Tuesday, August 11, 2020

Drive-Friendly Honeymoon Spots

Words by Kacey Mya

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced people to change their travel plans, which disrupted and rescheduled honeymoons around the world. It's heartbreaking to cancel the dream vacation you and your partner have looked forward to for a long time. If you're wondering how to handle the change in your plans, try imagining your honeymoon as a road trip.

You can plan a romantic road trip if you pick the right destinations. Read this guide to learn how to have a healthy, drive-friendly honeymoon that gives you and your partner time away from home without risking your health.

Video courtesy of Explore Charleston

1. Charleston, South Carolina

The historic town of Charleston has been a romantic getaway for quite some time. The cobblestone streets and architecture give the city an otherworldly atmosphere. While you visit with your partner, enjoy a private horse-drawn carriage ride or an outdoor downtown yoga class. There are also plenty of bed and breakfasts to choose from, so you can eat dinner on a quiet balcony outside of your room.

Video courtesy of Visit Savannah

2. Savannah, Georgia

Drive down to Savannah to celebrate your love under trees draped with Spanish moss. The city invites visitors to relax and take it easy, which is exactly what everyone should do on their honeymoon. When you're not planning your wedding, think of date ideas like picnicking in Forsyth Park or watching the sunrise at Tybee Island. If you want to throw something unique into your honeymoon plans, don't miss out on the many ghost tours in the downtown district.

Video courtesy of Explore Asheville

3. Asheville, North Carolina

Do you feel the Blue Ridge Mountains calling you to Asheville? There are many things for honeymooners to do in this hidden getaway. Besides the traditional activities like hiking or camping, you and your partner can also visit an outdoor brewery to try the endless craft beer you'll only find in Asheville. The city is known for its many family-owned breweries, so you'll have plenty to pick from. Don't forget to check out the waterfalls or book a private air balloon ride, too!

Video courtesy of Visit Portland Maine

4. Portland, Maine

Portland is the best place to escape to if you want a scenic fall getaway. Sip coffee on the porch of your rental cabin in the crisp morning air and listen to the multicolored fall foliage rustle as the sun rises. Visit a new local restaurant every night and you'll see why tourists really fall in love with Portland during romantic or even family vacations. When you want to walk off your last delicious meal, explore the Eastern Promenade's trails with an evening stroll or afternoon bike ride.

Video courtesy of Visit California

5. Big Sur, California

Adventurous honeymooners will want to drive out to Big Sur for an enchanting trip. Cliffs line the coastline, so every hiking trail has a fabulous view. Limekiln State Park is only one of the places to camp under the stars after you drive down Highway One for the legendary seaside sights. At the end of your trip, sneak off to Purple Sand Beach, where you can walk across soft purple sand.

Video courtesy of Visit Florida

6. Sanibel Island, Florida

Many newlyweds want to jet off to Florida, but you can drive there instead and end up on idyllic Sanibel Island. It's a dreamy beach town that doesn't have any of the tourist traps or busy beaches. Rent a cozy cottage with ocean views and collect whole conch shells from participating in the area's most popular activity. When you find yourself getting hungry, there's always the many restaurants that offer private meals on the beach.

Research While You Plan

The only extra step you need to take to have a healthy and drive-friendly honeymoon is to research your destination's COVID-19 rules. Each state and city handles safety precautions differently, so brief yourself on potential curfews and distancing rules to plan a safe honeymoon you'll remember forever.