A babymoon -- the last significant trip a couple takes before their baby arrives -- has become one of the most cherished travel traditions for expecting parents. It is a deliberate pause: a chance to reconnect as a couple, rest, and create memories before the beautiful chaos of parenthood begins. Planning a babymoon involves considerations that a regular vacation does not -- airline restrictions, proximity to medical facilities, Zika risk zones, and physical comfort become part of the equation. This guide covers everything you need to plan a safe, relaxing, and memorable babymoon.

When Is the Best Time to Take a Babymoon?

The second trimester (weeks 14-27) is widely considered the ideal window for babymoon travel. Here is why:

First trimester (weeks 1-13): Morning sickness, fatigue, and the higher risk of complications make this period less ideal for travel. Many women feel their worst during weeks 6-12
Second trimester (weeks 14-27): Nausea typically subsides, energy returns, and the belly is not yet large enough to make sitting in planes and cars uncomfortable. Most airlines have no restrictions during this period
Third trimester (weeks 28-40): Increasing discomfort, swelling, the need for more frequent bathroom breaks, and airline cutoff policies (most airlines restrict travel after 36 weeks) make long-distance travel impractical

The sweet spot: Most babymoon experts and obstetricians suggest weeks 18-24 as the ideal travel window.

Airline Policies by Trimester

Airlines have specific policies about flying while pregnant. These vary by carrier, so always check your airline's current policy before booking.

Airline	Fly Without Restriction	Medical Certificate Required	Not Permitted
Delta	Up to 36 weeks	N/A	After 36 weeks
United	Up to 36 weeks	N/A	After 36 weeks
American Airlines	Up to 36 weeks	N/A	After 36 weeks
British Airways	Up to 36 weeks	After 28 weeks	After 36 weeks
Emirates	Up to 29 weeks	29-36 weeks	After 36 weeks
Singapore Airlines	Up to 28 weeks	28-36 weeks	After 36 weeks
Qantas	Up to 28 weeks	28-36 weeks (domestic) / 28-36 weeks (international)	After 36 weeks
Ryanair	Up to 36 weeks	N/A	After 36 weeks

Tips for comfortable flying while pregnant:

Request an aisle seat for easy bathroom access
Wear compression socks to reduce swelling and lower the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Walk the aisle every hour during flights longer than 2 hours
Stay hydrated -- the cabin air is extremely dry
Bring your own healthy snacks in case airline food does not appeal

Travel Insurance for Pregnancy

Standard travel insurance typically does not cover pregnancy-related medical issues. You need a policy that specifically includes pregnancy coverage. Key things to look for:

Pregnancy complication coverage: Medical expenses if something goes wrong during the trip
Trip cancellation for pregnancy complications: Reimbursement if your doctor advises against travel
Emergency medical evacuation: Coverage for transport to a hospital if needed
Providers to consider: World Nomads, Allianz Global Assistance, and Battleface offer policies with pregnancy coverage. Read the fine print carefully -- many policies only cover complications up to a certain gestational week (often 26 or 32 weeks)
Pre-existing condition clauses: Pregnancy itself may be classified as a pre-existing condition. Purchase insurance within the "look-back period" (typically 14-21 days after booking) to ensure coverage

Zika-Free Zone Awareness

Zika virus remains a serious concern for pregnant travelers. The virus can cause severe birth defects, particularly microcephaly. While the global Zika situation has improved since the 2015-2016 epidemic, the virus is still present in some regions.

Regions to avoid or approach with caution during pregnancy:

Parts of Central and South America
Caribbean islands (check current CDC advisories for specific islands)
Southeast Asia (parts of)
Sub-Saharan Africa (parts of)

Always check the CDC's Zika travel advisory (cdc.gov/zika) before booking. The advisory is updated regularly and provides country-by-country risk assessments.

Safe regions for babymoons: Europe, North America, Australia/New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most Pacific islands are Zika-free.

Pregnancy-Safe Spa Treatments

Spa treatments are a babymoon highlight, but not all treatments are safe during pregnancy.

Generally Safe

Prenatal massage: Many spas offer specialized prenatal massages with positioning pillows and trained therapists. These focus on relieving back pain, swelling, and tension. Cost: $80-200 per session depending on location
Facials: Most facials are safe, but avoid those using retinoids, salicylic acid (in high concentrations), or chemical peels
Manicures and pedicures: Safe, though some women prefer well-ventilated salons to minimize chemical fume exposure
Gentle body scrubs: Salt or sugar scrubs are generally safe
Reflexology: Generally considered safe after the first trimester, though some reflexologists avoid certain pressure points

Generally Avoided

Hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms: Raising core body temperature above 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 degrees Celsius) is associated with increased risk of neural tube defects, particularly in the first trimester. Most medical professionals recommend avoiding these throughout pregnancy
Electrotherapy treatments: Including microcurrent facials and electrical muscle stimulation
Deep tissue massage with strong pressure on the abdomen
Treatments using essential oils: Some essential oils (rosemary, clary sage, juniper) are considered potentially harmful during pregnancy. Inform your therapist about the pregnancy so they can adjust their products
Body wraps that significantly raise body temperature

Always inform your spa therapist that you are pregnant. Reputable spas will have specific prenatal protocols and trained staff.

15 Best Babymoon Destinations

1. Maui, Hawaii

Maui is the gold standard of babymoon destinations for couples based in North America. No passport required for US citizens, excellent medical facilities, no Zika risk, and a combination of relaxation and mild adventure that suits pregnancy perfectly.

Best months: April through May, September through November (shoulder seasons with lower prices and fewer crowds)
Where to stay: Andaz Maui at Wailea ($400-700/night) with ocean-view suites and a full-service spa. Hotel Wailea ($350-600/night) is an adults-only boutique option with exceptional privacy
Activities: Beach time at Wailea Beach, sunrise at Haleakala (book the National Park reservation at recreation.gov), Road to Hana scenic drive (go slowly and take breaks), snorkeling at Molokini Crater
Medical facilities: Maui Memorial Medical Center in Wailuku
Budget: $200-500/day for a couple including accommodation, meals, and one activity

2. Sedona, Arizona

Red rock landscapes, spa resorts, mild weather, and a spiritual energy that makes Sedona feel like a world apart from everyday life.

Best months: March through May, September through November
Where to stay: Enchantment Resort ($400-700/night) nestled in Boynton Canyon with a world-class spa (Mii Amo). L'Auberge de Sedona ($350-600/night) on Oak Creek
Activities: Gentle hiking (Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock vista points), Jeep tours on red rock trails, prenatal spa treatments, stargazing
Medical facilities: Verde Valley Medical Center (20 minutes)
Why it works for babymoon: Dry climate, low humidity, minimal walking distances at most resorts, elevation is moderate (4,350 feet -- check with your doctor if you have concerns)

3. Bermuda

A British Overseas Territory in the Atlantic, Bermuda combines pink sand beaches, pastel-colored architecture, and British colonial charm with a 2-hour flight from the US East Coast.

Best months: May through October
Where to stay: Rosewood Bermuda ($500-900/night) or Hamilton Princess ($300-600/night)
Activities: Beach time at Horseshoe Bay, walking through the town of St. George (UNESCO World Heritage), afternoon tea, Crystal Caves tour
Medical facilities: King Edward VII Memorial Hospital in Paget
Zika status: Zika-free

4. Tuscany, Italy

Rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, Renaissance art, and some of the world's best food. Tuscany is a babymoon for couples who want culture alongside relaxation.

Best months: April through June, September through October
Where to stay: Castello di Casole near Siena ($400-800/night) or a converted farmhouse (agriturismo) from $120-250/night
Activities: Wine country drives (the non-pregnant partner drives and tastes; many wineries also offer olive oil tastings and cooking classes), Siena and San Gimignano walking tours, truffle hunting, gelato tasting in every town
Medical facilities: Excellent hospitals in Florence and Siena
Food note: Italian food is generally pregnancy-friendly, but avoid unpasteurized cheeses, cured meats (prosciutto, salame), and raw seafood. Cooked pasta, pizza, gelato, and most Italian dishes are perfectly safe

5. Turks and Caicos

Grace Bay Beach is consistently rated the best beach in the world, and the calm, shallow turquoise water is ideal for gentle swimming.

Best months: November through May
Where to stay: Grace Bay Club ($500-1,000/night) with an adults-only section and excellent spa. The Palms ($400-800/night) for beachfront suites
Activities: Beach lounging, snorkeling in calm waters, sunset cruises, spa treatments
Medical facilities: Cheshire Hall Medical Centre on Providenciales
Zika status: Check current CDC advisory -- historically low risk but monitor updates

6. Lake Como, Italy

George Clooney's backyard is also one of Europe's most serene landscapes. The combination of Alpine scenery, lakeside villas, and Italian cuisine creates an atmosphere of effortless elegance.

Best months: April through October
Where to stay: Grand Hotel Tremezzo ($400-800/night) or Hotel Villa Cipressi in Varenna ($150-250/night) for a more affordable option
Activities: Boat tours on the lake, visiting Villa del Balbianello, strolling through Bellagio, long Italian lunches

7. Scottsdale, Arizona

Desert luxury with world-class spas, golf courses, and consistently sunny weather.

Best months: October through April (summers are extremely hot)
Where to stay: Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain ($300-600/night) with a spa that offers specific prenatal treatments. The Phoenician ($250-500/night)
Activities: Spa days, desert botanical garden walks, hot air balloon rides (typically safe in the second trimester -- consult your doctor), farm-to-table dining
Medical facilities: Scottsdale has excellent hospitals including HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn

8. Algarve, Portugal

Southern Portugal's coastline combines dramatic cliff-top views, hidden cove beaches, and excellent seafood at prices significantly below other Mediterranean destinations.

Best months: May through October
Where to stay: Vila Vita Parc ($250-500/night) with multiple pools and a spa, or Pine Cliffs Resort ($200-400/night)
Activities: Beach time, cliffside walks, Benagil Cave boat tour, wine tasting in the Alentejo region
Medical facilities: Hospital Particular do Algarve in Faro

9. Kauai, Hawaii

Hawaii's "Garden Isle" is quieter and more nature-focused than Maui, with lush rainforest, the Na Pali Coast, and a pace that actively discourages rushing.

Best months: April through May, September through November
Where to stay: 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay ($400-800/night) or Koloa Landing Resort in Poipu ($250-500/night)
Activities: Poipu Beach, Waimea Canyon drive (the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific"), botanical garden tours, gentle kayaking on the Wailua River

10. The Cotswolds, England

Honey-stone villages, rolling green hills, and cozy pubs with roaring fires. The Cotswolds is the quintessential English countryside escape.

Best months: May through September
Where to stay: The Lygon Arms in Broadway ($200-400/night) or Calcot & Spa near Tetbury ($250-450/night, with a renowned spa)
Activities: Village walks (Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold), cream tea, antique shopping, spa treatments
Medical facilities: Cheltenham General Hospital (30-45 minutes from most Cotswolds villages)

11. Napa Valley, California

Even without wine (or with very limited, doctor-approved sips), Napa Valley's food scene, hot air balloon rides, and spa culture make it an excellent babymoon.

Best months: March through May, September through November
Where to stay: Meadowood Napa Valley ($500-900/night) or Calistoga Ranch ($400-700/night) with geothermal spring pools (check temperature -- some are safe, others too hot)
Activities: Farm-to-table dining, olive oil and chocolate tastings (no alcohol needed), Napa Valley Wine Train (you can enjoy the scenery and food without wine), spa treatments
The non-drinking partner's advantage: Napa's restaurants and tasting rooms increasingly offer exceptional non-alcoholic pairing options and mocktail menus

12. Maldives

If the budget allows, the Maldives is an extraordinary babymoon. The flat terrain means no strenuous hiking, the pace is entirely self-directed, and the overwater villas offer privacy and comfort.

Best months: November through April
Where to stay: Soneva Fushi ($1,500-3,000/night) or Niyama Private Islands ($600-1,200/night) with a dedicated prenatal spa menu
Activities: Snorkeling (safe in pregnancy if you are a comfortable swimmer), beach walks, dolphin cruises, spa treatments, reading in your overwater hammock

13. Charleston, South Carolina

Historic architecture, exceptional food, walkable streets, and Southern hospitality make Charleston a low-stress babymoon that requires no passport and minimal planning.

Best months: March through May, October through November
Where to stay: Belmond Charleston Place ($300-500/night) or The Spectator Hotel ($200-350/night)
Activities: Walking the historic district, Boone Hall Plantation, rooftop dining, shopping on King Street, carriage tours
Medical facilities: MUSC (Medical University of South Carolina) is one of the top hospitals in the Southeast

14. Mallorca, Spain

The largest Balearic island offers a mix of beach relaxation, mountain villages, and Mediterranean cuisine without the party atmosphere of Ibiza.

Best months: May through October
Where to stay: Belmond La Residencia in Deia ($350-600/night) or Cap Rocat near Palma ($300-550/night)
Activities: Beach time at Cala Deya or Es Trenc, olive grove walks, Palma cathedral visit, markets in Soller and Sineu

15. Banff, Canada

For couples who prefer mountains over beaches, Banff offers turquoise glacier lakes, mountain views, and luxurious lodge stays -- all within 90 minutes of a major international airport (Calgary).

Best months: June through September
Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs ($300-600/night) with a Willow Stream Spa, or Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise ($350-700/night)
Activities: Lake Louise shoreline walk, Moraine Lake visit, Banff Upper Hot Springs (temperature is maintained at about 100 degrees F / 38 degrees C -- consult your doctor; many advise keeping time brief), Johnston Canyon easy trail, wildlife spotting
Medical facilities: Banff Mineral Springs Hospital, plus Calgary hospitals within 90 minutes

Babymoon Planning Checklist

[ ] Consult your obstetrician about travel plans and get written clearance if flying after 28 weeks
[ ] Check airline pregnancy policies and book aisle seats
[ ] Purchase travel insurance with pregnancy complication coverage
[ ] Verify Zika status of your destination on the CDC website
[ ] Research hospital locations near your accommodation
[ ] Pack compression socks, prenatal vitamins, comfortable walking shoes, and any prescribed medications
[ ] Bring copies of your prenatal records and your doctor's contact information
[ ] Inform hotel/resort of pregnancy when booking so they can prepare (many offer room upgrades, extra pillows, or pregnancy-specific amenities)
[ ] Plan a flexible itinerary with built-in rest time -- you may tire more easily than expected

Plan Your Babymoon with TripGenie

A babymoon has unique planning requirements -- medical facility proximity, airline cutoffs, spa treatment safety, and the need for a relaxed pace that accounts for pregnancy comfort. TripGenie can help you build a babymoon itinerary with realistic daily schedules, restaurant recommendations that accommodate dietary restrictions, and activity suggestions calibrated to your trimester and energy level.

Final Thoughts

A babymoon is not about ticking off bucket-list destinations or cramming in activities. It is about being present with your partner during one of the most significant transitions of your lives. Choose a destination that makes both of you feel calm and connected, build in more downtime than you think you need, and remember that the best babymoon memories are often the simplest -- a quiet morning on a balcony, a long dinner with nowhere to be afterward, a walk along a beach in the last light of the day.

Best Babymoon Destinations: Relaxing Getaways Before Baby Arrives