The Best Romantic Getaways in the US for Every Type of Couple

Tap into what you love with the one you love.
The Most Romantic Getaways in the US
Photo: Ziba Photo Media / Getty Images
Jen Murphy
by Jen Murphy
Updated Jan 31, 2025
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Want to know the secret to a happy, long-lasting relationship? It's hitting pause on your hectic life and making time for vacations together. A romantic getaway doesn't require a passport or a week away, and the best romantic getaways in the US deliver a serious dose of R&R within a long weekend. Reconnect over your shared passions, whether that's great food and wine or hiking and biking. Or simply hunker down in a romantic mountain inn or laze the day away poolside at a beach resort.

Lately, the best romantic getaways in the US tap into the latest travel trends, like stargazing at a glamping site in the US (it doesn't get better than Utah's dark skies) and digital frugality (cell reception is spotty at best in Big Sur). They're the perfect locales for an anniversary trip or honeymoon spot. But also, when was the last time you and your partner went on an impromptu romantic escape just for the heck of it? From the wild coast of Oregon to the tropical shores of Kauai, the following destinations are guaranteed to deliver a serious dose of romance on any occasion. (P.S. If you're seeking an international destination, check out our picks for the most romantic places in the world including the best places to visit by month for weather and things to do.)

Bonus: If you're searching for "romantic getaways near me," jump to our travel guides by state below for the most romantic getaways near you.

The Top US Romantic Getaways for Every Type of Couple

Romantic views of Big Sur, CA, US
Photo: Alan Majchrowicz / Getty Images

The most romantic places in the US were selected for more than their dreamy backdrops. Each destination offers fantastic hotels (suites too) for a range of budgets and tastes, great restaurants, and a serious dose of culture or nature. From the rolling vineyards of Sonoma, California to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, these 10 spots should be on your bucket list of romantic getaways in the US.

Bar Harbor, Maine

The most romantic coastline in Maine, US
Photo: Edwin Remsberg / Getty Images

This small town, on a small island, off the coast of Maine is all about simple pleasures, like fresh lobster served at low-frills shacks and leisurely bike rides along crushed stone, car-free carriage roads. Set on Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor serves as the gateway to Acadia National Park. Beachgoers flock here in the summer months; leaf peepers descend in fall. If you're willing to bundle up, winter is delightful time to explore an empty park by snowshoe or cross-country ski. Catching sunrise at Cadillac Mountain is an Acadia rite of passage, but the Beehive Loop delivers equally awesome sunrise views and you'll most likely have them to yourselves. All of the natural wonders are complemented by a vibrant downtown full of shops and restaurants, like Red Sky and the Travelin' Lobster.

Romantic Places to Stay in Bar Harbor

Acadia National Park has two campgrounds, Blackwoods and Seawall. And if you want to be close to the action of town, you have your choice of B&Bs, historic inns, and beach-y cottages.

Balance Rock Inn: This elegant waterfront inn oozes old world charm. Local farmers and foragers are celebrated at the award-winning restaurant, the Veranda, and the more casual lounge hosts live piano music a few nights a week. Request one of the Room rates start at $195.

Salt Cottages: The closest resort to Acadia National Park, Salt Cottages has a prime location overlooking Frenchman Bay and minutes from downtown. Recently renovated cottages have a grown-up summer camp vibe and the grounds include a heated pool, snack bar, and fire pits. Room rates start at $380.

Bar Harbor Inn: Set on eight manicured acres fronting Frenchman Bay, this grand dame has 153 rooms spread across three distinct buildings. The town's pedestrian trail passes through the property and the Cadillac Mountain entrance to the park is a six-minute drive away. Room rates start at $219.

Asheville, North Carolina

The sun rises over the mountains of North Carolina
Photo: Fine Art Images by Rob Travis Photography / Getty Images

Hiking, biking, rafting, rock climbing, and forest bathing are just a few of the adventures to be had in and around Asheville. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, along the Appalachian Trail, this artsy town is an outdoor lover's paradise and ideal for a road trip getaway. Cooler temps and autumnal hues make fall a popular time to hit the trails. Summer is ideal for water activities. Native wildflowers start to appear in spring, and the area's cherry blossom bloom begins in March and rivals the pink petals so famed in Japan. Asheville's innovative restaurants will fuel your outdoor pursuits and a creative craft beer scene means you'll have plenty of options to toast your adventures.

Romantic Places to Stay in Asheville

Asheville has a hotel to match every type of traveler, from history buffs and fans of old world elegance to laidback outdoorsy types and craft beer snobs.

The Restoration Asheville: This new downtown boutique hotel pays homage to local artists and artisans. A botanical rooftop bar has Blue Ridge Mountain views. When the sun goes down, head to the basement bar for local brews, live music, and vintage arcade games. Room rates start at $305.

The Omni Grove Park Inn: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this storied hotel was built in 1913 with granite from nearby Sunset Mountain. Couples should request to stay on the exclusive, adults-only floor. Room rates start at $274.

Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins: This highly Instagramable collection of 16 A-frame cabins is set on 2.2 acres of the French Broad River Greenway. Run by two adventurous locals, the retreat offers more than two dozen organized activities for guests. Room rates start at $140.

Big Sur, California

The iconic drive along Big Sur, California, US
Photo: Comezora / Getty Images

One of America's most scenic stretches of coast spans 90 miles of California Highway 1 from Carmel-by the-Sea south to San Simeon. This iconic road trip lures nature lovers with its sweeping beaches, dramatic cliffs, and endless trails that wind through towering redwoods and oaks. A temperate climate makes this a year-round destination, though winter mornings can be a bit chilly and the trails and beaches can feel crowded in summer. Stop at Big Sur Deli or Coast Big Sur and grab a picnic lunch to enjoy at Sand Dollar Beach. Be sure to pack your hiking boots so you can trek to the 80-foot waterfall in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park or explore the trails of similarly named Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Be warned, cell reception can be spotty so be prepared to unplug.

Romantic Places to Stay in Big Sur

Nature is the star of every accommodation in Big Sur, whether five-star luxury or low-frills camping. Rustic-luxe is the vibe and you can splurge on over-the-top treehouse stays or cozy cabins in ancient redwood groves.

The Post Ranch Inn: The epitome of sustainable luxury, this iconic hotel is perched on dramatic oceanfront cliffs and its 40 rooms, ranging from suites to treehouses, seem to blend right into the coast. Room rates start at $1,825.

Alila Ventana Big Sur: Nestled on 160 acres of wildflowers and woodlands, this 59-room, rustic-luxe resort is the perfect place to unplug in nature (spotty cell reception makes it even easier to disconnect). Relax by the two pools, soak in the Japanese baths, or be pampered at the excellent spa. Room rates start at $1,519, all-inclusive.

Glen Oaks Big Sur: This wonderfully rustic property is surrounded by ancient redwoods. Rooms in the motor lodge have gas fireplaces and heated floors. Cabins and cottages are scattered across the grounds and many feature outdoor soaking tubs and fire pits. Room rates start at $385.

Charleston, South Carolina

The romantic coastal views of South Carolina
Photo: Jacob Kupferman / Getty Images

It's impossible not to fall for Charleston's Southern charm. Cobbled streets, historic facades, a lovely waterfront, and wide, sandy beaches are just a few of the reasons to love this small city. But perhaps its biggest draw is the food. Charleston's dining scene dazzles, especially when it comes to seafood. Lowcountry ingredients take center stage at institutions like Fig and Husk. For a bit of French flare, try Maison, and if you crave exceptional Italian, book a table at Wild Olive. An oyster crawl should include stops at the Ordinary, Leon's Oyster Shop, and Delaney Oyster House. You can work up an appetite exploring the incredibly walkable downtown and popping into the chic boutiques along King Street.

Romantic Places to Stay in Charleston

You'll find everything from historic grand dames to hip, boutique hotels in Charleston. Southern hospitality and incredible food rooted in Low Country ingredients are staples of every stay.

The Dewberry Charleston: This 154-room, midcentury landmark has an 8th floor rooftop terrace—the highest in town—that overlooks the harbor and steepled skyline. Room rates start at $379.

The Pinch: Located on the corner of King and George Streets, this stylish 25-room property has a fantastic oyster bar, a casual tavern that celebrates Low Country flavors, and a new tasting-menu restaurant. Room rates start at $279.

Zero George: The 16 rooms and three suites at this charming property are set within three restored historic residences and two brick carriages houses surrounded by a private courtyard garden. Call in advance to book a class at the in-house cooking school. Room rates start at $299.

Kauai, Hawaii

The romantic views of Kauai, Hawaii
Photo: M Swiet Productions / Getty Images

Kauai's plumeria-scented salt air and slower pace will instantly lull you into a romantic mood. Plan to visit in the dry season, May through October, so you can take advantage of the fantastic hiking in Waimea Canyon State Park and Ha'ena State Park. A boat trip along the Napali Coast is the best way to view the island's famous emerald-hued cliffs. Adventurous couples can hang ten with Kauai Surf School or explore the Wailua River by paddleboard. Call in advance to reserve a table at the Beach House restaurant, the island's most romantic spot to watch the sunset.

Romantic Places to Stay in Kauai

With its swaying palms, fiery sunsets, and towering jade cliffs that tumble to the sea, the Garden Isle is a true tropical paradise that delivers Hawaii's signature aloha hospitality. Choose from beachfront resorts on the sunny south shore or a splurge-worthy sustainable stay overlooking dreamy Hanalei Bay.

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay: Perched above Hanalei Bay, this sustainable resort features a Bamford Spa, state-of-the-art gym, and two dazzling pools, plus surfboard and paddleboard rentals. Reserve an outdoor table at Welina Terrace timed to sunset. Room rates start at $1,000.

The Lodge at Kukui'ula: This south shore retreat is comprised of beach-chic bungalows and an on-site farm supplies produce for the restaurants. You'll find a first-rate golf course, excellent spa, and new pickleball courts. Room rates start at $1,200.

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa: This beachfront resort in Poipu is sprawling but delivers every amenity a guest could want, from a top golf course to an excellent spa and over a half-dozen different dining venues. Room rates start at $687.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

The rugged northwest coastline of Oregon
Photo: Dean Fikar / Getty Images

Located on Oregon's wild north coast, this four-mile stretch of beach is lined with coastal bluffs and monolithic sea stacks, most notably 235-foot Haystack Rock. Summer months are perfect for tide pooling, bird watching, and hiking. Winter months bring the region's famed storms and are ideal for cozying up by your inn's fire and watching the raging seas. The village of Cannon Beach is an artist's haven full of studios and galleries and purveyors featured along the North Coast Food Trail are showcased on the menus of popular local eateries like the Bistro.

Romantic Places to Stay in Cannon Beach

You won't find over-the-top luxury stays or big hotel brands in sleepy Cannon Beach. Accommodations tend to be locally owned and that means there's always a personal touch. The most in-demand reservations front the shore.

The Ocean Lodge: You can't beat this 45-room resort's beachfront location overlooking prehistoric Haystack Rock. Room rates start at $339.

The Stephanie Inn: Each of the 41 rooms at this ocean front charmer come with a gas fireplace and soaking tub. The inn's owners have a 40-acre farm that supplies the restaurant with produce. Room rates start at $339.

Surfsand Resort: Steps from Haystack Rock, this oceanfront resort will unveil a property-wide renovation in May 2024. Guests love little touches like complimentary beach cruisers and Friday night beer tastings. Room rates start at $129.

New Orleans, Louisiana

The historic streets of New Orleans, LA, US
Photo: bpperry / Getty Images

The birthplace of jazz, New Orleans is a city that lives and breathes music. Legendary musicians including Louis Armstrong and Trombone Shorty were born here and nearly every other big name in jazz has made the pilgrimage to perform in the clubs along famed Frenchmen Street. Music festivals take place throughout the year, but the most notable, the Jazz & Heritage Festival, occurs in spring. Every itinerary should include a show at Preservation Hall, a venerable jazz institution in the French Quarter, and plenty of time for exploring the city's historic architecture, delicious Cajun and Creole food, and craft cocktail bars.

Romantic Places to Stay in New Orleans

The hotel scene recently welcomed a handful of exciting newcomers, both luxury brands and boutique indie stays.

Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans: Set in a landmark tower wrapped in glass and overlooking the Mississippi River, this art-filled luxury stay delivers the Four Seasons signature five-star service (staff can arrange VIP experiences like one-on-one lessons with a local jazz musician). Room rates start at $455.

Maison de Luz: Located steps from the French Quarter in the Warehouse District, this 67-room property from the Ace Hotel Group is full of Art Deco flourishes and fun surprises like a bar hidden behind a secret bookcase door. Room rates start at $360.

The Chloe: Housed in a 19th-century uptown Victorian mansion, this intimate 14-room hotel feels more like your own private guesthouse. The saltwater pool hosts DJs on weekends throughout the summer and pop-up events with local musicians. Room rates start at $374.

Aspen, Colorado

Nothing is more romantic than mountains, forests, and lakes
Photo: Ron and Patty Thomas / Getty Images

Aspen is best known as a glitzy ski destination, but the Colorado mountain town is just as impressive any other time of year. In summer, hiking and biking trails are carpeted in colorful wildflowers and the town hosts sensational events such as the Food & Wine Classic and Aspen Music Festival. The namesake aspen trees ignite in brilliant golden hues come fall, making popular photo spot Maroon Bells look even more spectacular. Luxury boutiques and fine dining spots, like Michelin-star Bosq, are plentiful in town and Aspen has serious cultural cred, with attractions like the Aspen Art Museum and storied music venue Belly Up.

Romantic Places to Stay in Aspen

You choose if you want to be in the heart of town amidst Aspen's see-and-be-seen crowd or tucked away from the scene. Luxury hotels deliver all of the bells-and-whistles, while condo-style accommodations let you feel more at home.

Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection: This Aspen icon blends heritage with modern luxury. Don't miss the signature burger at the historic Jerome bar and classic cocktails at the hotel's speakeasy, Bad Harriet. Room rates start at $825.

The Gant: Tucked discreetly a few blocks away from town's main drag, this condo property provides a true home-away-from home feel. Room rates start at $635.

Aspen Meadows Resort: Right on the edge of town, this 40-acre, all-suite sanctuary pays homage to Bauhaus design. On the grounds you'll find a museum dedicated to the works of Bauhaus artist Herbert Bayer. Room rates start at $297.

Sonoma, California

The romantic coastline of Sonoma, CA, US
Photo: Alan Majchrowicz / Getty Images

This laidback wine region has stayed true to its agricultural roots. A patchwork of artsy small towns, biodynamic farms, and sustainable vineyards, plus 55-miles of coast make Sonoma the perfect wine country getaway any time of year. The postcard-perfect town of Healdsburg is full of romantic restaurants, like Michelin-decorated SingleThread and Valette. Wine lovers can geek out during private tastings and tours at institutions like Jordan Winery and next-gen wineries such as Scribe and Reeve. There's plenty to do beyond wining and dining. Sonoma's natural landscape is what draws visitors back again and again. Take in the beauty on the trails of Jack London State Historic Park or on a kayak adventure along the Russian River.

Romantic Places to Stay in Sonoma

Sonoma offers it all, from intimate B&B's to amenity-laden resorts, most with vineyard views. Spend the night at a working winery or book a boutique hotel within biking distance of the restaurants and tasting rooms of downtown Healdsburg. The food and wine are guaranteed to be great no matter where you stay.

Montage Healdsburg: Surrounded by vineyards and oak groves, this 130-room resort makes your wine country fantasies a reality. Sip cocktails at the zero-edge pool. Dine on farm-to-table cuisine at Hazel Hill restaurant. Or practice yoga amidst the vines. Room rates start at $680.

Beltane Ranch Inn: A stay at this gorgeous 105-acre regenerative farm and vineyard means waking to a farm-fresh breakfast, enjoying exclusive wine tastings, and savoring leisurely picnic lunches. Room rates start at $275.

The Madrona: Downtown Healdsburg is less than 10-minutes away via complimentary e-bikes, but you'll feel world's away at this historic mansion-turned-hotel. Each of the 22 rooms has its own design and personality. Don't miss the bar's signature martini. Room rates start at $469.

Greater Zion, Utah

Zion National Park in Utah, US
Photo: Justin Reznick Photography / Getty Images

Zion National Park's magnificent red rock cliffs and slot canyons have long been its major draw. But the area's night skies are so clear and star-studded that they've been awarded International Dark Sky Park status. Outdoorsy types can camp in the park, but you no longer have to rough it thanks to a crop of amenity-laden new accommodations ranching from Instagram-worthy airstreams to safari-style glamping tents. Fall is the best time to ogle the Milky Way and take advantage of the area's abundant hiking trails and rock climbing routes.

Romantic Places to Stay in Greater Zion

To appreciate the red rock landscape of the Greater Zion area you no longer have to pitch your own tent. There have never been more options for accommodations, particularly when it comes to glamping . Choose from African-style safari tents with ensuite bathrooms or retro Airstream suites.

AutoCamp Zion: Conveniently located near the park's quieter Kolob Terrace Road entrance, this 16-acre glamping retreat has funky Airstream suites, plus an onsite restaurant and general store. Room rates start at $188.

Under Canvas Zion: This glamping resort is nestled on 196 secluded desert acres just 20 miles from the park's main entrance. Tents have a modern pioneer vibe and unbeatable red rock views. Room rates start at $299.

Open Sky: The over-the-top tents at this new retreat were shipped from South Africa and feel more like mini homes. The Star Seeker Superior II is the most luxe and comes with a private cedar hot tub and a suspended sky lounge hammock. Room rates start at $449.

Most Romantic Getaways Near You

A happy couple walking across a romantic field together
Photo: Jacobs Stock Photography Ltd / Getty Images

Are you looking for romantic places for a weekend getaway within a few hours' drive or in a particular state? Check out these romantic getaway guides by state for more couple's trip ideas.

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