Remember those days when your relationship was all about staring into one another’s eyes, holding hands and rejoicing in simply spending time together? Then real life intervened — kids, bills, careers, Out went the us-time. Bring it back (at least for a few days) with a romantic trip. Whether it’s a once-a-year anniversary trip or a now-and-then weekend away, one of these trips is sure to rekindle the romance.
SheBuysTravel Tip: On a romantic trip, where you stay matters. A proper couples getaway requires a lovely guest room, indulgent staff and great food. If you’re staying at a larger hotel or resort that caters to families, speak to the staff at the restaurants about saving you a secluded table away from others.
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Head to the Islands
A week in an overwater bungalow in The Maldives where you’ll feel like you’re staying on your own private island is surely the epitome of romantic travel. But if you don’t have the time to fly halfway around the world to indulge in island life.
The Hawaiian islands of Maui and Kauai are especially well-suited for honeymoons and anniversaries. Walk along sandy beaches, go snorkeling and enjoy fine dining and spa treatments at a beautiful beachfront resort. And there’s just something soothing yet romantic about beachside music and dance.
In Maui, cuddle and watch a sunrise or sunset from the Haleakala summit. Pack a picnic and see waterfalls and black sand beaches on the Road to Hana (aka Hana Highway). Kauai’s rivers are perfect for SUP, kayaking and other outdoor adventures with your sweetie.
These are our favorite resorts in Hawaii.
Experience California’s Wine and Natural Beauty
From sunny beaches in Southern California to redwoods and wineries in Northern California, the Golden State has miles of romantic places. No matter where you visit, there’s no shortage of romantic hotels. Stay in an intimate boutique hotel or cozy bed and breakfast at the beach or wine country. There are many options in Santa Barbara, Sonoma and Napa Valley that are in or near wineries, state parks and preserves.
Or take a road trip along the Central Coast. Stop along the way in Big Sur for stunning vistas of cliffs and the Pacific. Straddling California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe has the best of both worlds – beaches and ski resorts. Stay in a secluded cozy cabin or an upscale resort.
These are our favorite hotels and resorts in southern California, these are our favorite Lake Tahoe resorts and these are our favorite Mendocino hotels.
Enjoy an Intimate Trip in Sonoma
Sonoma is less well known than its neighbor, Napa, but it’s equally scenic. In addition, it’s home to more than 90 wine producers and is known for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Stay in a cozy riverfront cabin or lodge in the rustic town of Guerneville.
If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, you’ll find river activities like canoeing and swimming. Or pack a picnic and explore hiking trails in nearby state parks and preserves. Situated about three miles north of Guerneville, Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is an 800-acre park and natural preserve. Holding hands as you walk along the reserve’s secluded nature trails can be very romantic.
Toast to Napa Valley
The small town of Calistoga is home to thermal hot springs and boutique hotels. Plus, see the Old Faithful Geyser of California erupt at regular intervals. Calistoga is an ideal home base for a visit to local wineries. It’s also near the Robert Louis Stevenson State Park.
Spend the Night on a Deserted Island, Ventura
If sleeping under the stars on a deserted island is your ideal of romance, consider Channel Islands National Park in Ventura County. The National Park Service operates primitive-yet-stunning campgrounds on each of the five Channel Islands. Known for their natural beauty, the islands are referred to as “North America’s Galapagos.”
Note that spending the night on the islands is for hard-core campers who don’t miss modern amenities. Not your style? Book a hotel in Ventura and visit the islands on a day trip. Boats depart to Channel Islands National Park from Ventura and Oxnard. (There are lots of fun things to do in Oxnard and Ventura, too!)
Cruise to Catalina Island
Sail to a tropical island just 22 miles off the shores of Los Angeles. Catalina Island is close to L.A. but feels miles away. And it’s one of L.A.’s best kept secrets. The one-hour boat ride via Catalina Express is relaxing and brings you to the island. Stay in Avalon, a pedestrian-friendly small town – or rustic Two Harbors.
The laid-back island has been a romantic getaway for many celebrities over the years; Clark Gable was a regular guest at the historic Glenmore Plaza Hotel. Catalina is the kind of place where you can dine at a beachfront restaurant and sip a Mai Tai with your toes in the sand. Afterward, stroll hand-in-hand along the waterfront and see boats bobbing in the pretty marina.
The unique mom-and-pop eateries and shops are part of Catalina’s charm. In addition, Catalina is home to boutique hotels and cottage rentals – not big resorts or chain hotels. In addition to the land and water activities, check out the island’s historic sites. History buffs will be interested to know that chewing gum magnate William Wrigley, Jr., acquired most of the island in 1919.
Splurge on a Luxury Getaway to Deer Valley, Utah
Talk about pampering! Nestled amid the alpine serenity of Deer Valley, the five-star Stein Eriksen Lodge oozes romance. The year-round European lodge consists of 39 opulent condos and private homes. Enjoy the luxurious modern amenities, crackling fireplaces and exquisite service. The heated infinity pool has expansive mountain views. For the ultimate pampering experience, be sure to book a couples massage at The Spa.
The lodge offers ski-in/ski-out in winter and bike-in/bike-out access the rest of the year.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Plan a hiking trip. Order a picnic basket filled with goodies from the lodge to enjoy at the top of Bald Mountain.
Escape to the Desert
Arizona is famous for the Grand Canyon. But it also has a history as a romantic getaway. Established in 1929 as a couples’ desert getaway, the Royal Palms Resort and Spa is a Spanish Colonial Revival villa. Enchanting guest rooms are decorated with European furnishings. Villas feature lush courtyards, fireplaces, and private patios. Romance is in the air as you enjoy spa treatments, delicious cuisine and stunning desert landscapes.
Pampering at Adults Only Resort in Florida
Florida has several all-inclusive resorts that will make you feel like you’ve been whisked away to a Caribbean oasis. However, for a romantic getaway, consider the adults-only Bungalows Key Largo.This oasis in the Florida Keys is home to 135 private waterfront or garden bungalows with private verandas outfitted with outdoor rain showers and soaking tubs. Plus, each bungalow comes with two cruiser bikes to explore the beautiful property. Enjoy floating tiki boats and the resort’s infinity pool. Be sure to reserve a cabana for napping in the shade.
The property’s spa is surrounded by stands of black bamboo and with a private pool and hot tub. The spa offers couples massages, facials, aromatherapy and other treatments.
Read More: Love Puerto Vallarta? Check Out the Adults-Only All-Suites Casa Velas.
Cozy Snowy Getaway in Colorado
A romantic getaway in the snow with your partner can be very cozy. SheBuysTravel contributor Terry Ward and her husband thoroughly enjoyed their four-night escape to Visit Verde Ranch near Steamboat Springs in Colorado. The winter lovebirds spent their mornings on backcountry ski tours with a resort guide or working on their equestrian skills in the arena. She recommends horseback riding in the snow followed by a warm soak in a hot tub.
Caribbean’s Sexy Sandy Beaches
There’s a reason couples escape to the Caribbean for a romantic vacation. The Caribbean has many diverse islands with the best beaches. Imagine staying at one of these adults-only all-inclusive luxury resorts on a sandy beach with a private hot tub and ocean views. Sleep in, order room service and enjoy spa treatments. You’ll never have to leave the property! That is unless you want to take a day trip for some sightseeing.
The island you choose depends on what type of romantic Caribbean vacation you want. Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic have tons of all-inclusive resorts. Or perhaps the lush and peaceful island of Grenada is calling to you. Situated outside the hurricane belt, Aruba has some of the Caribbean’s best beaches and snorkeling.
