Before the baby comes, many couples like to get away one last time before everything changes. Whether you’re welcoming your first child—or your fifth—a babymoon destination with or without the kids provides the opportunity to celebrate the ending and beginning of something new. You can choose to do everything together as a couple, pre-baby, or your partner can hit up the golf courses while you see what the local spa offers.
Many expectant parents like to revisit the place they spent their honeymoon, while others like to explore new territory. Maybe you are looking for a spa treatment with a soaking tub or some delicious food to satisfy those pregnancy cravings. Whatever your motive is, we’ve put together a list of our top picks (organized by region) for some babymoon destination inspiration.
Best Island Babymoon Destinations—The Hawaiian Islands
Where to stay in Hawaii
When it comes to planning a babymoon in Hawaii, the first thing to do is to decide which island you want to visit. There are a total of 6 islands that are a part of Hawaii: Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Maui, and the island of Hawaiʻi. If you are unsure which island to travel to and feel extra adventurous, plan an island hop babymoon! Many couples choose to go this route when traveling to Hawaii if they are traveling from afar (e.g., east coast) and want to see as much as possible while they are there.
There are some fantastic all-inclusive deals for babymoon destinations that are worth checking out. If you are planning to visit Maui, the Royal Lahaina Resort is a perfect spot to relax. Guests can visit The Alana Spa to receive a fantastic prenatal massage called the Hapai. One of the best resorts in Oʻahu is the Turtle Bay Resort, located along the North Shore. This resort includes countless amenities to make your babymoon experience the best experience possible.
Where to eat in Hawaii
Merriman’s Kamuela, located on the Big Island, has been serving fabulous farm-to-table meals for over 20 years. This location has long been known as one of the best restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii. The venue is intimate and relaxed and makes for a romantic spot for soon-to-be parents who are on their babymoon.
Known for being the most romantic restaurant on the island of Oahu, Michel’s is situated right at the base of Diamond Head on Oahu’s “Gold Coast.” The restaurant offers fabulous sunset views and breathtaking skyline views of Waikiki and Honolulu.
Leilani’s On The Beach is a highly-ranked seafood restaurant on the island of Maui. Babymooners can take in beautiful Pacific ocean views as they enjoy fresh fish and natural cuts of meat.
What to do in Hawaii
What does any mom-to-be want to do in Hawaii? Relax on the beach, of course! There are many beautiful sites to go see, such as Waimea Canyon on Kauai, Haleakala on Maui, Manoa Falls on Oahu, etc. Hawaii offers some of the best snorkeling opportunities with the most beautiful clear blue water. Whale watching season is November through May and is something one can do on a boat tour or beachside. Maui is one of the best whale-watching spots in the world for boat-based viewing.
Pro-Tip: Peak whale-watching season is January through March, with most sightings in February!
Best Mountain Babymoon Destination—Lake Tahoe, CA
Where to stay in Lake Tahoe
If you want to be treated like royalty and be surrounded by amazing mountaintop views, The Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe is the perfect place to stay on your babymoon destination. Lake Tahoe is a beautiful location year-round, which makes it one of the best places to take a babymoon because you don’t have to plan around the seasons. Couples can visit local shops, dine at the Village at Northstar California Resort, and visit historic downtown Truckee.
Where to eat in Lake Tahoe
Though the Ritz Carlton offers several delightful dining options onsight, there are many amazing restaurants to choose from in the Lake Tahoe area. Cottonwood Restaurant and Bar has a vibrant heritage, a lively music scene, a full bar, and an adventurous menu. Spoon Restaurant, located in Tahoe City (within walking distance from Lake Tahoe), is a tiny little restaurant that you may not notice just by driving past it but is certainly worth the stop. Spoon serves homemade delights with high-quality ingredients. Often described as “gourmet comfort cuisine,” Spoon is a very approachable, fancy, yet casual restaurant. For breakfast or lunch, stop by Tunnel Creek Cafe, located on the new shared-use path along the shore of Lake Tahoe to Sand Harbor.
What to do in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is one of the most ravishing, sought-after babymoon destinations in the world. It’s a beautiful and relaxing place to visit year-round. The warm weather months welcome many couples for fun outdoor activities on the lake, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, or lounging on the beach. During the winter months, the snow-capped mountains and misty valleys set the perfect scene for cuddling up next to the fire with a blanket and hot cocoa.
Visit local small businesses in The Village at Squaw, including Lather & Fizz Bath Boutique and Spruced Home & Gift, or choose from well-known name brands such as The North Face & Oakley. In downtown Truckee, visit Atelier for thoughtful gifts, Dressed Boutique for women’s fashion, and Word After Word Books. In Tahoe City, check out Alpenglow Sports, Tahoe City Chocolates, or Cabin Fever for Tahoe-themed home goods & art.
City Slicker Babymoon Destination—Chicago, IL.
Where to stay in Chicago:
The Langham Hotel is situated in downtown Chicago, just minutes from the Loop, Grant Park, Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, and Navy Pier. Here, you’ll have the dual enjoyment of convenience and stylish comfort. This elegant Five-Star Hotel in the heart of cosmopolitan Chicago has luxurious guest rooms with views of the iconic cityscape and Chicago River. Babymoon couples will love staying at The Langham as it is the perfect luxurious and relaxing retreat. Another wonderful place to stay on a babymoon is The Hoxton. It is situated in Fulton Market District, a neighborhood with industrial roots that emerged as a flourishing dining destination. This is not another cookie-cutter hotel if you are wanting to stay someplace that is unique. Staying here feels like being in a hip residential studio. With the stylish mid-century design throughout, warm, inviting colors, rooftop pool, and excellent food, this is a fantastic babymoon destination.
Where to eat in Chicago
Cabra is a cheery and light-flooded space perched on the rooftop of The Hoxton! With emerald green tiles, velvet seats, and plants galore it’s perfectly matched with delicious Peruvian food with all the exciting flavors. Cira is a warm and welcoming all-day restaurant that celebrates the vibrant flavors and culinary culture of the Mediterranean. It is located on the ground floor of The Hoxton in the Fulton Market District. If you consider yourself to be a foodie, The Hoxton is a must-visit place to add to your babymoon destination list.
Girl & the Goat may have an odd-sounding restaurant name, but it is worth a visit. Girl & the Goat serves delicious food with bold flavors in a fun and lively setting. You can always count on the service to be phenomenal. The beautifully decorated, loft-style building ensures a great experience every time!
If breakfast is one of (or your only) love language, be sure to check out the sister restaurant to Girl and the Goat, Little Goat Diner, for breakfast or lunch. This is where gourmet meets comfort, and you won’t be disappointed. Finally, for some amazing Chicago-style pizza (because who doesn’t make a stop for pizza when in Chicago), check out any of the famous Lou Malnati’s restaurants throughout the city for a bite of their deep dish, crispy, butter crust pizza. Drool!
What to do in Chicago
Chicago is one of the best babymoon destinations in the US for city lovers as the city has so much to offer visitors. With the charm of the big city, the beauty of being lakeside, and an abundance of culture and entertainment, Chicago is the perfect place for a babymoon destination. Couples can drive or grab a taxi to get place-to-place, but it is also worthwhile to walk downtown in the warmer seasons.
The Magnificent Mile is located parallel to the shores of Lake Michigan and draws in millions of visitors every year for some great shopping. Looking for the ultimate Chicago architecture experience? Hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world’s largest cities in less than 100 years with a river city boat tour! In just 90 minutes, you’ll get the best overview of Chicago’s architecture and its history. For added romance, take the evening river tour.
Last but not least, a trip to Chicago would not be complete without a visit to the great Art Institute of Chicago, downtown Chicago’s #1 museum. If you are short on time, the museum offers a guide to what exhibits to see in 1 hour or less. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance online for a touch-free admission experience.
Pro Tip: Save money by purchasing a Go City pass rather than purchasing individual tickets for multiple attractions!
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Best Northeast Babymoon Destination—Cape Cod, MA
Where to stay on Cape Cod
There are many babymoon destination towns and communities to explore on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. We especially love the centrally located West Harwich. Stay at the adults-only, boutique hotel—The Platinum Pebble Boutique Inn, where you can relax by the pool, walk to the beach, and savor a gourmet daily breakfast. The Old Harbor Inn is a wonderful place to stay for a romantic babymoon trip. Moms and their partners can book a Babymoon Package that includes a 3-4 night stay in a luxury room, daily breakfast, sparkling cider, chocolate, and even a baby bib and mug! The Old Harbor Inn will even include a seasonal flower arrangement.
Where to eat on Cape Cod
For French cuisine, Pain D’Avignon serves up lunch and dinner and is also an excellent place for croissant cravings! The best burgers in the area are grilled up at Mom & Pops. If farm-to-table menus are your favorite, check out The Pheasant where the menus change with the seasons. Alberto’s Restaurant is one of the best stops for Northern Italian cuisine, complete with intimate fireside rooms and a Prix Fix 3-course dinner.
What to do on Cape Cod
If you’re feeling up to it, ride all or part of the 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail. If you’re staying at the Platinum Pebble, complimentary bikes are available for guests to zoom around town. Get out on the water for an epic whale-watching tour or a chartered fishing trip if you aren’t worried about getting seasick. If you are looking for more of an outdoorsy experience, explore the tidal flats and trails at Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary.
Best Western Babymoon Destination—Whitefish, MT & Glacier National Park
Where to stay in Whitefish
Couples looking to experience some natural beauty at their babymoon destination will make memories with a trip to Whitefish, Montana, and Glacier National Park. For a downtown experience, stay at The Firebrand. For a lakeside experience, stay at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake. Both offer onsite dining, a coffee bar, and a spa—including prenatal massages!
Where to eat in Whitefish
For breakfast, check out Fleur Bake Shop for delicious and buttery French treats. We suggest sharing a Cardamom Orange Morning Bun and a Ham and Gruyere Croissant! For lunch, don’t miss the uniquely Montana sandwich shop, The Wich Haus, for farm-to-table deli treats. For a special dinner, Latitude 48 Bistro, Abruzzo Italian Kitchen, and Tupelo Grille all come highly recommended.
What to do in Whitefish and Glacier National Park
In Whitefish, couples will enjoy exploring the variety of downtown shops and restaurants. Since you’re nearby, we highly recommend spending a day or two exploring Glacier National Park. Many trails are open year-round for hiking and snowshoeing. When you need an afternoon pick-me-up, stop by Montana Coffee Traders for some delicious coffee in a quaint coffee shop.
Best Southwest Babymoon Destination—Sedona, AZ
Where to stay in Sedona
Sedona, Arizona, is the perfect meditative babymoon destination for couples patiently awaiting their little one’s arrival. If you are not too far along in your pregnancy, we recommend flying into Phoenix and renting a car. The drive to Sedona is beautifully scenic and won’t disappoint. While in Sedona, couples can stay at the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock, where moms can book a prenatal massage at the onsite spa. There are also swimming pools for relaxing in.
Where to eat in Sedona
For breakfast, check out the Sedona institution, Coffee Pot Restaurant, where you can order one of 101 omelets on the menu (seriously!). For lunch or dinner, the burgers and sweet potato fries at Sedona Beer Company come highly recommended. In addition to their own craft beers, Sedona Beer Company also serves up house-made sodas and kombucha from Wild Tonic. This is a great place to stop if you love the environment of a brewery and want to enjoy a craft, non-alcoholic drink with your partner.
What to do in Sedona
Sedona is full of local artists making and selling unique treasures. Check out the wares at The Collective Sedona, and definitely don’t skip visiting Tlaquepaque. Pronounced T-la-keh-pah-keh, this unforgettable experience is named one of the best things to do in Sedona. It is also suggested to explore downtown Sedona, go for a hike at Bell Rock, book a Pink Jeep Tour and savor the silence at Chapel of the Holy Cross. Cool down with a frozen treat from Walter’s Ice Cream and Hot Dogs after a warm day of exploring. With so much to choose from, this babymoon destination is sure to keep you active and entertained.
Best Midwest Babymoon Destination—Traverse City, MI
Where to stay in Traverse City
Traverse City, Michigan, is the quintessential Midwest babymoon destination on the Great Lakes. You’ll feel right at home in this welcoming community known for its lakeshore, cherries, wine, and natural beauty. Stay on the beach at Sugar Beach Resort Hotel or her sister property Grand Beach Resort Hotel. Couples can book a luxury picnic experience with TC Picnic Co. or a boat cruise with Discovery Cruises.
Where to eat in Traverse City
For breakfast, check out The Omelette Shoppe, where we recommend the quiche or one of the 9 signature omelets. After a relaxing pregnancy massage at Living Light Massage, head over to the nearby Poppycocks for food and drink featuring fresh, local ingredients. For a casual lunch or dinner, the Latin and Asian fusion restaurant Georgina’s receives rave reviews. For barbecue and American fare, the Blue Tractor serves up house-smoked meats in a historic building.
What to do in Traverse City
Peruse the unique shops at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, which is a historic 1884 hospital converted into a beautiful shopping and dining spot with trails for hiking. If yoga is part of your regular routine, take a yoga class at Yoga for Health Education (ask about the prenatal yoga class schedule). Pick up some locally sourced lavender body products at Harbor View Lavender—perfect for postpartum rest and healing.
Take a day trip to Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes National Lakeshore on the shores of Lake Michigan. On your way back to Traverse City, take a detour to stop by MOOmers Homemade Ice Cream, where you can choose from over 20 flavors of homemade ice cream (they make more than 150 flavors in total)! This is a great stop for moms craving some ice cream. Plus, it’s located on a beautiful family farm!
Best Southern Babymoon Destination—St. Augustine, FL
Where to stay in St. Augustine
Founded in 1565, St. Augustine, Florida, is a great warm-weather babymoon destination for winter. Choose from one of two luxury resorts—Casa Monica Resort & Spa or Guy Harvey Resort. If historic haunts are your thing, stay at Casa Monica Resort & Spa. If beachside accommodations are more your style, soak up the ocean views at the Guy Harvey Resort. This private beach resort is also pet-friendly if you are wanting to bring your fur baby along with you.
Where to eat in St. Augustine
If you are craving fresh seafood (and it has been deemed safe to eat during your pregnancy, dine outside at Catch 27 on local farm-to-table seafood. For a unique lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch, check out the 20s-era-inspired Ice Plant Bar. The historic building (dating back to 1927) serves farm-to-table food, including vegetarian options. Another option is to take a short, scenic drive up coastal highway A1A for dinner on the water at Cap’s On The Water.
What to do in St. Augustine
If you have planned your babymoon to fall during a weekend, peruse the food and art vendors on a Saturday morning at the Farmers’ Market at The St. Augustine Amphitheater. For a unique babymoon experience, book an appointment at Salt Spa where you can relax in a salt cave surrounded by 25,000 pounds of therapeutic, crystal salts. For a prenatal massage, visit the Poseidon Spa at Casa Monica Resort & Spa (as mentioned earlier).
Bonus—San Diego, CA
Where to stay in San Diego
If you would love to stay at a beachfront resort in San Diego, check out the Kona Kai Resort & Spa. Not only is this resort pet-friendly, it features private balconies, pool bars, and a luxurious spa.
Where to eat in San Diego
For a French bistro vibe, visit La Bonne Table, where couples can enjoy classic French dishes at tables with romantic candlelight accents. If you’d rather stop at a highly-ranked Italian restaurant, make reservations at Cesarina. Cesarina offers fresh pasta and a beautiful garden patio for dining. Of course, if you’d rather dig into a juicy steak, Island Prime is noted as one of the most romantic restaurants in San Diego that services steak, seafood, and more delicious bites.
What to do in San Diego
San Diego is home to a ton of beaches, including Torrey Pines Beach, Mission Beach, and La Jolla Shores Beach. There’s a lot of nightlife entertainment in the Gaslamp Quarter, in addition to boutiques, restaurants, and clubs. One of the most popular attractions in San Diego is the San Diego Zoo, which is so large you’ll want to have an entire day free of plans to check everything out.
Summary—Which babymoon destination is right for you?
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Hopefully, this list has given you a headstart on what type of babymoon destination you want to take and where you want to go geographically. Even though there are some restrictions for pregnant women (e.g., sitting in a hot spring or hot tub), there are plenty of things to do and see and award-winning places to eat for moms on a babymoon. Here’s a quick reference:
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- Best destination for the outdoorsy couple—Whitefish, Montana, and Glacier National Park
- Winter month destination for warm weather—St. Augustine, Florida
- Awesome low-key destination—Traverse City, Michigan
- Best ocean-side destination—Cape Cod, Massachusetts
- Non-crowded winter month destination—Sedona, Arizona
- City slicker babymoon destination—Chicago, IL.
- Best island babymoon destination—The Hawaiian Islands
- Best mountain babymoon destination—Lake Tahoe, CA
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- Best babymoon destination year-round—San Diego, CA
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Kathy is a freelance writer, an Independent Quality Provider with BabyQuip and the mother of a very active one-year-old boy. When she’s not changing diapers, developing engaging content for clients, or helping families travel with little ones, she enjoys reading, gardening, yoga, and naps.
We went to this sleepy little town called Sister Bay in Northern Wisconsin…in Door County. It was so quiet with walking and shopping and eating. It was just what I needed before my first baby arrived. :)
How do I decide?????????? They all look like great places to go!!!
I didn’t get to go on a babymoon with my first baby but am looking forward to it with my 2nd. Still trying to decide if I want to take my firstborn or not!
Such good suggestions. I went to Red Lodge, Montana for my babymoon and it was spectacular.
For my babymoon I want to go to the beach. Any beach, just love the beach. Thanks for sharing.
I highly recommend Austin, Texas too. That’s where we went to feel young one last time lol.
bookmarked!!, I like your web site!
GOOD READ.
Can the vortexes in Sedona make pregnant women sick?
I don’t think when i was pregnant that babymoons were a thing. I would like to visit any one of these locations though, with or without kids!
I did a week at Squaw Valley bear Lake Tahoe. It was so beautiful during the summer and not at all crowded. These are great suggestions too!
Sedona here I come!!!
Love the Saint Augustine feature!
I highly recommend a babymoon, and Sedona is such a beautiful place to relax and enjoy peaceful days and nights. I’m looking forward to visiting with my little one when we visit this summer. It will be a different experience, and I’m so excited to share the beautiful landscape with her.
I went to Hawaii for my babymoon and the flight was too long imo for being six months pregnant. My ankles were so swollen by the time we landed. lol
Hi guys :). I am looking for help for me and my husband. i am from France and would like to come to the US for Babymoon time. We will be bringing my toddler daughter. Which location would be best?
Hi Delphine, Because you’re flying from France, I’d suggest looking at an east coast destination. Especially with a toddler in tow, you want the shortest flight possible. Congrats and have a great trip!
As a new mom who didn’t take a babymoon, I recommend doing it. I didnt realize how drastically my life would change aftern my first child arrived. It would have been nice to take some time away.
Same Stephanie! We were too busy with a new house to take a trip, but we’re not making that same mistake the second time around.
Make sure you plan early since you can’t fly after so many weeks. Oblivious that these existed and was a good idea I didn’t plan earlyl enough.
Yes, planning ahead is key!
Before I got pregnant I thought I would want a beach babymoon vacation. Now that I’m 6 months along, I’m so hot all the time I wouldn’t want to go somewhere hot. Glacier seems perfect! Thanks for the ideas.
I never took a babymoon, but took a family vacation twice to Traverse City and it was by far one of my favorite destinations! Thanks for the article!
Sooooo many people have recommended Traverse City to me. We’re planning to take the ferry from Wisconsin this summer, which my little guy will be thrilled about:-)
I;m about to have my second child and need a babymoon. Thanks for the destination ideas.
Great choices for a baby moon! Loved Traverse City. We have been back a few times with our baby too.
Thanks for the suggestion Heidi! It seems like a really family-friendly destination. We’re planning to visit with our 2 year old this summer.
Such cute ideas. Thank you.