honeymoons in...
Honeymoon...at the beach!
by Judith Fertig
Now, you're ready to get away from the go-go-go of wedding planning for a little romantic you-and-me time. And even though you've left those singles ads—"I love sunsets and walks on the beach"—far, far behind, there just isn't anything more romantic than the beach, at sunset, with your beloved.
Yet this Holy Grail of honeymoons can come together in a multitude of ways. Do you prefer a private, luxury island, where rose petals lead you to a bohemian bungalow not far from the soothing surf? A charming, eastern island cottage where you can kick back, set your own schedule and get around in a golf cart? Or is a chic, trendy, urban hotel set seaside and stocked with celebrity sightings more you and your new hubby's style?
We've rounded up romantic retreats that fit each bill—and that are cost effectively set within the confines of the U.S.A. So all you have to do is pick a coast, choose a scenario and start your life together in a place where the tides set your schedule.
Little Palm Island
For honeymooners with an ample budget, this island off of Key West, Fla. can be your own private paradise. With its powder-white sand and turquoise waters, it feels less like Florida and more like a secluded spot in the South Seas. But don't fret, you won'e be stepping into a Survivor episode; from the time you board the mainland's motor yacht that takes you the 28 miles to the island, you're pampered in every way.
Once on Little Palm, you'll wake to the gentle lap of waves in one of 30 palm-thatched bungalows (set on stilts) and draw the gauzy curtains of your canopy bed to start the day. Explore the island on crushed seashell paths that wind through lush gardens, and cool off with a few laps in the lagoon-style pool. Or perhaps just unwind in a hammock slung between the palm trees or with an exotic spa experience like the resort's Bali Spice ritual. Looking to break up the lounging with a dose of activity? Deep-sea fishing, wreck diving, snorkeling and boating are all on the agenda. And if you like, you can dine on the freshest local seafood and produce on the beach and under the stars—all beautifully presented and prepared with a Cuban-French twist.
Bald Head Island
If you're looking for a Nantucket-type of island that oozes Southern Charm, this is it. Named for the treeless tip to the north of the island, Bald Head has its own historic lighthouse and a wealth of areas to explore. Walk the sandy beaches, sail and fish the wide seas, kayak and bird-watch in the marsh, or bik through the maritime forest. A quieter pace plus unspoiled beauty are the attractions here.
From the time you board the ferry at Southport near Wilmington, N.C., you leave your to-do-list behind. The natural, unspoiled beauty of the island, the old-fashioned charm of the cottages and the ease of getting around in a golf cart (no cars are allowed on the island) will have you both relaxed on the island) will have you both relaxed in no time. Dress up to dine at the Bald Head Island or Shoals Club, pack a sunset picnic to take to the beach, or head to Eb and Flo's Steam Bar for a pitcher of beer and a bucket of shrimp.
Viceroy Santa Monica
If your idea of sun and surf is more Sheryl Crow and watching "the sun come up over Santa Monica Boulevard," then head west to Los Angeles and the Viceroy Santa Monica. Known as a hip, urban retreat at the shore, the Viceroy has style plus. Designed by Top Design judge Kelly Wearstler, this beach boutique hotel fuses classic sophistication and contemporary chic to create a thoroughly modern and uniquely luxurious experience. Italian linens, a beauty bar, aromatherapy products and outdoor-dining cabanas cloaked in sailcloth all ramp up the city smarts. "Green" spa services are done in your room or poolside. Throughout the space Wearstler likes to make big impact statements of tradition with a twist, including a wall arrangement of 250 pieces of china, lime-green accents against a subdued palette and oversize, white wingback chairs around each cabana's table. Just looking around in a contemporary design education—plus you're steps away from Santa Monica Pier and the Pacific Ocean.
The hotel's restaurant, name Whist after the British card game, has earned kudos from Michelin and has been recognized as one of the top hotel restaurants in America for its Modern American cuisine. The Cameo Bar is a top spot for L.A. nightlife, so celebrity sightings are never in short supply.