Best Honeymoon Destinations On The East Coast

A honeymoon is one of the most important and most memorable events a couple will experience. One of the best regions in the country to consider when planning for that perfect honeymoon is along the East Coast, from the upper reaches of Maine to the furthest destinations of Florida. Here is a brief introduction to just five of the very best honeymoon destinations on the East Coast.

Hilton Head, South Carolina
www.hiltonhead.com

Featuring more than 12 miles of pristine beaches, picturesque vistas and world-class resorts, Hilton Head is a perfect choice for a honeymoon getaway. Located near the southernmost border of South Carolina, Hilton Head is the largest barrier island in the Southeastern U.S. and second largest on the East Coast. Among the most alluring resorts on the island is the multi award-winning Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, featuring luxurious vacation rentals, world-class golf and tennis, upscale shopping and dining and so much more. Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort offers a collection of breathtaking wedding venues and honeymoon packages, which include lavish accommodations, fine dining and shopping at Shelter Cove Harbour and a host of outdoor activities.

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Southernmost House, Key West (credit: Randy Yagi)
Florida Keys
www.fla-keys.com

One of the most intriguing East Coast honeymoon destinations lies on a coral archipelago consisting of hundreds of islands that extend to the southernmost tip of the continental U.S. The mesmerizing Florida Keys extends 120 miles via the Overseas Highway from the Florida Mainland to Key West. The most unique lodging in the Florida Keys is Jules' Undersea Lodge, the world's only underwater hotel, located in Key Largo. But not all honeymooners will relish the thought of scuba diving to a depth of 21 feet in order to reach the hotel entrance. While Islamorada is another enchanting spot for a honeymoon, the best selection of romantic lodging can be found in Key West. Top recommendations for luxury accommodations include Sunset Key Cottages, the Almond Tree Inn and Casa Marina, along with more affordable options like the Orchid Key Inn and the Southernmost House.

Martha's Vineyard (credit: Randy Yagi)
Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts
www.mvol.com

Located just seven miles southwest of Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard is a convenient island getaway only accessible by boat or plane. The East Coast's third largest island features six lovely seaside villages, stunning vistas, eclectic choices for shopping and a wealth of romantic accommodations for honeymooners. Among recommendations for an unforgettable honeymoon stay are the Harborview Hotel and the Hob Knob in Edgartown, the Mansion House in Vineyard Haven and the famous gingerbread houses in Oak Bluffs. There are many attractions for newlyweds to enjoy on Martha's Vineyard, such as a boat tour, a stroll along South Beach and romantic dining at places like L'etoile and The Sweet Life.

Watch Hill, Rhode Island
www.visitwatchhill.com

Located on the spectacular southwestern shoreline of Rhode Island, Watch Island features a luxury resort recently portrayed as a "honeymooner's dream." That resort is the incomparable Ocean House, Rhode Island's only Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond property and a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux collection of luxury hotels and restaurants. The centerpiece of the property is the namesake Ocean House, a strikingly beautiful Victorian-era hotel with 65 exquisitely appointed guestrooms and suites, in addition to luxury cottages and villas for even more privacy and intimacy. Also on the property is the acclaimed Seasons restaurant and the award-winning Oh! Spa.The lovely village of Watch Hill is the epitome of old New England style and grace and features outstanding restaurants like St. Clair Annex and many attractions, including ocean tours and the Flying Horse Merry-Go-Round, the oldest carousel in the country.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock
Savannah, Georgia
www.savannah.com

With live oak trees elegantly graced with Spanish moss, world-renowned architecture and classic Southern charm, Savannah has all the makings for an unforgettable honeymoon. The oldest city in Georgia, Savannah is frequently mentioned as one of the most romantic cities in America and is home to several fanciful hotels and bed and breakfasts. Among the leading recommendations for a honeymoon stay are the Planters Inn, Hamilton Turner Inn and Ballastone Inn, all offering romance packages which include an intimate dinner and a whimsical ride in a horse-drawn carriage. Two of the best outdoor activities for honeymooners are a leisurely stroll through the fascinating Savannah Historic District and a tour of one or more of the historical plantations, such as the Wormsloe State Historic Site.

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Randy Yagi is a freelance writer covering all things San Francisco. In 2012, he was awarded a Media Fellowship from Stanford University. His work can be found on Examiner.com Examiner.com.