25 Best Romantic Beach Getaways

By VacationIdea Staff on August 26, 2022 - Updated

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These lovely beach getaways offer some of America's best waterfront experiences for couples from coast to coast, home to acclaimed beachfronts with pristine white sands and some of the nation's best ocean views. Couples can travel to lively East Coast resort towns like Asbury Park or Sunset Beach, get away from the city to New England coastal towns like Mystic or Montauk, or explore the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline of famed Southern California destinations like Coronado or Malibu. Hawai'i's islands also offer many of the country's best beach experiences, ranging from ritzy tourist destinations like Wailea to bohemian getaways like Paia.

We recommend that you call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times.

1.Asbury Park, New Jersey

Asbury Park, New Jersey is one of the Atlantic Coast's liveliest getaway destinations, renowned throughout the East Coast for its hip music scene, which launched the careers of international icons like Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi. Couples can catch live music performances at iconic venues like the historic Stone Pony tavern or the beautifully-restored 1920s-era Paramount Theatre. The city's stunning waterfront is home to a picturesque boardwalk showcasing a plethora of lively arcade attractions, souvenir shops, romantic cafes, and family-friendly entertainment options. Quirky attractions include the Silverball Museum, showcasing playable arcade and pinball games from the 20th century, and the Paranormal Museum odditorium. Unique events hosted throughout the year include the city's famed world-record-breaking New Jersey Zombie Walk.

2.Bay St. Louis, Mississippi

Bay St. Louis, Mississippi is a lovely Southern getaway destination located just an hour and a half east of the city of New Orleans, known for its historic architecture and charming beachfront cultural attractions. The city, which was largely rebuilt following the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, is located along a gorgeous Gulf of Mexico beachfront stretch, which offers access to the beautiful Pass Christian fishing pier across the Bay St. Louis Bridge. Couples can peruse local artwork at galleries like Gallery 220 or Maggie May's or explore the city's Depot District, which is home to lively shops and the acclaimed Bay St. Louis Little Theatre. Renowned local eateries include the Mockingbird Cafe, which showcases live music performances throughout the week, or the delicious Rickey's, known for its famed seafood muffuletta.

3.Block Island, Rhode Island

Block Island, Rhode Island is a gorgeous 10-mile island located just off the tip of Long Island's beautiful Montauk Point, known as one of the New York City area's top getaway destinations for centuries. The stunning retreat area, which has been named as one of America's Last Great Places by the Nature Conservancy, once attracted the likes of international luminaries like Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart. Couples can explore the island's gorgeous rocky beachfront cliffs on romantic strolls or tour several area historic lighthouses that have been converted into living history museums today. Tourists flock to the island throughout the summer months for hiking, fishing, cycling, and sailing opportunities throughout the island's extensive undeveloped natural preserves. The island's annual Fourth of July celebration attracts one of the New York area's largest holiday crowds, featuring an acclaimed annual fireworks show.

4.Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach, Oregon has been named as one of the world's 100 most beautiful destinations by National Geographic, located along northwestern Oregon's rugged Pacific Northwest coastline. The charming coastal city is known for its sandy shoreline and quaint downtown district, which is home to a plethora of art galleries and hip boutiques. Stunning natural wonders like Haystack Rock line its coastline, serving as habitats for native species like tufted puffins. To the north of the city, gorgeous Ecola State Park offers sweeping ocean views and is home to a preserved historic lighthouse open as a living history museum. To the south, Arcadia Beach offers romantic picnic sites and tide pools for exploration, while Hug Point is home to sea caves couples can explore together.

5.Chatham, Massachusetts

Chatham, Massachusetts is located along the southeastern edge of beautiful Cape Cod, known throughout New England for its gorgeous beachfront stretches. Couples traveling to the region can enjoy opportunities for swimming and sunbathing along beautiful stretches of the Cape Cod National Seashore, including lovely family-friendly South Beach. The preserved 19th-century Chatham Lighthouse is open to the public along Lighthouse Beach, while the Chatham Railroad Museum preserves railroad artifacts within the city's beautiful former 1887 depot. Each Friday evening throughout the summer months, the Chatham Band presents live music performances at Kate Gould Park. Romantic restaurants abound, including the charming hilltop Chatham Pier Fish Market, known for its seafood chowder.

6.Coronado, California

Coronado, California is a charming resort city located on beautiful San Diego Bay, best known as the home of the historic 1888 Hotel del Coronado, one of Southern California's top resort destinations during the Victorian era. The city's stunning Coronado Municipal Beach is consistently ranked as America's top beach, showcasing glittering mica-lined sands and unparalleled Pacific Ocean views. Surfers and sunbathers flock to the beach's four designated public areas throughout the year, including Coronado City Beach, Centennial Park, Tidelands Park, and Glorietta Bay Park. Couples can dine at delicious romantic destinations at Coronado Ferry Landing, which is also home to quaint shops and boutiques. Unparalleled views of San Diego's skyline are offered from trails within lovely Centennial Park.

7.Isle of Palms, South Carolina

Isle of Palms, South Carolina is a delightful Intracoastal Waterway destination located approximately 10 minutes from Charleston's city center, known as one of the state's top resort getaway destinations for more than a century. The island's affluent resort community is home to spectacular overnight destinations and a lively business district showcasing romantic waterfront restaurants serving up delicious Southern and coastal seafood fare. The Windjammer hosts live music performances and beach volleyball tournaments throughout the year, while the Wild Dunes resort is home to championship golfing experiences designed by professional architect Tom Fazio. The island's delightful public beachfront showcases day-use picnic sites, sporting courts, and children's playground areas.

8.Key West, Florida

Key West, Florida marks Florida's southernmost point, located less than an hour and a half north by boat of the northern tip of the island nation of Cuba. The beautiful island is connected to Florida's mainland via the Overseas Highway and is known as one of the most romantic getaway destinations in the spectacular Florida Keys. Couples can enjoy hip shopping and dining experiences along lively Duval Street or enjoy street musician performances as part of nightly celebrations at charming Mallory Square. Historic attractions include the Oldest House Museum, which preserves the island's oldest conch home, and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, which converts the famed author's former residence into a living history attraction.

9.Long Beach, Washington

Long Beach, Washington is a delightful Washington State beachfront destination, home to a gorgeous rugged Pacific Coast beach and boardwalk at beautiful Long Beach Peninsula. The romantic beach getaway is home to a plethora of outdoor recreational sites, including gorgeous Willapa National Wildlife Refuge and the hiking trails of Cape Disappointment State Park. Couples can explore preserved lighthouses such as the 19th-century Cape Disappointment and North Head Lighthouses, open to the public today as living history museum sites. In town, the unique World Kite Museum showcases kites crafted around the world by diverse cultures, while the Cranberry Museum preserves the history of the region's cranberry cop cultivation. Other attractions include the Discovery Trail, which offers hiking and biking experiences along a portion of the route of explorers Lewis and Clark.

10.Malibu, California

Malibu, California is one of Southern California's most upscale districts, famed around the world for its celebrity mansions and stunning views of the gorgeous Pacific Ocean coastline. The romantic waterfront city is home to some of the most impressive natural wonders in the Los Angeles area, including Solstice Canyon, Malibu Creek, and the expansive Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Couples can drive along the famed Pacific Coast Highway or hit the shores at more than 20 public beachfronts within the city, including popular surfing destinations Zuma Beach and Malibu Lagoon State Beach. Historic attractions within the city's downtown district include the charming restored Adamson House, which converts a Spanish Revival-style home into a local history museum.

11.Montauk, New York

Montauk, New York is located along the far eastern tip of New York City's Long Island peninsula, known around the world as one of New England's top resort destinations. The lovely hamlet, which gained international prominence as a popular Gilded Age resort area, is home to extensive stretches of pristine white sand beaches and many nature preserves offering year-round recreational opportunities. Lovely Montauk Point State Park showcases the gorgeous 1796 Montauk Point Lighthouse, home to an historical museum within its former keeper's quarters. Ditch Plains is one of the New York area's most popular surfing destinations, offering miles of hiking trails for visitor access. World War II-era bunkers are on display at Camp Hero State Park, while overnight campsites are offered at Hither Hills State Park. Couples can also choose from a plethora of legendary seafood restaurants on the point, many of which offer ambient waterfront seating.

12.Muir Beach, California

Muir Beach, California is a gorgeous unincorporated community located just fifteen minutes northwest of San Francisco in lovely Marin County, best known for its public beachfront of the same name. The charming Muir Woods community is a favorite romantic getaway spot for San Francisco area residents and visitors, offering many multi-use trails, including the Dias Ridge Trail, a segment of the broader Bay Ridge Trail. Scenic Coyote Ridge and the Coastal Trail offer unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay coastlines. Couples can view monarch butterflies and migrating whale populations from the beach's shoreline or cross the beautiful 235-foot Pacific Way Bridge for access to one of the area's most romantic overlook picnic sites.

13.Mystic, Connecticut

Mystic, Connecticut is a beautiful village located within the towns of Stonington and Groton, showcasing a plethora of attractions related to the Connecticut region's maritime history, including Mystic Seaport, the nation's largest maritime museum. The gorgeous Mystic River village is a top romantic getaway destination for couples throughout the year, home to intimate inns, bed and breakfasts, and resorts offering gourmet restaurants and state-of-the-art amenities like two-person whirlpools. Couples can explore the marine life exhibits of the Mystic Aquarium, peruse the exhibitions of the Mystic Museum of Art, or tour a restored 1840s-era lighthouse at the Stonington Lighthouse Museum. The Foxwoods Resort Casino offers 24/7 gaming experiences, ranging from slot machines to roulette and poker tables.

14.Newport, Rhode Island

Newport, Rhode Island is a beautiful getaway destination on New England's lovely Aquidneck Island, historically known as the home of the renowned America's Cup sailing regatta until the late 20th century. The beautiful Gilded Age-era resort town is home to many preserved mansions that have been converted into living history museums, including the iconic 1895 Breakers, a residence for the Vanderbilts that was modeled after the gorgeous European palaces of the Renaissance era. Gilded Age mansions line the city's majestic Bellevue Avenue, which is also home to delicious gourmet restaurant destinations. Couples can also enjoy year-round recreational experiences at beautiful Fort Adams State Park, which hosts an annual summer concert series on warm evenings.

15.Ogunquit, Maine

Ogunquit, Maine is one of Maine's hippest coastal resort destinations, known as one of New England's top LGBT tourism destinations throughout the early 21st century. The charming town has been named as the United States' top coastal small town by USA Today, home to stunning Ogunquit Beach, which stretches for three miles along the city's Atlantic Ocean coastline. Couples can also stroll and swim at gorgeous Main Beach or secluded Footbridge Beach, which offer a more intimate alternative to some of the East Coast's busiest beachfront tourist destinations. In town, couples can stroll through the city's downtown district, which is home to romantic restaurants and cultural attractions like the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, highlighting works by Maine artists.

16.Paia, Hawaii

Pa?ia, Hawaii is one of Maui's hippest tourist destinations, offering a more bohemian visitor experience than more upscale resort areas like Wailea and Kaanapali. The charming north shore village, which was originally developed in the late 19th century, began to attract counterculture residents throughout the 1970s. Today, it is home to a plethora of charming boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores and is known as one of the island's top off-the-beaten-path surfing destinations throughout the year. Couples can catch waves at Hookipa, which is home to a legendary surf break area commonly referred to as "Jaws." Unique attractions include the Great Paia Lha Bab Peace Stupa, honoring the region's connection to Buddhist heritage and the 14th Dalai Lama. Romantic restaurant options are among some of Maui's most acclaimed, including favorites like Mama's Fish House, the Paia Fish Market, Flatbread Company, and Cafe de Amis.

17.Provincetown, Massachusetts

Provincetown, Massachusetts is one of the top LGBT-friendly tourist destinations in New England, known around the world for its famed gay and lesbian cabarets and nightlife opportunities. The resort town is known for its renowned artist colony, which sponsors cultural attractions like the world-class Provincetown Art Association and Museum, showcasing annual art exhibitions highlighting local and regional artists. The country's tallest granite structure is preserved as part of the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum, towering 253 feet over the city's skyline. Delightful restaurants within the city's downtown district serve up coastal and global cuisine, with a focus on dishes prepared with regional New England seafood and produce. Gorgeous resorts like the Sage Inn and Lounge and the Harbor Hotel offer inclusive accommodations for straight and gay couples alike.

18.Sanibel Island, Florida

Sanibel Island, Florida is a charming island resort destination located approximately half an hour off the coastline of Fort Myers, known for its stunning nature preserve areas and luxurious resort getaways. The island is home to the prestigious J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, protecting significant populations of native manatee and crocodile populations within its 5,200-acre campus. Couples can explore wetland trails overseen by the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation or canoe together on the waters of the beautiful 190-mile Great Calusa Blueway. In town, cultural attractions abound, including the historic Sanibel Lighthouse and the unique Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum. Gorgeous resort accommodations include the acclaimed Casa Ybel, which once attracted luminaries like Thomas Edison.

19.Saugatuck, Michigan

Saugatuck, Michigan has been named as one of America's top 10 beach towns by Coastal Living Magazine, located along the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan adjacent to its twin city, Douglas. The town, which gained international prominence as an artist colony during the Arts and Crafts Movement, is known for its charming beachfront harbor, which has been named as one of the world's top beachfront stretches by Condé Nast Traveler. Cultural attractions within the city's gorgeous downtown district include the acclaimed Saugatuck Center for the Arts, which hosts theatrical productions and art exhibits throughout the year. Nearby, Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers coastal dune trails and opportunities for excursion ride tours.

20.Siesta Key, Florida

Siesta Key, Florida is a stunning barrier islands located just off the coast of Sarasota within the state's beautiful Gulf of Mexico waters. The town is best known for its pristine Siesta Beach, which has been named as one of America's most beautiful beaches for its stunning pure quartz sands that stay cool year-round. Couples can stroll along the beach's eight-mile waterfront stretch and enjoy opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and tennis throughout the year. Nearby, Crescent Beach offers access to the gorgeous limestone outcroppings at the Point of Rocks, while Turtle Beach is home to public boat ramps and day-use picnic sites. In town, couples can explore more than 100 boutiques or dine at their choice of romantic restaurants and bars offering cuisine to suit any tastes.

21.South Beach, Florida

South Beach, Florida is known around the world for its stunning Art Deco architecture and avant-garde nightclub scene, located on the southern tip of Miami Beach on the state's Atlantic Ocean waterfront. The district, which is often referred to as "America's Riviera" for its glamorous tourist destinations, stretches for two miles along the city's southeastern end, home to pristine white sand beaches and deep, rich turquoise waters. Couples can explore the city's prestigious Ocean Drive district to view gorgeous 20th-century architecture or peruse the exhibits of cultural museums like the Wolfsonian-FIU modern art museum. Lincoln Road Mall is home to some of the city's most upscale shopping destinations, along with celebrity-chef-fronted restaurants serving up international cuisine offerings.

22.Sunset Beach, North Carolina

Sunset Beach, North Carolina is a picturesque seaside town in Brunswick County, located within the greater Myrtle Beach metropolitan region. The stunning town has been connected to mainland North Carolina since 1958 via the Sunset Beach Bridge, which also connects to the nearby Bird Island coastal reserve. Couples can explore unique area attractions like the Ingram Planetarium, which presents star shows throughout the week, and the Inlet Point Plantation, which offers opportunities for equestrian riding. Romantic inns and resorts include the gorgeous Sunset Inn, the Winds Resort, and the seaside Islander Inn. The lively attractions of Myrtle Beach are just a short drive away, ranging from family-friendly boardwalk amusement parks to live theaters showcasing music revues throughout the year.

23.Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City, Michigan has been named as one of America's top small towns by US News and World Report, located along the banks of the gorgeous Grand Traverse Bay on the state's stunning Lake Michigan coastline. The charming city is the host of the annual National Cherry Festival each July, honoring the city's legacy as the United States' top producer of tart cherries. Couples can explore cultural attractions like the Dennos Museum Center, which showcases exhibits on the region's indigenous history, or take in live theatrical and music performances at the Victorian-style City Opera House. Traverse City State Park offers opportunities for year-round outdoor recreation, including overnight camping. More than 50 area wineries make the city one of Michigan's top viticultural destinations, offering tastings and tours throughout the year.

24.Tybee Island, Georgia

Tybee Island, Georgia is a delightful barrier island located just off the coast of Savannah's harbor, known throughout the American South as a top destination for couples looking to experience Lowcountry culture. The unique island city is easily accessible from downtown Savannah, making it a great day trip destination for area visitors or a weekend getaway location all on its own. Charming historic attractions include the preserved Fort Screven, dating back to the 19th century, and the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, opening an 18th-century lighthouse to the public as a living history attraction. Couples can enjoy the best of Lowcountry cuisine at area restaurants, which serve up all-you-can-eat seafood feasts alongside traditional regional recipes in waterfront dining spaces.

25.Wailea Beach, Hawaii

Wailea Beach, Hawaii is one of Maui's top resort destinations, regularly attracting international celebrities such as Paris Hilton to its pristine and picturesque shores. The wide sandy beach, which is named for a Hawai'ian phrase related to the indigenous goddess of canoe makers, is home to spectacular resort complexes like the Four Seasons and Grand Wailea Resorts, which offer state-of-the-art amenities in romantic guest rooms and suites. Couples can sunbathe and swim on the beach's beautiful shores or spot whales from the coastline throughout the summer months. The charming Shops at Wailea are home to internationally-renowned designer stores like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Coach. Couples can also dine at acclaimed celebrity chef restaurants like Wolfgang Puck's Spago, which serves up upscale American cuisine.