The babymoon, a term originally coined by Shiela Kitzinger in her 1996 book The Year after Childbirth, has become a sacred tradition among expectant parents over the years. It serves as a time for couples to focus on one another without distraction, contemplate their soon-to-be future with baby, and savor one last hurrah before life as they know it completely changes. 

Doctors, midwives, and mothers alike recommend planning your babymoon during the second trimester of pregnancy, since most mama-to-be’s energy levels and general sense of wellbeing peak during this period. Some couples may wish to spend their final trip as a twosome exploring a new city, while others simply want to indulge in relaxation. There’s no wrong choice, but it is important to consider bump-friendly locations and get your doctor or midwives’ approval before booking tickets.

As serious babymoon enthusiasts, we’ve rounded up 10 diverse travel destinations for a dreamy parent-to-be getaway.

Taos, New Mexico
A gem in the Southwest, Taos exudes a bohemian, carefree energy that is truly one of a kind. This quaint community offers plenty of nature-driven outdoor activities, local art galleries, luxurious spas, and rich Native American history. 

Where to stay: El Monte Sagrado (pictured above)

Where to dine: The Love Apple for farm-to-table delights in a charming setting and La Cueva Cafe for authentic southwestern-style Mexican food.

What to do: Tour the historic Taos Pueblo, peruse local art galleries in the town center, grab a mocktail at the Historic Old Taos Inn, and shop for healing crystals at Taos Gems & Minerals.

Marin County, California
If big city excitement calls, but your growing bump is sometimes slow to answer, Marin is the perfect compromise. A bucolic paradise located just over the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s the ideal home base for a NorCal visit. Wake up slow with a peaceful view of the Bay and sea lions and kayakers cruising by your window, take a morning hike in the Headlands, and then Lyft over the bridge in 20 minutes flat for some of the best food to be found anywhere.

Where to stay: Inn Above Tide, Olema House

Where to dine: Larkspur’s Pizzeria Picco for an al fresco lunch of wood-fired pizzas and house-made Strauss Dairy soft-serve, or it’s gussied up older sister, Picco Restaurant, for a farm-to-table dinner by candlelight. Duck into Farmshop Marin after shopping at Marin Country Mart and duck into Due West in Olema if North Marin is on your itinerary.

What to do: Hike the Marin Headlands, take the ferry across the Bay, or book a spa day at Cavallo Point. A quick drive deeper into rural West Marin will reveal goat farms, cheese tastings, and oysters served up in every style.

Mallorca, Spain
Just off the southern coast of Spain lies the serene island of Mallorca, rich with old European charm, as well as countless beach activities. You’ll have many options for how to spend your time on this majestic isle, from swimming in the aqua blue waters to strolling the cobblestone streets of the island’s hill towns.

Where to stay: Cap Rocat (pictured above)

Where to dine: Es Raco d’Es Teix for a Michelin star experience in the romantic hill town of Deia. Botanic for a healthy brunch in the port town of Palma.

What to do: Explore the countless island beaches by car or boat, take a day trip up to the monastery town of Valldemossa (where you’ll find Chopin’s piano), and indulge in relaxing, Moroccan-inspired spa treatments.

Maui, Hawaii
If you’re seeking a tropical getaway without the Zika scare, Hawaii is a sound option this year. While you can’t go wrong with any of the Hawaiian islands, Maui offers some of the most beautiful, relaxing beaches in the state.

Where to stay: Hotel Wailea, Relais & Chateaux

Where to dine: The Mill House for farm-to-table specialties in an old plantation setting and Kihei Caffe for no frills comfort food.

What to do: Indulge in spa treatments, relax poolside, take a romantic sunset cruise, and hike to breathtaking natural waterfalls.

Santorini, Greece
If you want a European getaway without the hustle and bustle, opt for the Greek Isles. Santorini is an idyllic location to relax, while allowing you to truly immerse yourself in a new culture. An added bonus: you will likely fly through Athens, giving you the option to spend a day or two exploring a big city, as well.

Where to stay: Andronis Boutique Hotel

Where to dine: Seaside by Notos for a festive experience on the sand and Botargo in the village of Pyrgos for a romantic Mediterranean meal.

What to do: Go olive oil tasting at a local farm, take a boat ride to a neighboring island for the day, or learn how to cook the local faire in a culinary class.

Ojai, California
A short trip inland from coastal Santa Barbara, the town of Ojai offers a shangri-la in the high, lush California desert. With gorgeous views of the surrounding Topa Topa Mountains and the infamous “pink moment” each night at sunset, it’s impossible not to pick up on the positive energy this town exudes.

Where to stay: The Ojai Valley Inn (pictured above)

Where to dine: Noccolia for a charming, farm-to-table meal and Tipple & Ramble for a laid-back brunch.

What to do: Walk around town for an array of boho shops and galleries, schedule a spa treatment at the world renowned Ojai Valley Inn Spa, and hike to Meditation Mountain for sweeping views of the Ojai Valley.

Vancouver, Canada
If you’re craving a mix of city and nature for your babymoon, Vancouver is the perfect locale. Set along the ocean with a backdrop of impressive mountains, this Canadian city offers something for everyone. Here you can experience the museums, restaurants, and nightlife of a big city, as well as some of the most beautiful hikes around.

Where to stay: Opus Vancouver in hip, waterfront Yaletown, or The Douglas for a true downtown experience.

Where to dine: St. Lawrence for delicious French Canadian cuisine, Salvio Volpe for a modern take on an Italian osteria, and The MacKenzie Room for a hearty, creative experience.

What to do: Explore a variety of neighborhoods, museums, gardens, and parks by foot, drive the Sea-to-Sky highway for a scenic day trip to Whistler, take the Aquabus to Granville Island, and embrace nature on its infamous, lush hiking trails.

Palm Springs, California
For the ultimate poolside relaxation with a splash of mid-century charm, consider Palm Springs for your couples getaway. There’s no lack of fabulous pool or spa options in this fun town, as well as unbeatable vintage shopping.

Where to stay: Parker Palm Springs (pictured above)

Where to dine: Workshop for a standout culinary experience and Farm for a charming country breakfast in the town center.

What to do: Lounge poolside with a refreshing lemonade, peruse the funky mid-century shops along the main drag, and indulge in an array of spa treatments.

Penzance, England
While London tends to be the most popular vacation destination in Great Britain, consider exploring a smaller, quaint town for your U.K. babymoon experience. We recommend the seaside port of Penzance in Cornwall, which offers a laid-back, artistic vibe and is nestled among sub-tropical gardens.

Where to stay: The Artist Residence Cornwall

Where to dine: The Shore for exquisite, fresh seafood and Tolcarne Inn for an elevated British pub experience.

What to do: Stroll down historic Chapel Street to peep shops and homes that date back to the 18th century, visit the many art museums, galleries and gardens, explore antiquities such as the Ancient Stones in the Cornwall area, and take a ferry to the Isles of Scilly.

Charleston, South Carolina
Arguably one of the most romantic towns on the East Coast, Charleston delivers classic Southern charm in a relaxed oceanfront setting. You and your significant other can explore the various sites and museums of this historic town or take it slow with relaxing spa treatments and lovely seaside views.

Where to stay: Hotel Bennett for a luxury downtown experience and The Restoration for a low-key boutique vibe.

Where to dine: Husk for a modern take on Southern cooking in a 19th-century home, The Ordinary for fine seafood in a vintage bank building, and Hominy Grill for casual comfort food.

What to do: Take a walking tour of the historic downtown, visit the numerous American monuments, and explore the beaches and wildlife on John’s Island.

For more fun stuff to think about before baby arrives, check out What to Pack for a Babymoon, 25+ Baby Shower Gifts for the Green-Minded Mama, and 33 Things To Do Before Baby Comes (To Make You A Happier Woman).