Honeymoon in Cape Town

Get the lay of the land (literally) by taking the Aerial Cableway to the top of Table Mountain, which lords over the city at 3,500 feet. Rent a Vespa and head to Boulders Beach, where you can sunbathe and watch wild penguins frolic just feet away. Another must: Cape Point at the Cape of Good Hope, with its dramatic clifftop views.

The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is a shopper's paradise that features gems from designer clothing to handmade artwork. Standouts include Greenmarket Square, an outdoor flea market, and Tribal Trends for interior design, crafts and jewelry. From the Waterfront, take the ferry to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned; tours sell out months in advance, so book early.

Come evening, head to Mama Africa for traditional African cuisine and singing marimba bands. Nightlife sizzles in the bars and cafes carved out of Victorian-era buildings on Long Street. Crave something quieter? Savor local varietals at Belthazar, which claims to offer one of the most extensive by-the-glass wine lists in the world.

Honeymoon-worthy hotels:
Cape Grace The newly refurbished rooms of this five-star palace open to dazzling views of the marina, Table Mountain or the harbor. Honeymooners receive daily gifts, including sparkling wine, chocolate and Charlotte Rhys candles. From NZ$710.

Le Quartier Francais Tucked away in secluded gardens just 45 minutes from Cape Town in the Franschhoek Valley, Cape Winelands, this 21-room Relais & Ch?teaux retreat exudes tranquility. Advance reservations are a must at its award-winning restaurant, The Tasting Room. From NZ$575.