Sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, crystal clear blue water…did we just describe your dream honeymoon? If you said yes, these tips are for you! We’ve teamed up with Be Inspired PR to put together the ultimate dos and don’ts of planning a perfect tropical honeymoon – scroll down to read from industry pros on what to do and what not to do before heading off to the beach together!

DON’T forget to pack photo-worthy accessories!

“Perfect partner, check. Perfect destination, check. You are ready for the tropical trip of a lifetime! Don’t forget your bridal swimsuit and accessories to complete your photo-ready. These photos will last a lifetime, and you want to look chic and blissful posing with your partner!” – Kat Platt, Co-Founder & Designer, Bliss-On by Kat Platt


DO have a loose itinerary!

“My best tip for a tropical vacation is to plan a loose itinerary. Do your research to know all the good local spots, what to bring, what there is to do and where you should explore. I say put together a ‘loose itinerary’ because you always want to leave time to just relax by the pool or the ocean and actually rest or read a book rather than being on the go the whole time. A tropical vacay is meant to refresh you!”- Kari Dirksen, CEO and Lead Planner, Feathered Arrow Events 


DO consider hurricane season and travel insurance!

“When planning a tropical honeymoon, you must consider the time of year you’ll be traveling. For example, if it’s during Caribbean hurricane season, consider an island outside of the traditional hurricane belt like Aruba or Curacao or if you’re up for a longer flight, Bora Bora or the Maldives. Either way, travel insurance is a must to protect this most important first trip as newlyweds!” – Carli Fernandez, Founder & Travel Designer at The Honeymoon Concierge 


DON’T underestimate how long it takes to plan everything.

“Because demand is up, book your stay as early as you can: 9-11 months in advance is ideal and will give you the most hotel and room category options, plus you can take advantage of cancellation policies that are still pretty flexible at the moment. You’re also going to want to book the finer details before you arrive as well– last-minute rental cars, activities and dining reservations can be challenging to secure. If you’re booking a luxury hotel or resort, reach out to a local travel professional for expertise as they will be up to date on the current status and quality of the hotels, and able to share about new hotel openings, current promotions and assist with the ever-changing Covid travel restrictions.” – Carli Fernandez, Founder & Travel Designer at The Honeymoon Concierge


DON’T base all of your research on Google!

“While searching for places to stay, restaurants to try, and activities to schedule online can be a great starting point, think beyond what you find online! Ask friends or family members that have been to your destination what they recommend – sometimes a firsthand recommendation from someone you trust is more worthwhile than a 5-star review on Yelp!” – AJ Williams, Founder & Creative Director, AJ Events


DO sneak in a few surprises!

“Every tropical honeymoon will include the “standards” – lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun by the ocean, maybe a snorkeling trip or a deep sea fishing excursion, and of course, lots of tropical food and drink! But it’s worth it to add in some unexpected surprises! Plan a few for your partner, and have your partner do the same! Schedule a couple’s massage together at your resort’s spa, spend the day shopping and browsing local boutiques to find something to bring back to your home together, or plan a surprise sunrise breakfast. It’ll be so worth it to have a few tricks up your that your partner isn’t expecting!” – AJ Williams, Founder & Creative Director, AJ Events