Photo: Envato
Planning the perfect honeymoon, second honeymoon, or romantic getaway is all about finding a destination that brings your dream experience to life. And that dream? It’s different for everyone. Maybe it's relaxing on a beach with waves gently rolling in, exploring the charm of historic cities, or diving into an adventure-filled escape. For kosher travelers, the goal is a balance—enjoying a beautiful destination without the stress of hunting down kosher food. The great news is that there are incredible kosher-friendly destinations worldwide offering just the right blend of romance, luxury, and convenience.
Some places have a variety of kosher restaurant options, while others rely on Chabad for kosher catering or frozen meals you can arrange through the resort. And if you're heading away for Shabbat and want to join a minyan, check with the local Chabad for hotel recommendations nearby so everything is within walking distance.
From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the cultural treasures of Italy, from the wild beauty of a South African safari to the serene beaches of Hawaii, there’s a kosher-friendly honeymoon spot that can be tailored just for you. Timing also plays a role; while sunny beach getaways like the Caribbean and Thailand shine in the winter and spring, places like Iceland or South African safaris are at their best in the summer months. Whatever time of year you plan to go, there’s a perfect kosher-friendly destination out there waiting.
So, let’s dive into some of the best options for a romantic, kosher-friendly honeymoon or getaway!
Photo: Envato
Photo: Envato
Beach & Island Escapes
Hawaii (Maui, Oahu, Kauai)
- Where It Is: A tropical paradise in the Pacific Ocean, part of the Hawaiian Islands.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with optimal beach weather from April to October.
- What to Do: Snorkel in pristine waters, hike to cascading waterfalls, explore volcanoes, and unwind in luxury beach resorts.
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Kosher & Jewish Life: Chabad centers on Oahu, Maui, and Kauai offer Shabbat meals, with Maui Kosher Market delivering groceries, and Oahu Kosher Catering delivering to all the islands.
For more on kosher travel in Hawaii, see our directory of Kosher and Jewish Life in Hawaii. And for inspiration, don’t miss our blog post, Aloha Paradise: Your Ultimate Guide to a Kosher Vacation in Hawaii.
Thailand (Koh Samui, Phuket)
- Where It Is: In Southeast Asia, known for idyllic islands and vibrant culture.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February for cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall.
- What to Do: Lounge on beautiful beaches, explore colorful markets, hop between islands, and indulge in Thai massages at luxury resorts.
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Kosher & Jewish Life: Chabad centers in Koh Samui and Phuket are great resources, offering kosher dining, Shabbat meals, and connections to kosher-friendly hotels.
For more on kosher travel in Thailand, see our directory of Kosher and Jewish Life in Thailand. And for inspiration, don’t miss our blog post, Discovering Thailand: A Kosher-Friendly Travel Guide for Adventurous Souls.
Caribbean Islands (Bahamas, Aruba, Puerto Rico, Curacao, Jamaica)
- Where It Is: Scattered throughout the Caribbean Sea, with popular spots like the Bahamas and Jamaica.
- Best Time to Visit: December to April for ideal beach weather and cool ocean breezes.
- What to Do: Enjoy white sandy beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, and experience local island culture.
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Kosher & Jewish Life: Many islands have Chabad centers providing kosher meals. Depending on the location, some hotels collaborate with Chabad for kosher meal plans or offer frozen kosher options. Confirm with Chabad for hotels that are within walking distance if you're observing Shabbat.
For more on kosher travel in The Caribbean Islands, see our directory of Kosher and Jewish Life in The Caribbean. And for inspiration, don’t miss our blog post, Guide to Kosher Vacations in the Caribbean.
Florence, Italy (Photo: Envato)
Florence, Italy (Photo: Envato)
Culture & History
Italy (Rome, Venice, Florence)
- Where It Is: In Southern Europe, Italy is home to some of the world’s most iconic cultural landmarks.
- Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- What to Do: Explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum, float through Venice’s canals, visit Renaissance art in Florence, and enjoy Italy’s rich culture.
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Kosher & Jewish Life: Kosher restaurants are abundant in Rome and Venice, with Chabad centers throughout major cities.
For more on kosher travel in Italy, see our directory of Kosher and Jewish Life in Italy. And for inspiration, don’t miss our blog posts, Tips for Planning your Kosher Vacation to Rome and Enjoy the Jewish Beauty of Florence.
Montenegro
- Where It Is: A Balkan gem along the Adriatic Sea, offering a mix of coastal and mountain scenery.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October for warm weather and clear skies.
- What to Do: Visit the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor, explore the Bay of Kotor (the southernmost fjord), and relax at luxurious coastal resorts.
- Kosher & Jewish Life: In Podgorica, a Chabad house offers catering and a full Shabbat experience. In Budva, Chabad is located at the Dukley Hotel, which features a kosher restaurant. Chabad in Budva also organizes minyanim and provides Shabbat meals, making it convenient for kosher travelers to enjoy a romantic stay with all the essentials for Jewish life and dining.
For more on kosher travel in Montenegro, see our directory of Kosher and Jewish Life in Montenegro. And for inspiration, don’t miss our blog post, Kosher Travel Guide to Montenegro.
Tokyo, Japan
- Where It Is: Japan’s bustling capital, known for its mix of modern skyscrapers and historic temples.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May for cherry blossom season or September to November for cooler weather.
- What to Do: Explore ancient temples, visit bustling markets, tour the city’s high-tech wonders, and take a day trip to Mount Fuji.
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Kosher & Jewish Life: Kosher food can be found at Chabad Tokyo, and a few kosher-friendly restaurants and services cater to travelers.
For more on kosher travel in Tokyo, see our directory of Kosher and Jewish Life in Tokyo. And for inspiration, don’t miss our blog post, A Kosher Expedition Through Japan’s Jewels.
Waterfall in rainforest jungle in Costa Rica (Photo: Envato)
Waterfall in rainforest jungle in Costa Rica (Photo: Envato)
Adventure & Nature
Iceland
- Where It Is: A Nordic island located in the North Atlantic, known for its otherworldly landscapes.
- Best Time to Visit: June to August for the Midnight Sun or February to April for Northern Lights viewing.
- What to Do: Hike to volcanoes, explore geysers, relax in hot springs, and marvel at stunning waterfalls and glaciers.
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Kosher & Jewish Life: Kosher options may be limited in Iceland, but don’t worry—Chabad Reykjavik has you covered with kosher meals and services, making it easier than ever to explore this stunning landscape without a hitch.
For more on kosher travel in Iceland, see our directory of Kosher and Jewish Life in Iceland. And for inspiration, don’t miss our blog post, Discover the Magic of Iceland: A Kosher Traveler’s Guide.
South Africa (Safari Lodges, Cape Town)
- Where It Is: Located at the southern tip of Africa, offering a mix of urban and wilderness experiences.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September for wildlife viewing during the dry season, or November to March for beach visits in Cape Town.
- What to Do: Embark on a thrilling safari, visit Table Mountain, explore the Cape Winelands, and enjoy Cape Town’s beaches.
- Kosher & Jewish Life: Cape Town has several kosher restaurants and a strong Jewish community, and many safari lodges can accommodate kosher meals upon request.
For more on kosher travel in South Africa, see our directory of Kosher and Jewish Life in South Africa. And for inspiration, don’t miss our blog post, Kosher African Safaris.
Costa Rica (Rainforests, Volcanoes)
- Where It Is: A Central American country known for its rich biodiversity and adventure activities.
- Best Time to Visit: December to April for the dry season, perfect for outdoor exploration.
- What to Do: Zip-line through rainforests, hike active volcanoes, visit wildlife reserves, and relax in natural hot springs.
- Kosher & Jewish Life: Kosher food can be arranged through Chabad in San José, and some adventure resorts cater to kosher dietary needs. In Jaco Beach, the Jewish Center offers a shul, kosher restaurant, catering services, and a kosher hotel, Izu's Place, providing a fully kosher-friendly experience. There is also a Chabad in Santa Teresa, that provides services and catering for tourists.
For more on kosher travel in Costa Rica, see our directory of Kosher and Jewish Life in Costa Rica. And for inspiration, don’t miss our blog post, Costa Rica: A Slice of Central American Paradise.
Conclusion
When planning a kosher-friendly honeymoon or romantic getaway, research and preparation are key. From popular cities to secluded destinations, each spot offers unique experiences but with varying levels of kosher amenities. In well-established Jewish communities, kosher food and services are easier to find, while more remote locales often require extra planning. Be sure to contact Chabad in advance to confirm kosher meals, Shabbat arrangements, and any other needs. With a little planning, you can enjoy your dream destination, knowing it’s ready to meet your kosher needs and provide a beautiful backdrop for a memorable, romantic escape.
Ready to start planning? Browse our guides to kosher-friendly destinations, and get in touch with local resources to turn your dream honeymoon into a beautifully kosher reality.