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The 15 Best Babymoon Destinations Across the West
What to do and where to stay before baby’s arrival.
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When my husband and I planned our babymoon last year, we prioritized three things: proximity to our home, good food, and a prenatal massage on the spa menu. There are so many factors to consider, depending on which trimester you’re in and specific recommendations from your doctor. A few babymoon no-nos might include lengthy plane rides and high altitude destinations, which I took into account while researching the best babymoon destinations in the West.
One non-negotiable? That you and your partner squeeze in this trip to celebrate the upcoming arrival of your little one. Read on for all of the best places to go for some pre-baby R&R.
Sedona, Arizona
Immerse yourself in nature and spiritual wellness in Sedona. The Enchantment Resort welcomes guests who want to unwind at the renowned spa, and there are several artistic activities to participate in, too. From pottery glazing to working with watercolor paints, there’s no shortage of inspiration in this desert town.
Big Sur, California
Driving might not be on your wishlist right now, but if you’re not experiencing nausea, drive up or down the Pacific Coast Highway to get to Big Sur. After making it through some windy turns, you can experience can’t-miss, bucket list-worthy views of the redwoods on one side and the ocean on the other. We’d be remiss not to mention Alila Ventana Big Sur, an oceanfront paradise complete with morning yoga and outdoor spa treatments. Another noteworthy lodging option is the Big Sur Lodge, known for its prime location within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and fair rates.
Santa Barbara, California
When they need a little R&R, many Californians (expecting or not!) gravitate toward the idea of a Santa Barbara staycation. Rosewood Miramar Beach is located a few minutes away from the bustling downtown area, and it’s home to beachfront rooms and garden bungalows. During your stay, make sure to stop by the poolside Scoop Shop for a sweet treat. As an alternative, the Kimpton Canary Hotel is nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara and has top-notch amenities including a rooftop pool and plenty of spa treatments. Outside of the grounds, you can stop by a museum, visit historic sites like the Old Mission Santa Barbara, or shop for more maternity must-haves downtown.
La Quinta, California
Palm Springs gets a lot of attention, but there’s nothing quite as blissful as a trip to La Quinta. Located in the southeastern region of the Coachella Valley, it offers luxury resorts and rentals, spas, fine dining, shopping, and that dry desert heat. It’s best to go during “high season,” between October and April to avoid scorching temperatures. And one of the top spots to stay is the La Quinta Resort & Club. Bachelor fans will also appreciate that they filmed the “Claysha” season of The Bachelorette here during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
If you live at a low altitude, it’s best that you avoid traveling to destinations over 6,000 feet. Colorado Springs is located near the base of Pikes Peak, and it’s positioned just over 6,000 feet, so you may want to check with your doctor before booking your babymoon there. When you get the OK, or if you live in the area, check into The Broadmoor. There are so many restaurants you never need to leave the property, and at the spa, you can reserve a couple’s massage with one prenatal service for you.
Maui, Hawaii
While you can’t imbibe in mai tais and piña coladas on this trip, there’s so much to love about a Hawaiian babymoon in Maui. You can take in all of the views while getting your steps in along the Wailea Beach Path, lined with oceanfront resorts or rentals to choose from. Four Seasons Resort Maui is known for two things: it’s where the first season of The White Lotus was filmed and the buffet can’t be beat. Just down the way, the Fairmont Kea Lani is another waterfront property with several pools, beach access, a spa, and an onsite photography team if you want to take some maternity photos.
Bozeman, Montana
There are fewer elevation concerns in Bozeman, which is located at about 4,800 feet above sea level. The art deco-style Kimpton Armory Hotel welcomes guests year-round, but it’s best known as a wintertime escape. Sip a mocktail and dig into a five-course meal at the Winter Chalet, a cozy rooftop bar that’s only available during ski season and provides epic views of the four mountain ranges surrounding the property.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Equal parts bustling and restorative, Santa Fe is perfect for your pre-bébé vacay. Ten Thousand Waves is a Japanese-themed spa hotel that has it all: a spa, food, and lodging. Bishop’s Lodge is a restored landmark that now functions as an award-winning hotel within the Auberge Resorts Collection—and there’s a special rate for locals. Moms-to-be can luxuriate in a prenatal massage, prepared with pregnancy-safe oil and lotion at the hotel’s Stream Dance Spa. Venturing off hotel grounds, snag a pair of handcrafted cowboy boots at Back at the Ranch and indulge in some of the best food Santa Fe has to offer at restaurants including La Mama and The Shed.
Lake Tahoe, Nevada
Lake Tahoe is situated partially in California and partially in Nevada, and the Nevada side includes one of the best, most serene spots: Incline Village. The northern part of the lake is considerably quieter than the southern side, and the Hyatt Regency is located right on the water and even has a private beach. If you’re feeling up to it, head out for an easy hike nearby, or if you’re feeling lucky, there’s plenty of gambling, too. Incline Village is slightly over the suggested elevation levels for pregnant women, so check in with your doctor before traveling.
Portland, Oregon
If you’re lifelong foodies, head to Portland for a metropolitan babymoon. Despite the big-city atmosphere, there are near-countless ways to have a restful stay—and it all starts at Knot Springs. The wellness center has a prenatal massage on the menu, but you and your partner can also sit side-by-side for one of their famous foot rubs. Nature lovers will also appreciate a walk through Forest Park, one of the largest urban forest reserves, or an afternoon at the International Rose Test Garden. Before you hit the hay at the new Ritz-Carlton or The Nines, make sure to end your day with a trip to Salt & Straw. The company has artisanal scoop shops all over the U.S., but Stumptown is where it all started.
Moab, Utah
Moab’s breathtaking views make it a noteworthy spot, but you can make it even more special by signing up for a glamping experience through ULUM. From early March to late October, you can luxuriously sleep under the stars. There are complimentary activities like morning yoga and live music, and at night, don’t forget to dig into the free s’mores by the fire.
Orcas Island, Washington
Northern Washington’s San Juan Islands are a popular destination for parents-to-be, and Orcas Island is the largest one. True to its name, it’s the perfect place to spot orcas and other sea life (by boat or from the shore). In your downtime, you can also stroll through Eastsound Village, which hosts a farmer’s market every Saturday from May to September. When it’s time to turn in, many suggest booking a room at the Outlook Inn, a waterfront retreat that’s walking distance from the village center.
Teton Village, Wyoming
Even though it’s known as a winter hideaway at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain, Teton Valley makes for a dreamy babymoon destination in the summer, too. The Snake River Lodge & Spa is a favorite, offering a unique indoor/outdoor pool, a Mother-to-Be massage on the spa menu, and more. If you aren’t afraid of heights and your doc approves, hop aboard the nearby Aerial Tram to take in views of the Tetons and Jackson Hole valley.
Vancouver Island, Canada
It doesn’t get more tranquil than a stay at the Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge on Vancouver Island, known for mild temperatures (the average high is 66 degrees in the summer!) and captivating views. The lodge has 25 white canvas tents for glamping, and the spa features a waterfront massage tent. Plus, there’s a complimentary Sunrise Stretch class, which can help moms-to-be prioritize a little movement on their babymoon.
Los Cabos, Mexico
For an international destination with a shorter flight than most domestic options, Los Cabos is on the East Cape of Baja California. While there, you can soak up the sun in the remote Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos, which boasts a variety of cuisines at their many restaurants, a relaxing adult pool, and stunning views of the ocean from practically every angle. The Westin Los Cabos Resort Villas also gets high marks for its relaxing atmosphere, pools, and restaurants. If you want to go on an adventure, make a reservation at Flora Farms, a property with a “field-to-table” restaurant, cooking classes, and more. There are vacation rentals there, too, if you decide that you don’t want to leave.
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