Whether you want relax on the beach, go on an adventure or find the best room or suite with a view and order room service, we've made a list of over 50 vacation ideas for couples for every taste and budget. If you are looking for short trips from a major city, browse weekend ideas
from major U.S. cities.
Best Beach Vacation Spots for Couples
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Romantic beach destinations are often a favorite with couples and honeymooners and there is certainly much to choose from. Whether you are looking for white sandy beaches of Oahu, the world's best pink sand beaches or black sand beaches, there are amazing choices all around the world. Explore the beaches of Costa Rica, Michigan, Oregon, North Carolina and California.
Finland
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It’s hard to find a more romantic autumn getaway than a trip to Finland. Watching the Northern Lights dancing in the night sky from an igloo, venturing out on an Aurora Borealis snowshoe or cross-country ski tour, or experiencing a husky safari along the Taiga forest gives travelers a taste of this remarkable destination. Named among top travel destinations worldwide, Finland excites year-round with its natural beauty, including the iconic nighttime summer sun. Visitors can explore everything from lakes and forests to peat lands and fells. In Helsinki, couples can experience urban spa complexes that soothe the senses, explore the Moomin Museum to tickle the fancy, and dine on the complex flavors of Finnish ‘wild’ food.
Ideas by Occasion: Relax at a spa, Girls weekend, Birthday, Family, Honeymoon Weekend, All-Inclusive
Couples Vacations: San Francisco
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The compact city of San Francisco on California’s northern coast with its iconic hills and cable cars offers couples an array of possibilities for a fun getaway. Couples looking for a little romance should consider a sunset sail through San Francisco Bay, martinis at Top of the Mark, and admiring the Bay Lights on the western span of Bay Bridge. Traditional couples wanting the classic San Fran experience will want to visit Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, Coit Tower, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Quirky couples may want to glide down the Seward Street Slides, catch a movie at the historic Castro Theater, and visit the Wave Organ, an acoustic sculpture. Things to Do in San Francisco
Ideas in New England: Vermont, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Maryland, New Hampshire, Delaware
Saint Lucia
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Saint Lucia has long been considered a premier Caribbean destination, especially for couples. Sun-kissed days on the island are filled with fun activities for two from beachside massages to horseback riding, four-wheeling, and zip lining. Adventurous couples will appreciate watersports like diving, snorkeling, sailing, and kite-surfing, to name a few. Known as one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands, couples will adore palm fringed, volcanic beaches, an interior of unspoiled rainforest, and the gorgeous peaks of the Piton Mountains. Northern St. Lucia is all about luxurious resorts, superb restaurants, award-winning spas, and lively night life. The southern part of the island is all about quiet romance, nature, and tranquility. Things to Do in Saint Lucia
Weekend Inspiration: NC Getaways, Small Town Getaways, From Toronto, Oklahoma, From Jackson, From Louisville
New York City
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A couple’s getaway to New York City calls for focus. There are so many phenomenal things to see and do, that the savvy couple will need a plan. For striking views of the Big Apple, the obvious choice is the Empire State Building, but One World Observatory and Top of the Rock are equally impressive. A show on Broadway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the out-of-towner. A Taste of Harlem food and culture tour is a must-do before taking in a show at the Apollo Theater. Of course, a trip to New York City would be incomplete without a visit to Central Park for a romantic horse and carriage ride, or ice skating at Wollman Rink. Things to Do in NYC
West Coast Vacations: Oregon, From Seattle, Washington
Seychelles
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The couple who truly wants to get away will adore the Seychelles, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, where they can book a stay on a private island, or rent a yacht for the ultimate in privacy. Luxury can be found at numerous five-star retreats and remote resorts. Anse Source D’argent is one of the most surreal and beautiful beaches in the world, perfect for lounging on the beach and snorkeling. Simple pleasures include a heritage tour of La Digue that includes traditional coconut oil processing and seeing 200-year-old giant tortoises. The “love nut” found on a guided walk through Praslin’s Vallée de Mai nature park is a quirky side note to the ethereal World Heritage Site.
Weekend Trips: Southwest Weekend Getaways, Arkansas, Idaho, Montana
Kauai
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Kauai, also known as the Garden Island, is covered with tropical rainforests crisscrossed by rivers and dotted with mesmerizing waterfalls. This getaway will appeal to the independent couple looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path getaway. Nature takes center stage here with a variety of outdoor activities like zip lining, hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking. Some parts of the island, especially along the dramatic cliffs of the Napali Coast on the North Shore, can only be accessed by sea. All the action happens on the South Shore where couples can shop, golf, lounge around Poipu Beach Park, and watch the Spouting Horn blowhole. Koloa Heritage Trail that explores culture, history, and geology from Poipu to Old Koloa Town is a must-do.Kauai, also known as the Garden Island, is covered with tropical rainforests crisscrossed by rivers and dotted with mesmerizing waterfalls. This getaway will appeal to the independent couple looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path getaway. Nature takes center stage here with a variety of outdoor activities like zip lining, hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking. Some parts of the island, especially along the dramatic cliffs of the Napali Coast on the North Shore, can only be accessed by sea. All the action happens on the South Shore where couples can shop, golf, lounge around Poipu Beach Park, and watch the Spouting Horn blowhole. Koloa Heritage Trail that explores culture, history, and geology from Poipu to Old Koloa Town is a must-do. Keep reading for more couples vacations. Best resorts in Kauai
Where to travel next: New England Getaways, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Illinois, NJ, Richmond, From NJ
San Diego
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San Diego lives up to its moniker as America’s Finest City. California’s southernmost city has 70 miles of Pacific coastline, broad beaches, the largest urban park in the U.S., and 100 interesting neighborhoods. There are nearly 20 hotels and resorts that cater to adults for a romantic stay, including boutique 1906 Lodge on Coronado Island and swanky Andaz in East Village. Balboa Park with its museums, Old Globe Theatre, San Diego Zoo, and Prado Restaurant could fill up an entire getaway itinerary. Renting a story-telling GoCar on a GPS-guided route is a fun way to explore the city together from a one-hour neighborhood tour to an all-day see it all tour. Things to Do in San Diego
California vacations: California Weekend Getaways, Southern California, Northern California, Lake Tahoe, From Los Angeles, From San Francisco, From San Diego
Italy
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From relaxing under the Tuscan sun in Piombino to the iconic gondola rides of Venice, Italy has no shortage of destinations perfect for a couple’s getaway. For couples who love classic Italian architecture and culture, there’s no better destination than Rome, beginning with the Pantheon. Cinque Terre and the Amalfi coast provide a jaw-dropping views, exquisite dining, and colorful cliffside villages. Lake Como not only provides a relaxing and tranquil getaway, quaint villas, and beautiful vistas, but there’s also the chance of running into a European or Hollywood star, since many make their homes here. The Medieval towns in the charming hills of Umbria offer a fusion of nature and art. Places to Visit in Italy
The South USA Vacations: Mississippi, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, From New Orleans, Louisiana
Australia
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Couples will fall in love with the only country in the world that’s also a continent. Australia is the perfect couple’s paradise situated between the South Pacific and Indian Oceans. The Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Cairns is its premier attraction. Couples can experience its wonders together snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring, and at the end of the day, retreat to Bedarra Island at one of eight private villas hidden in the rainforest. Trendy couples will thrill to the coastal cities of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. Adventurous types will be drawn to the mountains and savannahs of the red sand outback. Keep reading for more couples vacations. Places to Visit in Australia
Florida vacations: From Miami, Florida Weekend Getaways, Romantic Getaways, Florida Islands, Romantic Getaways in St. Augustine, Honeymoon
Bora Bora
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Bora Bora is an island in Tahiti’s Society Islands archipelago of French Polynesia. This self-proclaimed Romance Central is an other-worldly getaway for couples. The slopes of Mount Otemanu are lush and green with tropical vegetation dotted with fragrant hibiscus blooms. Powdery white-sand beaches, swaying coconut palms, and an emerald lagoon are inviting symbols of paradise. Couples can choose overwater, thatched-roof floating villas with direct access from room or suite to the lagoon, or other luxury accommodations. There are plenty of water sports, plus sunset sails, motu (island) picnics, hiking, four-wheeling, and even helicopter touring. Snorkeling Bora Bora Lagoonarium and the Coral Gardens are must-do activities. Things to Do in Bora Bora
Texas vacations: From Houston, For Couples, Weekend Getaways in Texas, Texas Hill Country, Family Getaways
Aspen
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Aspen is best known as a ski town nestled in the Colorado Rocky Mountains that is a wildly popular winter getaway, but it’s a cool destination for couples year-round. One must-do activity is taking the Silver Queen Gondola to the top of Aspen Mountain and having a moonlight dinner with live music on a Friday night. There’s partner yoga at Aspen Spa, or a couple’s massage at Reméde Spa for working out life’s stresses together. It doesn’t get more romantic than a champagne brunch followed by a hot air balloon ride above the Rockies. Things to Do in Aspen
More ideas: From DC, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Tennessee, Vermont, Delaware
Costa Rica
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Couples who love nature as much as each other will find their perfect getaway in Costa Rica. Long considered one of the world’s most bio-diverse countries, partners will find plenty of places to commune with nature like walking through the cloud forest at Poas Volcano National Park, or hiking the tropical forest of Manuel Antonio Park on the lookout for capuchin monkeys, coatis, sloths, and the elusive quetzal. 0 Unique Vacation Ideas for Couples is also a great destination where couples can satisfy their cultural curiosities with sustainable cuisine, local artisan handicrafts, creole swing dance, and historical walks in San José, Cartago, Puntarenas, and Limón. Next read: Costa Rica beaches, Places to Visit in Costa Rica
Colorado Springs
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Colorado Springs offers couples an enchanting getaway in the mountains. Outdoorsy couples looking for a unique getaway will find it at an authentic Colorado Springs guest ranch. At Lost Valley Ranch couples can choose Western adventures from cattle round-ups to rodeos, cowboy cookouts, square dancing, and many others. The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp provides couples with a world-class fishing experience combined with accommodations in a 1940s miner’s cabin. City slickers will be inspired by Colorado Springs’s craft brew scene. With over 30 craft breweries and distilleries, taking the Crafts and Drafts tour is the best way to sample them. An absolute must-do is a trip to the top of Pike’s Peak together – by car, train, bike, or on foot. Things to Do in Colorado Springs
London
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London getaways for two are all about choices. Equestrians will want to take the reins along the famous Rotten Row bridle path in Hyde Park. The 322-foot-long champagne bar in St. Pancras Renaissance London Hotel, self-proclaimed the “most romantic building” in London, is the place to toast life together with one of over 17 champagne varieties. A stroll along the Grand Canal in Little Venice to admire the colorful houseboats offers quiet moments. Or, couples can take in the cosmopolitan charm of Notting Hill with its edgy art and theater scene and distinctive restaurants. Of course, there’s the obligatory Buckingham Palace Tour followed by afternoon tea. Savvy couples can plan their getaway around one of the city’s popular events like Wimbledon, the oldest tennis tournament in the world. Things to Do in London
Toronto
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Everyone defines a couple’s getaway differently. For hockey fans, especially Toronto Maple Leaf fans, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the thrill of victory together surrounded by equally passionate, screaming fans. For a more subdued on ice experience, couples can make their way to Nathan Phillips Square for a few arm-in-arm laps around the rink. Partners can break out the long white gloves and black bowtie at the Canadian Opera Company in the Four Seasons Center for the Performing Arts. Things to Do in Toronto
Paris
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Paris was made for romance. Of course, nothing is more romantic than nighttime views from the top of Eiffel Tower. A late-afternoon walk along the River Seine to watch the dramatic tango dancers, or a stroll through the hidden alleyways with their charming bars and eateries makes for a few pleasurable hours of coziness. Shared conversation over a glass of wine at Clos de Montmartre gives couples down time in a beautiful setting. Couples will definitely want to make their ways to Bois de Vincennes Park where they’ll discover the Temple of Love on an island in the middle of the lake. It can be accessed by footbridge or rowboat. Things to Do in Paris
Miami
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A last minute couple’s getaway to Miami means choosing the neighborhood that matches the vibe you’re looking for. From the exuberant American Riviera of South Beach to the haute community of the Design District to the historic culture of Overtown, this city can satisfy the most discriminating couple. Nature lovers can explore Everglades National Park for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.
Biscayne offers couples opportunities to explore the nation’s largest marine park. History buffs will be enchanted with Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Coconut Grove. The Venetian Pool, a historic swimming pool with stone bridges and waterfalls, offers a mix of beauty and tranquility. Next read: Miami beaches, Things to Do in Miami
Santorini
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Santorini is a group of five Greek Islands in the southern Cyclades. This is the premier destination for romance in all of Greece. Oia is renowned for its famous sunset views, but will also dazzle couples with its panoramic views, stunning architecture, and delectable Greek cuisine. In fact, combining an Oia sunset with a scrumptious dinner at Ambrosia restaurant will make for incredible memories. A ride up or down the Fira cliffs on the modern Santorini Cable Car is not only fast, but offers spectacular views. Hot Springs and volcano mudbath tours from Old Port provide a sensual few hours of fun.
Ireland
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Romance is in the air on the Emerald Isle. The socially conscious couple may want to spend time in Dublin’s Temple Bar district where they’ll find the Amnesty International Fair Trade Shop among numerous other stores, restaurants, and art galleries. Vintage Tea Tours acquaint couples with Dublin on a double-decker bus tour while enjoying afternoon tea delicacies with 1950s jazz music. It doesn’t get much more romantic than touring Ireland’s Ancient East, land of Vikings, high kings, heroes, and castles. Adventurous couples will get their thrills from a last minute getaway to Ireland’s Atlantic Coast as they rock climb sea stacks, kayak off Renvyle Beach, or cycle the Wild Atlantic Way.
Luxembourg
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Luxembourg is probably the most interesting country in Europe, and is definitely the most diverse. In the Ardennes region, visitors will find a majority of the country’s castles. A last minute getaway to charming Vianden can include a tour of Vianden Castle and panoramic views of Our Valley. A quick visit to Remich means seeing the best of the Moselle wine region where couples can taste and learn about local wines. Luxembourg City is teeming with historic treasures including the Grand Ducal Palace and the Bock Casements. Wherever couples choose to land, they can be sure the local cuisine will be exquisite, since Luxembourg has a higher density of star rated restaurants than any country in the world.
Vermont
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Vermont is a favorite year-round travel destination for couples planning a last minute getaway. Autumn is stunning with its displays of red, orange, and yellow leaves in late September or early October. In winter, couples can hit the ski slopes and take in the beautiful scenery together. Besides pleasant spring snow skiing, couples can also visit one of the many sugarhouses making maple syrup. Summer brings camping, fly fishing, and golfing, plus a plethora of festivals and celebrations. Those who thrive on arts and culture will get plenty of satisfaction in Vermont with an abundance of museums, galleries, sculpture parks, artisan shops, and even a sweet trip to Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory. Places to Visit in VT
Holland
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Holland is home to Vincent Van Gogh, one of Europe’s most famous artists. A last minute getaway to Amsterdam can include a trip to the Van Gogh Museum to see the world’s largest collection of his work, but visiting his home in the Brabant region can be equally fun. A trip to one of Holland’s famous wellness centers could be just what the doctor ordered for the harried couple. Flower and gardening enthusiasts can take their getaway to Lisse and the annual tulip festival in April. Cycling is a big pastime in Holland, and couples who enjoy the sport will find plenty of last minute tours like the Super Tulip Tour or the Windmills and Pastures Tour. Things to Do in Holland
Norway
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Norway tops the list of happiest countries in the world, so where better to go for a last minute couple’s getaway? For duos wanting a romantic experience, it doesn’t get much better than seeing the Northern Lights, and staying at an ice hotel in the Arctic town of Tromso. Other quick getaways include fascinating activities like two days on a whale research safari, or a day of cruising the UNESCO World Heritage Fjord Geiranger on a sightseeing boat. Adventurous couples may want to indulge in the rush of a guided glacier tour or a guided ice cave tour. Just hanging out for a few days in Oslo or Bergen can be a restorative experience. More places to explore near Oslo, Norway
More Beach Getaways
Vacations for couples that involve lazy days on the beach and swimming in the ocean seem to be at the top of everyone's list, and for a reason. The ocean is deeply relaxing as well as fun, so what better place to rest and re-connect than right on the water.
Florida is a wonderful beach destination year-round. We recently published 25 Best Romantic Beach Vacations in Florida where you will find many great ideas for couples.
On the West Coast, some great romantic getaways include L'Auberge Del Mar Resort, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, Montage Resort , Casa Del Mar and Hotel del Coronado. Terranea Resort in Southern California offers rooms with a view that will make you want to stay in throughout your stay. Have dinner at the resort's signature restaurant, or order room service, if you want to sample food prepared by one of the top chefs.
Mexico offers a varied selection of affordable beach escapes, including resorts where kids under a certain age are not allowed, such as Viceroy Riviera Maya and Maroma Resort. As an added benefit, if you stay at Maroma Resort on the Yucatan Peninsula, you will have access to many famous Mayan archaeological sites. Grand Velas on Playa del Carmen offers luxury suites with spectacular ocean views, and a white-sand beach.
The Caribbean islands should not be left out of a list of romantic trips, and there are many awesome places to pick from, ranging from affordable San Juan to luxury Antigua, BVI and more. The Turks & Caicos Club is next to some of the most beautiful sandy bays in the British West Indies. At Peter Island Resort, one can expect five star service and incredible ocean views. Or stay at Cotton House and share the secluded island of Mustique with the rich and famous.
Escape to the Florida Keys and stay at Cheeca Lodge & Spa which is set on 27 oceanfront acres, between Everglades National Park and North America's only coral barrier reef. Explore the beautiful coastal areas of Florida, go swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving on your romantic trip. Key West is a must-see as well.
If you have time for a longer trip, head to Le Meridien Bora Bora and stay in one of the over-water bugalows surrounded by the blue lagoon of Bora Bora. The hotel features a turtle protection center, a spa and even some over-water rooms with glass-bottom floors. Australia is home to some of the most romantic resorts in the world. Honeymoon suites on Bedarra Island are fabulous, featuring private plunge pools and spectacular ocean views. Browse more romantic getaways.
More unique trips for couples in: Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire.
Weekend Ideas
The Inn at Ocean's Edge in Maine is a quick weekend getaway from Boston and Portland. The inn has stylish guest rooms, a cozy fireplace and a gourmet restaurant. Other great romanitic options in Maine include The White Barn Inn and the eco-friendly Colony Hotel.
Southern California is home to some fantastic weekend spots, including the San Ysidro Ranch, the newly opened Terranea Resort, and The Fairmont Miramar Hotel.
If you are looking for a wine tasting getaway from Atlanta, try Chateau Elan which has its own vineyard and a spa. Or you can visit Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains from Washington D.C. and stay at Keswick Hall
Best vacations for couples: Small Town Honeymoon Destinations in the U.S., East Coast Honeymoon Vacations and Best European Honeymoon Vacation Ideas.
Luxury Escapes
If you are looking for a luxury resort with a little bit of everything, get away to The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Arizona. You can play golf, get massaged at the spa and work out at the fitness center.
Best couples vacations: Florida getaways, St. Lucia and Costa Rica.
Romantic Spas
Bathe in the healing mineral waters of Palm Springs when you visit The Well Spa at Miramonte Resort & Spa. Try the river bench water therapy for couples.
Visit Big Sur and stay at the ultra-romantic Post Ranch Inn, offering spectacular views of the coastline, organic food and innovative healing treatments.
A stay at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs will let you combine a relaxing spa vacation with outdoor activities and adventures. The spa at the Broadmoor offers many treatments for men and women. Another romantic mountain spot is the Peaks Resort in Telluride.
There are many brand new city spas which make a quick spa getaway easier than ever. In Boston, the new Mandarin Oriental has a 16,000-square-foot holistic spa with state-of-the-art facilities, including restful meditation areas. In New York City, there is the new Peninsula Spa by ESPA and the new spa at The Carlyle.
If you have time for a trip across the border to Canada, The Fairmont Palliser in Calgary will let you combine outdoor activities with soothing massages at the spa. The romantic Wickaninnish Inn on Vancouver Island has an Aveda-concept spa and rooms with spectacular ocean views. Surrounded by pristine nature in the Canadian Rockies, The Fairmont Banff Springs features a European-style resort spa and a 27-hole championship golf course. Painted Boat Resort is a brand new vacation getaway in British Columbia with a spa and 31 villa accommodations.
More vacation spots for couples: Niagara Falls, Oregon and Connecticut.
Islands
The Ali'i Tower at the Hilton Hawaiian Village resort in Waikiki is great for couples. A stylish hotel within a hotel, The Ali'i Tower has its own pool, check-in area and incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. You'll be just steps from the sandy Hawaiian beach. A benefit of staying at a large resort like the Hilton Hawaiian Village is access to an array of facilities, services and dining options.
Travelers who have visited the isand of Tahaa in French Polynesia claim that it is one of the most romantic places on the planet. Scents of vanilla float through the air from the island's vanilla farms. Stay at Le Taha'a Private Island Resort, set on its own little motu, offering over-water bungalows.
More ideas: 20 Relaxing Tropical Island Vacations.