Dreamy Babymoon Destination Ideas: Where To Go Before Your Little One Arrives

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An expectant pregnant mother rests her hands on her stomach with the unborn baby inside, while sitting at an airport.
Photo credit: Odua Images via Shutterstock

With baby on the way, plan one more great adventure before baby arrives. Babymooning is a wonderful chance for a couple to get away for a final family vacation without diapers, strollers and such. Choose a babymoon destination that offers the best of what you enjoy when traveling, whether that’s plenty of spa time, wide open stretches of sand and surf or wooded hiking trails. Here are our favorite babymoon ideas to help expectant parents plan.

Life is about to change, in the best possible way. You and your spouse are getting ready to welcome a baby, and things will never be the same. But wait a minute! Things will never be the same! 

While bringing a little one into your lives is a joyous event, it also means that, for at least the next 18 years or so, it will rarely be just the two of you.

So why not consider a romantic babymoon? Enjoy a couple’s getaway and celebrate the big, wonderful changes that are on the way. Where should you go? Here are 30 babymoon destinations to get you started!

Babymoon Ideas for Beach Lovers

It’s going to be a while before you and your other half can relax on a sandy beach, cocktails (or mocktails) in hand, palm trees swaying in the distance. Take your chance now!

From coast to coast, there are terrific beaches for a relaxing babymoon. Stay low-key with simple guest rooms near the beach, or splash out at a luxury resort with ocean views where your toes are only a few feet from the sand and sea.

Check out these destinations for a beachy babymoon:

Wrightsville Beach pier in North Carolina, a great babymoon destination for couples
Pier at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. Photo credit: Sarah Ricks

North Carolina

There are more than 300 miles of beaches in North Carolina, the majority on the laid-back Outer Banks.

Rent a beach house or settle into a casual beach hotel, and spend your days reading books, making plans and falling asleep to the sound of the crashing surf.

Other Babymoon-Worthy Beaches

  • Hilton Head – This South Carolina island has golf courses, gardens and a major Disney resort.
  • Bahamas – We love this Caribbean island paradise!
  • St. Barth – Playground for the rich and famous, St. Barth (or St. Barts) extends a warm French welcome to visitors.
View of the beach in Navarre, Florida, a super babymoon destination for couples
Navarre, Florida Photo credit: Breeze Leonard

Florida Babymoon Ideas

Florida Beaches

Well, duh. The Sunshine State is swathed in beaches, and the weather is usually fine for beachgoing from at least March through October. Gulf of Mexico beaches usually have calmer surf and whiter sands. Atlantic beaches can be equally appealing, often with the added appeal of a lively city as a backdrop.

Look for beachfront resort properties for your Florida babymoon, like the five-star Ritz Carlton Amelia Island, The Breakers in Palm Beach or Hawk’s Cay in the Florida Keys. There are even all-inclusive resorts in Florida, which makes vacation budgeting easier.

Florida, Beyond the Beach

There’s a lot more to Florida than theme parks and beautiful beaches, though those are reason enough to visit! Florida also has interesting, historic cities with charming downtown areas, great cultural offerings, exciting cities, and incredible parks and wildlife.

Try these Florida destinations for a warm and sunny babymoon:

Sunset at Siesta Key Beach is a treat to enjoy on your babymoon
Siesta Key Beach is central Sarasota’s gateway to the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico, an island with luxurious amenities and a relaxed vibe. Photo credit: VisitSarasota.com

Siesta Key

This barrier island off the coast of Sarasota has one of the world’s best beaches, plus a cute commercial area with plenty of places for open-air cafes to satisfy expecting moms’ cravings.

Over on the mainland, Sarasota offers museums, parks and shopping.

Mount Dora

Antiques shopping, a palm tree-lined historic district, a surprisingly sophisticated dining scene and a sparkling lake make this central Florida city a lovely pick for a quiet, just-the-two-of-us getaway.

Facades of buildings in St. Augustine Florida
In addition to the beautiful beaches, St. Augustine offers so much history and culture to explore. Photo credit: @ samot /depositphotos.com

St. Augustine

The oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is also a romantic one, with gorgeous Spanish architecture, lamplit streets, courtyard dining, a dramatic oceanfront fortress. Wide, sandy beaches are just a short drive away.

More Florida Babymoon Destinations

  • The Florida Keys – Key West may be a party spot, but this beautiful chain of islands makes a perfect babymoon getaway for sun, sea and tropical vibes.
  • Orlando-Kissimmee – Of course you’re going to want to bring your little one to Disney World—but it’s going to be a few years before he or she is ready. So enjoy downtown Orlando and adjacent theme parks—just stay off the roller coasters! Head to a spa for a nice, relaxing prenatal massage instead.
  • Naples – One of Florida’s toniest cities, Naples still has a small-town feel, plus excellent beaches, golf and dining.

Babymooning in California

If your babymoon plans have you California dreaming, rest assured that the Golden State has all the makings of a perfect couples’ getaway with exciting cities, hundreds of miles of spectacular coastline, charming seaside towns and majestic national parks. California really does have a lot to offer—even if you have to save Napa Valley wine tastings for when you’re not pregnant!

Here’s a small sampling of our favorite California babymoon destination ideas:

Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco
The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic San Francisco landmark. Photo credit: Gwen Kleist

San Francisco

You might not want to push a baby stroller up those steep streets, but the scenery and culture in San Francisco are second to none.

Cruise to Alcatraz, ride the streetcars, wave to the sea lions at Pier 39 and soak up the ambiance of this international city.

Big Sur

Make it a babymoon road trip from San Francisco down to Big Sur, passing the USA’s most stunning coastline along the way.

Cliffs, crashing waves, gigantic rock formations and historic lighthouses mark the way along California’s Highway 1 and Big Sur is a famous wellness and spa destination.

San Diego Zoo flamingos
Flamingos at the San Diego Zoo. Photo credit: Lisa Davis from Pixabay

San Diego

California’s southernmost big city combines, history, scenery and attractions for a fun-filled babymoon.

Visit the renowned San Diego Zoo (and vow to return with your little one), dine out in the romantic Gaslamp Quarter or watch surfers take to the waves at one of the city’s many beaches.

More California Babymoon Ideas

  • Yosemite National Park – America’s most iconic national park offers waterfalls, wildlife and amazing scenery at every turn.
  • Sacramento – California’s state capital offers a Gold Rush-era old town, history museums and a booming farm-to-table food scene.
  • San Luis Obispo – Quirky, artsy, foodie SLO is known for it historic Spanish missions and a weekly farmers’ market.

Texas Babymoon Ideas

Before your tummy is as big as Texas, discover the diverse wonders of the Lone Star State. From modern cities with towering skyscrapers to historic Spanish-colonial towns, to Wild West outposts, meandering rivers and sandy beaches, Texas is full of surprises.

Read More: Texas Resorts Worth the Splurge!

Consider these locales for a Texas-sized babymoon:

The Alamo in downtown San Antonio Texas
Photo credit: Visit San Antonio

San Antonio

With its Spanish-influenced architecture, poignant history as the seat of the Texas battle for independence and the home of the Alamo, pretty San Antonio has a lot of history to take in.

The River Walk is delightful dining and entertainment area, and 343-acre Brackenridge Park is a woodsy retreat from urban life, with the San Antonio Zoo, museums, gardens and a golf course.

The view from the Reunion Tower GeO-Deck, one of the best things to do in Dallas with kids.
The view from the Reunion Tower GeO-Deck in Dallas. Photo credit: CityPASS

Dallas

West meets Tex meets Mex in The Big D, as Dallas is affectionately known. Texas’ most modern city has loads of diversions for a babymooning, from art museums, historic sites and sporting events to aquariums and botanical gardens.

The Dallas Downtown Historic District is walkable and home to several boutique hotels.

The Hike and Bike Trail, one of the best things to do in Austin on a babymoon
The Hike and Bike Trail along Lady Bird Lake in Austin. Photo credit: Heidi Gollub

Austin

Babymooners who want to kick back and enjoy live music, rowdy bars, two-steppin’ and late nights out (OK, so you drink sparkling cider instead of a cold beer!) while they still can, should head to Austin, Texas’s capitol city and easily its most laid-back.

This college town knows how to party, but it also has museums, great cuisine and ample outdoor recreation, including kayaking right in the heart of town.

More Texas Babymoon Ideas

  • Marfa – Things are a little weirder in Marfa, and that’s just why people love it. Stay in a vintage Airstream, stargaze and meditate in the desert.
  • South Padre Island – Any time that’s not spring break, this surprisingly tropical Gulf of Mexico island is a tranquil retreat.
  • New Braunfels – Float through town on a spring-fed river, antique shop and eat German food!

In the City: Urban Babymoon Ideas

I’ll never forget our babymoon experience in London. I surprised my husband with front-row tickets to a rock music theatrical show. He spent the first half of the performance worried that the loud music was going to make our little one deaf in-utero! I had to search Google during the intermission to reassure him that she would be fine!

If a city break with theatre (loud music or not!), fine dining, shopping and museum-going sound like your ideal babymoon package, here are some suggestions:

NYC Skyline
Photo credit: IM_photo / Shutterstock

New York City

With plenty of daily flights, loads of guest rooms, and restaurants, museums, theatre and shopping galore, New York City is a great destination for a cosmopolitan couples’ break.

Enjoy the sights of the Big Apple and imagine the day you’ll be able to share them with your child—once he or she is old enough.

Photo credit: Marriott

Las Vegas

Not the most obvious choice for expecting mothers, I realize. But Sin City has a lot of slightly less sinful diversions, including taking in terrific shows, like Cirque du Soleil, dining at celebrity chefs’ restaurants and staying in luxury hotels.

Plus, Las Vegas has some incredible hotel swimming pools where you can spend your time lounging with a mocktail or two! There are even plenty of free things to do in Las Vegas to make the trip more budget-friendly (or recoup some of the losses at the roulette table).

Boston

The capital of Massachusetts and the biggest city in New England, Boston’s historic core still retains much of its colonial past. Tree-lined streets are lined with brick rowhouses, swans glide through verdant city parks and there are great, casual dining options.

Since you won’t be able to take your little one to a sporting event anytime soon, now’s the time to score tickets to an MLB or NFL event.

Other Top Babymoon Cities 

  • Phoenix and Scottsdale – These neighboring Arizona cities offer luxe spa and wellness hotels, golf courses, and desert ambiance.
  • Chicago – Come here for the stunning architecture, world-class museums and pizza!
  • Charleston – South Carolina’s port city has Civil War history, cobblestone streets, and loads of charm.

On the Move: Active Babymoon Ideas

Of course, you need to check with your doctor first. But if you’re a pregnant woman who’s used to being active on vacation, you don’t have to spend your entire babymoon lounging at the pool—unless you want to!

Kayaking, swimming, snorkeling and walking are all safe activities during pregnancy. Though the  American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says skydiving is a definite no-no! Sorry, gals.

Get moving on your babymoon in these destinations for active couples:

Oahu sunset enjoyed on a babymoon
Oahu sunset. Photo credit: Pixabay

Hawaii 

Try snorkeling in Maui, kayaking to waterfalls in Kauai or just walking on Waikiki’s dreamy sand beaches. Take a break in a beach cabana, or get a couples’ massage under the palm trees.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Here are the highlights to figure out which is the right Hawaiian island for your babymoon.

Neon Portland Oregon sign at dusk
Portland, Oregon is a dream US destination. Photo credit: Pixabay

Oregon

Base in Portland and explore gardens and the city’s riverfront or head to hiking trails outside the city to discover waterfalls and verdant forests. Walk Astoria’s wild Pacific Ocean beaches or kayak part of the Columbia River.

covered bridge in Vermont
Covered bridge in Vermont. Photo credit: Keri Baugh

Vermont

OK, so you can’t go skiing this year. But you can explore charming New England towns, quaint covered bridges, walk, hike and shop farmer’s markets for cheddar cheese, maple syrup and handmade crafts.

Other Active Babymoon Ideas

  • Colorado – On a road trip through Rocky Mountain National Park, stop off for easy hikes and abundant wildlife spotting.
  • New Mexico – The Land of Enchantment is known for Native American culture, desert and mountain landscapes and authentic regional cuisine.
  • Arizona – Speaking of Enchantment, check out Sedona and the Enchantment Resort. It’s right in the heart of the city’s famous red rocks, so the hiking’s grand and the resort spa is dreamy.
  • Minnesota – The Land of 10,000 Lakes actually has at least 14,000—find a cozy cabin and spend lazy days paddling, swimming and relaxing.

What is a Babymoon?

A babymoon is a vacation couples take when they’re expecting a baby. It might be a romantic, relaxing weekend getaway at a spa hotel, a couple of days of shopping, dining and theatre-going in the big city or an idyllic week on the beach.

Whatever type of babymoon a couple chooses, the focus is on togetherness. This is the last chance you’ll have for it to be just the two of you.

For many couples, a babymoon is the chance to do the things they won’t be able to do for a while after the baby is born, whether it’s sleeping in and ordering room service, staying out late for a romantic candlelit dinner or indulging in couples’ spa treatments.

When Should I Take a Babymoon?

Babymoon ideas: pregnant woman visits museum on her babymoon.
On my own babymoon. Photo credit: Elizabeth Heath

According to the ACOG, the best time for a pregnant woman to travel is between 14-28 weeks of pregnancy, or during the second trimester and the very beginning of the third. This is after most women have gotten past morning sickness and their energy levels are back to normal. But it’s before their tummies are so big that it’s uncomfortable to walk or move around a lot.

Note that the ACOG recommends you check with your ObGyn before setting off on a babymoon. If you are having a high-risk pregnancy, with potential complications such as preeclampsia or preterm labor, your doctor is probably going to recommend you do a staycation instead.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Here’s what you need to know about third trimester travel.

How Can I Make the Most of a Babymoon?

To plan your best babymoon, consider the things you and your spouse like to do on a “normal” vacation. Then scale down these activities a little bit (so maybe no kite-surfing this time, OK?). Add in some pampering, not just for the mom-to-be but for the both of you. And figure in plenty of time to relax and just enjoy each one another’s company.

My husband and I took our babymoon to Paris and London when I was five months pregnant. We walked and walked and walked all over both cities and came back home exhausted!

It was a great trip, but in retrospect, I should have planned a more relaxing babymoon. If I had it to do over again, I’d go for a luxury resort, couples massages and a little more luxe experience.

Liz is a writer and editor based in central Italy, from where she writes about family, soft adventure and sustainable travel in Italy, the rest of Europe and farther afield. She’s also the co-founder and owner of Villaggio Tours (https://villaggiotours.com/), a small-group tour company offering an authentic taste of Italian village life.
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