Travel Tidbits - Most Popular Honeymoon Locations by State

 Wedding season runs from late spring to fall, but wedding planning is a year-round process. Planning your dream wedding takes time, especially when it comes to booking venues and destinations well in advance.

Everyone approaches this differently. Some hire professionals, others handle it themselves. Regardless, it all begins with a Google search. The team at Rare Carat recently released data on the most-searched honeymoon destinations by state. 

Santorini, Greece, has emerged as the most popular honeymoon destination in the U.S., claiming the top spot in 14 states. Its charm has captivated couples from states across the country, including Alabama, Arizona, and Texas. The island’s stunning views, romantic atmosphere, and rich history continue to attract those seeking a picturesque and memorable escape.

Italy follows closely behind, ranking first in 11 states, with a notable concentration in the East and Southeast. States like Florida, Georgia, and Illinois show strong preference for the Italian destination, drawn to its iconic landmarks, cuisine, and romantic vibe. Italy’s cultural appeal and ease of access for U.S. travelers make it a perennial favorite.

The Maldives ranks third, securing first place in 10 states. Its popularity spans across the South and Midwest, including states like Arkansas, Louisiana, and North Dakota. Known for its luxurious resorts and clear blue waters, the Maldives is often associated with high-end getaways, making it a top choice for couples looking to splurge on their honeymoon.

Bali, Indonesia, takes fourth place, with 8 states naming it the top honeymoon destination. California, Hawaii, and Nevada are among the states where Bali ranks first, likely due to its exotic allure, vibrant culture, and affordable luxury offerings. The island’s remote location and tropical climate also make it an appealing option for those seeking something off the beaten path.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia, ranks fifth, topping the list in 3 states: New York, North Carolina, and Virginia. While more limited in its reach compared to the top four, Bora Bora’s turquoise waters, overwater bungalows, and exclusive feel give it a unique appeal among certain U.S. states.

Fiji follows closely behind, securing first place in just 2 states: Montana and West Virginia. While Fiji remains a dream destination for some, its appeal seems more niche, likely appealing to those in search of a truly remote and untouched paradise.

Finally, Thailand ranks first in 2 states: South Carolina and Utah. Despite its relatively low ranking, Thailand’s exotic culture, affordable luxury, and vibrant landscapes have earned it a place in the hearts of a select few U.S. couples seeking adventure and romance abroad.

Full list of the most popular honeymoon destinations in each U.S. state: 

Rank	Destinations	Number of states it ranked first in	States it ranked first in
1	Santorini, Greece	14	Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Texas
2	Italy	11	Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, and Wisconsin
3	Maldives	10	Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming
4	Bali, Indonesia	8	Alaska, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Washington
5	Bora Bora, French Polynesia	3	New York, North Carolina, and Virginia
6	Fiji	2	Montana and West Virginia
7	Thailand	2	South Carolina and Utah

Methodology

The study analyzed the most-searched honeymoon destinations across the US, focusing on 59 popular locations. Out of these, seven destinations stood out. 

The study ranked the destinations based on how many states each ranked first in Google searches, with the destination leading in the most states taking the top spot.