiyakawa Miami. The traditional-meets-contemporary Japanese restaurant prepares no more than 50 meals per night, so make reservations ASAP. Save room for dessert at The Salty Donut.

Another option is the upscale-yet-comfortable Casa Tua Miami, a Mediterranean eatery in the Brickell neighborhood near downtown. Request a table in the cozy library or in the patio garden under the twinkle lights.

In Miami’s Little Havana, grab ice cream at Azucar, where the Cuban-inspired flavors include café con leche, caramel flan, and sweet plantain. Afterward, have a drink down the street at Ball & Chain, a welcoming venue for Cuban-style music and dancing.

In Palm Beach, dine at the Leopard Lounge at the well-appointed Chesterfield Hotel. The feline-inspired nightspot’s menu includes elevated comfort foods like lobster risotto, shrimp stroganoff, and vegan chili.

Across the bridge in West Palm Beach, find more feel-good fare at Table 26. Start with cast iron shrimp and grits, split the lamb burger with a side of lobster mac and cheese, and for dessert share the warm bread pudding with dulce de leche ice cream. 

Where to stay

Tucked away on a square-mile stretch just north of Miami Beach, the Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club in Surfside makes for an ideal oasis. Newlyweds will enjoy the full-service spa and two adults-only swimming pools.

Or stay at the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach, whose curved architecture became an instant landmark when the hotel opened on Millionaire’s Row in 1954. Reserve a poolside cabana and tickets for BleauLive, the hotel’s outdoor music series.

Ready to slow down? Book a stay at The Breakers in Palm Beach for oceanfront luxury. Founded in the late 19th century by railroad magnate Henry Flagler, the hotel’s Gilded Age guests included Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and other A-listers. Enjoy the private beach, full-service spa, multiple pools, nine restaurants, tennis courts, and golf course. 

For couples who want to hit the links, there’s no better place than PGA National Resort, home of the PGA Tour’s Honda Classic. After a round of golf, treat yourselves to a couples’ massage in the 40,000-square-foot spa and a rejuvenating soak in the outdoor mineral pools.

The best part? All of these hotels are Expedia VIP Access properties, meaning they consistently meet tough standards for quality and service—plus Expedia Rewards members can take advantage of free perks.