Find Stateside Bliss When You Honeymoon in Washington State

Considering a Washington State honeymoon? Out of all the US honeymoon destinations, there's something about the Pacific Northwest that's romantic. Maybe it's the rain, which makes for lots of cozy cuddling. Perhaps it's the lush forests or the fact that it's a breathtaking mountainous destination, which provides a dramatic backdrop. Or, maybe it's the charming islands and stunning ocean views. Whatever the reason, a honeymoon in Washington State is a wonderful option for a romantic getaway.

Washington State is big, and if you're not from the region, you may just assume everything that's worth doing is in Seattle or Spokane. That couldn't be farther from the truth. From the Olympic Peninsula and the Columbia River to the Cascade Mountains and Washington wine country, there's so much to see and explore.

To help you plan a honeymoon in Washington State, we're breaking down everything you need to know about the Evergreen State.

FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT

Washington State Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

• Best Time to Honeymoon in Washington State
• Washington State Honeymoon Planning Tips
• Best Hotels and Resorts in Washington State for a Honeymoon
• Washington State Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas
• What to Pack for a Washington State Honeymoon

Photo: 1tomm | Shutterstock

Best Time to Honeymoon in Washington State

If you want to visit Washington State and avoid the rain, well, good luck. But don't let the rainy weather deter you. The rain typically isn't heavy enough to hinder your travel plans, and it's honestly quite romantic. In general, you can expect the most rain between the months of October and June. For the best weather (and least amount of rain), travel in July or August. However, do note that July and August are also the busiest months for tourism in Washington State, which can mean more crowds and higher travel costs.

Best weather: July to August.
Festival highlights: The Seattle International Film Festival in May and June showcases films from around the world. The colorful Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in April celebrates the blooming of tulips with stunning visual displays. In September, the Washington State Fair offers fun rides, concerts and local food.

Washington State Honeymoon Planning Tips

Washington State offers a range of experiences, so you can plan a honeymoon that best fits you and your spouse-to-be's interests. Whether you want a wine- or food-focused honeymoon, an adventure-filled itinerary, a relaxing seaside escape or a mixture of all of the above, you can get it in Washington.

Additionally, Washington's stateside location makes it an affordable location that's easy to get to, even if you're only going on a weekend getaway.

Entry requirements: You won't need your passport, but bring ID.
Language: English.
Location: Washington State is located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, Oregon to the south, Idaho to the east, and the Canadian province of British Columbia to the north.
Currency: USD.
Flight time to Destination: From New York City, direct flights to Seattle are around 6 hours.
Getting around: Washington State offers various transportation options, including rental cars, which are the most flexible for exploring rural and scenic areas. Public transportation is common in urban areas like Seattle, with buses, light rail and ferries making it easy to navigate the city and surrounding regions.

Pro tip: You can find a honeymoon planning travel agent on The Knot Marketplace for Washington State honeymoon expertise, reviews, testimonials and more.

Best Hotels and Resorts in Washington State for a Honeymoon

Finding the perfect honeymoon accommodations in Washington State can range from luxury downtown hotels in Seattle to cozy cabins in the Cascade Mountains. Here are a few of our top picks.

Photo: Sean Pavone | Shutterstock

Mountain Home Lodge

Located just 3 miles from Leavenworth, Mountain Home Lodge is perfect for couples who are looking for a secluded and picturesque escape among the Cascades. Book Cabin Ponder Rock, which features a king bed, river rock fireplace and a jacuzzi for two, along with gorgeous views of the surrounding mountain range.

5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Thornewood Castle

Who wouldn't want to stay in a castle during their honeymoon? The gorgeous Thornewood Castle in Lakewood, Washington, is a picturesque property built from masonry reclaimed from a 1400s Tudor Gothic estate and transported all the way from England. (The property is so picturesque, in fact, that it's been used as a movie set.) You'll love the romantic vibe and stylish suites no matter how long you stay.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Hotel 1000 Seattle

For a luxurious stay in the heart of downtown Seattle, try Hotel 1000. With gorgeous views of the city and water, you won't be able to tear your eyes away from the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Book one of the boutique hotel's suites with a window-adjacent soaking tub for extra honeymoon romance. When you're ready to leave your room, you'll discover top Seattle spots within walking distance.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Pro tip: If you're looking for Washington State honeymoon accommodations that may provide you with lower prices or unique experiences, consider booking a romantic Airbnb or VRBO.

Washington State Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

Sure, you could just stick around Seattle and have an amazing time, but why not explore a little further afield? There are many hidden gems and popular romantic travel spots around Washington State just waiting for you and your honey. For example, the San Juan Islands and Orcas Island, not far from Seattle, offer charming island villages that attract travelers from all over the world, as well as whale watching off the coast.

For adventurous, nature-loving couples, trips outside Seattle to spots like North Cascades National Park, Olympic National Park and Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest are a must, even if all you do is admire the mountain views. For winos, the Walla Walla area and surrounding wine country in southeast Washington State makes for a fantastic time.

Photo: Steve Whiston | Getty

Explore Seattle

Since it's likely you'll be flying into Seattle, you should consider sticking around in the city for a while to see the sites. Seattle's foodie scene includes popular spots like Pike Place Market and the OG Starbucks, while the cultural scene is certainly nothing to scoff at. Try the Seattle Art Museum, Museum of Pop Culture and the Chihuly Garden to start. For a little bit of nature without ever leaving the city, explore Puget Sound.

Travel Along the Coast

The Washington State coastline oozes charm. You'll find quaint small towns, Pacific Ocean islands only accessible by ferry, beautiful views, wildlife, nature hot spots, golf courses, local shopping, farm-to-table restaurants—the list is endless.

Consider a brief road trip up or down (depending on your starting point) the Washington coastline, and be sure to add the San Juan Islands, Bellingham, Oak Harbor, Port Angeles and Anacortes to your itinerary. For a more immersive experience, book a cozy cabin or vacation rental on the coast.

Go Wild in the Wilderness

Washington State offers abundant wilderness and natural beauty, making it ideal for honeymooners looking for adventure. At North Cascades National Park, enjoy hiking trails, wildlife viewing and even quaint historic towns like Stehekin, which sits within the park's Lake Chelan Recreation Area. At Olympic National Park, check out the Olympic Mountains' glacial ice, old-growth forests and rainforests. Canoeing, kayaking and stargazing are popular as well.

Need even more nature? Beyond these two popular parks, you can find extra adventure at the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument and Mount Rainier National Park. Whether you prefer rafting, climbing, hiking, waterfall chasing or any other outdoor activity, chances are you'll find it in Washington.

Go Wine Tasting

Washington's wine country is split into three regions: Yakima Valley, the Tri-Cities and Walla Walla Valley. You'll find more than 240 wineries in total, so you could easily spend your entire honeymoon exploring them all. Tour the region with a little planning help from Wine Country Washington, which will direct you to the best wineries and vineyards based on your personal preferences.

Pro tip: Add Washington State honeymoon experiences to your gift registry so your loved ones can give you one of these memorable couples activities. Don't forget to upload honeymoon photos to your social media accounts and your wedding website—this way all of your guests (including those without IG) will be able to see what you're up to.

What to Pack for a Washington State Honeymoon

Photo: Photo.ua | Shutterstock

In addition to your basics, your packing checklist should include all of your rain gear, including a raincoat and a sturdy umbrella, as well as shoes you won't mind getting soaked.

Additionally, bring layers that you can add or remove during your journey to fit the changing temperatures as you travel across the state. If you plan on doing any trekking, make sure to pack hiking-appropriate shoes and clothes in your honeymoon luggage.

Brittany Barber contributed to this article.