Top Babymoon Destinations in the US
- Becca
- Jul 6, 2024
- 10 min read
The early stages of pregnancy can be a challenge. Unless you’re lucky, you’re probably dealing with nausea, food aversions and a level of exhaustion you’ve never quite experienced before. It can also feel a bit like a waiting game, waiting for your first doctors appointment, the first time you hear your baby’s heartbeat, waiting to learn the gender, and waiting to get beyond the 12-week danger zone.
Luckily, there are some exciting things that come along with pregnancy – like knowing a whole new set of adventures is waiting ahead for you, or creating a registry, planning a nursery and planning a babymoon!
As much as I love traveling abroad, being pregnant has made me want to stay closer to home, closer to my doctor and away from the concerns that come with traveling far while pregnant.
No matter what you’re looking for, whether it be one last luxurious escape before baby or just a chill weekend getaway, there are a ton of options for a fabulous babymoon in the US!
Indulge in your wanderlust for a little bit and check out our top babymoon destinations stateside.
1. Kauai, Hawaii
Hawaii has long been the perfect place for both honeymoons and babymoons — and it's pretty obvious to see why. The temperatures remain reasonably comfortable year-round, and there are plenty of spas, delicious food and outdoor exploration opportunities. Many people may think of Maui as the perfect babymoon destination, but we actually prefer the island of Kauai. With less crowds than Maui but equally beautiful scenery and beaches, Kauai is the perfect place to relax, unwind and treat yourself before baby arrives.
What to Do
For those seeking a quieter pace, the island offers plenty of opportunities to explore local culture and history, including museums, historical landmarks, farmers markets and more. You can tour the film locations of more than 60 movies and TV shows. Investigate some of Hawaii’s most incredible natural wonders, including the Nāpali Coast, Waimea Canyon and Wailua River. Explore welcoming small towns like Hanapēpē, Kōloa, Waimea, Kapaʻa and Hanalei, and discover pristine stretches of sand at Poʻipū Beach Park and other stunning beaches.
2. Nantucket, Massachusetts
This charming island off of Cape Cod is known for being a popular and posh summer destination. With gorgeous dune-backed beaches, beautiful cedar-shingled buildings, and manicured privets, it’s no wonder why it’s so popular. And don’t even get me started on the cobblestone streets of Nantucket Town! Lined with restaurants, high-end boutiques, and steepled churches, Nantucket is one of the best US babymoon destinations for those who love the coast, history, and relaxation.
What to Do
Visit a lighthouse, checkout the whaling museum, shop the many stores in Main town, wiggle your toes in the sand, appreciate the hydrangeas, take a stroll down the Sconset Bluff Walk, you could even take a sunset cruise through the harbor or a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard.
3. Palm Springs, CA
Experience the ultimate romantic getaway in Greater Palm Springs. Take some time to celebrate your love before welcoming your bundle of joy and rekindle the spark amongst the beauty of this Southern California oasis. It’s a dream destination for indulgence; with natural hot-water spas, luxury resort oases and yoga retreats galore, you can give mom-to-be the VIP treatment here.
What to Do
Unwind at a spa in Palm Springs then head about an hour out of town to Joshua Tree where the Mojave and Lower Colorado deserts meet. In addition to all the spas and yoga retreats, a big part of Palm Springs’ draw is the fabulous weather! Check out the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway or than just chill poolside with a book, mocktail, and an umbrella. For those that are into architecture, Palm Springs serves that up in spades! Plus, you might find some serious steals while vintage shopping and be sure to checkout out The SHAG Store.
4. Asheville, North Carolina
Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a small city with major charm, with tons of cool activities and a vibrant art scene. Fall in love with the historic architecture — like the Basilica of Saint Lawrence, or the iconic 19th-century Biltmore Estate, relish in the cultural arts, or bask in the breathtaking natural beauty.
What to DO
Discover attractions like Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home, and historic sites like The Omni Grove Park Inn and Thomas Wolfe’s home. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, hike the Appalachian Trail, and map out your adventure in national parks like Pisgah National Forest, NC’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Get out in nature with waterfalls, hiking, biking, and kayaking, or check out the stellar local culinary and craft beer and wine scene.
5. Charleston, South Carolina
Take in the antebellum architecture as you explore the historic streets of South Carolina’s biggest city. Once you’ve explored the wonders of the city, then get pampered with one of Charleston’s famous babymoon packages.
What to Do
Walk amongst the pastel houses and horse-drawn carriages of South Carolina’s charming port city, go shopping on King Street, or eat your way through the city. Architecture aficionados will fall in love wandering amongst the Colonial, Georgian Gothic Revival, Italianate, and Art Deco facades. If getting some sun is your thing, you will find more than a fair share of shoreline. Charleston is about two miles wide so it’s easy to bike around. Be sure not to overlook the quieter, off-the-beaten-path streets that offer hidden gems and local charm. There are distinct neighborhoods around the city, each with its own allure. South of Broad, and in particular Rainbow Row, is famous for its beautifully restored pastel townhouses. If you’re into architecture, check out one of the many old home tours. Aiken-Rhett House Museum is one of the most famous historic homes.
6. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is famous for its red rock landscapes and is the perfect place to explore, relax and rejuvenate. Sedona offers an unforgettable experience that not only delights and inspires, but fosters a deep connection to nature and self.
What to Do
Hike along the many trails that surround the Sedona area or do something a bit different like trying out an energy vortex for a one-of-a-kind yoga session or get a psychic reading from one of the countless fortune-tellers whose shops line the streets of Sedona. From day spas to weekend-long indulgences, there are an incredible array of spas in Sedona! It’s all about unwinding here. Be sure to sample the Southwestern cuisine. Sedona is a multi-cultural wonderland, and it’s reflected in the eats!
7. Ojai, California
Ojai is the ideal spot for a relaxing weekend getaway, famous as a modern-day hippie utopia. Ojai is all about small businesses and sourcing goods locally. From retro motels to vintage bookstores to palm readers, everything here is unique.
What to Do
Sample the olive oil infused with Pixie tangerines, bite into a fresh Valencian orange, and go for a stroll around town. Take a yoga class, lounge poolside, bike around the town, or swing by the spa for a massage. Whether you want to hike the beautiful surrounding area or take a load off with prenatal spa treatments, this is the place to be.
8. Kure Beach, North Carolina
For a quiet, relaxing beach getaway check out Kure Beach. Located just 18 miles from Wilmington, this small-town beach offers signature attractions, outdoor adventures and hidden gems. Recharge and reconnect in the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Kure Beach while tapping into childlike wonder in nature’s playground.
What to Do
Take in the ocean views from the seaside boardwalk and bench swings at Ocean Front Park. Reel in a catch of the day from the Kure Beach Fishing Pier. You could take a leisurely drive to historic Fort Fisher, or even take a ferry ride to Southport. Embark on a guided kayak tour of Zeke's Island Reserve, an unspoiled estuarine sanctuary filled with unique wildlife. Take a drive into Wilmington and stroll the boutique shops and art galleries or grab a bite to eat along the riverwalk. Plenty more restaurants and shops lie next door to Kure Beach in bigger Carolina Beach.
9. Big Sur & Carmel by the Sea, California
The rugged coastline of the Big Sur, running from San Simeon to Carmel, is full of 1,2000-foot cliffs and towing redwoods. These ancient forests have long been a retreat for generations of writers and artists. Carmel by the Sea is an adorable little town that looks like it's straight out of a fairy tale. They’re both spectacular destinations that offer a relaxing getaway surrounded by gorgeous scenery and charming small towns.
What to Do
Spend your afternoons wandering through the eucalyptus forests and splashing in the ocean, then get off your feet for a much-needed treatment at some of California’s best spas. Then head to Carmel by the Sea and check out the unique boutiques, chic art galleries, and cottages and get some good food.
10. Santa Fe, New Mexico
There is something so serene about the bold and beautiful landscape of the desert. If you’re looking for a babymoon destination that is relaxing, interesting, and has enough to do to keep you occupied but not so much that you feel wiped from sight-seeing, a Santa Fe vacation is the perfect babymoon for you! Countless artists, wellness gurus, and chefs have migrated here over the years, creating a rich cultural landscape full of incredible restaurants, galleries, yoga centers, and other babymoon musts. Santa Fe is known for its vibrant art, history and cultural scene. The city is also regarded as a premier destination for relaxation in a healing and restorative environment.
What to Do
Some of the best things to do on a Santa Fe babymoon include renting a bicycle and exploring the city on wheels, or riding one of the many local trails. A visit to the historic Santa Fe Plaza is a must – it’s full of unique shops and restaurants. You may even want to don your cowboy hat and head to the Santa Fe Opera for a unique desert performance. The stunning opera house is partially open-air, which allows for fantastic views of the sunset and night sky. Or check out the Ten Thousand Waves Spa where they have hot tubs they can set to a safe temperature for pregnant women. Eat your way through Santa Fe’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant food scene. There are tons of museums like the Mexico History Museum, the Museum of International Folk, the Museum of Indian Arts, and, of course, the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum. The Palace of the Governors is quite impressive, and if you love golf, the Links de Santa Fe is one of the most highly rated golf courses.
11. Newport, Rhode Island
Once referred to as "America’s First Resort," Newport has been welcoming visitors from around the world for nearly 400 years. Recently named one of the top destinations in the nation, it never disappoints. Surrounded by water on all sides, it was once a summer destination for some of the country’s wealthiest residents, who built the famed Newport Mansions. Now friendly to all, its beautiful architecture, history, galleries, shopping, restaurants, and activities thrill vacationers and babymooners alike.
What to Do
Newport has an amazing stretch of historic mansions that you see when you drive down Bellevue Avenue, then follow the signs to Ocean Drive to see even more beautiful homes. There are several mansions that you can go inside and tour. Check out the Marble House and The Breakers - a Vanderbilt home built in 1895 that’s absolutely stunning. Make sure you head to the town’s center, and walk along the Newport Harbor and Thames Street. It’s a great stretch of bars, restaurants and shops right along the water. Then relax at Gurney's Seawater Spa.
12. Key West, Florida
The Florida Keys are the perfect location for the ultimate babymoon! As the westernmost part of the Florida Keys, Key West is famed for its laid-back atmosphere and cultural richness. From strolling white sand beaches in the subtropical climate to indulging in local favorites like key lime pie, there’s something wonderful for every expecting couple to enjoy in Key West. With the abundance of resort and activity options in the area, you can curate any Key West babymoon your heart desires, whether it be relaxing in one of the beautiful Key West hotels or seeking adventure with your spouse before your bundle of joy arrives.
What to Do
Shop Lazy Way Lane, plan a romantic sunset dinner, head out on a boat trip for the day, sit poolside and sip mocktails, or get pampered at the spa. Filled with pastel-hued conch houses, the town’s Old Town Key West district invites you to meander through its quaint streets exploring art galleries and savoring moments of quiet reflection. Duval Street is where you want to be in Key West, where live music and entertainment set the tone for an unforgettable evening. Spend quality time with your partner as you indulge in some key lime pie at a local cafe. Also, don’t miss the Sunset Celebration, a nightly festival where artists, musicians, and performers gather at sunset.
13. Moab, Utah
Escape to the desert on your babymoon to Moab, Utah. Here, you can indulge in the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
What to Do
Depending on how you’re feeling, you can either venture to the iconic Arches National Park or Canyonlands, take a scenic boat tour of the Colorado River or walk around downtown Moab where you can meander through their unique, locally owned shops. Sitting close to both Canyonlands and Arches National Park, the Sorrel River Ranch is picturesquely situated along the Colorado River and surrounded by the rugged canyons, arches and red rock mesas of Utah. The ranch offers daily guided hikes, horseback riding, yoga classes and meditation sessions. You’ll also find a swimming pool, tennis and basketball courts, a spa and fitness center.
14. Stowe, Vermont
Retreat to the mountains of Vermont for a serene babymoon in the charming New England town of Stowe. While each season offers its own unique benefits, this town stands out as the perfect destination for a fall babymoon. During the autumn season, you can see vibrant fall foliage and take scenic drives through the mountains. If it’s apple orchards you’re after, there are several spread throughout the region.
What to Do
Tucked into a 120-acre wooded glade at the foothills of Mount Mansfield, Topnotch Resort is a perfect spot to spend your babymoon. Spend a day relaxing at the spa, or hit up the fitness center, get in some tennis time if you’re feeling sporty, fish in the Lamoille River, hang at the indoor pool or take in the beautiful scenery on horseback. The resort has plenty to offer for the ultimate getaway.
15. St. Michaels, Maryland
For a quaint, relaxing getaway check out St. Michaels, Maryland, voted one of the 10 best small coastal towns. An important seaport during the days of sail, the town still maintains its historic
nautical identity.
What to Do
Enjoy a day at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum or take some time to meander through St. Michael's unique shops and enjoy the restaurants along Talbot Street. Book massages at the spa, set sail on a sunset cruise, get sporty with a round of golf, then enjoy the local seafood. The town also offers guided walking, kayaking or biking tours, and beautiful gardens and orchards to explore. a. Located on Maryland's Eastern Shore, the Inn at Perry Cabin is a boutique waterfront resort and a popular spot that was used in filming the movie Wedding Crashers. The inn feels like a fabulous English country home where you can relax on the lawn with a mocktail and watch the sailboats go by.
No matter where you go, what you want to do or what kind of babymoon you're looking for, the key is to get away and enjoy some one on one time with your partner before baby arrives and I guarantee you cannot go wrong with any of the destinations on this list!
Happy babymooning!
Becca
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