By Terry Meadows
Published: December 2024
Are you dreaming of an unforgettable honeymoon in Virginia?
Wondering where the most enchanting spots are to celebrate your love?
At Zion Springs, with over 15 years of weddings under our belt, we're dedicated to guiding couples through the important decisions of their wedding celebrations.
This article draws on our rich experience to highlight the best honeymoon locations across Virginia. From serene coastal retreats to cozy mountain hideaways and charming historic towns, we've curated a list of destinations to ensure your first adventure as a married couple is as magical as your "I do"s.
How We Chose the Best Honeymoon Resort Venues: Key Selection Criteria
The honeymoon resorts were meticulously selected based on criteria tailored to ensure an unforgettable romantic experience:
- Privacy and Intimacy: We prioritize resorts that offer private and intimate settings, ideal for honeymooners looking for seclusion and tranquility. This ranges from boutique hotels with a few select rooms to larger resorts designed to provide private spaces for each guest.
- Ambiance and Decor: The chosen resorts provide diverse atmospheres, from luxurious beachfront properties to cozy mountain lodges, each crafted to suit different tastes and enhance the romantic mood of your stay.
- Exclusive Features: Each resort boasts unique amenities such as spa services, private balconies, gourmet dining, or stunning natural surroundings. These features contribute to a memorable honeymoon by offering more than just accommodation but a comprehensive romantic experience.
- Price Range: The selection includes a variety of price points to accommodate different budget needs without compromising quality. This ensures that every couple can find a resort that provides value and aligns with their financial expectations for a perfect honeymoon.
By focusing on these criteria, we aim to recommend resorts that not only meet but exceed the expectations of honeymooners, providing an idyllic backdrop for romance, relaxation, and the celebration of new beginnings.
1. The Cavalier Virginia Beach Autograph Collection
Average Price per Night: Approximately $350
Google Review Score: 4.6/5
Description: The Cavalier offers an iconic oceanfront experience with luxurious accommodations and a rich history. Indulge in sophisticated dining, a lavish spa, and access to a private beach club.
Romantic Activities:
- Take a romantic walk along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk at sunset.
- Have a picnic on the beach under the stars.
- Explore the vibrant ViBe Creative District and discover local art.
Website: The Cavalier
2. Refuge Inn
Average Price per Night: Approximately $180
Google Review Score: 4.7/5
Description: Located on Chincoteague Island, the Refuge Inn offers a cozy, family-owned retreat near the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy close encounters with the island's famous wild ponies and unwind in a charming setting.
Romantic Activities:
- Watch the wild Chincoteague ponies, especially during the annual pony swim.
- Kayak together through the serene waters of the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.
- Enjoy a sunset cruise around the island.
- Visit the Assateague Lighthouse for breathtaking views.
Website: Refuge Inn
3. The Tides Inn
Average Price per Night: Approximately $400
Google Review Score: 4.5/5
Description: Located in Irvington, The Tides Inn offers waterfront views, maritime activities, and a serene spa, making it an ideal retreat for couples looking to unwind by the water.
Romantic Activities:
- Embark on a private sailing adventure from the Tides Inn marina.
- Experience a couples spa treatment at the Tides Inn Spa.
- Take part in a wine-tasting or mixology class offered by the resort.
- Enjoy a romantic dinner at the Chesapeake Restaurant with stunning views of Carter's Creek.
Website: The Tides Inn
4. Hotel Cape Charles
Average Price per Night: Approximately $250
Google Review Score: 4.6/5
Description: Hotel Cape Charles is a modern boutique hotel that offers a peaceful stay with stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay, perfect for couples seeking a tranquil coastal escape.
Romantic Activities:
- Explore the charming town of Cape Charles, with its quaint boutiques, art galleries, and historic architecture.
- Enjoy a leisurely day at Cape Charles Beach, known for its beautiful sunsets.
- Visit Chatham Vineyards for a wine tasting in a picturesque setting.
Website: Hotel Cape Charles
5. Massanutten Resort
Average Price per Night: Approximately $220
Google Review Score: 4.3/5
Description: Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Massanutten Resort offers a blend of adventure and relaxation with its wide range of outdoor activities and cozy accommodations.
Romantic Activities:
- Hike together in Shenandoah National Park and enjoy the stunning views from Skyline Drive.
- Enjoy a guided wine tasting session at CrossKeys Vineyards.
- Go horseback riding through picturesque trails.
Website: Massanutten Resort
6. Primland Resort
Average Price per Night: Approximately $450
Google Review Score: 4.8/5
Description: Situated in the Blue Ridge Highlands, Primland Resort offers luxury lodging with breathtaking mountain views, ideal for couples seeking an upscale retreat.
Romantic Activities:
- Drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Cozy up in a cabin with a fireplace after a day of exploring.
- Enjoy a romantic dinner at the farm-to-table Elements restaurant.
- Experience an unforgettable hot air balloon ride over the highlands.
Website: Primland Resort
7. The Williamsburg Inn
Average Price per Night: Approximately $400
Google Review Score: 4.7/5
Description: The Williamsburg Inn in Williamsburg offers a regal experience with its lush gardens and refined service, embodying the elegance of the colonial era.
Romantic Activities:
- Stroll through Colonial Williamsburg and immerse yourselves in history.
- Enjoy a carriage ride through the historic area.
- Dine at Chownings Tavern for an authentic 18th-century experience.
- Visit the romantic gardens of the Governor's Palace.
Website: The Williamsburg Inn
8. Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria
Average Price per Night: Approximately $250
Google Review Score: 4.4/5
Description: Combining modern comfort with historic charm, Hotel Indigo in Old Town Alexandria is located along the waterfront, perfect for couples who appreciate contemporary amenities amid historical surroundings.
Romantic Activities:
- Walk along the charming streets of Old Town Alexandria.
- Take a scenic cruise on the Potomac River.
- Explore local boutiques and art galleries.
Website: Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria
9. The 1804 Inn at Barboursville Vineyards
Average Price per Night: Approximately $300
Google Review Score: 4.7/5
Description: Ideal for wine lovers and history buffs, The 1804 Inn at Barboursville Vineyards offers an intimate stay among the rolling hills of the vineyard.
Romantic Activities:
- Savor a private wine-tasting tour at the vineyard.
- Discover the historic ruins of Governor James Barbour's mansion.
- Enjoy a romantic dinner at the vineyard's Palladio Restaurant, known for its Italian-inspired cuisine.
Website: The 1804 Inn at Barboursville Vineyards
10. Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Average Price per Night: Approximately $350
Google Review Score: 4.7/5
Description: Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards provides luxurious accommodations and stunning views, making it an excellent choice for an exclusive and romantic vineyard experience.
Romantic Activities:
- Participate in a cooking class together, learning to prepare gourmet dishes with fresh, local ingredients.
- Enjoy a picnic on the grounds with a Pippin Hill picnic basket.
- Explore the scenic trails around the vineyard for a peaceful afternoon walk.
- Relax on the veranda, taking in panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains while sipping estate-grown wines.
Website: Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
11. The Inn at Willow Grove
Average Price per Night: Approximately $400
Google Review Score: 4.8/5
Description: Offering boutique rooms and suites set in a picturesque country estate, The Inn at Willow Grove blends historic architecture with modern luxury.
Romantic Activities:
- Indulge in a couples spa treatment at the Mill House Spa.
- Dine under the stars in the property's gardens, enjoying a custom-prepared meal by the chef.
- Take a leisurely bike ride around the estate.
- Cozy up by the outdoor fire pits with a nightcap, enjoying the serene night sky.
Website: The Inn at Willow Grove
12. Keswick Hall
Average Price per Night: Approximately $500
Google Review Score: 4.7/5
Description: Keswick Hall promises an opulent stay with elegantly furnished rooms, a world-class spa, and fine dining, all set in the heart of Virginia's wine country.
- Romantic Activities:
- Tee off together at the estate's championship golf course.
- Savor an intimate dinner at Fossett's, with panoramic views of the Virginia countryside.
- Take a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride around the estate.
- Relax by the infinity pool, taking in breathtaking views of the estate's gardens and vineyards.
- Website: Keswick Hall
Finding Your Perfect Honeymoon in Virginia
As you explore options for celebrating your love, Virginia stands out as a treasure trove of romantic destinations, each offering its own blend of beauty, history, and unique experiences. Its array of romantic settings, from coastal retreats to mountain hideaways, offers the perfect backdrop for your honeymoon.
At Zion Springs, our expertise from hosting over 400 weddings equips us to guide you through these choices, and our commitment goes beyond just hosting ceremonies; we're passionate about providing education and insight.s
We encourage you to explore further advice and tips on our Answers and Advice page. For deeper insights, consider our articles on selecting the best rehearsal dinner venues in Loudoun County and crafting heartfelt wedding speeches.