Unforgettable honeymoon destination ideas under $3000

Let’s cut to the chase: weddings are expensive. Our Annual Wedding Industry Report revealed that the average cost of a wedding is now $35,315 in 2025. And, with a honeymoon included, couples will need to fork out a total of  $44,591.

But don’t worry: your honeymoon destination doesn’t need to cost more than your actual wedding dress. You can have the romance, the cocktails, the sunsets (or at least really nice afternoons), and the post-wedding glow… all without dropping five figures.

Here are seven ridiculously cute, actually affordable honeymoon destinations where you and your partner can soak up some magic without selling a kidney. All under $3000*. Yep, we triple-checked.

1. Honeymoon destination: Hoi An, Vietnam

If you’re dreaming of a honeymoon that feels like stepping into a storybook (with a price tag that feels like a typo) Hoi An is the one. This UNESCO-listed riverside town in Vietnam is full of charm, colour, and incredibly good food. It’s the kind of honeymoon destination where you’ll fall in love with the place – and each other— -ll over again.

Why you’ll love it:

• The Ancient Town is all glowing lanterns, yellow-washed walls, and cute cafes.
• You can get tailor-made outfits in 24 hours (hello, matching linen sets).
• An Bang Beach is just 10 minutes away if you want sun and sand.
• Street food is elite (and dirt cheap)—think crispy bánh mì, fragrant pho, and fresh spring rolls.

Budget for 7–9 days:

• Flights: ~$1000 (return for two from Australia to Da Nang)
• Boutique hotel or villa: ~$50–$70 per night
• Food, bicycles, and romantic boat rides: ~$800

Total: ~$2700

2. Honeymoon destination: Bali, Indonesia

Bali is the OG honeymoon destination for good reason: it’s got the views, the vibes, and the villas. One minute you’re getting a massage for the price of a sandwich, the next you’re floating in a private pool with your breakfast on a tray (yes, that’s a thing).

What you’ll love:

• Private villas in Ubud from around ~$70/night
• Sunset seafood dinners in Jimbaran Bay
• Waterfalls, rice terraces, beach clubs, and scooters
• Spa treatments so cheap you’ll be getting two a day

7–10 days budget breakdown:

• Flights: ~$900 return (for two from Aus)
• Villa accommodation: ~$700
• Food + massages + exploring: ~$800

Total: ~$2400

3. Honeymoon destination: Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is for lovers of spice, sunshine, and a bit of everything. Want to island-hop one day and get a beach massage the next? Done. Love street food and late-night markets? Say no more. This place is buzzing with energy and full of little honeymoon moments.

What you’ll love:

• Day trips to the Phi Phi Islands
• Local eats from night markets (hello, pad Thai)
• Sunset beach walks and cocktails with umbrellas
• 4-star resorts from $80/night

7–10 days budget breakdown:

• Flights: ~$700 return (for two)
• Accommodation: ~$700
• Food + boat trips + scooter hire: ~$800

Total: ~$2200

4. Honeymoon destination: Queenstown, New Zealand

If you’re into snow-capped mountains, epic views, and wine by the fireplace, Queenstown might just be your perfect honeymoon destination. It’s like a postcard, but better. And even though it’s close to home, it feels like another world.

What you’ll love:

• Gondola rides and lake cruises
• Cosy cabins with mountain views
• Adrenaline stuff if you’re feeling brave (jet boats, anyone?)
• Local wine, cheese, and fireplaces for two

7–10 days budget breakdown:

• Flights: ~$500 return (for two from Aus)
• Lodges and cute stays: ~$100/night
• Food + adventures: ~$800

Total: ~$1900

5. Honeymoon destination: Fiji

Fiji is basically the romantic comedy of tropical getaways—easy, breezy, and absolutely gorgeous. Think hammocks under palm trees, snorkelling in crystal-clear water, and more “bula!” than you’ve ever heard in your life (it means hello, and you’ll love it).

What you’ll love:

• Beachfront bungalows with ocean views
• Day trips to private islands
• Kava ceremonies, fire dancing, and coral reef snorkelling
• Sunsets so good they should be illegal

7–10 days budget breakdown:

• Flights: ~$600 return (for two from Brisbane/Sydney)
• Accommodation: ~$90/night
• Food + transfers + tropical fun: ~$700

Total: ~$1950

6. Honeymoon destination: Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is slow, graceful, and endlessly romantic. It’s got ancient temples, geisha laneways, and gardens that look like they’ve been curated by fairies. It’s quiet, beautiful, and full of tiny bowls of things you can’t pronounce—but absolutely love.

What you’ll love:

• Cherry blossoms (or autumn leaves) depending on when you go
• Strolling hand-in-hand through the bamboo forest
• Sipping matcha in a 200-year-old teahouse
• Ryokans (traditional inns) from ~$100/night

7–10 days budget breakdown:

• Flights: ~$800 return (for two to Osaka)
• Ryokan or guesthouse: ~$100/night
• Food + transport + temple entry: ~$800

Total: ~$2200

7. Vanuatu

Vanuatu is a bit under the radar, and honestly, we love that for you. It’s all clear lagoons, untouched beaches, and local smiles that make you feel like you belong. It’s giving peaceful paradise, digital detox, and a honeymoon destination that feels like a deep breath.

What you’ll love:

• Blue Lagoon swims and rainforest hikes
• Traditional kava ceremonies
• Beachfront eco-resorts for around $85/night
• Fresh seafood and no Wi-Fi (on purpose)

7–9 days budget breakdown:

• Flights: ~$500 return (for two from Brisbane)
• Stay: ~$600 total
• Food + transfers + activities: ~$700

Total: ~$1800

How to stretch your budget on your honeymoon

Maximise your honeymoon budget with a little bit of smart planning. Here’s our tips:

1. Travel during shoulder seasons: prices drop, crowds thin, and the weather’s still lovely.
2. Be flexible with your flight dates. Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to find the cheapest options.
3. When it comes to accommodation, consider boutique hotels, guesthouses, or even highly rated hostels for a more local (and affordable) experience.
4. All-inclusive deals can also be a game-changer, especially in places like Thailand or Mexico.
5. Eat where the locals eat: street food is often better (and cheaper) than tourist spots.
6. Skip pricey excursions and explore on your own. Many attractions, hikes, or beaches are free or low-cost.
7. Use public transport over taxis, and book activities online in advance for discounts.

With a bit of strategy, you’ll be sipping cocktails somewhere dreamy (without blowing your honeymoon destination budget).

A destination wedding might be the ultimate honeymoon destination hack

One way to bypass all this? Consider a destination wedding. Instead of juggling venues, seating charts, and competing family opinions, you could be saying “I do” barefoot on a beach or in a vineyard in Tuscany, turning your big day into a built-in holiday. Fewer guests, less stress, and memories that double as your honeymoon? It’s a win-win.

*Prices indicative as of March 2025