The 12 Best Luxury Destinations Right Now for a Romantic Babymoon

What makes for a great babymoon destination? It should be close enough that a long plane ride is not required. But far away enough that it feels like a real getaway. There should be lovely hotels and resorts, or charming inns. And no threats from things like Zika. With those criteria in mind, we’ve curated a list of the best luxury travel destinations right now for a romantic (and safe) babymoon vacation trip, and what to know when traveling while pregnant.

is it even possible to take a relaxing luxury babymoon trip?

Any experienced mom will tell you that getting in as much relaxation and rest before the birth of a new baby is essential. In recent years, “babymoons” have taken that idea to a whole new level – offering expectant couples a chance to spend some quiet time together before their world is turned upside down.

If I can be completely honest as a mother of three: before you know it, a vacation will involve an army’s worth of planning and packing.  So trust me, you deserve this. Go while the going is good.

what makes for the perfect luxury babymoon trip?

Choosing the ideal babymoon spot is a little trickier than just booking a luxury beach resort, quiet town or spa retreat. You may have had a glamorous trip for your marriage proposal, but this is more complicated. There are a few other things you should consider:

1. When to travel:

Ideally you want to travel during your second trimester, after morning sickness has passed.  Don’t wait too long though because most doctors don’t recommend travelling far into your third trimester.

2. How far to travel:

This one is really up to you, but speaking from personal experience I suggest keeping it short but sweet.  During my last pregnancy I flew overseas seven hours and I must admit it was not easy even though I had my doctor’s approval.  No matter how short or far you are flying, be sure to keep your legs moving and drink plenty of water.  Oh, and definitely be sure to discuss your travel plans with your doctor to ensure you have the go-ahead.

3. Cuisine:

We all know the laundry list of “don’ts” when it comes to a pregnancy diet, so make sure the resort and/or surrounding restaurants provide delicious pregnancy-friendly food for you to enjoy.  You are eating for two after all.

4. Covid and Zika:

While the Zika virus reached its peak in 2016, the virus is still out there and continues to pose risks to pregnant women, as does Covid.  So if there is a place you are interested in visiting, be sure to consult the CDC website for the latest information. Also be sure to check local government restrictions, rules and safety measures related to Covid-19.

best places for a safe and romantic luxury babymoon trip this year

So, onto the good stuff – where should you and your loved one go for a blissful babymoon?  We found twelve destinations both near and far (but not too far) to ensure you get some well-deserved rest and romance before the big day arrives. Many of these are beach destinations, perhaps not surprisingly.

1. Anguilla

Known for its unparalleled white sand beaches and stunning turquoise waters, Anguilla is the perfect destination for a relaxing tropical babymoon.

Set on 25 acres of verdant gardens in southwestern Anguilla, Malliouhana Auberge features spacious rooms and suites, plus a host of amenities.  The celebrated destination recently underwent a multi-million dollar reimagination that includes new beachfront suites and private residences that can fit up to 12 guests and come complete with a 24/7 butler. Enjoy an inclusive experience and food package and open air wellness classes on the beach in addition to two infinity-edge pools that appear to drop off into the sea below.

2. Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado

An abandoned mining town might not seem like the most obvious babymoon choice but this luxury resort, nestled in a valley 8,850 feet up in the San Juan Mountains, definitely ups your cred as a “cool mom-to-be.” The vibe is rustic but with all the amenities you’d find at a Four Seasons complete with a spa, yoga, organic fare, and of course- hot springs. An old village Dance Hall, Bath House and Saloon round out this unique experience all while surrounded by majestic alpine scenery. 

3. Big Sur, California

Long a retreat of artists and writers, Big Sur is a place of ancient forests and rugged shoreline, making it a lovely area to retreat to for calm and relaxation. Up and down Highway 1, you will find a plethora of galleries to explore showcasing regional and international painters and craftspeople. For a full dose of relaxation though, head to the Esalen Institute, where you can soak in hot springs, relax with a massage or take one or more of almost 600 courses offered there, including Brazilian dance, yoga and mindfulness.

For accommodations there is the luxurious (and adults only) Post Ranch Inn, where each room overlooks the Pacific Ocean.  The hotel’s restaurant, Sierra Mar, will even pack you a lunch to take down Highway 1 in a Lexus convertible that guests can borrow for free.

4. Maui, Hawaii

If you live on the West Coast, head to Hawaii’s second largest island, Maui. There, you can enjoy endless lounging beside the pool, or go for a swim under the waterfalls in the Seven Sacred Pools. Afterward, you can stop by Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice.  Because, hey, you’re allowed to crave this famous island treat at least once a day. Word of caution here though: a friend tells me that they offer 50 different flavors – which makes choosing just one next to impossible.

After enjoying your sweet treat, take a stroll on the beach or the Kapalua Coastal Trail of the Honokahua Preservation Site before retreating to bed at the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua.

5. New York City

For shopping, culture and entertainment, moms who have no inclination of slowing down can check into the luxurious and zen-like confines of the newly opened Aman Hotel in the iconic Crown Building on 5th Avenue. Located on the best block for luxury shopping, you can spend the days shopping for designer diaper bags and mini-sized Gucci sneakers. Or, take in some high-brow Broadway plays because soon, you’ll be carting the kid to a repertoire of bubble shows and magic shows. Book a solid few hours at Aman’s spa which is a world away from the hustle and bustle with an indoor pool, Banya and Hammam and ultra-indulgent signature treatments. 

6. South Andros, The Bahamas

Home to the world’s third largest barrier reef, blue hole ocean caves and over 90 miles of pristine beaches, South Andros is an ideal destination for pure relaxation. Despite being the largest island it remains virtually untouched and uncrowded, hence its nickname “The Sleeping Giant.”

Established in 2018, the Caerula Mar Club is the island’s first-ever luxury resort with 10 acres of turquoise beach. The resort has 6 private villas and 18 suites located just steps from the shoreline, plus restaurants that range from an outdoor poolside bar and grill to a fine dining restaurant with locally-sourced organic ingredients. For an extra romantic evening, request dinner on your private patio before watching the night sky light up with stars.

7. Palm Beach, Florida

Fine dining, irresistible beaches and championship golf courses make Palm Beach a long time favorite Florida getaway.  It’s also a great place to treat yourself to a little shopping on the esteemed Worth Avenue.  Here, you’ll find charming boutiques like CJ Laing, as well as the likes of Chanel, Gucci and Jimmy Choo.  If you can’t treat yourself now, then when can you?

After your shopping adventure, indulge in a spa treatment at the 20,000 square foot spa at The Breakers, the toniest hotel in town.  If you’re able, snag a room at the hotel’s ultra exclusive hotel within the hotel called The Flagler Club – 25 rooms and suites perched atop the main building at The Breakers.

8. Riviera Maya, Mexico

From the adventurous to the leisurely, Riviera Maya offers plenty of water excursions as well as local art, culture and shopping making it a great option for moms-to-be who want a little bit of everything – including some well deserved relaxation.

Nestled on the coastline of the Mexican Caribbean, the Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya features suites that offer private plunge pools and bi-level suites include the option and space to have in-room spa treatments. Alternatively, you can head to The Naum Spa for the 90 minute “Mother to Be” massage.

9. Tucson, Arizona

It’s easy to see what draws so many expecting couples to Arizona. From the otherworldly beauty of Saguaro National Park to the almost always blue sky to the fact that no matter what time of year you go, you’ll enjoy a mild climate.  And it’s that mild climate that expecting mothers will love.  So whether you are running hot or cold during your pregnancy, you will most definitely find some comfort here.

If reflection is what you have in mind, head to Miraval Arizona, the premier destination spa in Tucson. The resort offers hundreds of wellness workshops and mindfulness programming, including “Mindful Relationships” and “Mindful Parenting,” that teach moms-to-be how to build a supportive environment in preparation for their new family member. If total relaxation is more your speed, Miraval also offers a wide variety of prenatal spa services so pregnant moms get a chance to completely unwind.

10. Montauk, New York

Nature rules the last 12 miles of Long Island’s South Fork, otherwise known as Montauk.  Take a light hike on any number of the area’s trails including Paumanok Path overlooking the bluffs.  Be sure to also try to catch one of the epic sunrises at Montauk Point Lighthouse if you can.  I know it’s early, but trust me when I say that it will be good practice for what is to come.

No matter what time of year you go, Gurney’s Montauk Resort and Seawater Spa is a great place to stay, since it’s one of the few year round resorts. Take a dip in America’s only indoor ocean water pool before you enjoy Mother-to-be treatments including a New Beginnings Prenatal Massage, New Beginnings Prenatal Facial and Undaria Scalp Treatment.

11. Turks and Caicos

Grace Bay Beach is consistently ranked as one of the top beaches in the world. It’s pretty much postcard perfect with miles of white sandy beach and calm (emphasis on calm) turquoise waters. Thanks to a barrier reef about a mile offshore that protects the beach from Atlantic Ocean swells, you can just float and feel weightless. Stay at the beachfront Seven Stars Resort & Spa and be pampered by beach-chair-side waiter service and prenatal relax and restore services at the spa.

12. Woodstock, Vermont

If staying cozy and cuddling inside an elegant inn is more your speed, consider the charming Woodstock Inn and Spa in the Green Mountains of Vermont. You won’t have to leave the gorgeous grounds for food with four distinct restaurants staffed by a talented culinary team who work closely with the resort’s gardens to pick fresh ingredients for creative entrées. Continue the rest and relaxation at the spa and indoor pool or wander along Main Street for charming boutiques and local flavor.

before you go

Once you’ve chosen your babymoon destination and made all of your arrangements, don’t forget to pack a great book or two. And definitely utilize the latest in travel tech to make your trip as easy as possible.

best luxury travel destinations for a romantic (and safe) babymoon trip

That’s our take on the best luxury travel destinations right now for a romantic (and safe) babymoon vacation trip, and what to know when traveling while pregnant.

Navigating the world of pregnancy do’s, don’ts and baby planning can be difficult, so hopefully this list (along with the babymoon that follows it) will help you find some respite from it all, while giving you and your partner a chance to spend time together as a family of two before you become three.

Good luck, and have a wonderful time!