Although summer honeymoons get all the attention, there is something special about finishing the year with the ultimate romantic getaway.

From the white sand beaches of the South Pacific to the colorful streets of Cartagena, these honeymoon destinations are sure to give you a once-in-a-lifetime experience with the person you love most.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

December is often considered the “best” month to visit Angkor Wat, but November is far less crowded and you can still enjoy the clear skies and cooler weather. Located in the wilds of Northern Cambodia, Angkor Wat is the largest religious structure in the world.

As you ride a bicycle or sit in the back of a Tuk Tuk, you will pass by miles of ancient temples, intricate carvings, and ruins soon to be swallowed by the jungle. Watching sunrise across the lotus-filled reflecting pool with towering temples in the background is an unforgettable experience for you and your love.

Angkor Wat is located about 15 minutes from Siem Reap, which is a larger town with many affordable resorts complete with tropical gardens and inviting swimming pools. After spending several days in Siem Reap, we recommend heading to the white sand beaches of Koh Rong or even crossing the border into Thailand.

Carmel Highlands, California, USA

Located 2 hours south of San Francisco, the Carmel Highlands are a lesser-known yet equally stunning honeymoon destination in Northern California. Picture sprawling vineyards spread across golden hills with views of the Pacific Ocean in the distance. The ranch-style homes bring a touch of rural elegance to the already gorgeous scenery.

The Carmel Highlands are only 30 minutes from Big Sur, and the drive has been ranked in the top 10 in the world. As you cruise down winding Highway 1, you can stop at riverside cafes, lookout points with views of the crashing waves, and great hiking trails.

We also recommend spending an afternoon in Carmel-By-The-Sea where you can shop at boutiques, enjoy fine dining, and admire the fairytale-like cottages. In addition, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is only a short drive away and is truly an unbeatable experience.

Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia

November is a great time to visit the beautiful beaches and stunning attractions in Bali because it’s far less crowded. It is the transitional month between dry season and rainy season so you should expect savings and a few showers.

Adding Nusa Penida (an island off the coast of Bali) is a must if you want to see the manta rays. These gentle giants glide through the waters surrounding Nusa Penida – you can see them while snorkeling, scuba diving or even standing on the cliffs.

Nusa Penida is less developed than more touristic parts of Bali and perfect for adventurous couples. You can swim in waterfalls as they cascade into the sea, climb into treehouses at sunrise, hike to pristine beaches, and explore a massive, underground temple.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

November is a great month to visit the famous Phi Phi Island, but it is simply the best time of year to visit Chiang Mai. Often referred to as the cultural capital of Thailand, this northern city is located at the base of towering Doi Suthep (Mount Suthep).

The walled Old City is surrounded by a moat and is home to ancient temples, concept coffee shops, handicraft stores, and art galleries. You can also venture into Nimmanhaemin (referred to simply as “Nimman” by locals), which is more modern with popping bars, high-end shopping, trendy hotels, and restaurants featuring food from around the world.

However, the main reason you should visit Chiang Mai in November is to experience the Lantern Festival (known as Loy Krathong across Thailand and Yi Ping in Chiang Mai). Other experiences you cannot miss include visiting the elephants at Elephant Nature Park, shopping at the Sunday Walking Street, and sampling the Northern Thai culinary delights.

Bora Bora and Tahiti, French Polynesia

Located in the aquamarine waters of the South Pacific, Bora Bora and the main island of Tahiti are two of the most desirable luxury honeymoon destinations in the world. And, you can visit them on the same trip and even book the same honeymoon package!

Picture overwater bungalows stilted over crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches with swaying palm trees, and not a cloud in the sky. Known for its iconic blue lagoon and natural beauty, Bora Bora is a smaller island than Tahiti that truly feels like paradise.

On the other hand, Tahiti is home to Papeete, the vibrant capital city, which offers mid-range accommodations and a mix of urban as well as natural settings. While in Tahiti, we recommend watching a Polynesian dance performance, shopping at Marché de Papeete (the Central Market), and hiking in the island’s interior.

Kyoto, Japan

November is the ideal time to experience the beautiful autumn foliage and take romantic walks in historic Kyoto. The shrines, temples, and parks take on warm fall colors with bursts of red, orange, and yellow everywhere you look. The air is crisp and the temperatures are far more pleasant than in the winter season.

Famous sites such as the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Fushimi Inari Shrine can get quite crowded during this time of year, but it’s worth it to experience this visual spectacle. Once you’ve had your fill of the autumn leaves, you can take a romantic boat ride along the Hozu River and partake in a tea ceremony.

Kyoto is also a great jumping-off point for day trips to nearby Arima or Kurama, which are home to several relaxing onsens (hot springs).

Sri Lanka

If you have at least 2 weeks for your November honeymoon and love adventure, we recommend visiting Sri Lanka. Located in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka experiences favorable weather conditions in November that allow you to enjoy outdoor activities.

Once you arrive at the airport in Colombo, you should head into the mountainous tea country. Here you can take trains between the hill stations, hike to amazing viewpoints, and enjoy a warm pot of tea at one of the many tea plantations. Next, you can travel to the golden, sandy beaches of Mirissa or explore the cobblestone streets and colonial architecture of coastal Galle.

However, one of the most amazing and shockingly affordable things you can do is go on a safari in one of the national parks. Yala National Park is the perfect place to see elephants, deer, crocodiles, and possibly a spotted leopard if you are very lucky!

Cartagena, Colombia

Fortunately for you, November falls just before peak tourist season and is the perfect time to visit this vibrant port city. Cartagena is a cultural melting pot, combining Indigenous, African, and Spanish influences that you can see not only in the cuisine and architecture but also in the soul of the city itself.

Street performers, lively salsa music, public dancing, exciting festivals, and the feeling that Cartagena never sleeps and never stresses make it a one-of-a-kind honeymoon destination.

Shopping in the walled Old City, spending the day at the beach, and taking in the views from a rooftop bar are just a few of our favorite activities. Don’t forget to try the Ceviche, delicious Empanadas, and Limonada de Coco (a refreshing lemonade made with lime juice and coconut water).

Jamaica

For couples seeking the ultimate Caribbean honeymoon in November, there is no better destination than Jamaica. Wet season is almost over which leaves the entire island green and vibrant. However, it is the tail end of hurricane season so make sure you check the weather forecast before your trip.

November offers slightly lower prices on a variety of all-inclusive, beachside resorts, which is definitely a good reason for choosing Jamaica. There are 7 Sandals adults-only, all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, but the overwater bungalows with private infinity pools at Sandals Royal Caribbean make it our favorite.

Some fun activities include taking a romantic sunset cruise, swimming in the blue water of Dunn’s River Falls, river rafting, visiting the Bob Marley Museum, and golfing with the ocean as your backdrop.

Dubai, UAE

Futuristic. Extravagant. Dynamic. These are just a few of the words that describe Dubai. If you are looking for an over-the-top honeymoon, Dubai is the place to be. Located on the Persian Gulf coast, this cosmopolitan city feels like Disneyland for adults.

You will never be bored and you can pack your honeymoon itinerary with multiple bucket list experiences every day. Even if your honeymoon is only a week long, you can take in the views from the Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest skyscraper), explore palm-shaped manmade islands, shop at some of the largest malls in the world and so much more.

If you want to get out of the city, embark on a desert safari. Camel trekking, a dune bashing ride, and a night beneath the stars in a Bedouin-style camp will turn into life-long memories for you and your new spouse.

Aruba

Located off the coast of Venezuela, Aruba is technically part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, but far more tropical than the Dutch nation in November. This Caribbean island offers gorgeous beaches with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters.

During this time of year, the more mild temperatures will keep you from overheating, but it is also the end of hurricane season. November is shoulder season on this romantic island so you should expect fewer crowds and it’s the perfect opportunity to experience the island’s natural beauty.

Windsurfing, hiking, horseback riding, and scuba diving are just a few of the activities you can enjoy. Aruba has a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget stays to luxury resorts. The fresh seafood (including lobster, shrimp, and mahi-mahi) is a must-try that can be enjoyed while sipping Balashi Beer on the beach.

The Amalfi Coast, Italy

How could we not include bella Italia on a list of great honeymoon spots? This breathtaking stretch of coast in Southern Italy has long been beloved by the rich and famous. Positano, Sorrento, and other picturesque towns with colorful houses and cobblestone streets line the rugged coastline.

The best way to experience the area is by yacht or sailboat, but cycling and driving through the countryside is also lovely. If you have the time, you should take a boat trip to Capri Island, where you can swim in the azure waters and take in panoramic views of the sea.

There are a variety of luxury hotels and romantic guesthouses that offer the quintessential Italian getaway experience. Last but not least, the food along the Amalfi Coast is to die for. You must try Linguine alle Vongole (linguine with clams in a fragrant white wine sauce), locally produced Limoncello (a zesty lemon liquor), and fresh seafood.

Edinburgh, Scotland

November is late autumn in Scotland, and, while the weather is getting cold (the average temperature is between 40 and 50 degrees during the daytime), it can be extremely cozy.

Joining a whiskey-tasting tour is a must when you are in Edinburgh. We love the Scotch Malt Whisky Society because they’re located in a stunning Georgian townhouse and the bar has over 200 kinds of whiskey. However, Whiski Rooms offers a combo whiskey and cheese tasting tour that is frankly unbeatable.

If you don’t enjoy whiskey, you can take a stroll through the Christmas markets where you can purchase jams, handmade toys and gifts, local art, and even a traditional Scottish tartan or kilt.