Five Caribbean & Central American Adventure Honeymoon Ideas

Honeymoons are a great way to get your marriage started off right– who doesn’t love relaxing after a stressed-out period of wedding worries and planning? Long walks along the beach, dancing at night, waking up in the tropical sun…no wonder the Caribbeans and Central America are such a popular place to run away together! And if you and your future husband/wife are the adventurous type, you’re in luck– consider these adventurous, alternative honeymoon ideas for an absolutely unique and unforgettable experience. Read on to find out more:

For those spirited couples who crave the thrill of exploration on their honeymoons, these destinations veer off the beaten path and into untamed, spontaneous memory making territory. The Caribbean islands and Central American coast boast a wealth of flourishing rain forest, rugged terrain and diverse wildlife you can’t fully appreciate poolside or from a tour bus. The unique paths you take whilst getting more personal with the people, culture and landscape of a country make a visit all the more treasured.

Cuba by Bicycle

Known more for its pulsing rhythms and mouthwatering cuisine than spirit of adventure, Cuba unexpectedly offers a unique opportunity to skip the beach resort and experience the soul of the island more intimately. Mount your bicycles and pedal through the Guaniguanico and El Rosario Mountain ranges, amongst tobacco plantations and to secret beaches. Stop for a picnic, cool off with a swim or stop and savor the breathtaking view from a roadside vista before delving into the vibrance of Havana or the authentic culture of Santiago de Cuba.

Caving in Belize

Beneath the lush jungle of Belize is a hidden labyrinth of caves. Meandering underground rivers, yawning grottos and archaeologically fascinating ancient sites await those keen for a unique subterranean expedition. The Actun Tunichil Muknal cave is a challenging network to navigate but the reward is a nationally protected treasure of Mayan artifacts, sharp and impressive stalactite formations and even eerie calcified skeletons. Kayak through Barton Creek Cave or rappel hundreds of feet into Actun Loch Tunich (the Black Hole), and gain an uninhibited and rare perspective of Belize.

Scuba Diving in Roatan

Even if you are inexperienced at underwater escapades, a week off Roatan’s coast mingling with the marine life and you’ll never want to come up for air! A scuba diving haven perched amongst the world’s second largest barrier reef, Roatan, Honduras shows off its azure waters, world-class guides and coveted dive sites. A kaleidoscope of tropical fish will flirt with your fins as you weightlessly spy neon coral and dramatic, anemone-laden shipwrecks like the Gwendolyn and Prince Albert. Afterwards, bask in the long rays of a Central American sunset from the deck of the dive ship.

Backpack the Virgin Islands

Get gritty in the Virgin Islands by trekking between campgrounds tucked in the blossoming wilderness and peeking out over pristine beaches. Leave the hairdryer at home and arrive at Maho Bay on St. John where low environmental impact is paramount and the elevated tent-cottages roost on stilts. Cinnamon Bay, St. John gives you access to all the hiking, snorkeling and kayaking you can fit into a day, or tour their archaeology lab and rum distillery ruins. On Tortola, Brewer’s Bay has primitive sites where you can pitch your own tent and connect with the tropical flora and fauna.

Costa Rica by Zipline

No adventure list is complete without the country that pioneered the industry of off-beat vacations, Costa Rica. The ultimate thrill-seeker’s playground, you will find yourself one on one with the tree tops on a canopy expedition through the verdant rain forest and mountainous topography. Not for the feeble hearted, you will navigate narrow swinging bridges, plummet down ziplines that stretch thousands of feet into the tangle of jungle below, and hang suspended over rock precipices all while commanding striking views of towering waterfalls, Arenal Volcano and Monteverde.

Even if you wouldn’t usually choose a honeymoon “alfresco”, the rejuvenation and guaranteed staggering beauty of an outdoor venture with your new spouse might inspire romance and stories for the grandkids you never thought possible. Your honeymoon is the launching of your marriage and journey together. Any new experience with the one you love is sure to strengthen your bond and spice up your life. Have fun!

Noella Schink is an avid lover of all things wedding. When she isn’t dreaming of foreign places, she writes for Auto Europe, and advises newlyweds and engaged couples on their car rental plans for their honeymoons.