14 Best Honeymoon Destinations in Southeast Asia: Where to Go for Every Type of Couple
Planning a honeymoon in Southeast Asia but struggling to decide where to go?
I get it! From the tropical islands of Thailand and the Philippines to Bali’s luxury villas and the rainforests of Borneo, there are so many incredible destinations that narrowing it down can feel overwhelming.
The good news? There isn’t one “best” honeymoon destination in Southeast Asia. The right choice depends on the kind of honeymoon you want to have.
Maybe you’re dreaming of overwater villas and world-class luxury. Or maybe you’d prefer to spend your days island hopping, spotting wildlife, exploring ancient temples or relaxing on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
I’ve absolutely loved travelling around Southeast Asia and it’s still one of my favourite regions in the world. Every destination feels completely different… which is exactly why choosing where to honeymoon here can be so difficult!
As someone who’s spent years writing about honeymoons and now plans luxury trips as a travel agent, I also know just how important it is to help couples choose the destination that’s right for them.
Which is exactly why I’ve put this guide together. So, if you’re not sure where you want to honeymoon in Southeast Asia, I’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury beach escape, an adventurous multi-centre itinerary or a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list honeymoon, these are my favourite honeymoon destinations in Southeast Asia to consider.
Best honeymoon destinations in Southeast Asia at a glance:
🏆 Best overall honeymoon destination: Bali
🏝️ Best for island hopping: The Philippines
🦧 Best for wildlife & adventure: Borneo
🌴 Best for luxury & relaxation: Sumba
🍜 Best for food & culture: Vietnam
Top tip: If you’re torn between two destinations, don’t worry. I’ll explain what each place is best for (and who I think should skip it) throughout this guide!
💛 Why trust my recommendations?
I’ve travelled throughout Southeast Asia and now plan and book honeymoons for a living as a travel agent. Every destination in this guide is somewhere I’d genuinely recommend, whether you’re looking for a luxury beach escape, an adventurous multi-centre itinerary or somewhere completely off the beaten track.
How to choose the right honeymoon destination in Southeast Asia
The best honeymoon destination for you will depend on the kind of trip you’re dreaming of.
If your priority is luxury resorts and private villas, Bali and Sumba are hard to beat. If you’d rather spend your honeymoon island hopping and snorkelling, the Philippines is an incredible choice.
Wildlife lovers will absolutely want Borneo on their list, while Vietnam is perfect if you want to combine fantastic food, culture and beautiful scenery.
As you read through this guide, think about what matters most to you both. Your honeymoon should reflect the kind of experience you want to have, not just the destination that’s most popular.
Best Southeast Asia honeymoon destinations
1 Bali, Indonesia
Best for: Couples who want a romantic, back-to-nature honeymoon with a mix of adventure, relaxation and luxury villas
Best time to visit: April to October (dry season with warm, sunny weather)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £8,000–£15,000+
Ideal trip length: 10–14 days
If I had to recommend just one honeymoon destination in Southeast Asia, Bali would be it. Bali is one of the destinations I’m asked about most often as a travel agent and one that I regularly book because it offers such an incredible mix of luxury, adventure and relaxation.
One of the things I love most about Bali is how diverse it is. From ancient temples and rice terraces to dramatic volcanic landscapes and beautiful beaches, every part of the island feels a little different.
Plus, as a small destination, Bali is relatively easy to explore, so it’s a great choice if you want to experience a bit of everything.
READ MORE: Bali Bucket List: 33 Best Things to Do in Bali
For me, Ubud is one of the most romantic places to stay in Bali on honeymoon. It’s where I’d recommend starting your trip before heading to the coast.
Ubud is an area inland that’s surrounded by lush jungle, waterfalls and rice paddies – it’s perfect if you’re looking to slow down after all the wedding planning.
In Ubud, you’ll find ultra-luxurious villas, world-class spas, yoga studios and fantastic restaurants. It’s easy to see why so many honeymooners fall in love with this part of the island!
READ MORE: Uluwatu or Ubud? Where’s Best to Stay in Bali?
If you’re planning a longer honeymoon, I always recommend combining Ubud with a few nights on the coast. That could be a stay at a dramatic clifftop resort near Uluwatu or a luxury beachfront hotel in Nusa Dua.
READ MORE: 21 Best Romantic Hotels in Bali for Couples
My honeymoon tip: If your honeymoon is longer than 10 days, don’t stay in just one part of Bali. Splitting your time between Ubud and the coast lets you experience two very different sides of Bali and is something I recommend to many couples.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Visit ancient temples, enjoy a floating breakfast, explore rice terraces, chase waterfalls, go surfing and unwind with a traditional Balinese massage.
My hotel pick: COMO Shambhala Estate
Nearest airport: Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)
2 Langkawi, Malaysia
Best for: Couples who want a laid-back tropical escape with luxury resorts, nature and fewer crowds
Best time to visit: November to March (dry season with the best beach weather)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £7,000–£12,000+
Ideal trip length: 5–7 days (or 10–14 days as part of a multi-centre honeymoon)
If you’re looking for somewhere quieter than Bali, Langkawi needs to be on your list. This beautiful Malaysian archipelago offers a slower pace of life, making it perfect for couples who want to relax, reconnect and enjoy plenty of time by the sea.
Made up of 99 tropical islands, Langkawi is all about beautiful white-sand beaches, lush rainforest and luxury resorts surrounded by nature. It’s the kind of destination where you can spend one day relaxing by the pool before heading out on a sunset cruise or exploring hidden beaches.
One of the things I love most about Langkawi is that it’s known for its wildlife, so you get a great mix of relaxation and nature.
As well as its beautiful coastline, you’ll find mangrove forests, waterfalls and mountainous jungles that make it feel far more adventurous than a typical beach destination.
RELATED: Best Ecotourism Destinations to Visit on Honeymoon
Langkawi is also home to some incredible honeymoon hotels. Many of the island’s luxury resorts are tucked away in rainforest or set on secluded stretches of beach. They’re ideal if you’re looking for somewhere peaceful and romantic.
If you’re planning a longer honeymoon, Langkawi also works brilliantly as part of a multi-centre itinerary. I think it’s the perfect place to unwind after exploring Kuala Lumpur or Singapore, giving you the best of both a city break and a tropical island escape.
💛 My honeymoon tip: If you can, stay at one of Langkawi’s luxury resorts with a private beach. The island’s peaceful atmosphere is one of its biggest draws, and choosing a secluded resort makes the most of that experience.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Ride the SkyCab cable car, walk across the SkyBridge, take a mangrove safari, go island hopping, visit the night markets and relax on Langkawi’s beautiful beaches.
My hotel pick: The Datai Langkawi
Nearest airport: Langkawi International Airport (LGK)
3 Palawan, Philippines
Best for: Couples who want an island-hopping honeymoon surrounded by spectacular scenery
Best time to visit: November to May (dry season with calm seas and ideal beach-hopping weather)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £8,000–£14,000+
Ideal trip length: 10–14 days
If your dream honeymoon involves hopping between paradise islands, swimming in crystal-clear lagoons and staying on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Palawan is hard to beat.
It’s easily one of the most beautiful destinations in Southeast Asia. I love how dramatic the scenery is with towering limestone cliffs rising out of turquoise water, hidden beaches, emerald lagoons and tiny untouched islands!
The province of Palawan is made up of hundreds of islands, but El Nido and Coron are the most famous destinations. That said, some of Palawan’s quieter islands are well worth looking into. They offer the same incredible scenery with a much more secluded feel.
Island hopping around Palawan is one of the best options for a dream honeymoon in Southeast Asia.
You’ll be able to spend your days swimming in shallow waters, snorkelling vibrant coral reefs, kayaking through hidden lagoons and discovering beaches that can only be reached by boat. If you enjoy diving, Palawan is also home to some incredible shipwreck dive sites.
Palawan’s dramatic landscape is also brilliant for exploring caves, trekking through jungles and chasing waterfalls. If you’re an adventurous couple you could try rock climbing and ziplining, too.
With so many islands and areas to explore, you’ve got plenty of choice when it comes to accommodation. From romantic rustic hideaways to beachside villas and upscale resorts, it’s a heavenly destination for a once-in-a-lifetime escape
💛 My honeymoon tip: If you have at least 10 days, don’t base yourself in just one place. Combining El Nido with Coron gives you two very different island-hopping experiences and lets you see the very best of Palawan.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Go island hopping, kayak through hidden lagoons, snorkel colourful coral reefs, explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River and relax on some of the world’s best beaches.
My hotel pick: El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island
Nearest airport: Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) or El Nido Lio Airport (ENI)
4 Koh Samui, Thailand
Best for: Couples looking for a luxury beach resort honeymoon with plenty of opportunities to relax
Best time to visit: January to April (dry season with warm, sunny weather)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £9,000–£16,000+
Ideal trip length: 7–10 days (or 10–14 days combined with other Thai islands)
If your idea of the perfect honeymoon is checking into a luxury beachfront resort and spending your days switching between the pool and a powdery white-sand beach, Koh Samui is one of the best places to do it.
It’s one of my favourite islands in Thailand and somewhere I recommend regularly to couples looking for a relaxing tropical escape.
Although Thailand has a reputation for being a budget-friendly destination, Koh Samui is different. It’s home to some of the country’s most luxurious resorts, making it a fantastic choice if you want a five-star honeymoon with exceptional service, beautiful villas and plenty of privacy.
As one of Thailand’s easiest islands to reach, Koh Samui is also ideal if you want to fly in, settle into an incredible resort and completely unwind after months of wedding planning.
RELATED: Bali or Thailand: Which is Better for a Honeymoon?
If you do fancy venturing beyond your resort, there’s plenty to keep you busy. As such a diverse place, there’s so much to see and do across the island.
You could explore beautiful temples, waterfalls, jungle viewpoints, vibrant night markets and ethical elephant sanctuaries, or treat yourselves to a traditional Thai massage before watching the sunset over the ocean.
One experience I recommend is a day trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park. This collection of 42 islands is one of Thailand’s most beautiful natural attractions and is perfect for swimming, snorkelling and boat trips.
If you’re planning a longer honeymoon, Koh Samui also works brilliantly as part of an island-hopping itinerary. Koh Phangan and Koh Tao are both within easy reach, allowing you to experience three very different Thai islands during one unforgettable trip.
💛 My honeymoon tip: Don’t dismiss Koh Samui because you’ve heard Thailand is a backpacking destination. Koh Samui is firmly on the luxury honeymoon map, and if you’re looking for beautiful five-star resorts without the price tag of somewhere like the Maldives, it offers fantastic value.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Relax on the beach, get a Thai massage, go island hopping, take a jungle safari, visit temples, take a cooking class, visit an elephant sanctuary
My hotel pick: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
Nearest airport: Samui International Airport (USM)
5 Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
Best for: Couples looking for a laid-back, barefoot beach honeymoon surrounded by nature
Best time to visit: March to October (dry season with calm seas and excellent snorkelling conditions)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £7,000–£12,000+
Ideal trip length: 5–7 days (or as part of a longer Malaysia itinerary)
If your dream honeymoon is all about switching off, slowing down and escaping the crowds, the Perhentian Islands are a fantastic choice.
These two idyllic islands are located off Malaysia’s northeast coast and offer a more relaxed alternative to some of Southeast Asia’s busier beach destinations.
One of the things I love most about the Perhentian Islands is how untouched they feel. You’ll find powder-soft white beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water and lush jungle stretching right down to the shoreline. It’s the perfect place for an intimate escape that’s not too overly touristy.
Unlike Langkawi, the Perhentians aren’t known for huge five-star resorts. Instead, you’ll find boutique beachfront hotels that focus on beautiful surroundings and an authentic island atmosphere.
If understated luxury is more your style than flashy resorts, you’ll absolutely love it here!
Days are best spent snorkelling colourful coral reefs, taking private boat trips to hidden beaches, swimming in warm tropical waters or simply enjoying lazy afternoons by the sea.
💛 My honeymoon tip: If you’re looking for nightlife and lots of organised activities, this probably isn’t the right island for you. But if your idea of luxury is peace, privacy and spectacular natural beauty, the Perhentian Islands are brilliant.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters, take boat trips to secluded beaches, hike jungle trails
My hotel pick: Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa
Nearest airport: Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (KBR)
6 Borneo, Malaysia
Best for: Couples looking for a luxury wildlife honeymoon with rainforest adventures
Best time to visit: March to October (generally drier weather and ideal for wildlife experiences)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £9,000–£16,000+
Ideal trip length: 10–14 days
If your dream honeymoon is less about lying on the beach and more about unforgettable wildlife encounters, Borneo is one of the most incredible destinations in Southeast Asia.
Borneo is home to one of the oldest rainforests on Earth and is known for being one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet, so it’s a paradise for adventurous couples who want to experience nature at its wildest.
What I love most about Borneo is how it effortlessly combines adventure with luxury. You can spend your days cruising along jungle rivers, trekking through ancient rainforest or searching for orangutans before returning to a beautiful lodge surrounded by nature.
You can also combine the wild beauty of Sabah’s rainforests with white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water and colourful coral reefs in Kota Kinabalu. It’s great if you want to hop around and combine jungle adventures with a few days of relaxation by the sea.
I particularly love the idea of staying in an eco-luxury lodge in Borneo. Waking up to the sounds of the rainforest and being completely immersed in nature creates a honeymoon that’s unlike anywhere else in Southeast Asia.
Many of Borneo’s best lodges also place a strong emphasis on conservation and sustainability, allowing you to experience the rainforest while supporting its long-term protection.
💛 My honeymoon tip: I’d recommend combining a few nights in the rainforest with a luxury beach resort near Kota Kinabalu. It gives you the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Trek through ancient rainforests, spot orangutans in the wild, cruise along jungle rivers, snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters
My hotel pick: Borneo Rainforest Lodge
Nearest airport: Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI)
7 Hoi An, Vietnam
Best for: Couples looking for a romantic honeymoon with culture, incredible food and a slower pace of life
Best time to visit: February to August (dry season with warm weather and plenty of sunshine)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £7,000–£13,000+
Ideal trip length: 4–6 days (or 10–14 days as part of a wider Vietnam itinerary)
Hoi An might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a honeymoon, but I genuinely think it’s one of Southeast Asia’s most romantic destinations.
As a country, Vietnam is magical and has so much to offer. If you want to explore more than one region, consider travelling north to south (or vice versa) for a big honeymoon adventure.
But, if you want to pick just one area, go for Hoi An. Hoi An has been named one of the world’s best (and prettiest) cities. It’s famous for its gorgeous old town, unique markets and colourful lanterns.
If you’re looking for something a little different from a traditional beach honeymoon, it’s an unforgettable place to spend a few days!
One of the things I love most about Hoi An is its atmosphere. By day, you can wander through the colourful Old Town, browse local markets and discover hidden cafes. Then, as evening falls, hundreds of lanterns illuminate the streets and riverside, creating one of the most magical settings in Southeast Asia!
There’s plenty to keep you busy beyond the Old Town in Hoi An, too. You could cycle through peaceful rice paddies, float along the coconut forests in a traditional Vietnamese basket boat, relax on the nearby beaches or take a day trip to the ancient ruins of My Son Sanctuary.
Hoi An is also one of my favourite destinations in Southeast Asia for foodies. From street food markets and cooking classes to riverside restaurants and cosy coffee shops, it’s a fantastic place to immerse yourself in Vietnamese cuisine.
💛 My honeymoon tip: I recommend spending at least four nights in Hoi An. It deserves more than a quick stop on a Vietnam itinerary, and having extra time allows you to enjoy the city at a slower pace while fitting in a few memorable day trips.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Explore the lantern-lit Old Town, join a Vietnamese cooking class, take a basket boat tour, cycle through the rice paddies, visit My Son Sanctuary and enjoy Hoi An’s incredible food scene.
My hotel pick: Anantara Hoi An Resort
Nearest airport: Da Nang International Airport (DAD)
8 Sumba, Indonesia
Best for: Couples looking for an exclusive luxury honeymoon away from the crowds
Best time to visit: April to October (dry season with sunny weather and ideal beach conditions)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £12,000–£20,000+
Ideal trip length: 5–7 days (or combine with Bali for 10–14 days)
If you love the idea of Bali but would prefer somewhere quieter, more exclusive and far less touristy, I’d highly recommend Sumba.
This Indonesian island is located just east of Bali and feels like a hidden paradise… it’s one of my favourite alternatives for couples looking for something a little different.
While Bali has become one of Southeast Asia’s most popular honeymoon destinations, Sumba remains wild with dramatic coastlines, rolling hills, secluded beaches and spectacular waterfalls. It’s the perfect choice if you’re dreaming of a peaceful, nature-led honeymoon where you can truly switch off.
To get there, you’ll generally have to transit through Bali, but the extra journey is absolutely worth it. Sumba offers a completely different experience, with a strong focus on local culture, traditional villages and breathtaking scenery that feels a world away from the busier tourist hotspots.
Luxury is a little different in Sumba. Rather than dozens of large beachfront resorts, Sumba is home to a small collection of properties that deliver world-class service in beautiful surroundings.
Resorts like NIHI Sumba have helped put the island firmly on the luxury travel map, making it an incredible destination for a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon.
💛 My honeymoon tip: If your budget allows, I’d combine a few nights in Bali with a stay in Sumba. You’ll experience two completely different sides of Indonesia, with Bali offering culture and variety before ending your honeymoon somewhere peaceful and exclusive.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Visit traditional Sumbanese villages, relax on secluded beaches, explore waterfalls, go horse riding along the coast, surf world-class waves and snorkel in crystal-clear water.
My hotel pick: NIHI Sumba
Nearest airport: Tambolaka Airport (TMC)
9 Gili Meno, Indonesia
Best for: Couples looking for a peaceful island honeymoon with beautiful beaches and a slower pace of life
Best time to visit: May to September (dry season with calm seas and excellent snorkelling conditions)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £8,000–£14,000+
Ideal trip length: 3–5 days (or combine with Bali or Lombok for a 10–14 day honeymoon)
If your idea of the perfect honeymoon is escaping to a tiny tropical island where life slows down completely, Gili Meno is a brilliant option. It’s often nicknamed the ‘honeymoon island’, and is the quietest and most romantic of Indonesia’s three Gili Islands.
One of the things I love most about Gili Meno is just how peaceful it feels. There are no cars or motorised vehicles anywhere on the island, so the only sounds you’ll hear are the waves, birdsong and the occasional bicycle passing by. It’s the perfect place to disconnect!
The three islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno – have all the idyllic tropical vibes and are a good bet if you want to experience island life.
Gili Trawangan is known for its lively nightlife and Gili Air has a more social atmosphere, but Gili Meno feels wonderfully secluded. It’s much quieter, attracts fewer backpackers and offers some of the most beautiful beaches and snorkelling spots in the region.
READ MORE: Ultimate Gili Islands Honeymoon Guide + Map
Although it’s a small island that you can walk around in just a couple of hours, that’s all part of its charm. You’ll be able to spend your days relaxing in a hammock by the beach, cycling around the island, snorkelling with turtles or enjoying long sunsets over the ocean.
As a tiny tropical isle, this is a destination that’s all about relaxation, slowing down and enjoying island life. If you want loads to see and do, it might not be the best bet for you – but if you want to completely switch off after your wedding, it’s a fantastic choice.
Gili Meno also works beautifully as part of a wider Indonesia honeymoon. Many couples combine a few nights here with Bali, giving them the perfect mix of adventure, culture and laid-back island life.
💛 My honeymoon tip: I’d recommend finishing your honeymoon in Gili Meno rather than starting here. After exploring Bali or another part of Indonesia, it’s the perfect place to slow down, relax and enjoy a few uninterrupted days together before heading home.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸📍 Top experiences: Snorkel with sea turtles, visit the famous underwater sculpture site, cycle around the island, relax on beautiful beaches, enjoy sunset walks and go island hopping.
My hotel pick: Gili Meno Escape
Nearest airport: Lombok International Airport (LOP) or Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)
10 Koh Kood, Thailand
Best for: Couples looking for a peaceful Thai island with beautiful beaches and very few crowds
Best time to visit: November to February (dry season with sunny weather and calm seas)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £8,000–£14,000+
Ideal trip length: 5–7 days (or combine with Bangkok for a longer honeymoon)
If you’re dreaming of Thailand’s white-sand beaches but want to escape the crowds, Koh Kood is one of the best honeymoon destinations you could choose. This island is often overlooked in favour of islands like Phuket and Koh Samui, but it offers a much quieter and more authentic side of Thailand.
One of the things I love most about Koh Kood is how untouched it feels. If you’re dreaming of secluded, palm-fringed tropical beaches and want to experience what Thailand was like before mass tourism– Koh Kood is it!
This is a Thai island that’s a little more difficult to get to, but the journey is absolutely worth it (and is what keeps it so peaceful!). You’ll find swaying palm trees, crystal-clear water and long stretches of beach where you’ll often have plenty of space to yourselves.
Unlike many of Thailand’s more famous islands, Koh Kood has never really attracted the backpacker crowds. Instead, you’ll find boutique beachfront resorts and an atmosphere that’s all about slowing down and enjoying the natural beauty around you.
If you’re happy to venture away from the beach, there are waterfalls, jungle trails and nearby islands that you can explore. But honestly, I think Koh Kood is one of those destinations where it’s perfectly acceptable to spend an entire afternoon doing absolutely nothing!
💛 My honeymoon tip: If you’re deciding between Koh Samui and Koh Kood, I’d choose Koh Samui for luxury resorts and lots of activities, but Koh Kood if your priority is peace, privacy and a more untouched island experience.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Relax on secluded beaches, snorkel colourful coral reefs, visit waterfalls, explore jungle trails and take boat trips to nearby islands.
My hotel pick: Hideout Koh Kood
Nearest airport: Trat Airport (TDX)
11 Anambas Islands, Indonesia
Best for: Couples looking for an exclusive, off-the-beaten-track honeymoon in complete seclusion
Best time to visit: April to October (generally drier weather with calm seas and excellent snorkelling conditions)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £15,000–£25,000+
Ideal trip length: 5–7 days (or combine with Singapore for a 10–14 day honeymoon)
If you’re dreaming of a secluded, off-grid island escape that’s away from the usual tourist trail, the Anambas Islands are one of Southeast Asia’s best-kept secrets.
Hidden away in the South China Sea, this remote Indonesian archipelago is all about nature, barefoot luxury and tranquillity. It’s a dream spot for a bucket list honeymoon where you can experience something genuinely unique.
I love how exclusive the Anambas Islands feel. There are no large chain resorts, no busy beaches and very little development.
Instead, you’ll find crystal-clear lagoons, untouched white-sand beaches and some of the most peaceful surroundings. It’s the perfect destination if your idea of luxury is privacy, tranquillity and being completely immersed in nature.
The best place to stay is Bawah Reserve. This exclusive, eco-luxury resort is spread across six private islands and is an incredible choice for couples. It has just a small number of overwater and beachfront suites and offers exceptional service, so it’s exactly the kind of place that feels made for a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon.
Even though it’s a secluded honeymoon destination in Southeast Asia, the Anambas Islands are surprisingly easy to reach via Singapore.
If you’re planning a longer honeymoon, combining a few days in Singapore with a relaxing stay at Bawah Reserve is a great way to experience city life as well as island tranquillity.
💛 My honeymoon tip: If you’re celebrating a special occasion and want a honeymoon that feels truly exclusive, I’d choose the Anambas Islands over somewhere like the Maldives. Far fewer people have heard of them, and that makes it even more special!
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Relax on pristine beaches, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, island hop by boat, explore hidden lagoons, enjoy world-class stargazing and unwind at an eco-luxury resort.
My hotel pick: Bawah Reserve
Nearest airport: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) or Letung Airport (LMU)
12 Singapore
Best for: Couples looking for a luxury city honeymoon with world-class hotels, incredible food and lush green spaces
Best time to visit: February to July (generally drier weather and ideal for sightseeing)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £10,000–£18,000+ (as part of a multi-centre honeymoon)
Ideal trip length: 3–4 days (before or after a beach destination)
Singapore is one of Southeast Asia’s top honeymoon destinations if you’re planning a luxurious multi-centre trip. Even though city breaks aren’t my first choice for a honeymoon, Singapore is one of the few exceptions I’d happily recommend!
What I mostly love about Singapore is that it feels completely different from most major cities. It’s often described as a “City in a Garden”, and is filled with lush parks, rooftop gardens and beautiful green spaces that make it feel surprisingly calm.
Singapore is also home to some of the world’s most iconic luxury hotels. You could stay somewhere like the legendary Raffles Singapore or Marina Bay Sands.
Singapore has so much to explore, too. You could spend your honeymoon exploring the Gardens by the Bay or diverse neighbourhoods like Little India and Chinatown. If you want beaches, you could also hop over to Singapore’s Sentosa Island where you’ll find luxury hotels and tropical beaches just minutes from the city.
For me, Singapore works best as part of a multi-centre honeymoon. It’s the perfect place to spend a few days before heading to somewhere like the Anambas Islands or Bali, giving you the best of both worlds.
💛 My honeymoon tip: I almost always recommend pairing Singapore with a beach destination rather than spending your entire honeymoon here. It breaks up a long flight and gives you the chance to experience one of Asia’s most exciting cities before switching off on a tropical island.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Explore Gardens by the Bay, visit Chinatown and Little India, sample Singapore’s incredible street food, relax on Sentosa Island and stay at one of the city’s iconic luxury hotels.
My hotel pick: Raffles Singapore
Nearest airport: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
13 Timor-Leste (East Timor)
Best for: Couples looking for an adventurous honeymoon far from the tourist trail
Best time to visit: May to November (dry season with excellent weather for diving and exploring)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £8,000–£12,000+
Ideal trip length: 5–7 days (or combine with Bali for a longer itinerary)
If you’re looking for somewhere that very few people have even considered for their honeymoon, Timor-Leste has to be on your list!
Still largely untouched by mass tourism, this is one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting emerging destinations and is the perfect choice for couples who value authentic experiences over luxury resorts.
This small island country offers pristine beaches, rugged mountainous landscapes, and vibrant coral reefs that rival more famous spots – but all without the crowds. It feels like the kind of place where you can genuinely get off the beaten path and experience a different side of Southeast Asia.
One of the country’s biggest highlights is Atauro Island, which is known for its incredible marine life. You’ll be able to spend your honeymoon exploring coral gardens, swimming with manta rays, or relaxing on secluded white-sand beaches with very few other visitors around.
You won’t find a lot of luxury hotels in East Timor but if you want a unique and adventurous option – this could be the honeymoon destination for you.
💛 My honeymoon tip: I’d only recommend Timor-Leste if you’re happy to trade ultra-luxury resorts for unforgettable experiences. If you’re looking for polished five-star hotels, Sumba or the Anambas Islands are likely to be a better fit.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Dive or snorkel around Atauro Island, relax on secluded beaches, hike scenic mountain trails, visit traditional villages and explore untouched coral reefs.
My hotel pick: Balibo Fort Hotel
Nearest airport: Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport (DIL)
14 Mekong River, Cambodia / Vietnam
Best for: Couples looking for a luxurious, slow-paced honeymoon filled with culture, history and incredible scenery
Best time to visit: November to March (cooler, drier weather that’s ideal for river cruising)
Luxury honeymoon budget: £10,000–£20,000+
Ideal trip length: 7–12 days (or combine with Singapore or a beach destination for a longer honeymoon)
If you’re looking for a honeymoon that’s a little different from the usual beach escape, a luxury cruise along the Mekong River is an unforgettable choice.
Since becoming a travel agent, I’ve seen just how popular river cruising has become, and it’s one of the honeymoon experiences I’ve really fallen in love with!
The Mekong River is an iconic river that winds through lush landscapes and takes in so much vibrant culture and ancient history. It’s a brilliant place to visit if you want a honeymoon that’s authentic and unique.
What I love most about the Mekong is that the journey itself becomes part of the honeymoon. Rather than unpacking every few days, you’ll wake up to a new landscape each morning as you cruise through Cambodia and Vietnam, discovering riverside villages, floating markets and centuries of history along the way.
A typical itinerary might include Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh, the peaceful riverside town of Kratie, where you might be lucky to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin, before continuing into Vietnam’s beautiful Mekong Delta.
It’s a wonderful way to experience local life while still enjoying the comfort and service of a luxury river ship.
For me, this is one of the most relaxing ways to explore Southeast Asia! Everything is taken care of, allowing you to simply enjoy the scenery, incredible food and thoughtfully planned excursions without the hassle of constantly moving between hotels.
💛 My honeymoon tip: A Mekong River cruise works beautifully as part of a longer honeymoon. I’d pair it with a few nights in Singapore or finish with a luxury beach stay in Thailand or Indonesia to create the perfect balance of culture and relaxation.
Honeymoon planning quick facts:
📸 📍 Top experiences: Sail in style on a luxury river cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia, visit floating markets and riverside villages, enjoy tours of Phnom Penh’s cultural landmarks, spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins
My cruise pick: AmaWaterways AmaDara
Nearest airports: Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) or Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
Still deciding which Southeast Asia honeymoon is right for you? Here’s where I’d start…
There isn’t one single “best” honeymoon destination in Southeast Asia. The right choice depends on the kind of honeymoon you’re dreaming of.
🏆 Choose Bali if you want the ultimate all-round honeymoon with luxury, culture, beaches and adventure.
🌴 Choose Koh Samui if your priority is a luxury five-star resort where everything is easy, polished and designed for total relaxation.
🏝️ Choose Palawan if you’ve always dreamed of island hopping, hidden lagoons and some of the world’s most spectacular coastal scenery.
🐘 Choose Borneo if wildlife encounters, rainforest adventures and eco-luxury experiences are at the top of your honeymoon bucket list.
🌿 Choose Sumba if you’re looking for barefoot luxury, dramatic landscapes and an exclusive Indonesian escape beyond Bali.
🍜 Choose Hoi An if incredible food, rich culture and charming boutique hotels are just as important to you as beautiful scenery.
✨ Choose the Anambas Islands if your dream honeymoon is a truly remote private-island experience with world-class luxury and complete seclusion.
My biggest Southeast Asia honeymoon planning tip
Southeast Asia is one of my favourite regions in the world and what I love most is that you don’t have to choose just one type of honeymoon.
Some of my favourite itineraries combine two completely different destinations. In fact, it’s a lot more common for clients to ask me about booking two bucket list destinations in Southeast Asia together, than just doing a single-centre trip.
For example, you could spend a few days exploring Singapore before unwinding on a tropical island. You could pair Bali with the peaceful beaches of Gili Meno, or combine an adventurous Borneo rainforest stay with a luxury beach resort near Kota Kinabalu.
In my experience, these multi-centre honeymoons feel much more memorable than staying in one place throughout. You get to experience different landscapes, cultures and styles of travel, making your honeymoon feel like two incredible trips in one.
Looking beyond Southeast Asia?
If Southeast Asia still doesn’t quite feel like the right fit, Asia is full of other incredible honeymoon destinations. These are a few more of my favourites:
- 🇲🇻 Maldives – for iconic overwater villas and ultimate luxury.
- 🇯🇵 Japan – for cherry blossoms, ryokans and culture.
- 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka – for wildlife, beaches and scenic train journeys.
- 🇮🇳 India – for colourful culture, palaces and luxury heritage hotels.
- 🇧🇹 Bhutan – for peaceful mountain landscapes and a truly unique honeymoon.
Southeast Asia honeymoon FAQs
Is Southeast Asia good for a honeymoon?
I think that Southeast Asia is one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world. Whether you’re dreaming of luxury beach resorts, wildlife adventures, island hopping, incredible food or rich cultural experiences, there’s something for every type of couple.
What’s the best time of year to honeymoon in Southeast Asia?
Southeast Asia’s weather varies from country to country so the best time depends on where you’re travelling. However, November to April is generally considered a good time for many of the region’s most popular honeymoon destinations.
That said, it’s always worth checking the weather for your chosen destination before booking.
Which Southeast Asia honeymoon destination is the most luxurious?
If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury honeymoon, I’d recommend the Anambas Islands, Sumba or Koh Samui. If you’re after a truly once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon, these destinations are hard to beat!
Which destination is best if I want overwater villas?
If overwater villas are at the top of your honeymoon wish list, I recommend Bawah Reserve in the Anambas Islands.
Which destination is best for island hopping?
Palawan in the Philippines is the clear winner. With its turquoise lagoons, hidden beaches and spectacular limestone islands, it’s one of the world’s best island-hopping destinations.
Which Southeast Asia honeymoon destination is the least crowded?
If you want to escape the crowds, I recommend the Anambas Islands, Sumba or Koh Kood. All three offer a much quieter experience than destinations like Bali or Phuket.
How much should I budget for a luxury honeymoon in Southeast Asia?
As a general guide, I’d recommend budgeting between £10,000 and £15,000+ for a luxury honeymoon in Southeast Asia, depending on the destinations you choose, your hotel preferences and the time of year you travel.
Can you combine multiple countries in one honeymoon?
Yes – and it’s one of the biggest reasons I love planning honeymoons in Southeast Asia! You could pair Singapore with the Anambas Islands, Bali with Gili Meno or Sumba, or Hoi An with a Mekong River cruise.
Multi-centre honeymoons are one of my favourite ways to experience the region because they let you enjoy completely different landscapes, cultures and experiences in a single trip.
🏝️ Looking for the best honeymoon destinations across all of Asia?
>> Check out my Asia honeymoon guide here <<
Choosing the right Southeast Asia honeymoon
Southeast Asia is one of my favourite regions in the world because every destination offers something completely different.
One couple might spend their days island hopping through Palawan, while another chooses a luxury villa in Bali, an eco-lodge in Borneo or a private island retreat in the Anambas Islands. That’s exactly what makes this part of the world so special!
I always say that the best honeymoon isn’t about choosing the most expensive hotel or the destination everyone else is talking about – it’s about finding the place that feels right for YOU.
Whether that’s slowing down on a quiet tropical island, immersing yourself in a new culture or celebrating with a once-in-a-lifetime luxury escape, your honeymoon should reflect the way you want to start married life together.
I hope this guide has helped you feel more confident about choosing your perfect Southeast Asia honeymoon destination. I genuinely don’t think you can go wrong with any of these destinations, and I’d love to hear which one you choose!
Still looking for honeymoon inspiration? I’ve linked destination guides throughout this post to help you dive deeper into the places that caught your eye. And if you’re comparing destinations or starting to think about your itinerary, you’ll find even more honeymoon inspiration below!
MORE HONEYMOON INSPIRATION:
- 25 Best Places to Honeymoon in the World
- 15 Best Honeymoon Destinations in Asia for a Once-in-a-Lifetime Trip
- 14 Best Honeymoon Destinations in Southeast Asia: Where to Go for Every Type of Couple
- 15 Best Caribbean Islands for Couples on Honeymoon
- 15 Best Winter Sun Honeymoon Destinations
- 20+ Best 2-Week Honeymoon Ideas
- Why Honeymoon in Cold Places? (Best Winter Honeymoon Ideas)
- 15 Best Multi Destination Honeymoon Ideas
- 11 Best Ecotourism Destinations to Visit on Honeymoon
- 12 Best Honeymoon Destinations in Africa (Luxury Safaris, Beaches & More)
- 17 Best City Breaks in February: Romantic Destinations for a Winter City Honeymoon
- 15 Best Adventure Honeymoon Destinations (Bucket-List Ideas Beyond the Beach)
- 15 Best Maldives Alternatives for a Luxury Honeymoon
- 15 Best Honeymoon Destinations in Europe for Every Type of Couple
- 17 Best Places Like Hawaii to Consider for Your Honeymoon
- 17 Best Honeymoon Destinations in North America
- 16 Best Oceania and South Pacific Honeymoon Destinations
- 16 Best UK Honeymoon Destinations for a Romantic Escape
- 17 Best Honeymoon Road Trips Around the World
- 17 Best Honeymoon Destinations for Foodies (Insider Guide)
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