While living in NYC for 10 years, I was fortunate to have time to explore many destination. But heading to the coast was always my favorite. Ocean views always make it so easy to settle into a relaxing weekend! Some of my favorite moments were morning coffees by the sea. When I needed a romantic break with my husband, I looked for candlelit restaurants with waves crashing nearby.
For your own East Coast honeymoon, ask yourself what makes you happiest. Waking up to an ocean view? An early morning walk with a view? Or a late evening complete with a romantic dinner, dessert and drinks late into the night? Regardless of your preferences, I'm sure that you'll find something special if you scroll through my favorites below.
Best Honeymoon Resorts on the East Coast
Finding stillness in sophistication at Delamar Greenwich Harbor
My husband and I drove about an hour north from NYC on a spring afternoon. We checked into a suite at Delamar. Immediately, we appreciated the relaxing view over sailboats and water.
I enjoyed the personal feel of the hotel. My favorite was the candlelight dinner at L’Escale by the harbor where we celebrated our anniversary. I told my husband: “Here romance can glide like a boat on still water.” I ordered seared scallops with cauliflower purée and black truffle oil.
Next day we went for an early walk along the marina. Afterwards we hungrily dug into fresh croissants and coffee in the courtyard garden.
Travel Tips:
- Vibe: Upscale, peaceful, harbor-side
- Highlights: Marina views, spa services, walkable downtown
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round. Book months in advance for fall foliage (we couldn't get a reservation the first time around!)
- Cost: $$$ boutique elegance
- Hours: Check-in 3pm, Check-out 11am
- Address: 500 Steamboat Rd, Greenwich, CT 06830
Drifting into beachside bliss at Hammock Beach
We landed at Daytona Beach International Airport, rented a car, and drove about 30 minutes to Hammock Beach. I had my window down to enjoy the breeze off the Atlantic which I always find so relaxing when arriving from NYC.
We checked into a suite with a view of Florida's Palm Coast. I was very excited to try the lazy river so we grabbed a snack on the go. We stayed by the pool admiring a romantic sunset (with peach to lavender colors!). Throughout it all, I kept thinking, “Happiness is easier to hold when the ocean is this close.”
After the sunset, we changed and headed to The Atlantic Grille. I had the grilled swordfish with roasted fennel and citrus beurre blanc.
Travel Tips:
- Vibe: Playful, oceanfront, spacious
- Highlights: Private beach, spa, multi-pool complex
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for ocean breezes and fewer crowds
- Cost: $$–$$$ resort pricing
- Hours: Pool and spa open daily
- Address: 200 Ocean Crest Dr, Palm Coast, FL 32137
Waking up to waves at The Chanler at Cliff Walk
If you enjoy The Gilded Age TV series as much as I do, you'll want to head to Newport, RI for your honeymoon.
To me, it felt like stepping into a period novel...with all the elegance, but none of the rules. Our room at The Chanler opened directly onto the famous Cliff Walk.
I loved waking up to the morning sun over the water and ocean breeze. I remember thinking, “Some places don’t just host a honeymoon. They become part of the story.”
What I Loved Most: Reading together on the private terrace, sea spray in the air. There was no sound other than wind and waves below.
My Highlights? Dinner at The Café overlooking Easton Bay. I had butter-poached lobster with truffle risotto. It tasted like celebration in every bite.
Travel Tips:
- Vibe: Historic, opulent, coastal
- Highlights: Oceanfront rooms, fire pits, direct access to Cliff Walk
- Best Time to Visit: May–October for ideal weather and garden blooms
- Cost: $$$$ luxury and privacy
- Hours: Concierge available 24/7
- Address: 117 Memorial Blvd, Newport, RI 02840
Slowing time on the shores of Lake George at The Sagamore
Our suite at The Sagamore overlooked the still water of the lake. I only wished we could have spent more nights here! The Sagamore has both grandeur and historic charm.
We both loved watching the mist rise off the lake while sipping morning coffee. This location reminded me of mountain lakes in Italy or Austria.
Dinner at La Bella Vita was the highlight of our stay. Handmade pasta was delicious! I had mushroom risotto with a glass of Chianti. The view from our table was magical!
Travel Tips:
- Vibe: Classic, lakeside, timeless
- Highlights: Adirondack views, island location, spa and fine dining
- Best Time to Visit: June–September for lake activities or fall for foliage
- Cost: $$$ romantic resort pricing
- Hours: Seasonally open for full amenities
- Address: 110 Sagamore Rd, Bolton Landing, NY 12814
Conclusion:
Honeymoon is such a special time that it's worth a bit of research and imagination to plan that perfect getaway for yourself and your loved one. If you have more time, head to the Caribbean or Europe.
Jump to a Spot...
- • Finding stillness in sophistication at Delamar Greenwich Harbor
- • Golden sunset in Greenwich Harbor
- • Walking across the boardwalk to Hammock Beach, Florida
- • Aerial view of Hammock Beach and Palm Coast
- • Drifting into beachside bliss at Hammock Beach
- • Waking up to waves at The Chanler at Cliff Walk
- • Fall Foliage on Lake George
- • Bolton Landing, New York
- • Slowing time on the shores of Lake George at The Sagamore