As the wedding bells start ringing across the country, the euphoria of newlywed bliss is closely shadowed by the daunting expenses that weddings and honeymoons entail. Living the high life in 2023 isn’t exactly a cakewalk, with that pesky thing we call inflation still sticking around and most couples starting their wedded adventure with a ‘something borrowed’ bank balance. Given that the average honeymoon cost in the U.S. hovers around $4,500, it’s no surprise that the astute couples of today want to make every cent count, without compromising on an unforgettable experience.
America is bursting with under-the-radar beautiful destinations that don’t require going into debt (or selling grandmother’s antique brooch). Experts at HoneymoonAlways.com
The Carolinas had 4 budget-friendly honeymoon destinations in the top 150:
#3
Edisto Island (SC) was voted in 3rd position. This charming coastal haven is renowned for its untouched beauty, with miles of pristine beaches, lush marshlands, and ancient oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Edisto Island offers affordable vacation rentals and cozy bed and breakfasts, providing comfortable accommodations for honeymooners on a budget. The island’s local seafood restaurants and casual eateries serve up delicious Lowcountry cuisine at reasonable prices, allowing couples to experience the rich flavors of the region without overspending.
#79
Edenton captivates with its historic charm, scenic beauty, and affordable allure. Nestled along the Albemarle Sound, this picturesque town offers a wealth of low-cost activities for a memorable romantic escape. Couples can explore the historic downtown, take leisurely walks along the waterfront, or enjoy a peaceful picnic in the town’s lovely parks without spending a fortune. Edenton’s welcoming atmosphere extends to budget-conscious accommodations, including cozy bed and breakfasts and affordable inns, ensuring couples have a comfortable and intimate stay within budget. The town’s historic landmarks and scenic vistas offer free opportunities for romantic strolls and picturesque views.
#85
Blowing Rock offers a plethora of low-cost activities for an unforgettable romantic escape. Couples can savor the stunning panoramic views from Blowing Rock itself, a natural wonder without an entry fee, or take leisurely hikes through nearby trails immersed in nature’s beauty. The town’s welcoming atmosphere extends to budget-conscious accommodations, including cozy bed and breakfasts and affordable lodges, ensuring a comfortable and intimate stay without breaking the bank. Blowing Rock’s downtown exudes a rustic charm, inviting couples to explore unique boutiques, local galleries, and affordable eateries, where they can relish in the flavors of the region.
#96
Chimney Rock stands out as a top-notch yet economically-friendly honeymoon spot, drawing couples with its stunning landscapes, adventurous outdoor activities, and cost-effective appeal. Set within the Blue Ridge Mountains, this picturesque locale has an abundance of budget-friendly adventures for a lasting romantic getaway. Couples can set out on picturesque trails, reaching the famed Chimney Rock together, and be rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas, all without straining their budget. Accommodations in Chimney Rock cater to the budget-savvy, with offerings from quaint cabins to value lodges, guaranteeing a snug and personal experience. The town’s delightful Main Street is lined with local boutiques, art spaces, and reasonably priced eateries, ensuring couples can wander and feast without any financial worries.
The complete ranking includes:
Ranking | Town | State |
---|---|---|
1 | Cedar Key | Florida |
2 | Molokai | Hawaii |
3 | Edisto Island | South Carolina |
4 | Cumberland Falls | Kentucky |
5 | Apalachicola | Florida |
6 | Skagway | Alaska |
7 | Williamsburg | Virginia |
8 | Bay St. Louis | Mississippi |
9 | Cooperstown | New York |
10 | Solvang | California |
11 | Peterborough | New Hampshire |
12 | Lexington | Virginia |
13 | Port Aransas | Texas |
14 | Eufaula | Alabama |
15 | Mount Dora | Florida |
16 | Cumberland | Maryland |
17 | Springdale | Utah |
18 | Jekyll Island | Georgia |
19 | Yellow Springs | Ohio |
20 | Rugby | Tennessee |
21 | Eastport | Maine |
22 | Valdez | Alaska |
23 | Truth or Consequences | New Mexico |
24 | Rockport | Massachusetts |
25 | Wickenburg | Arizona |
26 | Cape Charles | Virginia |
27 | Abingdon | Virginia |
28 | San Juan Islands | Washington |
29 | Grand Forks | North Dakota |
30 | Brownville | Nebraska |
31 | Magnolia Springs | Alabama |
32 | Litchfield | Connecticut |
33 | Lindsborg | Kansas |
34 | Hana | Hawaii |
35 | Weston | Missouri |
36 | Berkeley Springs | West Virginia |
37 | Shawnee National Forest | Illinois |
38 | Deadwood | South Dakota |
39 | Mentone | Alabama |
40 | Moab | Utah |
41 | Sandpoint | Idaho |
42 | Salida | Colorado |
43 | Virginia City | Montana |
44 | Abita Springs | Louisiana |
45 | Wickford Village | Rhode Island |
46 | Grafton | Vermont |
47 | Garrison | North Dakota |
48 | Red Lodge | Montana |
49 | Finger Lakes | New York |
50 | Greenville | South Carolina |
51 | Lewiston | Idaho |
52 | Old Saybrook | Connecticut |
53 | Walla Walla | Washington |
54 | Petoskey | Michigan |
55 | Silver City | New Mexico |
56 | Rangeley | Maine |
57 | Ruidoso | New Mexico |
58 | Burlington | Vermont |
59 | Ka’u | Hawaii |
60 | Beaufort | South Carolina |
61 | Rocheport | Missouri |
62 | Julian | California |
63 | Put-in-Bay | Ohio |
64 | Green River | Wyoming |
65 | Simsbury | Connecticut |
66 | Seneca Falls | New York |
67 | Lititz | Pennsylvania |
68 | Harpers Ferry | West Virginia |
69 | Mountain View | Arkansas |
70 | Berlin | Maryland |
71 | Denton | Texas |
72 | Ferdinand | Indiana |
73 | Havre de Grace | Maryland |
74 | Erie | Pennsylvania |
75 | Broken Bow | Oklahoma |
76 | Helen | Georgia |
77 | Bigfork | Montana |
78 | Cody | Wyoming |
79 | Edenton | North Carolina |
80 | Jonesborough | Tennessee |
81 | Cripple Creek | Colorado |
82 | Castine | Maine |
83 | Dahlonega | Georgia |
84 | Methow Valley | Washington |
85 | Blowing Rock | North Carolina |
86 | Hood River | Oregon |
87 | Genoa | Nevada |
88 | Payson | Arizona |
89 | Munising | Michigan |
90 | Lanesboro | Minnesota |
91 | Rockport | Texas |
92 | Ligonier | Pennsylvania |
93 | Mineral Point | Wisconsin |
94 | Manitou Springs | Colorado |
95 | Cannon Beach | Oregon |
96 | Chimney Rock | North Carolina |
97 | Lewisburg | West Virginia |
98 | Hill City | South Dakota |
99 | Valentine | Nebraska |
100 | Lewes | Delaware |
101 | Bardstown | Kentucky |
102 | Virginia City | Nevada |
103 | Jarbidge | Nevada |
104 | Roan Mountain | Tennessee |
105 | Holly Springs | Mississippi |
106 | St. Francisville | Louisiana |
107 | Dixon | Illinois |
108 | Wolfeboro | New Hampshire |
109 | Spring Lake | New Jersey |
110 | New Harmony | Indiana |
111 | Franconia | New Hampshire |
112 | Okoboji | Iowa |
113 | Murfreesboro | Arkansas |
114 | Block Island | Rhode Island |
115 | Breaux Bridge | Louisiana |
116 | Medicine Park | Oklahoma |
117 | Clinton | New Jersey |
118 | Spring Green | Wisconsin |
119 | Alpine | Texas |
120 | Brattleboro | Vermont |
121 | Idyllwild | California |
122 | Homer | Alaska |
123 | Decorah | Iowa |
124 | Nashville | Indiana |
125 | Lambertville | New Jersey |
126 | Stanley | Idaho |
127 | Oxford | Mississippi |
128 | Cottonwood Falls | Kansas |
129 | Stillwater | Minnesota |
130 | Bisbee | Arizona |
131 | Nebraska City | Nebraska |
132 | Newburyport | Massachusetts |
133 | Marquette | Michigan |
134 | Joseph | Oregon |
135 | Rehoboth Beach | Delaware |
136 | Medora | North Dakota |
137 | Berea | Kentucky |
138 | Marietta | Ohio |
139 | Winona | Minnesota |
140 | Ten Sleep | Wyoming |
141 | Shelburne Falls | Massachusetts |
142 | Spearfish | South Dakota |
143 | Wamego | Kansas |
144 | Hermann | Missouri |
145 | Mena | Arkansas |
146 | Milton | Delaware |
147 | Bristol | Rhode Island |
148 | Bentonsport | Iowa |
149 | Bartlesville | Oklahoma |
150 | La Crosse | Wisconsin |