If you're a social butterfly who's planning to get married this year, here's an idea: consider forgoing a standard honeymoon and trade it in for a group trip with your partner and close friends, a.k.a. a buddymoon. On a buddymoon, married couples aren't expected to pay for the whole vacation, and can essentially decide how active they want it to be depending on the spot they choose. (Plus, there is room for alone time—nobody says you have to spend the whole trip doing group activities!) Here, some destinations that are perfect for the unconventional wedding celebration.
The Surf Club (Florida)
Head north of Miami to Surfside, Florida, where you'll find quieter beaches and a more refined selection of shops and restaurants to take in with your crew. Rent a cabana for your group and you'll have access to a pool, plus air conditioning and couches to shield you from the heat. After a day of fun in the sun or shopping at Bal Harbour Shops, enjoy happy hour at Le Sirenuse followed by dinner at Thomas Keller's Surf Club restaurant. Foodies can get a personalized tour of the kitchen —and maybe even a glimpse of Keller himself.
Blackberry Mountain (Tennessee)
Blackberry Mountain is the ultimate place to unwind, immerse yourself in nature, and get active. It's a secluded paradise for a close group of special friends where you can spend your days hiking the trails or book an adventure that gets you outside of your comfort zone—like rock climbing, an off-road experience, or camping beneath the stars. After a day out in nature, grab a cocktail at The Firetower restaurant, perched atop the mountain in a restored 1950's lookout tower, followed by dinner at The Barn at Blackberry Farm, where you can indulge in farm-to-table fare and a selection of fine wines for pairing.
Hotel Esencia (Mexico)
Located on a 50-acre estate in the Mayan Riviera, this warm weather playground was originally constructed as a private hideaway for Italian royals. Today, its secluded grounds and close beach proximity make it a sought-after buddymoon destination. Rent out the private villas for your crew and spend your days exploring the Mayan ruins of Tulum or Chichen Itza. Or carve out time for diving, snorkeling, and sipping margs on the beach. Book a group dinner at Beefbar Esencia for a selection of meat-focused fusion street food dishes—like kobe beef tacos and wagyu beef (you're celebrating after all!). Or opt for an evening at Mistura for upscale Mexican cuisine under a beachfront palapa.
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon (Iceland)
An hour outside of the popular town of Reykjavík, this majestic retreat is carved into the side of an 800-year-old lava field and decked out with chic minimalist decor that invites the outside in. For post-nuptial pampering with pals, spend your days unwinding in the Blue Lagoon's revitalizing waters with custom massages and beauty treatments. Alternatively, visit the Lava Cove, a private spa within the spa, ideal for a group experiences with your very own lagoon, a wood-burning fireplace, kitchen, and guided yoga sessions. In the evening, head over to the onsite Michelin starred Moss restaurant that sits at the highest point of the Blue Lagoon with stellar volcano views.
•••
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
-
Jason Statham "Has Nothing to Say About" Kristin Cavallari Calling Him Her "Hottest Hookup," Source ClaimsOuch.
-
Netflix's Charming Mystery 'A Man on the Inside' Ends With Amateur Spy Charles on Another Case—Will There Be a Season 2?We're already eager to see more sleuthing from Ted Danson!
-
Netflix's 'A Man on the Inside' Is the Perfect Cozy Mystery—Meet the Charming Seniors Who Star Alongside Ted DansonThe new show from 'The Good Place' creator Mike Schur stars Ted Danson and several other sitcom legends.
-
The 10 Best Health Spa Resorts in the U.S.It’s pampering time.
-
The Fashion Editor’s Guide to Saint-Germain-des-PrésThe most stylish activities and sights inspired by Emily in Paris.
-
The Ultimate Guide to CopenhagenExplore one of the happiest cities in the world.
-
The 17 Best Luggage Sets of 2023BRB, setting my "out of office" message.
-
The Only Weekender Bags You Need for Fall TravelIn case you want another reason to get excited about your trip.
-
Weekend Guide to the North Fork: Where To Stay, Eat, & DrinkWine, oysters, and more wine please.
-
Romantic Weekend Getaways For Every Kind of CoupleFind love in all the right places.
-
The Instagram Guide to the Galápagos IslandsFor special experiences with beautiful wildlife, skip the safari and hop on a boat to the Galápagos Islands.
