The Complete Guide to a Colorful Palm Beach Honeymoon

As its name might suggest, Palm Beach is known for its beaches and palm trees. But, it's also seen as an upscale destination in which visitors—honeymooners included—can relax in warm weather while golfing, shopping, experiencing spa treatments, and spending time on the water (sans boat). Newlyweds typically enjoy the waves, get a tan, soak in a moderate pace of life, and unwind all at once, without the hassle of overcrowded pools or a buzzy, loud metropolitan city. No, there aren't any college students on spring break. Simply put: it's quieter here.

For traveling couples, the direct flight is less than three hours from New York and a relatively short drive from Miami, Orlando and Tampa for the in-state folks.

Is Palm Beach Good For a Honeymoon?

Pros of a Palm Beach Honeymoon

Adventurous, fast-moving trips certainly have their place, but there's something to be said about a slow paced vacation. For couples looking for rest, relaxation and warm weather, Palm Beach has it all. And, after a wedding—ahem, a stretch of time in the spotlight and center of attention—it's a great destination to retreat for peace and quiet, without hassle. To boot, there are fewer crowds than other beachy Florida destinations.

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Non-stop flights to Palm Beach are an efficient way to come and go, but if Orlando (Walt Disney World) or Miami (high stimulation and high energy activities) are on the itinerary, both destinations are within a few hours of driving (although in opposite directions).

Cons of a Palm Beach Honeymoon

While there are year-round Palm Beach locals, in the winter months the area attracts snowbirds (many northeasterners) and families reuniting with loved ones for the holidays. In short: it can be a busy time for air travel, not to mention a pricer season for hotels. Shops, activities and restaurants are going to be a little more populated too—so be sure to reserve dinners in advance. Palm Beach is also a wedding destination, so don't be surprised if you see brides, grooms and wedding parties snapping photos and commuting around town. It also lacks all-inclusive options, if that's the convenience you prefer.

The Best Times of Year to Go on A Palm Beach Honeymoon for Good Weather

If chasing summer is the goal, November through April is best for warm temperatures without scorching hot days (read: you'll want to avoid actual summer months). Although June through September average the most rainy days, often South Florida's rain showers can occur year round. The good news is they often last 15 minutes at a time, so waiting out the rain in a clothing shop, at a bar or in a café, can be a nice break from the heat. With the rain comes humidity, but that's par for the course in the sunshine state.

Things to Do During a Palm Beach Honeymoon

Enjoy Its Many Golf Courses

Speaking of par, golf courses are abundant in Palm Beach, West Palm Beach and South Florida at large. (In all fairness, Palm Beach is known as "Florida's Golf Capital.") Go for 18 holes or putt during mini golfing in nearby Lake Worth, Florida.

Book a Spa Service

If the beach and sea breeze isn't relaxing enough, book a spa service to unwind together — or apart at the same time. Facials, nail services, massages and more, are readily available at the hotels in the area (a larger list below). Feel good and look good, too!

Be Active Outdoors

Biking, tennis and parks are great ways to stay active, while off land. On the water, there are opportunities to swim, dive and snorkel, fish, parasail, jet ski and water ski. Charter a boat to a day or a few hours.

Brush Up on Fine Dining

After working up an appetite, find your seat at a fine dining Palm Beach restaurant or cross the bridge to West Palm Beach and enjoy more informal fare like Pig Beach Barbeque. For tea time, sip at The Ben in West Palm Beach. Those with a sweet tooth can get a sugar high at Kilwin's, or Mary Lily's (at The Breakers) or Sloan's for ice cream. After all, the weather is warm, so a cool treat is in order.

Best Hotels and Resorts in Palm Beach for a Honeymoon

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa

Rooms overlook the Atlantic ocean or the pool, and there are options for suites (read: separate bedrooms, a living room and two bathrooms) if more space is preferred. Guests can book oceanfront cabanas with seasonal juices and fruit plates or a chef-inspired breakfast, lunch or afternoon tapas. After (or before) eating, couples can get spa treatments together in a private garden villa at the Eau Spa. Menu items include Garden of Eden (a foot to scalp massage for 90 to 120 minutes), Turkish Rhassoul Mud Ritual (a naked exfoliation treatment with Champagne for 60 minutes) and many more.

The Breakers

Walking into The Breakers feels regal, and staying there is no different—whether it's a guest room or a suite. Even more exclusive is the Flagler Club, a 25 room boutique hotel on two restricted floors. Flagler Cub guests have access to chauffeured Tesla car service and airport transportation, a private lounge and rooftop terrace, and amenities galore. Hotel guest or not, anyone can join Sunday Brunch within The Circle (restaurant) where delicacies like a domestic caviar station, Maine lobster and 30+ dessert options are readily available.

Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa

Condo-style rooms will make your hotel feel like a home (kitchen and dining areas included). The lagoon pool (one of two on the property) has a water slide, fit for adults—not just kids— to unleash inner children. Grab lunch by the pool or the Tiki bar or grab a bite at the hotel's 3800 Ocean restaurant for a more formal meal, where the menu is full of fresh, local ingredients. The selections change regularly, so there's usually something innovative and new to eat.

Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach

At the five-diamond, five-star resort on Palm Beach Island, the hotel offers ocean view and palm view rooms and suites. For the horse lover, take a Polo masterclass with a pro or watch from the sidelines with a picnic. If the water is calling, cruise or go fishing on a yacht, with an itinerary compiled by the concierge. In the morning, take your beau to sunrise yoga to stretch and then seize the day by shopping on Worth Ave. or lounging by the pool (or both).

What to Pack For a Palm Beach Honeymoon

Most months in Palm Beach are warm, so lightweight clothing is best. For the pool and the beach, colorful bathing suits and coverups are the norm (black is always in style but not worn as frequently). Restaurant dining may require specific attire (such as jackets or dress shoes, so do check with the venue in advance). Fitted shorts, sundresses, boat shoes and sandals are great for shopping and exploring. And, sneakers are best for walking and participating in other outdoor activities. Waterproof slides work well for ocean escapades. That said, don't forget your sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat. An umbrella can be helpful, too, for those short bursts of rain.

In the winter, temperatures can drop to as low as 60 degrees in the evenings (and it can get chilly by the water) and heavily air conditioned spaces are abundant all year, so it's also helpful to pack pants and a light jacket just in case.