7 easy island honeymoon escapes from India

After planning the big, fat wedding, comes the all-important honeymoon. And there’s nothing quite like a beach holiday, where all you need to do is curl up with a book on a sunbed, get that bronzed tan and take a refreshing dip in the sea. We’ve picked stunning island escapes that will be perfect for your honeymoon, whether you want to simply lounge at the beach, indulge in adventurous water activities or live the island life. Read on. 

Sri Lanka
The emerald isle is a hot pick with travellers this year, especially since it has fully opened up for tourism. Soft, golden sand beaches beckon, fringed by azure blue waters that stretch right down to the tip of the country. We recommend you go beach-hopping along the southwest coast as it’s perfectly sunny weather for the next month or so. When you’re not lazing by the beach, you can opt for fine dine meals, explore the ruins of Galle Fort, and cool down with scoops of gelato. 

Your options for stay are wide and varied. The gorgeous Jetwing Saman Villas has recently reopened in a new avatar and makes for a picturesque getaway. You also have Cape Weligama – Relais & Chateaux, renowned for its crescent-shaped pool and Fort Bazaar in Galle, that is the centre of all the action in historic Galle Fort. 

Maldives
Everything about the Maldives spells romance. From the seclusion of ‘one island, one resort’ to surreal sunsets overlooking the Indian Ocean and bespoke, candlelit meals on the beach. Need we say more? Tailor-make your Maldivian honeymoon with things that appeal to you as couple. You can opt for sunset cruises with dolphins as you toast with glasses of champagne, indulge in a marine spa ritual together, and explore the lush coral reefs whilst also learning how to restore these reefs. Go snorkelling or deep sea diving to explore the diverse marine life. If that’s not enough, ask your resort to arrange for a bespoke picnic on a castaway sandbank for the ultimate romantic gesture. 

Options for stay are plenty, but some of the romantic resorts worth considering are Baglioni Resort Maldives, Ozen Life Maadhoo, Six Senses Laamu and One & Only Reethi Rah. 

Krabi, Thailand

Thailand is a perennial favourite as a holiday destination, so it comes as no surprise that islands like Phuket and Krabi are top picks as honeymoon getaways. Krabi has a lot to offer—vibrant coral reefs, secluded beaches, lip-smacking food and great nightlife. Opt for a sunset cruise, enjoy cocktails and canapés on a private island or go bar-hopping. Krabi is also fringed by idyllic islands and tall limestone cliffs, so you can explore these via boat when you’re not busy getting a sun tan on the beach. Your options for stay range from luxurious hideaways to budget-friendly resorts. 

Bali, Indonesia 

Think of Bali and it evokes images of lush jungles, ancient temples and tropical paradise. The best part? The vast island offers something suited to every budget. Ubud, with its rice terraces and jungles makes for a sublime romantic getaway. We also suggest staying on the southern tip of the island which is more secluded and away from the crowds. Jimbaran and Uluwatu are some top picks. 
Rent a scooter to visit little towns, make your way towards clifftop beaches and enjoy traditional Balinese cuisine at local warungs or eateries. The island also boasts of a hip coffee scene. 

Seychelles 

Located off the coast of East Africa, this island destination ticks all the boxes for a romantic escapade. It’s also as exotic as it gets. Couples can explore secluded islands, paddle boat or kayak in pristine aquamarine waters, meet giant tortoises or simply kick back and sip on cocktails by the beach, along with enjoying some of the freshest seafood. The islands of Mahe, La Digue and Praslin are popular picks and also home to luxurious beachfront resorts. Pick one preferably with your own infinity pool overlooking the ocean. 

Mauritius

This island nation makes for a beguiling honeymoon escape with its lagoons, lush reefs and miles of white, sandy beaches. Soak in the laid back life as you explore islands on a catamaran cruise, go dolphin watching or even horse riding at dusk, as the sun sets over the horizon. The capital city, Port Louis, is vibrant and colourful with lively markets selling all kinds of fresh produce and handicrafts. Mauritius is home to several adult-only hotels so you’re assured of a blissful honeymoon as you kickstart this new chapter in your lives. 

Zanzibar, Tanzania

This one is a little offbeat but oh-so-worth-it! Set against bright teal greens and azure waters of the Indian Ocean, off the coast of Africa, this cluster of islands is becoming a popular pick with honeymooners. A heady mix of culture and pristine views, Zanzibar is alluring on many fronts. Raw and unfiltered, you can go swimming with dolphins, take a relaxing  dhow cruise, explore the local spice trade, visit local markets and the old Stone Town, which is quite picturesque. The main islands are home to some eclectic boutique hotels. The best time to visit Zanzibar is between July to September.