For most destinations, May is a new beginning. The temperature is warming, the landscape is turning green, and the sky is a beautiful blue. The air is filled with energy. Winter is gone and the summer heat has not yet struck. It’s the perfect time for a honeymoon, and below are some of our best suggestions for a May honeymoon:
Ireland
May is the best month to visit Ireland, an island in the Atlantic Ocean. This is when the Emerald Isle’s genuine beauty comes to life, and its ancient castles surrounded by fresh greenery are at their most welcoming.
Couples will always remember where they spent their honeymoon, and a castle makes for some stunning memories. Ashford Castle in County Mayo offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. King George V and President Reagan stayed in this former home of the Guinness family. Visitors are invited to golf, bike, fish, horse ride, hunt, and practice falconry.
Suites and rooms are fit for royalty, as is the cuisine. Wine-loving honeymooners can locate the secret passages leading to the wine cellars, wine tastings, and wine pairings.
While in Dublin, couples should visit the serene St. Carmelite Church for its rich history and sheer, soothing calm. And don’t overlook St. Patrick’s, which has ruled for 8 centuries as the city’s main house of worship.
Embrace romance with a horse-drawn carriage through 15th-century Killarney pass St. Mary’s Cathedral and Ross Castle and hear the tales of the Castle while exploring this ancient property. Food and drink will be provided. While in Killarney, take an hour-long cruise around the lake.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini is the best Greek island to visit early in the season. The temperature is delightful, the prices are lower, and it beats the July and August crowds. The beaches are beautiful, especially Eros Beach, and the weather may or may not be warm enough for a swim, especially at the beginning of the month. Many visits enjoy the novelty of Perivolos Beach with its black sand.
Petit Palace Suites offers 23 luxurious suites with a private pool or jacuzzi surrounded by the magnificence of nature and the Aegean Sea. It is secluded enough for privacy yet near enough to the area’s shopping and nightlife. There are several restaurants overlooking the sea.
Massages can take place in the privacy of your suite or outdoors by the sea. The resort will arrange sunset candlelight dinners. The Petit Palace further pampers its guests with a swimming pool with a stunning view of the volcano, the pool bar, and sunbeds. It will help organize excursions and boat tours for its guests.
Anyone visiting Santorini should enjoy a sailing trip, a tour of the volcano, or sunset pictures by the 15th-century castle in Oia. These sunsets are the things of legends. The castle is on the highest elevation in the area overlooking the cliffs and cave houses below. A small chapel in the castle is dedicated to Saint Nikolaos.
Greek wines are growing in popularity, in large part due to the fertile soil resulting from the volcano. Santorini is filled with wineries.
The nightlife in Santorini is vibrant and alive. For a romantic cocktail in Fira Town, P.K. Cocktail Bar overlooks the volcano from the top of a dramatic cliff. The landscape is breathtaking, and the cocktails are handcrafted.
Fiji
Honeymooning here in May is an excellent time. It is part of the dry season yet still holds on to the tropical temperatures. It’s one of the prime times for surfing and diving.
Fili is actually an archipelago of 300 smaller islands in the South Pacific Ocean. The options of what to do here are almost endless. Take note that a non-stop flight from New York can take up to 17 hours, but Fiji’s surrealist beauty and opportunity for island hopping make it all worthwhile for couples seeking some exquisite relaxation.
Castaway Island is truly an island for castaways – to which guests keep coming back year after year for relaxation and the island’s white beaches.
The beachfront bungalows are air-conditioned and comfortable and ideal for a private getaway. The island has kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding as well as pools and a whirlpool spa. It offers PADI-certified diving courses.
The island’s Restaurant 1808 is right on the beach by the water.
Castaway Island has trails for hiking and a tennis court for a good workout, and it offers excursions to neighboring islands. Guests can also immerse themselves in Fijian culture through authentic ceremonies, dancing, stories, and cooking demonstrations. There are guided tours to the island of Modriki, where the real Castaway movie with Tom Hanks was filmed. And yes, the guide’s name will be Wilson.
To get the full stunning view of the white beaches, coral reefs, and azure waters, couples can request a helicopter tour of Castaway from Nadi International Airport.
A visit to Taveuni, Fiji’s third largest island, is advised for its magnificent Tavoro Waterfall Trails and one of the world’s tallest falls and swimming holes, three in total.
For couples wishing to spend a few days on Taveuni, there are several comfortable accommodations.
Mozambique
The weather in Mozambique in May comfortably hits the high 80s with cool evenings. The AZGO Festival in May promotes the local culture through art and music, and devoted fishermen will enjoy the fishing competition toward the end of the month on Inhaca Island. Mozambique’s tropical islands are one of its many honeymoon draws and Africa’s most popular beach destination.
One of Mozambique’s pure tropical pleasures is Anantara Bazarulo Island, a private retreat with 44 luxurious villas along the pristine shoreline. Guests can sail into the sunset or swim with the dolphins. The villas have every comfort, and some have a private plunge pool. The Indigo Bay Restaurant offers Dine by Design, which includes the chef creating a personalized meal and serving it in the romantic setting of your choice.
Couples shouldn’t miss a visit to Ibo Island for an exciting day trip. As you walk around the island, you will realize how beautiful it is. The island has some sandy beaches, even if it must be said that there are some even more “postcard beaches” on the islands north of Ibo.
A Sunset Dhow Safari out of the coastal town of Vilankulp brings couples to the lovely Bazaruto Island for a traditional boat excursion to stunning islands, pure beaches, and some outstanding snorkeling.
Zambia
Home of the walking safari, Zambia possibly offers the most authentic way in which to witness Africa’s incredible wildlife. Almost a third of the country is protected within national parks and if you’re a pair of wildlife lovers, there are few places better than Zambia for an animal-rich honeymoon. The fierce thunder of Victoria Falls simply makes the journey more epic.
May is arguably Zambia’s most beautiful month, with the vegetation at its lush best and Victoria Falls in full flow. By May, all of Zambia’s southern camps and lodges had reopened after the rains. May is not yet a prime time for wildlife viewing – the thick vegetation makes animals harder to spot. That said, Zambia’s guides are experts and guided game drives can still produce great sightings.
The Royal Livingston Hotel by the Zambezi River overlooking Victoria Falls is a true once-in-a-lifetime experience with wildlife roaming the property, spa massages by the river, and incredible rooms, some with balcony, veranda, and butler service. Restaurants serve incredible meals, and also with a view of the river.
The Sussi Chuma Lodge is also near the glorious Victoria Falls and by the Zambezi – with a few slight differences. For adventuresome couples intent on a genuine safari experience, the lodge offers treehouse accommodations along with walking and canoeing safaris, local tours, sunset cruises, and white water rafting helicopter excursions over Victoria Falls.
Botswana
For the best safaris, visit Botswana in May. It is the dry season with few expectations of rain. It is also the best time for viewing games and taking safari cruises on the Chobe River where many herds head for water during this time.
The Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge is organically designed like a bird’s nest to blend into the landscape of the Moremi Game Reserve and provides needed shade beneath the canopy of trees. They have air conditioning and private plunge pools, and the lodge has a state-of-the-art gym.
The lodge provides vehicle safaris and walking safaris that actually allow you to smell the grass and follow the tracks of the local wildlife. The region of filled with beauty, and the lodge also offers helicopter flights for its guests.
Being in Botswana is no reason for missing Victoria Falls in Zambia. An easy day trip takes visitors across the border to the town of Kasane and to the Falls. Victoria Falls can be explored at leisure before returning at the prearranged time and place.
Puerto Rico
Honeymooners will have the best time on the island of Puerto Rico during May, following the winter season and before the summer rains and hurricanes. Temperatures hover around a comfortable mid-80s. Puerto Rico is called the “Isle of Enchantment” due to its natural charm and great beaches.
Activities such as horseback riding, golfing, fishing, and all watersports will provide plenty of activities for any couple. And the shopping is great, as well. The Plaza Las Americas with over 300 shops is the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean.
Most of the luxury resorts are on the east side of the island while the central region’s Carite National Forest is a tropical haven.
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort has two miles of beautiful Atlantic Ocean beachfront and is close to the El Yunque National Forest. Rooms come with either an ocean or garden view, and the resort has several pools with private cabanas and loungers. The St. Regis Bahia is a welcome retreat with elite services.
Great golf and watersports are available to all guests, while the Iridium Spa aims to pamper and soothe. Couples can indulge in pre-dinner cocktails at the St. Regis Bar before enjoying a Mediterranean meal at Paros Restaurant.
There are plenty of exciting activities for couples, especially in or around the island’s capital, San Juan. Strolling through cobble-stoned Old San Juan is like stepping back to the 18th century with its historical and bright architecture. There are great restaurants on the Paseo de la Princesa.
No one should leave Puerto Rico before experiencing one of its most amazing phenomena, Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques. The bay lights up at night in a natural bioluminescent that glows in the dark. This must be seen to be believed.
London
London usually has mild weather in May that can touch the lower 60 degrees. It’s a perfect time for exploring this fabulous city and perhaps catching sight of a royal or two. Hotel prices are getting higher, but good deals are still available. Remember to get a sightseeing pass to save huge on entrance fees to most major sights. With palaces, cozy pubs, and lush greenery, there is much to explore here.
The Shangri La does indeed live up to its name and aims even higher. Starting on the 34th floor, the Shangri reaches high to the clouds for 18 more floors and 202 suites and rooms. It is the tallest building in Western Europe, and guests have the entire city at their feet. Its infinity pool is the highest in the city and is situated on the 52nd floor.
Dining is fit for royalty with five-course meals and an afternoon tea. Guests can opt for a room upgrade and in-room breakfast.
Couples should drop by Gordon’s Wine Bar near Trafalgar Square for a candlelit tryst in London’s oldest wine bar and relax over wine and cheese.
The River Thames used to be London’s main thoroughfare. Now taking a river cruise is the best way to see the city as the boat cruises past the Palace of Westminster, St. Paul Cathedral, the Globe Theater, and many other historic sights. The boats have a fully stocked bar.
When back on land, a stroll through the Royal Botanical Gardens and Kew includes 60,000 plants and a treetop walkway.
Pubs aren’t just bars in London. They are a second home, where everyone knows everyone else. Make new friends in a pub beer garden, grab a board game or a deck of cards, and become instantly surrounded by friendly neighbors.
Napa Valley, California
In May, Napa Valley leaves behind its rainy season and the temperature reaches the low 70s. With a blend of California cool and European elegance, this is the honeymoon destination for many.
Indian Springs Calistoga may not be the fanciest resort in Napa Valley, although it has luxury bungalows and cottages throughout the property and is unique and stunning. Located on 17 acres of hills, olive trees, and gardens, Indian Springs makes use of the four thermal geysers and mud to create a restorative experience.
Guests have dived into the therapeutic thermal pools since the 19th century and can now enjoy the poolside bar and food. The mud baths are comprised of spring mineral water and 100 percent pure volcanic ash and are treasured for their healing properties.
Napa Valley is not lacking for vineyards and wine tastings, but Schramsberg Vineyard takes it to another level. Schramsberg will conduct cave tours along with its wine-tasting and cheese pairing. Cave tours can be personalized and customized.
For true wine connoisseurs, Schramsberg has the only three-day wine camp that takes guests through every step of the wine-making process ending with how to create a wine menu. Graduates will receive an official certificate.
What better way to see Napa Valley than by taking a balloon ride over the rolling hills? Meet in downtown Napa for coffee and pastry at Model Bakery. A photographer will take everyone’s picture before boarding the one-hour flight.
New York City
For New York City, May is paradise. The snow and slush are a distant memory, and the oppressing summer humidity still hasn’t settled in. Everyone is gleeful, including the blooms that are flowering out of control. Unlike other, more relaxing beach honeymoons, couples will be faced with unlimited and exciting activities. The pace here is fast and exciting.
For a honeymoon, it doesn’t get any more iconic than a stay at the Plaza Hotel. The location amid the best shopping in the city and across from Central Park is perfect, just steps from Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Museum of Modern Art. And a quick bus ride away from the must-see Metropolitan Museum of Art.
The 102 suites and 282 rooms offer every possible luxury, as well as the many eateries in the hotel. Couples should not miss some relaxing time in the Champagne Bar or miss the unlimited shopping in the Boutique.
The Plaza will arrange a picnic in Central Park. Or it will transport guests by helicopter for a beach picnic in the Hamptons that includes champagne, shrimp cocktail, or lobster with truffle butter. At the end of the day, the helicopter will return its guests to the Plaza. Those are impressive honeymoon memories.
Couples will love to row a boat across Central Park Lake, which offers a spectacular view of the surrounding skyline.
The One World Observatory at the newly rebuilt Freedom Tower rises above the city. The Observatory provides a one-of-a-kind view of Manhattan, New Jersey, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Of course, the Empire State Building also offers a great view from the 86th floor.
A Bateaux dinner cruise may be the most memorable event during a New York City honeymoon. The three-hour cruise includes dinner, live entertainment, and a cash bar, all with a panoramic view of the city.
Sicily, Italy
Sicily, the southern part of Italy, is a lovely island in the Mediterranean. By May, the waters are warm enough for swimming before the real crowds invade the island.
Sicily is the setting for much of the Godfather movies; it has an active volcano, ruins, and incredible Italian cuisine. Couples will be spoiled for a choice of honeymoon resorts.
The Baglio Oneto is Sicily’s wine resort in Marsala and has been associated with the Oneto family for centuries and is surrounded by vineyards and olive trees. The resort has 47 luxury rooms decorated in the elegant Sicilian tradition. There are daily wine and coveted rare olive oil tastings and a demonstration tour showing how the wines are produced.
While in Sicily, couples can visit the capital, Palermo. The town is filled with medieval Gothic palaces and churches and the best of Byzantine Mosaic art, especially the Palermo Cathedral.
Cantina is Sicily’s second-largest town and is located at the foot of the active volcano, Mount Etna. Cantina’s town square, Piazza Duomo, has the grand Baroque Cathedral, which still has Roman baths underneath while across the square is the Diocesan Museum.
Monaco
Monaco has perfect May weather, but it has more than that. The anxiously awaited annual Monaco Grand Prix Formula 1 Race takes place in May and is the highlight of the month for many.
For honeymooners, Monaco has stunning beaches and its popular Grand Casino, which was used as the background for two Bond films, Golden Eye and Never Say Never Again. Regardless of where anyone looks, there is blue water, yachts, grand hotels, and prime boutiques. This isn’t the place for a McDonald’s franchise. However, Chef Alain Ducasse’s three-Michelin star Louis XV restaurant will have couples talking for years.
Monaco is often confused with Monte Carlo. Monte Carlo is a part of Monaco – the rich and most fabulous part. This is a country that takes wealth for granted and has no income tax. None. Needless to point out, the accommodations are fabulous.
The Le Meridien Beach Plaza has a private beach and is situated near shopping, restaurants, and Monte Carlo’s nightlife. With two pools and 397 suites and rooms, it exudes the luxury taken for granted here with views of the Mediterranean. Some rooms have private balconies.
Both of the resort’s dining options have the Mediterranean as a backdrop, and the concierge will happily arrange outings, private massages, or a cooking class.
The premier destination in Monaco is, of course, its Casino with its beaux-arts design. There is people-watching aplenty, but don’t expect the royal family – they are not permitted inside the casino. The décor is grand, and trying to spot the areas that appeared in the Bond films is fun.
After the casino, the royal palace is the next grand structure. The royal family still lives here. Visitors can see the exterior of the building or sign up for a tour of the state apartments, which happen to be open in May.
Former Princess Grace (Kelly) worked hard on building her lush Rose Garden overflowing with roses and other flower beds. Several of the roses were created specifically for the garden, which also contained many Mediterranean olive trees. There are fewer strolls and more romantic.
Croatia
Located in southeast Europe, Croatia has a very diverse landscape, from beaches along the Adriatic to mountains, several islands, and quaint towns straight out of a fairytale. May brings great weather before the start of the tourist season and is perfect for anyone not looking for scorching heat. Dubrovnik by the Adrian Sea is a popular destination.
The Dubrovnik Palace is by the seafront with two outdoor and one indoor pool. The Palace offers diving certification and a tennis court along with its many scenic hiking paths. The 308 rooms and suites are plush, and some have a private terrace. The VIP section comes with its own entrance and parking spaces. Dining is first-rate.
When in Dubrovnik, couples can explore the breathtaking Rector’s Palace, which has been turned into a museum with grand staircases and décor, creating a picture of how the elite lived in the 15th century.
A cable car out of Dubrovnik will take couples to the top of Mount Srd for a bird’s eye look at the city, the sea, and Lokrum Island. Lokrum Island and its blue waters offer kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and secret sea caves. The island also has a plethora of gorgeous roaming peacocks.
Ladakh, India
The summer in Ladakh is in full swing by May and promises sunshine and great weather. Perfect for a honeymoon and for visiting the lakes, villages, and other sights. It’s for couples loving a dreamlike landscape and some extremely high hiking up the surrounding mountains.
The Grand Dragon Ladakh in Leh Ladakh is one of the only luxury accommodations in the area. With its impressive decorations and art collection, they also offers first-rate amenities and solar-powered heating. The rooms have marvelous mountain views
The Zasgyath Restaurant serves a multinational cuisine with outdoor dining weather permitting.
Pangong Lake, sitting at an elevation of 4,350 meters, is beautiful and its 12 kilometers should be explored and many pictures taken.
A visit to the 17th-century Leh Palace is almost a given. Once the home of the royal family, it is now Ladakh’s best-loved attraction and a splendid example of Tibetan architecture. The view from the top of the hill is incredible.
The palace can be explored, as can the monastery that is a part of the structure. The monastery has a statue of Buddha, paintings dating back 450 years, and other artistic artifacts, including jewelry, crowns, and dresses.
Kyoto, Japan
By May, Kyoto has lost its winter chill and is embracing the warmth of spring. It is the period before the summer humidity arrives, perfect for exploring the many beautiful gardens and temples, which makes Kyoto one of the most romantic of destinations.
The Suiran Hotel by the Hozu River and surrounding lush green hills is immersed in Japanese culture, from 36 comfortable bedrooms to gourmet meals.
The spa can be found within the hotel’s secluded garden for open-air hot spring treatments.
Kyoto has a long history, and Sanjo Dori is a street that blends the new with the old. Stroll down Sanjo Dori for the oldest clock shop, which opened in 1890, along with boutiques and Japanese cafes.
Japan is known for its stunning gardens and has turned them into an art form. Take in the sights with a unique garden tour. Their original purpose was religious – to provide the faithful with a place to meditate. Today, they are mostly relaxing and aesthetically beautiful. The four-hour tour takes visitors through Japanese history and culture during its visits to several natural gardens.
