While heading off to your honeymoon directly after your wedding is ideal, we understand that the world keeps turning even after you tie the knot. For couples who aren’t quite ready for that three-week excursion to Bali, I give you the mini-moon. Mini-moons allow newlyweds to get away from it all for a few days immediately after their wedding with the idea that a lengthier honeymoon awaits when they’re ready. Here are our top mini-moon destinations in the US that are fabulous for a quick getaway from it all!
Sagaponack, New York
It’s the ideal getaway for the bride and groom who want a quick and quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. There are adorable cabins and hotels a five-minute drive outside of Sagaponack and the Wölffer Estate Vineyard is right in town, so you can indulge in wine tastings, poetry readings, tours and even yoga on the weekends.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Beautiful beaches allow for fishing and water sports while the many bike rentals give it an island vibe. If you or your newlywed love to golf, there are over 20 gorgeous courses on the island! Don’t forget to eat your heart out at The Salty Dog Café for a true Hilton Head experience.
Alexandria, Virginia
Perfect for the couple in nearby New York or New Jersey, this mini-moon locale is ideal for the bride and groom who want a small town feel with plenty to see and do. Take a walk down King Street and dine on one of the many different cuisines, from Italian, American, Thai or Japanese.
Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
Whether you’re taking your mini-moon in the summer or winter, the Poconos are beautiful year round. Winter is ideal for skiing and lounging by the fire in a log cabin, while spring and summer allow for hiking, sunbathing, kayaking on the lake and campfires outdoors.
Boseman, Montana
This mini-moon locale is for the adventurous couple and offers some of the most beautiful natural sights. Head to Yellowstone National Park and the Teton Mountain Range in Wyoming, where you can hike and take in the gorgeous sites.
Napa, California
As Carrie Bradshaw eloquently said, “If you’re tired of New York you take a napa, you don't move to Napa!” Well, the same goes for Sacramento and San Francisco, making this a fabulous mini-moon spot for the wine loving couple. With picturesque parks, incredible vineyards and romantic horseback riding it’s the ideal place to spend a few days with your newlywed.
Huntington Beach, California
This Orange County hotspot definitely offers up some quality beach time that’s hard to resist. Take a drive down the Pacific Coast Highway and spend your days at the beach where surf lessons are an absolute must. An hour before the sun sets, dine outdoors at Dukes’ (my mouth is watering even thinking about their appetizers!) and end the evening on the pier. Word to the wise, a street fair with delicious food and cute crafts takes place once a week, so plan your trip to Duke’s accordingly.