My favorite new location that’s not only relaxing and luxurious, but also wonderfully affordable, is el Mangroove, an oceanfront boutique resort that’s part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, situated on the west coast of Costa Rica on the Gulf of Papagayo.

Here you can enjoy rafting, hiking, sailing, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling and surfing, all either at the resort or just a short distance away. Take out one of the resort’s two private Mako boats on a whale and dolphin expedition or a beach-hopping tour.

There’s plenty to do since you’re ideally situated near various national parks, the Rincon volcano, thermal mineral pools, and the beach town of El Coco with numerous restaurants and bars.

Or choose, like we did, to do absolutely nothing at all. 

This hip resort offers 85 suites, all with luxurious air-conditioned bedroom-and-bath areas attached to a sitting room with hammock that’s open to the outdoors.

Read a book listening to the sounds of the surrounding jungle, which include birds, frogs and even howler monkeys. Unwind at the spa or exercise in the outdoor wild fit areas.

There’s a hypnotic 130-foot-long pool that will cure all your worries, along with five private cabanas. We never left the resort, choosing to dine at one of the two restaurants each night. 

Perhaps the best part? This little slice of heaven is just 20 minutes from tarmac to sand. Rates start at $188 a night per person.

For more honeymoon options, click here.

And looking for a mini-moon without leaving the state? Click here for an amazing option in New Jersey!