adventure trip for couples

Popular Searches

• Portugal Bike Tours
• Family Trips
• National Parks
• River Cruises
• Women's Adventures

Top 10 Adventure Vacations for Couples

Adventures are better together.

Few things are more romantic than traveling the world together, hand-in-hand as you experience new cultures, new adventures, and more than a few incredibly luxurious hotels with intimate candle-lit dinners. While any Backroads trip is chock-full of epic experiences that are great to be shared, the ones on this list are particularly special for a romantic sojourn. Whether it’s a celebratory kiss on a mountain summit or a post-ride barefoot walk along a white-sand beach, these 10 trips are sure to spark a flame of romance.

Give the gift of travel with a Backroads gift card, the perfect present to inspire your next great adventure together. Learn more.

Santorini & Crete Multi-Adventure Tour

Regularly voted one of the most beautiful islands in the world, Santorini envelops you in romance, sunshine, warm water, delicious local wine  and perfectly shady rooftop-cafes to  sit back with your loved one and watch the world go by . Stroll hand-in-hand through maze-like walkways in the heart of the island's famous white-washed villages above the sparkling Aegean Sea. Savor deliciously fresh seafood and explosively colorful flowers, then  relax in luxurious hotels and soak up a distinctly Greek vibe  that makes you feel like you've stepped into a dream. 

Italian Lakes Walking & Hiking Tour

It’s time to get to know the Great Lakes on the other side of the Atlantic. An alternative to more visited Italian destinations, the Italian Lakes Hiking & Walking Tour is the unsung hero of romanticismo classico. Spend a week in the  shadow of the Alps, surrounded by exquisite villas and gardens, potted flowers and perfect piazzas. There are  endless quiet corners in picturesque villages  to which you can escape with your loved one. In a setting like this, you cannot help but feel you’re in the midst of an ancient fairy tale.

Charming in its rustic and simple ways, Vermont is the opposite of grandiose romance.  Nestle in among some of the most remarkable scenes of fall foliage . Ride alongside each other in the quiet hills of a state with fewer than a million people. Enjoy dinner at a private home-turned-restaurant and savor hot soups, delectable entrees and unbeatable wine. Then  snuggle up in your hotel with a warm blanket, cup of hot chocolate, book and total peace of mind . Rinse and repeat all week long.

Yellowstone & Tetons Snow Adventure

Dogsled by day, fireside games by night. This is one of Backroads’ few winter destinations in the Northern Hemisphere and a  quieter, more personal time to travel to Yellowstone & the Tetons . Whether you are  first-time snowshoers  or avid ice-hikers, get ready to experience two iconic national parks in a unique and underappreciated way. After a full day out in the snow, nestle into  cozy fireside lodges , enjoy some phenomenal cuisine and take in the panoramic views of your freshly explored territory.

Douro River Cruise Bike Tour

Choose carefully who you decide to tell about the magic of Portugal—this is a truly precious place! The Douro River Cruise is a hit list for  city after city of date-night opportunities on lit cobblestone plazas and cozy cafés . From Madrid to Porto,  dance through the warm evenings  and share sweet wines. Since you unpack just once, you’re free to make a nightly ritual of sitting back on your private balcony and watching the stunning scenery drift by. No need to join the rest of the ship for views if you're in the mood for an intimate setting instead.

Provence to the French Riviera Bike Tour

From quaint French countryside to stunning French seaside, you’ll feel like you’re living in a too-good-to-be-true world. This bike trip offers the chance to rub shoulders with the glitterati on the  chic Côte d’Azur and in glamorous Cannes . When not biking,  stroll hand-in-hand through enchanting castles and exquisite gardens. Hold tight as you  cruise by private boat to dinner . Embrace the flirtatious French way and fall in love with life—as well as each other.

California Wine Country Bike Tour

This trip is designed to allow plenty of time to veer off course and lose yourselves in gorgeous landscapes. Stop at a favorite tasting room to spark a special memory. Start your day with  an optional hot-air balloon ride from our hotel in Napa , then end the day relaxing with a  Roman Bath at the Sonoma Fairmont Mission Inn. Another day brings a sunset walk along Bodega Bay followed by a soak in an  infinity hot tub overlooking the coast under a starry night. Finish the week with a date night in hip downtown Healdsburg. Wine Country at its finest!

Patagonia Walking & Hiking Tour

As an active traveler, there are few things more romantic than conquering a summit and sharing joint accomplishments. And on the Argentina Walking Tour, you will have eight epic days to soak up the crystal-clear waters and awe-inspiring peaks of the Andes.  Get close to majestic glaciers and each other on a boat ride , and  savor world-class Argentine wines at exclusive and remote lodges . Patagonia is extravagantly adventurous and unforgettable. A certain top-of-the-line outdoor gear company is named after this place for a reason.

Colombia Walking & Hiking Tour

This South American destination sits just above the equator, meaning that its  weather is perfect year-round for a romantic escape . And it's still under-the-radar enough that, if you're looking for a  hidden getaway , you just found it. From  salsa dancing in Cartagena  to drinking from coconuts on  secluded beaches  near Santa Marta, you'll be enchanted by this country and its people. Discovering Colombia is a journey, and its best shared with someone special. 

Amalfi Coast Walking & Hiking Tour

Visualize a hidden European cliffside, speckled with multicolor villas jutting upward from the rich azure water. Now picture a couple speeding along on a Vespa, holding tight to each other as they breeze through  charming piazzas . Italians are known for their flirtatious ways, and on the Amalfi Coast, the amore is contagious. Young couples  cuddling on the beach , sharing a refreshing spritz and  watching the sun set behind the Mediterranean . Older couples holding hands and greeting tourists with a warm "buona sera." Join them, chat with the locals and listen to classic tales of long-lost love.

Subscribe to our weekly e-mail newsletter for the latest travel trends, trip recommendations, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more.

Our Best of Backroads catalog will give you a sampling of our unforgettable adventures for couples, friends, families, solo travelers and even private groups!

Have questions? Our incredible team of Trip Consultants is full of expert travel advice, and is ready to help you find and book you on the perfect trip.

Discover Your Next Adventure

By sharing your email address, you agree to the practices described in our  Privacy Policy .

20 Best Adventure Vacations for Couples in the USA

Posted on June 9, 2022 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on May 25, 2023

Looking for the best adventure vacation destinations for couples in the USA ? The United States is filled with tons of thrilling destinations for adventurous couples looking to get their adrenaline pumping.

From hiking glaciers in Alaska to rock climbing in Arizona and everything in between, you will find the perfect activities and destinations for your next trip with this thorough list of the best places in the country for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers !

Keep on reading to discover some of the best adventurous getaways in the US for couples and start planning your next vacation now!

Related – Best vacation spots in the US for couples

HELPFUL WEBSITES TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP

FLIGHT DEALS

HOTEL DEALS

TRAVEL INSURANCE

VACATION RENTALS

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, I’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Estes Park, Colorado

By Meg from Fox in the Forest

If you are an adventurous couple in search of an amazing US travel destination, then you cannot beat Estes Park, Colorado. 

After all, this charming mountain town is home to the fourth most popular national park in the US, Rocky Mountain National Park. 

So, no visit here would be complete without doing some of the  best hikes in Rocky Mountain  Park – usually sometime between mid-June (snow doesn’t melt at higher elevation until then) and early September. 

Once here, you can hike to the summit of Prospect Mountain before checking out Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake (try to get here to watch the sunrise) – some of the most stunning alpine lakes in the state. 

However, this time of year gets REALLY crowded. Therefore, you will need to do a bit of planning and wake up well before sunrise if you want to do many of the area’s most popular hikes. 

Other than that, adventurous couples can stay at the Stanley Hotel , the infamous accommodation featured in the movie  The Shining . For a more intimate option, check out the Mountain Shadows Resort , featuring charming cottages with hot tubs and stunning views of the mountains. You can also rent a cabin nearby for something even more secluded.

Then, take in stunning panoramas from the Aerial Tramway before grabbing a craft beer from Rock Cut Brewery and doing a bit of white water rafting on either the Poudre or Colorado Rivers.

Related – 20+ Dreamy Mountain Destinations in the USA

By Jamie from Photo Jeepers

If you are an adventurous couple looking for a great travel spot in the USA, then look no further than Moab, Utah. 

After all, this iconic desert town is home to Canyonlands, Arches, and Dead Horse State Park.  

However, the area’s intense, desert climate means that the summers are crowded, hot, and regularly flooded with monsoons. Therefore, try and spend at least two full days here any time between mid-October and early May since this is the best time to visit Moab . 

This way you can avoid the crowds, and enjoy cooler weather while hiking to Delicate Arch, Corona Arch, and Mesa Arch in Arches National Park. 

Afterward, test your rock climbing skills at epic spots like Wall Street, Indian Creek, and Six Shooter Peaks. 

Next, go on an incredible hot air balloon ride and marvel at the stunning landscapes of Arches and Canyonlands from above. 

Then, explore some of the best slot canyons Utah has to offer with treks to Entrajo Canyon, Furniture Draw, and Little Wildhorse and Bell Canyon hike.

Finally, when you feel like you’re going to collapse from exhaustion, grab some Southwestern-inspired fare from The Desert Bistro before spending the night inside the plush Hyatt Place Moab Hotel. You’ll also find plenty of vacation rentals for all budgets.

Talkeetna, Alaska

By Lisa from Planning Away

Talkeetna Alaska is the perfect destination for adventurous couples. Located 2.5 hours south of Denali National Park and 2 hours north of Anchorage, it is the perfect destination for adventure. There are so many fun things to do in Talkeetna Alaska !  

Talkeetna is the best place to take a flightseeing tour over Mt. Denali . This experience is by far one of the most incredible adventurous experiences any couple can have. Some of the flights actually land on a glacier. You can get out and walk around. It is one of the best experiences in Alaska.  

Talkeetna also offers amazing guided river rafting tours and zip line adventures ! It is a perfect place to spend a few days in the great outdoors. You can actually take a foraging tour and learn how to live off the land.  

Most of the accommodations in Talkeetna are lodges, cabins , and camping. You won’t find any national brands or luxury hotel options. Talkeetna is a true wilderness Alaska experience. The Talkeetna Lakeside Cabins is a great option for couples looking for something cozy and secluded with great views.

The best time to travel to Talkeetna is summer. This will allow you to do all of the activities.  

Talkeetna is worth taking a little detour if you are traveling from Anchorage to Denali National Park!

Sedona, Arizona

By Lydia from Lost With Lydia

Sedona is a paradise for adventurous couples. The city and surrounding area are full of red-rock hikes, breathtaking views, mystical vortexes, off-roading opportunities, and more. There are several amazing day hikes in Sedona , including popular trails like Devil’s Bridge and Cathedral Rock and less crowded options like Doe Mountain and the Baldwin Trail. 

In addition to hiking, Sedona’s adventures include taking a Pink Jeep Tour , enjoying a natural slide at Slide Rock State Park , and taking a sunrise yoga class.  

When you visit Sedona, be prepared for crowds and limited parking. Plan to arrive very early at the popular trailheads to get a spot, or stick to less famous trails if you’re looking for solitude. Also, be sure to obtain a Red Rock Pass or use an America the Beautiful pass to display on your vehicle for parking.

Stay in central or West Sedona to be conveniently located in town. A great value budget accommodation is the Andante Inn , which has basic amenities but a great location. If you’re traveling with a pet, Sedona Real Inn is a great option with a dog park. Finally, Sedona Hilltop Inn is a renovated motel with wonderful views of the surrounding red rocks. Alternatively, you’ll find plenty of nice vacation rentals in town.

Sedona is nice to visit year-round . If you want to avoid the crowds, winter is the best time to visit . If you want to swim at Slide Rock State Park, visit in the summer. If you want favorable weather that isn’t too hot or too cold, it is best to visit in the Spring or Fall. Sedona can get very crowded, so avoid holiday weekends if possible. 

No matter what you do in Sedona, you’ll be left in awe of the beauty of the red rocks. It’s a bucket list destination, perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors. 

Zion National Park, Utah

By James from Parks Collecting

Zion National Park is a great place for adventurous couples. The national park has two of the most iconic hikes in the country, and there are so many other fun activities to do in the area. 

First up, don’t miss Angels Landing. Permits are required to limit the number of people on this trail because the last half mile goes along the top of a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs hundreds of feet high on both sides. There are chains to hold on to, but it’s not for the faint-of-heart.  

Second is The Narrows. The hike is actually in a river, which runs through a narrow slot canyon. At the narrowest, the canyon is just a few yards wide and over a thousand feet tall. The hike requires couples to wade in a knee-to-waist-deep running river on an uneven, pebbly riverbed. It’s super fun. 

Another activity that adventurous couples will love is canyoneering . You can rappel down a series of about a dozen narrow slot canyons. Some of the rappels are over 100 feet high. It’s a thrilling day not to miss. 

There are many more fun activities in the area including ATVing, taking a helicopter sightseeing flight, and even a zipline.  

The nearest gateway town, just outside the park’s main entrance, is Springdale. Here you’ll find plenty of places to stay and eat. A good option is Red Rock Inn Cottages . They have a great location, and many rooms have amazing views.  

Zion gets very busy, so if you can, visit in the shoulder season . The Narrows can be closed in spring if the water level is too high, so June and September are the best times to go. Make sure you get an Angels Landing permit and get to the park as early as you can to beat the worst of the crowds each day. 

Related – Best National Parks on the West Coast

Mono Lake, California

By Alisha from Travel Today Work Tomorrow 

Mono Lake is famously known for its hypersaline water and eerie tufa columns that sprout from the surface of the cobalt blue lake. The lake was formed over 1 million years ago and is considered one of North America’s oldest lakes. Explore Mono Lake by walking to the coastline and admiring the geological wonder and the salty oily waters of the lake.

There are also plenty of other adventurous things to do near Mono Lake. Such as the Black Point Fissures hike , where you can discover slot canyons, volcanic rock, and epic views of Mono Lake from above. Another must-visit is Travertine Hot Springs , a clothing-optional geothermal hot spring that showcases panoramic views of the Sierra Mountains.

During your stay in Mono Lake, Double Eagle Resort and Spa is a great option to stay for a couple. The charming and cozy cabins are situated along the base of June Lake’s mountains. You can enjoy the surrounding nature, and the resort’s many services, including a fitness center, pool, and hot tubs.

There is no bad time to visit Mono Lake. However, you will experience colder weather in the winter months, and some restaurants and hotels may be closed for the season.

Mono Lake is a bucket list destination to visit in northern California. It is a great place to unwind in nature and plan a trip full of adventure!

Puerto Rico

By Lisa Garrett from Waves and Cobblestones

Puerto Rico is an excellent destination for the adventurous. This US territory boasts many exciting activities due to its unique Caribbean geography, and it also has a rich historical importance.  With so many great things to do in Puerto Rico , you’ll definitely find something for everyone to enjoy!

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Visit the Toro Verde Adventure Park and experience the longest zip line in America – 2.5 kilometers of excitement!  You can also ride zip lines through El Yunque , Puerto Rico’s tropical rainforest.

Want to be close to nature?  Paddle a kayak through one of Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bays .  Mosquito Bay , located on Puerto Rico’s island of Vieques, is recognized by Guinness World Records as the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world!

Interested in history? Explore San Juan’s Spanish fortresses, Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo de San Cristóbal.   The forts and city walls comprise a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You’ll want to stay in Old San Juan to immerse yourself in its colorful Spanish-influenced vibe. Try the Hotel El Convento , a beautiful hotel with a great location just across the street from the historic landmark, Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista.

Puerto Rico enjoys a warm tropical climate year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring.  That way you avoid the winter crowds, the rainy summer, and the chance of hurricanes in the fall.

Oahu, Hawai

By Sydney from A World in Reach

Oahu, Hawaii is one of the most beautiful and diverse islands in the United States . There are so many different things to see and do in Oahu , making it the perfect destination for adventurous couples.

From hiking to exploring waterfalls or surfing the waves, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to keep you entertained . And when you’re ready to relax, you can enjoy some of the best beaches in the world.

Oahu is home to some of the most beautiful hikes in the country, ranging from easy trails to difficult treks . Diamond Head , the most popular Oahu hike, ends with sweeping views of Waikiki. The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail rewards you with blue ocean views and the opportunity to see whales if visiting during whale season.

If you’d rather your hike end with a refreshing swim in a waterfall, consider hiking through Waimea Valley to Waimea Falls . You’ll hike through a botanical garden before arriving at the waterfall and its surrounding pool that’s perfect for a swim.

Is surfing more your thing? Oahu has some of the best waves in the world, and there are plenty of different spots to choose from depending on your skill level. At the end of the day, head to one of the many beautiful beaches for an evening of relaxing and taking in the sunset. Lanikai Beach and Waimanalo Beach are great choices for a romantic beach date.

Most of Oahu’s hotels and vacation rentals are located on tourist-centric Waikiki Beach. The Hilton Hawaiian Village group of hotels is a great choice that’s within walking distance of shopping, restaurants, and attractions.

The weather on Oahu is great year-round, but visiting during whale season (December to May) and being able to see the majestic creatures in their natural habitat (ethically, from vantage points on hikes) is an unforgettable experience.

US Virgin Islands

By Martin Soto from Travel Explorator 

The U.S Virgin Islands offers several opportunities for outdoor adventures for couples who love to explore. You can enjoy all kinds of fun activities like snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, paddle boarding, and much more.

These three beautiful islands all offer their own unique attractions and plenty of beautiful beaches to explore. Magens Bay Beach in St Thomas is one of the most pristine beaches in the world , which is a perfect place for a romantic day. Check out Brewers Bay Beach if you want to snorkel and see some gorgeous fish , eagle rays, and turtles. Maho Bay Beach in St John is the perfect snorkeling area if you want to swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat.

You can also go on several kayaking and snorkeling tours with professional guides.

For historical attractions, you can check out the  Fort Christiansvaern or Point Udall in St Croix  for a scenic view of the sea. 

There are many luxury resorts, budget-friendly hotels, and vacation rentals to stay in, so you can find one that fits your budget. If you want to stay on the main island of St Thomas, which holds the capital Charlotte Amalie, the Green Iguana Hotel near the downtown area is a perfect low-cost option, while the  Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove is an excellent high-end resort. 

The US Virgin Islands are warm year-round, so there is never a wrong time to visit. However, if you want to avoid the tourist season and possible rainstorms, it might be better to visit in the spring. It’s one of the least rainy seasons and avoids the summer crowds. The early fall is also a great time to visit the islands. 

Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park

By Amanda from Hey! East Coast USA

Adventurous couples should absolutely head to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park in northern Maine . This beautiful coastal area boasts the only National Park in New England and offers eager hikers plenty of options to choose from!

The town of Bar Harbor is also an idyllic getaway, with that classic New England charm oozing from every corner offering a picturesque escape for a couple’s getaway.

If you’re into watersports, grab a double kayak and enjoy spotting seals popping their heads above water as you paddle along the coastline. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, too!

If you’re into hiking, then you have to hit the trails in Acadia National Park. Cadillac Mountain is the tallest peak on the eastern seaboard, so it’s one that can’t be missed. Other awesome trails include the Beehive and the Jordan Pond Path. Just note that the Beehive includes metal rungs and ladders!

Prefer getting around on two wheels? Rent a bike and enjoy cycling the carriage roads together for beautiful scenery.

While summertime is the peak season for hiking and watersports, visiting Bar Harbor and Acadia in the fall offers absurdly beautiful views with less busy trails. Enjoy the colorful foliage and bask in the serenity.

For your stay, there are plenty of cabins, cottages , and hotels in Bar Harbor to choose from, but definitely check out the recently renovated Little Fig Hotel to be close to everything while enjoying a lovely inn.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

By Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

Jackson Hole is a paradise for both adventure-lovers and nature-lovers. Regardless of what time of year you visit, this scenic valley in western Wyoming has lots of adrenaline-pumping activities for thrill-seekers and adventurous couples.

In winter, test your skiing abilities at one of the most extreme ski resorts in the United States. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort boasts “America’s scariest ski slope”. Known as Corbet’s Couloir , this double-black diamond ski chute is only for those with extreme skills and courage. 

During summer, Jackson Hole offers white water rafting, paragliding, nature hikes, and an opportunity to see bison, elk, moose, and other wildlife in their native habitat . Home to Teton National Park, there is no shortage of outdoor activities in Jackson Hole.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple or visiting Jackson Hole with kids , you’ll find plenty of adventurous activities like an alpine slide, mountain coaster, and treetop adventure course that promise an exciting experience regardless of your age, skill, or fitness level. 

Stay in the Wild West town of Jackson, Wyoming, and spend a day exploring the charming covered, boardwalk streets. Be sure to book your visit at The Wort Hotel for an authentic western lodge experience, or consider a vacation rental for more privacy.

Stanley, Idaho

By Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

Stanley, Idaho is the perfect place for a couple to plan an adventurous getaway. This tiny town, located just 130 miles east of Boise, is the gateway to the stunning Sawtooth Mountain range , as well as dozens and dozens of miles of the surrounding pristine wilderness.

Given the beautiful mountainous landscape, it should be no surprise that there are some incredible hikes in the area – the Alice Lake and Sawtooth Lake trails both offer views of alpine lakes, ponderosa pine tree forests, and stunning vistas of the craggy peaks of the aptly named Sawtooths.

And you won’t need to hike to the top of a mountain to see stunning lakes – Redfish Lake is a popular lake you can simply drive to and explore via kayak, canoe, or paddleboard.

After all that hiking and paddling, you can relax your aching muscles in the myriad of hot springs in Stanley , like Kirkham Hot Springs , with a thermal waterfall you can stand under, or Boat Box Hot Spring , a cauldron-like tub, along the Salmon River, in which geothermally-warmed water is piped into.

The best time to visit Stanley is in the summertime, when the hikes through the mountains are clear of snow and other activities in Stanley, like white water rafting, are in full swing.

As a home base, lean into Stanley’s rustic vibes and book a stay at the Triangle C cabins , with cozy log cabins and fire pits to snuggle up around after a long day of adventuring.

Clearwater Beach, Florida

By Wayne from Always on the Shore

If you and your partner are looking for some adventure, there’s no better place to go than Clearwater Beach, Florida. This beach destination is perfect for couples who want to try new things and have some fun in the sun.  There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, from parasailing, boat tours, and jet skiing, to exploring the local shops and restaurants.   

And of course, there’s always the option to hang out on the beach or soak up the incredible views from Pier 60.  

Both Frenchy’s Rockway Grill and Palm Pavillion are right at the beach and are perfect places to go for food and to see a sunset .

There is beach and restaurant parking between Frenchy’s and Palm Pavillion, but come early for a good spot!  Otherwise, there is a large parking ramp a couple of blocks away next to the original Frenchy’s restaurant. Pelican Walk Plaza is about a block from the beach and is filled with restaurants, bars, and stores.  

If you’re looking for more of a secluded getaway with your partner, visit nearby Caladesi Island , which is only accessible by boat. This state park is great for exploring the trails, kayaking, swimming, collecting shells, and picnics.  You can also spend the night camping here .  

Late fall to early spring is an ideal time to visit Clearwater Beach, in order to avoid the summer heat and humidity and to escape the larger crowds.

The beach area is lined up with lots of vacation rentals and hotels but Sandpearl Resort is a nice option right on the beach and is between many of the restaurants and Pier 60. 

Death Valley National Park

By Krisztina from She Wanders Abroad

If you are looking for an adventure-packed vacation , look no further than Death Valley National Park. This park is full of hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities to see wildlife.

For starters, Death Valley is currently the largest national park south of Alaska so there are plenty of options for things to do. Although it covers a huge area, the good news is that it’s entirely possible to see all the highlights while spending only one day in Death Valley .

The park is also home to the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin . Here, you can find yourself surrounded by mountains and salt flats.

Other popular attractions in the park include Zabriskie Point , which offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape. There are a couple of hiking trails starting from Zabriskie Point, so you can make a day of it and explore the area.

Another unmissable sight in the park is the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes . These dunes are the tallest in Death Valley and make for a great hike or photo opportunity.

And, of course, no trip to Death Valley would be complete without driving through Artist’s Drive . This scenic route takes you past some of the most colorful rock formations in the park.

Being the hottest place on Earth, it’s definitely not recommended to visit Death Valley in the summertime. However, the park is open year-round and winter is actually a great time to visit.

There are a few different options for lodging in Death Valley National Park. You can stay in a traditional hotel or motel, or you can camp in one of the many campgrounds located throughout the park. If you want something more comfortable, check out The Inn at Death Valley , right within the park and with an outdoor pool, or the many vacation homes you’ll find around the park.

No matter what time of year you visit, or how long you stay, Death Valley National Park is sure to be a memorable experience. With so much to see and do, you won’t be disappointed.

Boise, Idaho

By Jill from Let’s Travel Family

One of the best destinations in the US for couples who like to get outdoors and experience some fun adventures is Boise, Idaho. The capital city of Idaho, located in the Treasure Valley, is surrounded by mountains and provides so many outdoor activities during all seasons.

If you enjoy downhill skiing then winter might be the best time for you to visit Boise. With only a 30-minute drive from downtown Boise to Bogus Basin Mountain , you can enjoy a day on the slopes and your evening at the highly-rated   Grove Hotel . 

Spring is often thought to be the best time to visit Boise . The cool evenings and warm sunny days bring so many people to the area who are looking to get out hiking, mountain biking, or whitewater rafting nearby. Seriously, there are so many fun things to do in Boise Idaho that you might be surprised. 

Boise is one of the most friendly biking cities in the Pacific Northwest . You can rent a bike, or often borrow bikes from your hotel to cruise all over the city. In addition to biking on the road, the popular Boise Greenbelt provides a 20-mile paved bike path that runs alongside the Boise River. 

Another great thing to do in Boise is to hike the 3.7 mile loop trail to Table Rock , the most popular hike in the area. Plan to get started in the morning and you’ll love reaching the top in time to see all of downtown Boise in a beautiful light. 

Juneau, Alaska

By Shannon from Adventuring With Shannon

One of the best destinations in the US for adventurous couples is Juneau, Alaska. This city has a little bit of everything for the adventurer including hiking, ice-climbing, and glacier treks . If you love outdoor adventures, then Juneau is the perfect location. One of the most adventurous things that you could do as a couple is heli-hiking on the Mendenhall Glacier  outside of Juneau. 

This incredible experience starts with a helicopter ride that drops you off deep on the glacier . From there, you get your crampons and ice ax and head out with your guide on the adventure of a lifetime.

Glaciers are constantly moving and changing which means that the ice caves and ice walls are changing as well. This means that every hike you take on the glacier is unique compared to someone else’s glacier hike. You may be able to experience an ice cave that no one else will ever get to see. That makes this adventure extra special. 

There are different lengths and difficulties of glacier hikes to choose from, and if you are looking for a calmer style of adventure, then there are also amazing, regular hiking trails around Juneau as well.

The best time to visit Alaska is in the summer months when it isn’t too cold, but it is important to remember to pack bug spray that is strong enough to take on the Alaskan mosquitos.

The best hotels and vacation rentals are in downtown Juneau, and while it is a major city in Alaska, it is much smaller of a place than you may imagine so be sure to book your hotel in advance. The Alaska’s Capital Inn Bed and Breakfast  is one of the top-rated hotels in Juneau and is ideal for couples with some rooms featuring a hot tub and stunning views of the mountainside.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

By Denise from Chef Denise

The barrier islands that make up Outer Banks, NC are a haven for adventurous couples, especially those that enjoy water sports . The eastern coastline borders the Atlantic Ocean and a harbor lies between the islands and the mainland. Couples can even enjoy the sunrise and sunset on the same day as the widest distance from coast to coast is just a few miles.

The water temperatures of both the harbor and the ocean are warm from spring to fall. Since the hurricane season extends from summer through fall, spring is the best time to visit.

The waves on the Atlantic side make surfing, skimboarding, and body surfing possible daily activities . The harbor-side is quite calm and perfect for stand-up paddling, kayaking, and kite-surfing. Most every town has rental shops for equipment and can also provide lessons as well, if needed.

If you need a break from the water, take an ATV tour or climb the tallest brick lighthouse in the U.S., the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in Buxton . The best breakfast place in OBX is also in Buxton, the Orange Blossom Bakery and Cafe (they close at 11:00 am).

No matter which popular town you stay in, from Avon, to Kitty Hawk, to Rodanthe, vacation rentals outnumber traditional hotels, and staying on or close to the water is the way to go. Romantics should stay at the First Colony Inn near Nags Head. This charming inn is on the National Register of Historic Places and feels like you’ve stepped into a storybook.

By Gabriel Glasier of Chef Travel Guide

Straddled on the border of California and Nevada, this crystal clear mountain lake is the perfect destination for adventurous couples. Lake Tahoe is jam-packed with fun outdoor activities including kayaking, hiking, trail running, mountain climbing, snowboarding, and so much more. 

Lake Tahoe is a tale of two seasons with epic snow sports during the winter and perfect weather for outdoor adventures in the summer months. Depending on what time of year you visit, Lake Tahoe will have a completely different feel ranging from a winter wonderland to a summer outdoor destination filled with hikers and backpackers heading off to explore the wilderness.

The lake is big and each side has its own unique feel and vibe. North Lake Tahoe is a combination of upscale neighborhoods with a small-town feel, while South Lake Tahoe is where the nightlife is with multiple large casinos and an assortment of bars and restaurants.  

If you want some peace and tranquility, you will want to rent a cabin in west lake Tahoe where the wilderness comes all the way to the lake. Don’t expect a lot of services and places to eat in west lake, but what you will get is a quiet getaway and maybe a bear sighting or two.

During the summer Lake Tahoe is also a great place to pack a picnic and relax on one of the many beautiful beaches that surround the lake. Several hotels even have their own beach access that will ensure that you find the perfect spot to lay down and catch some rays. 

If you are staying in South Lake Tahoe, Marriott’s Timber Lodge is only steps from Heavenly Ski resorts gondola and is only a short walk from the sandy lakeshore. For something more secluded and intimate, check out the many lake-front properties available for rent.

Check out some of our other vacation guides for couples :

• 10+ Affordable Romantic Getaways in Florida
• Romantic Getaways in Southern California
• Top 10 Romantic Getaways in South Carolina
• 16 Romantic Getaways on the East Coast for Couples
• 20 Romantic Destinations in Europe for Couples

Save it on Pinterest for later – Best Adventure Vacations for Couples in the USA:

Related posts:

The 10 Most Romantic Adventure Trips You Can Take

Adventurous vacations can be the perfect setting to help sparks fly amongst romantic couples. They not only provide the perfect combination of adrenaline, excitement, and exercise — but they often immerse us in history and culture too. Studies show that  both exercise  and  fear  mimic the signs of arousal (heart pumping fast, shortness of breath), which increases attraction in your date's eyes. Our suggestion? Test those theories on one (or all!) of these amazing adventure trips.

Paddle the Amalfi Coast

Italy's Amalfi Coast is a destination that blends culture, history, adventure, beautiful landscapes, and romance in one amazing place. This UNESCO World Heritage site is breathtaking to behold, with towering cliffs, deep blue water, and lovely Italian villages splayed out across its slopes.

Perhaps the best way to take it all in is from the seat of a tandem kayak , with your favorite travel partner along for the ride. The waters just off the coast are tailor-made for those who love to paddle, and after you've worked up an appetite you can pull into shore to enjoy delicious Italian cuisine and local wine too. 

Go Surfing in Bali

Bali is well known for being a romantic destination with some beautiful, secluded resorts that give couples all of the peace and quiet they could possibly want. But if you're looking to add a little adventure to your tropical escape, why not consider going surfing while you're there too.

The island is a mecca for surfers, offering hundreds of miles of beaches to explore. That means there are areas to surf for every skill level, ranging from complete beginner to seasoned pro. If you're new to the sport, take a lesson at the Odyssey Surf School , then hit the waves in one of the most breathtaking and romantic places on Earth. 

Take in the Northern Lights in Finland

Arctic Europe is a fantastic place to see the Northern Lights, and you don't necessarily need to go during the winter to enjoy the show. Other than the two months of the summer when the Midnight Sun is at its zenith, the Aurora Borealis can be seen just about any time across Norway, Finland, and Sweden. 

There is nothing quite like snuggling up with a loved one to watch the green, orange, and red lights dance across the sky. It is a sight that should be on every traveler's bucket list and it can be overwhelming to watch it unfold. But it is even more romantic when staying in a glass igloo with an unfettered view of the sky overhead all night long. 

Go on Safari in Africa

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

An African safari is one of the most adventurous and romantic experiences a couple can enjoy together, mixing amazing wildlife, iconic settings, and outstanding lodges. Spend the day on game drives, spotting lions, leopard, elephants, and other amazing creatures, while at night you enjoy fine dining, spas, and comfortable suites that reflect the local culture.

Tanzania , Kenya , and South Africa all offer wonderful lodges for couples to enjoy, as do Botswana, Zimbabwe, and other African nations as well. For instance, visitors to Kruger National Park can stay at the breathtaking  Royal Malewane , which is simply put one of the best resorts in the entire world. 

Ride a Mule Down a Cliff in Molokai, Hawaii

Molokai, Hawaii, is still an unspoiled treasure, with no buildings higher than three stories and a population of less than 7,500 people. It's rife with activities, too: Hike to a waterfall-fed spring, watch the sunset from a quiet beach, or hit the trail on an exhilarating mountain bike ride.

The truly adventurous can test their nerves on a mule ride down a nearly 1,800-foot-high cliff to  Kalaupapa National Park.  In the 19th century, Hawaiian King Kamehameha V banished all residents with Hansen's disease — aka leprosy — to this peninsula; today, it's a tightly-knit community for former patients, National Park Service employees, and Department of Health workers. It is a quiet corner of the island free from movie theaters, restaurant, and shopping malls, where residents stop to soak in the scenery of this island paradise. 

Sail on a Felucca in Aswan, Egypt

Egypt is a country filled with mystery and wonder, with amazing sites to be found at every turn. Couples will be enthralled with the Great Pyramids at Giza, the Sphinx, and a myriad of other ancient wonders of course, with the rich history and culture of the country on display.

But for a truly romantic experience hop on a traditional Nubian boat —  called a felucca — while visiting the southern city of Aswan, one of the sunniest cities in the world. Powered by sails, these boats offer a leisurely cruise along the Nile River, giving visitors a glimpse of what life has been like there for centuries. You can even get off the boat and walk through a Nubian village, wandering pathways that have been used for countless generations. 

Float in a Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia, Turkey

Drifting in a hot air balloon over the fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, Turkey; sleeping in an intimate cave room or a suite in an old, hillside mansion — it's hard to get more romantic, or thrilling, than that. Make Nevishir your home base as you head outside for hikes and mountain bike rides around Pigeon Valley. Scenic trails thread through this otherworldly landscape that was created by erupting volcanoes some three million years ago. As the ash settled, it formed a layer of tufa in places covered with basalt lava. Centuries of wind, rain, and hot and cold weather extremes have eroded the tufa, creating fantastical shapes that are called fairy chimneys today. The view from above via hot air balloon — or from the ground on foot — is simply mind-blowing, particularly when shared with someone you love. 

Swim in a Cave in Rivera Maya, Mexico

You could easily spend your whole vacation sunbathing and snorkeling on the Yucatan Peninsula's striking beaches , but you'd miss an entire underground world just waiting to be explored. The asteroid that hit this region 65 million years ago created a unique topography that is essentially a mega-sized slab of limestone that allows moisture to easily pass through. This has led to the creation of thousands of cenotes — the Mayan word for "sacred well."

These mineral-rich pools are well-defined sinkholes, formed when the limestone top of a cave broke and opened up the underground pool below to the sky above. Many are open to the public for swimming and snorkeling, and each have their own charms. For instance,  Gran Cenote , located about two hours from Tulum, claims crystal clear waters and lush jungle surroundings, while  Dos Ojos  ("Two Eyes") contrasts one crystal-clear pool with another dark and cavernous well. Either will provide an experience that will create memories for a lifetime, especially for couples. 

Take an Adventurous Cruise

Cruises are often seen as romantic escapes, but they aren't always seen a grand adventure. But traveling on a small-ship excursion can actually provide both. During the day, you'll take part in all kinds of activities, ranging from hiking and kayaking, to snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding. At night, you'll return to the ship for great food, a little wine, and good company.

Both UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions offers great options for couples looking to add a bit of adventure and romance to their next trip. Options include causing the Inside Passage in Alaska, visiting the Galapagos Islands, or even sailing to Antarctica. 

Cozy Up at a Dude Ranch

Picture the two of you in a cozy room or a private cabin surrounded by a spectacular wilderness. Is that a curious deer pushing its nose against the window? Was that the howl of a wolf you heard in the distance? Guest and dude ranches can be a wonderful choice for a romantic getaway any time of the year, but particularly in the winter. Go horseback riding in the snow or cross country skiing on remote trails. Afterward, soak in a private hot tub, or arrange for a couple's massage before heading off for dinner. Enjoy a quiet table for two in the main lodge or join new friends you've made on your latest adventure.

Not all guest ranches are open in the winter, but many of the best in the American West court winter visitors with special rates and interesting packages.  Devil's Thumb Ranch  and  Vista Verde Ranch , both in Colorado, and  Hidden Meadow Ranch  in Arizona, are open during the winter to lure adventurous visitors who enjoy playing in the snow. Not sure how to choose a ranch? Let us help you out with our tips on how to  plan for a ranch vacation .

16 Top Luxury Outdoor Travel Experiences

Where to Go in 2021: 10 Future Trips You Can Start Planning Now

Romantic Getaways in 2019: Go Here, Not There

The Best Small Town in Every State

15 Los Angeles-Area Road Trips and Getaways

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

The Best Travel Adventures for Families

The Best Staycation in Every State

The Top US States for an Outdoor Getaway

13 Amazing Trips to Take Before You Turn 40

20 Best Things to Do in Maui

Which Hawaiian Island Should I Visit?

The Best Destinations in 2019 for Group Travel

One Week in Egypt: The Ultimate Itinerary

The Best 25 Things to Do in Canada

The Most Romantic Places to Vacation in July and August

27 Best Vacation Spots for Every Type of Couple

By Siobhan Reid

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best vacation spots for couples are steeped in timeless romance. Whether it’s a cruise down the Nile or a saunter through sultry Buenos Aires, some places have simply mastered the art of seduction.   

Still, no vacation is one size fits all, and while some couples want to escape to the golden sands of the Caribbean, other people’s idea of romance might look like a getaway to South Africa’s wine country, or seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland.

So, how to  plan a romantic getaway tailor-made for two? “My favorite piece of advice is to leave room for spontaneity,” says luxury travel advisor Amina Dearmon, the founder and owner of  Perspectives Travel . “Our lives are already so over-scheduled, it’s important to have the freedom to do absolutely nothing and enjoy each other’s company, no matter which destination you choose.”  

For  domestic trips , she loves the wellness-focused resorts in Arizona like  Canyon Ranch Tucson  and the soon-to-reopen  Mii Amo . As for international destinations, she recommends the Caribbean islands of Anguilla, Dominica, and St. Lucia, as well as Venice, Italy. And if you’re going to splurge, Dearmon suggests balling out on your  accommodations (“It’s your home away from home”) and opting for extras like VIP meet and greets at the airport (“It’s a service that makes up a small percentage of your total trip cost, but it can make the biggest difference in your travel day.”).

To get a jumpstart on your planning, here are the 27 best vacation spots for couples, whether you crave a blissed-out spa getaway, a culinary vacation, or an adventure-packed itinerary. 

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Poolside at Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel, Anguilla

Ballotine de côte de veau au foie gras, mousseline de carotte des sables at La Co(o)orniche, Pyla-Sur-Mer

For stretching out on the sand

Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel, Anguilla

For beach bliss, cookbook author and “Top Chef” judge Gail Simmons recommends a romantic getaway to  Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel on Anguilla. “Cap Juluca’s beach is as pristine as it gets, with its long strip of powder-white sand, crystal clear water, and views of St. Maarten in the distance,” she says. “Plus, you never have to fight for a beach chair or show up super early, since there’s plenty of room and the staff always has an umbrella set up before you’ve even arrived.” When Simmons and her husband weren’t lounging on golden sands, they went paddleboarding, hit the tennis court, enjoyed massages at the spa, and even went on a snorkeling excursion. The highlight was all the quality time the pair spent together: “I loved how private and remote Cap Juluca felt,” says Simmons. “At times it felt like we were on our very own island.” 

La Co(o)orniche, Pyla-Sur-Mer

What could be more romantic than waking up to views of Europe’s biggest sand dune? At this Philippe Starck-designed  hotel in the seaside resort of Pyla-sur-Mer, couples enjoy panoramic views of Arcachon Bay and the mesmerizing Dune du Pilat from their beachy-chic guestrooms. Most visitors flock to the area to climb the magnificent dune, which rises 374 feet above sea level, but we won’t blame you for lazing on the sandy beach, breathing in the head-clearing scent of the pine forest.

Fernando De Noronha, Brazil

Brazil is spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful beaches. But you’d be hard-pressed to find a place more blessed with natural beauty than Fernando de Noronho, a volcanic archipelago about 220 miles off the northeast coast of Brazil. Perhaps the dreamiest spot to spend the day with your significant other is Baia do Sancho, on the archipelago’s main island. The protected cove is the picture of earthly paradise, with forest-covered cliffs and azure waters home to colorful fish, dolphins, and sea turtles.  

Con Dao Archipelago, Vietnam

Looking for beachside seclusion? Skip Vietnam’s over-trammeled Phu Quoc and head to the isolated Con Dao archipelago instead. The remote islands are perfect for privacy-seekers: 83 percent of the archipelago is protected by the Con Dao National Park.  The most luxurious place to lay your head is the  Six Senses Con Dao , an eco-resort backed by the Lo Voi Mountains and located on a mile-long private beach. It’s worth peeling yourself away from your seaside villa for a guided hike along the coast to Dam Tre Bay, arguably the archipelago’s most photogenic beach, with forested hills and dramatic granite cliffs.

Tofino, Canada

For couples seeking rugged natural beauty and mist-shrouded coastal landscapes, it’s hard to top Tofino on Vancouver Island. The windswept town has no shortage of beaches primed for romance: Stroll hand in hand along the 10-mile Long Beach, enjoy a picnic with views of Clayoquot Sound at Tonquin Beach, or take a couple’s surf lesson at Cox Bay Beach. And while there are plenty of  beautiful Airbnbs available to rent, the oceanfront  Wickaninnish Inn —one of Canada’s most legendary hotels—epitomizes bucket-list romance. 

  Anse Source d’Argent Seychelles

There’s a reason Prince William and Kate Middleton honeymooned in the Seychelles. The Indian Ocean archipelago offers island romance par excellence, with luxurious resorts, off-the-grid adventures, and, of course, stunning beaches, the most famous being the Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue. It really doesn’t get more photogenic than this iconic stretch of sand, known for its shallow waters, imposing granite boulders, and swaying coconut palms. For a less-crowded—but no less picturesque option—hike three hours to Anse Marron, a remote beach on the southern tip of La Digue.  

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland  

For spa treatments and meditative moments

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland   

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

There are few destination spas as singular as this 62-suite  hotel , built into an 800-year-old lava field on the southwest side of Iceland’s famous lagoon. It’s an otherworldly place to spend a few days, kicking back in the Scandi-chic guestrooms, soaking in the thermal hot springs, and indulging in a seven-course chef’s tasting menu at the lagoon-level restaurant. You and your partner will feel weightless as you float in the mineral-rich waters, looking out at the surreal moss-fringed landscape. If you’re lucky, the Northern Lights may even dance across the sky.

One&Only Mandarina, Mexico

Author and interior designer  Athena Calderone fell head over heels for  One&Only Mandarina , a destination resort on Riviera Nayarit’s wild Pacific Coast. “The spa was an absolute dream—the entire experience was luxurious and elegant,” she says, referencing an all-natural Tata Harper facial that left her glowing. She also loved the treehouse accommodations and the resort’s intimate dining options, like the open-air Alma restaurant helmed by French-Mexican chef Olivier Deboise. “The property is the perfect respite for couples,” she says.

Six Senses Fort Barwara, Rajasthan  

Give your loved one the royal treatment at this 14 th -century fort turned 48-suite  hotel . Commanding a hilltop perch above Barwara Lake, the thoughtfully restored complex channels the glamor of a bygone era. Splurge on the Raja Man Singh Pool Suite, which features a pool and garden enclosed within a turret and views of the Chauth ka Barwara Mandir Temple and the Aravali hills. There are daily wellness activities like sunrise yoga and traditional  puja  ceremonies at sunset. But for the ultimate indulgence, retreat to the 30,000-square-foot spa for stress-relieving shirodhara treatments and cutting-edge biohacking therapies.

Troutbeck, New York

At this sophisticated  country manor in New York’s Hudson Valley, it’s all about communing with nature while enjoying luxe amenities (deep-soaking tubs, fireplaces, and Frette linens). Robust wellness programming rounds out the itinerary, with activities like pilates classes in a high-ceilinged barn, private tennis lessons at the food of Oblong Mountain, and cycling adventures along the Harlem Valley Rail Trail. It’s the perfect weekend getaway for active couples—but the 38-room hotel is just as suited for relaxation. Stroll through the formal gardens, sign up for acupuncture treatments or massage, and if the weather’s nice, hang out by the swimming pool under the shade of sycamore trees. 

Capella Ubud, Bali  

This riverside  jungle camp in Bali’s lush Keliki Valley is a favorite destination among  honeymooners , but trust us, it’s far too special to only visit once in your lifetime. The setting is truly sublime, with 23 tented rooms spread over a terraced hillside flanked by paddy fields and dense rainforest. At the Auriga Spa , treatments draw on ancient Balinese and Hindu healing traditions and are accompanied by the sounds of the rainforest. More adventurous couples can go trekking through the Keliki rice paddies or sign up for a G.I Jungle outdoor training session.

A cruise down the Nile River 

For more than one adrenaline rush

Glacier treks and hair-raising hikes in Patagonia, Argentina

End-of-the-world landscapes and out-of-this-world adventures are all part of the experience in Argentinian Patagonia. Thrill-chasers should strap on their ice shoes and trek along the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier, a vast shield of ice whose surface is slightly larger than Buenos Aires, while wildlife lovers can glimpse giant Humpback whales, penguins, and sea lions in Ushuaia, South America’s southernmost city. For the ultimate bonding experience, attempt the 13-mile Laguna de Los Trek hike in El Chalten, which will bring you to the foot of the mighty Mount Fitz Roy. 

Wildlife sightings and outdoor adventures in Arenal Volcano National Park Costa Rica

The beauty of Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park is that you can do as much—or as little—as you want and still have a great time. This is especially true of couples who choose to bed down at the adults-only  Nayara Springs , a collection of luxurious private villas with plunge pools, gardens, outdoor showers, and show-stopping views of the Arenal Volcano. Off-property adventures include white-water rafting expeditions down the Sarapiqui River, visits to the 195-foot waterfall in the Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, and a photo tour of the lava fields.

A luxury train ‘safari’ through Namibia  

The best way to explore the vast, sun-baked desert of Namibia? By train, of course! On a nine-night safari journey with the ultra-glamorous  Rovos Rail , you and your partner will traverse some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes, including the Succulent Karoo desert, the red dunes of the Sossusvlei dry lake, and the Walvis Bay tidal lagoon. You’ll make plenty of stops along the way, so you can fully appreciate the wide-open views and snap photos of the wildlife. To travel in style, splurge on the wood-paneled Royal Suite sleeper coach.

Dude ranch adventures in Utah

Studies show that couples who actively try new things together are less likely to fall into a rut. Well, we don’t know about you, but we can’t think of a better relationship-building exercise than learning the “art of cowboying” at Utah’s  Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection . Set on a 3,500-acre private working ranch a half-hour from Salt Lake City, the hotel offers a range of equine adventures suited for amateurs and experienced riders alike—instruction in English riding, rides through the flower-covered meadows of the Wasatch Mountains, and even a breathwork session in the stable. 

A road trip along Australia’s Great Ocean Road  

The open road offers complete spontaneity and freedom of choice—the perfect option for couples who like to leave extra room for scenic detours. For the ultimate road trip itinerary, set your sights on Australia’s Great Ocean Road, a 150-mile stretch that winds around the country’s scenic southern coast. Says Stuart Rigg, owner of  Southern Crossings Australia : “The Great Ocean Road offers captivating landscapes, charming seaside towns, fabulous food and wine experiences, and great opportunities to get outdoors with the one you love.” While he notes that the route is best known for its iconic limestone rock formations like the iconic 12 Apostles, he notes that there are plenty of other photo ops and attractions along the way. Among them: towering Californian Redwoods in Otway National Park, the Kennett River Koala Walk, and the highly-award Wickens restaurant at the Royal Mail Hotel. 

A cruise down the Nile River  

Egypt’s Nile River is so mythical, even Cole Porter crooned about it in his love songs. To cruise it in style, opt for a six-day itinerary with  Nour el Nil on a traditional flat-bottomed  dahabiya  sailboat. As you journey from Esna to Aswan, you and your sweetheart will float past reed-covered banks, the dunes of the Sahara, and ancient monuments like the Gebel El Silsila Temple that other large ships can’t reach. 

A heirloom and beetroot variation at Odette 

For unforgettable meals (and wine lists)

Napa Valley, California   

Wine tastings, hot-air balloon rides, pilgrimage-worthy dining, chic boutique hotels. No place does romance quite like Napa Valley. And while you could easily spend weeks discovering the region’s wineries and restaurants, there are a few spots that couples shouldn’t miss. At Sullivan Rutherford Estate, enjoy a private Cab Sauv tasting and tour of the sculpted gardens before settling in for a nine-course tasting menu at Thomas Keller’s lauded  French Laundry. Or swing by Gott’s Roadside to pick up a milkshake and old-fashioned burger before catching the sunset at Skyline Wilderness Park. The recently reborn  Poetry Inn is probably the region’s most swoon-worthy stay, with just five rooms boasting vineyard views, sweeping private terraces, and soaking tubs.

The Lake District, England

The English Lake District has long attracted outdoor enthusiasts who come to scale the U.K.’s highest peaks But in recent decades, the verdant region in northwest England has emerged as a gastronomic hotspot. It all started in 2002 when British chef Simon Rogan—one of the pioneers of the farm-to-table movement—opened his now-famous  L’Enclume in the quaint village of Cartmel. The three-starred Michelin restaurant is known for putting inventive spins on classic dishes using organic produce from Rogan’s 12-acre farm. Since then, plenty of other high-end restaurants have set up shop, like the acclaimed British-Asian  Blackbull  in Sedbergh and the  Old Stamp House in Ambleside. Now the region has become somewhat of a food pilgrimage, popular among couples craving haute cuisine and gastronomic-centered hotels like  Linthwaite House and  Our Rooms by L’Enclume . 

Emilia Romagna, Italy

Every corner of Italy has something to offer from a culinary perspective. But only the northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna can lay claim to 44 DOP food products including Parmigiano Reggiano, tortellini, and ragù bolognese. Begin your eatathon in the region’s capital, Bologna. With only one Michelin-starred restaurant in the entire city (yes, really), couples will have to do their own research, strolling the city’s grand porticos in search of the best osteria and trattorias. From Bologna, the options are limitless: visit family-run vinegar producers in Modena; try Culatello, the most prestigious of all cured meats, in Parma; and develop a taste for Lambrusco in Reggio Emilia. And for a no-expenses-spared date night out, there’s only one place to know about: Massimo Bottura’s renowned  Osteria Francescana in Modena. 

As a melting pot of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures, Singapore is one of the world’s great food cities—and a real feast for travelers hungry for food  and  culture. And sure, there are temples of fine dining galore (we’re looking at you,  Odette ), but some of the city’s best bites come from unassuming local vendors at the city’s legendary hawker centers. At the Chinatown Complex Food Centre, sample everything from fragrant laksa soup and Chinese steamed buns to piping-hot clay pot rice. For date night, make reservations at the renowned  Atlas Bar , a vaulted space with Art Deco flair and the world’s largest gin collection. Even the city’s Jewel Changi Airport is a culinary wonderland with 100+ eateries, allowing couples to make the most of their every meal in the food-obsessed city. 

South Africa’s Wine Country  

From stunning Cape Dutch-style architecture and world-class restaurants to luxurious wine country hotels, South Africa’s wine country is truly suited to all tastes. After checking in at  Delaire Graff Estates , a boutique hotel and winery near Stellenbosch, toast to your romantic getaway with a bottle of méthode cap classique (South Africa’s version of Champagne). You’ll want to set aside a few days to go wine tasting in Stellenbosch and the neighboring regions Franschhoek, Paarl, and Constantia, where the grape to seek out is Pinotage, South Africa’s flagship variety. For a vacation memory that’ll age like fine wine, splurge on the tasting menu at  Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia .  

For art and culture around every corner

It’s no secret that the French capital is a cultural powerhouse. But it’s not always easy to escape the crowds and enjoy the cultural treasures for yourself—or is it? According to the uber-stylish Parisian hoteliers Anouk and Louis Solanet of  Orso hotel group, there are plenty of lesser-known gems even in popular neighborhoods like Montmartre (you just need to know where to look). One of the couple’s favorite spots is the Musée de la vie Romantique , a literary museum situated at the base of Montmartre and set within the former house of Dutch painter Ary Scheffer. “We love to sit in silence in the hidden garden, which smells of roses and lilacs,” says Anouk. Afterwards, they recommend grabbing a drink at  Hotel Rochechouart ’s rooftop, which offers dead-on views of the Sacré Coeur. On the Left Bank, the couple loves strolling through the Jardin du Luxembourg and on to Rue Notre-Dame-des-Champs, one of the streets that inspired Woody Allen’s  Midnight in Paris,  and finally to the Giacometti Foundation—“A jewel of Parisian museum,” says Louis—which is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Swiss sculptor Alberto Giacometti. 

Lausanne, Switzerland

Switzerland’s fourth-largest city is straight out of a fairytale, with a medieval Old Town and vertiginous streets that rise above the shimmering waters of Lake Geneva. It’s also one of the country’s most underrated arts hubs, thanks to the recent opening of  Platforme 10 , a striking new art district home to three of the city’s major art museums. For couples who prefer to see art en plein air, go on a cultural scavenger hunt to locate 82 works scattered throughout the hillside city (don’t miss Clelia Bettua’s sculptural weather vane at the Port of Ouchy). To cap off a perfect day, catch a show at the newly modernized Théâre de Vidy before retiring at the  Hôtel Royal Savoy Lausanne , a grand castle-like property that wouldn’t be out of place in a Wes Anderson flick. The hotel has a sublime spa, a rooftop terrace overlooking the lake, and an unbeatable location near all the top cultural spots. 

Buenos Aires

Is there a city sexier than Buenos Aires? There’s something sultry about Argentina’s capital, from its dimly-lit tango bars and balmy weather to its heady mix of South American and European influences. After catching a tango performance at the city’s best-known milonga, La Catedral , continue your cultural immersion at the Teatro Colon —one of the world’s most beautiful opera houses—where Igor Stravinsky has performed, Rudolph Nureyev has danced, and Maria Callas has sung. From there, it’s a short walk to  El Ateneo Grand Splendid , a bookstore occupying a former theater and featuring century-old ceiling frescos. But to really feel the spirit of the city, couples should spend an afternoon in the colorful La Boca neighborhood, where there are vibrant murals, live music, and views of the Riachuelo River.

Venice, Italy  

“Venice is pure magic,” says Amina Dearmon of Perspectives Travel. “I love being able to wander the streets, stop at an osteria for an Aperol Spritz, and watch the sunset from the Accademia Bridge.” Like so many Italian cities, Venice is like an open-air museum, brimming with art and culture at every turn. Its narrow streets and atmospheric squares are packed with heavy-hitting institutions, too, like the  Peggy Guggenheim Collection , the  Doge’s Palace , and the  Palazzo Ca’ Pesaro . First-time visitors shouldn’t miss a side trip to Murano, the second-largest island in the Venetian lagoon, to learn about its long tradition of glassmaking at the  Venice Glass Museum . 

The former imperial capital of Japan is home to more than a dozen UNESCO World Heritage Sites and some 2,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. In any other city, the sheer volume of culture would be head-spinning. But in Kyoto, it’s a pleasure to stroll around the peaceful temple gardens, traditional teahouses, and ancient storefronts, feeling transported to an earlier time. Top landmarks include the famous orange torii gates at the Fushimi Inari shrine, the celebrated Kiyomizu Temple, and the impressive Nijo Castle. If the budget allows, spend the night at the new  Aman Kyoto , a sanctuary-like retreat set on 80 acres of hilly woodland in the north of the city, a stone’s throw from the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple.  

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

The Best Adventures for Couples with a Splash of Romance

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Bucket Lists

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Adventure is for everyone! (even for couples) That’s our motto. It was taking a five-week adventure trip to Thailand that put the spark back in our marriage and we have bonded through adventure travel ever since! It is true, couples who adventure together, stay together. We’re living proof!

You will make memories to last a lifetime, you get to know each other better, and you will be inspired by one another creating the foundation for exciting times ahead! So just in time for Valentine’s Day, we’ve rounded up our best couples adventure vacations with a splash of luxury and romance to make it perfect.

Table of Contents

Amazing Couples Adventure Vacations

We feel adventure is an important part of our marriage, but we also feel that being pampered is important when going on an adventure vacation. It can’t only be about pushing ourselves to our limit, there needs to be relaxations too! These destinations mix adventure vacations couples will love with a twist of luxury to boot.

1. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

It the mother of all couples’ adventure trips. Nothing bonds a couple together more than completing an incredible bucket list item together. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro will create memories to last a lifetime and create a bond that can’t be broken. When you have accomplished something impossible together, your relationship with be stronger than ever!

Read More: Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Followed by: Relaxing in Zanzibar

Once you have completed climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, reward yourself with a relaxing week in Zanzibar. This is truly one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Get a villa in Nungwi and soak up the finer things life like spa treatments, sunset cruises and morning walks.

Read more: Discover The Best Beaches in Zanzibar

2. Fly Over Cappadocia

Nothing says romance more than a hot air balloon ride followed by a champagne breakfast. Cappadocia is the premier place on earth to take a hot air balloon ride and it is one amazing adventure to fly over the fairy chimneys. This adventure will add a beautiful thrill to any couples trip and you’ll it will be at the top of all your adventure vacations conversation for years to come. Check out our picks for The Best Adventure Destinations For The Ultimate Vacations

Stay in a Luxury Cave Hotel

Up the romance factor in Cappadocia by staying in a Luxury Cave Hotel with your own Hammam. Have a Turkish massage in yourr villa and enjoy fine dining and even cocktails as you watch the sunset over the Goreme Valley.

Read More: Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon

3. Dive in the Maldives

The Maldives is the ultimate honeymoon destination in the world, but did you know there are plenty of adventures to be had? From some of the best scuba diving in the world to world class surfing, island hopping and parasailing these adventures will up the adventure factor on any couples trip.

Relish an Over the Water Bungalow

To make sure that the romance factor is just as exciting as the adventure, be sure to stay in a luxury over the water bungalow. Maldives is famous for its bungalows floating over crystal clear waters. Be sure to book one with a glass floor so you can watch the fish swim at night.

Read More: 15 of The Best Things to do in the Maldives

4. Take a Luxury Safari

It is the ultimate bucket list vacation and doing it together is the ultimate of couples’ adventures! We’ve done several safaris in Africa and when choosing one, we suggest going to Kenya or Tanzania. Seeing the great plains of the Serengeti or the Masai Mara will be etched into your memory for years to come.

There is nothing more exciting than seeing a male lion stalk its prey for the first time. Or to watch a giraffe eat leaves off of a high thorn tree. Even the skittish wharthogs are some of the cutest animals you’ll ever see.

Stay in a Luxury Safari Tent

When booking your safari, be sure that it includes accommodations in luxury safari tents. There is nothing more decadent than sleeping in a pillow soft bed with the sounds of wildlife rumbling through the night. Safari tents have outdoor showers, hot tubs and incredible views.

Read More: Kenya Safari – The Masai Mara Experience

5. Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls is one of the greatest adventure destinations in the world but it is also gorgeous making it the perfect spot for a bucket list couples adventure. Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that not only offers incredible scenery, there are out of this world adventures to be had. Take a jet boat tour to the heart of the falls and get soaked as it goes right under the cascade. Go cycling through the jungle and head to the bird park to see Parrots and toucans. Read more: Getting Soaked – The Ultimate Iguazu Falls Tour

Luxury in the Center of the National park

When it comes to accommodation, there is nowhere better in Iguazu Falls than the Belmond Hotel Cataratas. This luxury hotel is the only accommodation in the National Park. It is like stepping back in time and you feel like Hemingway explore the unknown land for the first time as you stay in its luxurious suites. It has a spa, thermal swimming pool and five star dining.

Read More: 11 Fun Things to do in Iguassu Falls

6. Walk with Polar Bears

Whenever we tell people we have walked with polar bears , they don’t believe us. Is that even possible? Yes it is! Visiting Churchill in August and September offers balmy weather and the chance to see moms and cubs fattening up on seals and berries on the arctic tundra. Take a tundra vehicle from a luxury lodge in search of polar bears, black bears, wolves and moose. We saw it all.

Enjoy a Luxury Lodge

When thinking of trips for couples, you need luxury, even if you are in the most remote unforgiving landscape and that is what Nanuk lodge offered. End your day surrounded by wildlife looking in at you (You are the one fenced in here) as you enjoy cocktail hour by the cozy fire reminiscing about the day’s events. The evening doesn’t end as a multi-course meal is prepared complete with wine pairings by your professional chef.

Read All About It: Walking with Polar Bears – The Greatest Arctic Safari

7. Sail to Antarctica

Looking for the ultimate couples adventure. Visit the final frontier, Antarctica. Nothing gives a couple more bragging rights than saying, “we’ve been to Antarctica!” Imagine finishing off your celbratory meal with all your friends and family and then hopping on a flight to Ushuai Argentina where you’ll board a ship to the 7th continent. This adventure will take you kayking around icebergs, walking beside glaciers and hobbling among millions of penguins. It truly is a trip to remember.

In An All Suites Ship

Antarctica doesn’t have to be bare bones, in the 21st century, travelers are visiting the 7th continent in all suites ships with five star dining and all inclusive alcohol. On Quark Expedition’s Sea Spirit we had four course meals with wine pairings each evening as we recapped the day of adventures from having whale breach the surface before our eyes to floating inches by leopard seals sunning on ice flows.

Read More: 11 of the Best Things to do in Antarctica

8. Explore The Mayan Riviera

There is a reason the Mayan Riviera is so popular with travelers in North America. There are incredible adventures to be had here. In fact, we’ve gone to the Mayan Riviera numerous times and we still have yet to do it all. The most amazing activity to do is to swim with whale sharks. That’s an adventure we’ll never forget, but there is world-class diving, Cenote adventures, zip-lining, and Mayan Ruins waiting to be explored.

Read More: Swimming with Whale Sharks Cancun

Stay at a Couple’s Resort

The Mayan Riviera caters to couples and there are plenty of all couples adults only resorts to choose from. So when you do book your accommodation along the Mayan Riviera, be sure to look for one of these all suites resorts with your own infinity pool.

Read More: The Best Things to do in Cancun

9. Marvel at the Beauty of St. Lucia

Saint Lucia is the honeymoon capital of the Caribbean and with good reason. Many of its resorts cater to complete privacy and seclusion. But it is an island filled with adventures. Hiking up the Grand or Petit Pitons is at the top of the list. But you can also visit the world’s only drive in volcano and bask in the hot mud of its soothing mineral waters.

Be sure to visit the North of the island for all the watersports you can think of and take a historic hike through Pelican Island.

Stay in a Private Villa

What makes St. Lucia so perfect for a couples vacation is that many of the resorts offer private villas with their own infinity pools. Between adventures you never have to leave your suite!

Read more: Where to Stay in St. Lucia – North vs South

10. Head to Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe has been the go to escape for the stars for decades. It knows how to cater to both the adventurous and the luxurious! A winter adventure getaway for couples to Lake Tahoe lets you hit the slopes on some of the best terrain in the world. It is home to a whopping 12 ski resorts. There’s tons of outdoor activities to be had.

Stay in a Cozy Lodge

Staying in a winter chalet is one of the most romantic things you can do. We loved Cedar Crest with their outdoor fireplaces and private amenities. It was close to everything in Lake Tahoe South so we could get in our car and explore by day and then pick up wine and cheese for a romantic dinner at night in our lodge.

Read More: Things to do in Lake Tahoe in Winter

11. South Africa – Africa’s Adventure Capital

South Africa has adventure blending with luxury down to a science. You can tick off all the couples bucket list adventures in South Africa. From going on safari, diving with great white sharks, ziplining through the rainforest, and horseback riding among zebras, this is the ultimate fantasy trip. We took microflights over Durban, kayaked with crocodiles and hippos, and went searching for turtles laying eggs in the wee hours of the morning. South Africa has it all.

Get A Room with a View

It’s difficult to choose our favorite accommodation in South Africa, there were so many beautiful yet affordable places that cater to couples. We had adventures all day long and then stayed in luxury places along the Garden Route to Cape Town like the outstanding Birkenhead House in Hermanus. Read More: 24 Awesome Things to do in South Africa

12. Swim with Stingrays – Grand Cayman

The Cayman Islands are one of our favourite island destinations in the Caribbean. It has been the leader in luxury for years, but there are also amazing things to do for an adventurous vacation for couples. It is one of the best places for scuba diving in the Caribbean, there are huge caves to explore and the star attraction is meeting the stingrays that hang out at Stingray City.

Stay at the Ritz

The Ritz is the premier luxury hotel around the world and in the Cayman Islands, the Ritz Carlton on 7 Mile Beach is extraordinary. Take a spa day, soak in the sun on the beach or enjoy a sunset sail.

Read more: Things to do in Grand Cayman

13. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is one of our all time favourite destinations and it is filled with adventure and romance. From world class beaches to great wildlife encounters, it is one adventure after another. Sri Lanka also has one of the great climbs on earth. The Adam’s Peak Pilgrimage attractions thousands of people each year.

21 of the Very Best Things to do in Sri Lanka

Luxury in the Jungle

Staying at Cinnamon Wild in Yala National Park in search of leopards was a real luxurious treat. Our private villa in the center of Yala National Park had elephants walking through and we watched monkeys play from our balcony. It was truly one of the wildest stays in pure luxury we’ve ever had.

Read More: Sri Lanka Safari – The Best of Yala National Park

14. Scale the Walls of Krabi Thailand

Railay is our favorite place to visit in Thailand. An adventurous couples vacations round up wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t mention Krabi because it was here that reignited our romance and passion in our relationship.

We feel that nothing brings a couple closer together than romance. Not only is Railay filled with adventures from some of the best rock climbing in the world, but there’s also sea kayaking, jungle hikes, and island hopping. Go kayaking at night through bioluminescence or get certified to scuba dive together. A couple that does adventures together, stays together.

Relax in Affordable 5-Star Resorts

What we love about Krabi is all the affordable five star accommodations. Thailand makes for the best adventurous couples vacation because it has perfected luxury travel yet it is filled with countless adventures. You can live like royalty in Thailand on a small budget. Thailand will always be our favourite place to put the romance back into our lives.

Where to Stay in Krabi

Read More: Beautiful Beaches in Thailand to Spark Your Wanderlust

And these are our top suggestions for the ultimate bucket list couples adventures followed by luxury and romance. Where have you been that added adventure to your travels?

Read Next: How to Survive Travel as a Couple

Planning a couples adventure? Save this to Pinterest for future travel planning.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

16 Best Spring Break Destinations To Visit in 2024

30 Beautiful and Best Hikes in the World

18 Most Beautiful Mediterranean Islands to Visit in 2024

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

1 thought on “The Best Adventures for Couples with a Splash of Romance”

I Must Say ! stupendous Article. Loved It. And the pictures you have used is very nice.

The 7 best romantic trips with an adventurous twist

Jan 26, 2022 • 5 min read

Add some snorkeling to take a romantic trip to the Maldives to the next level © Dudarev Mikhail / Shutterstock

Balmy evenings in sea-salted air and colorful cocktails at sunset are cornerstones of a romantic getaway or honeymoon, but who’s to say a holiday must be all about relaxing?

When lounging loses its luster and your paperback starts to wilt, try hiking, diving or climbing to create your own romantic adventures in these classic couples’ destinations.

Cocktails and kayaks in the Maldives

When your personal butler ships in a mango after you casually remark that you crave one, you can be certain you’re living in luxury. The high-end resorts of Maldives are not merely indulgent, they’re downright Epicurean. With private lap pools, in-room massages and even pillow menus, they cater for desires you never knew you had.

It’s little wonder then that this archipelago in the Indian Ocean is so popular with couples. A week of laze and languor is perfectly acceptable, but there’s plenty here for those seeking more. Explore the atolls by kayak on a mini-adventure. Setting out alone in a small watercraft has a romance of its own and offers the perfect antidote to a sun-baked stupor. Pack snorkels and fins to explore the islands’ world-class coral.

How to do it

Most Maldives hotels offer kayaking and water sports. Baros is particularly excellent for couples.

How to choose the best Maldives island for your travel style

Drive from sand to snow in tropical Hawaiʻi

Hawaiʻi's Mauna Kea  has its lower reaches beneath sea level, so while it’s not higher than Everest, it is taller. At 4207m (13,802ft) above sea level, this long-dormant volcano on Big Island is often capped with snow – yes, snow in Hawaiʻi. Visitors will also find a number of observatories dotting the slopes of this sacred mountain. The summit of Mauna Kea is so high, dry, dark and clean that it allows scientists to investigate the furthest reaches of the observable universe – a sure inspiration to venture from the beach.

Drive to the visitor center to check conditions at the summit and pause for a while to adjust to the altitude. If you wish to drive further, a 4WD is recommended. Alternatively, book a tour with one of the officially permitted companies .

How to choose the best Hawaiian island for your trip

One step beyond on a South African safari

A safari in South Africa is a great choice for those in search of adventure. The thrilling promise of the big five – lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and buffalo – draws more than a million annual visitors to Kruger National Park . With vast swathes of open savannah, a rich array of luxury accommodation and a supporting cast of giraffe, hippo, zebra and cheetah, Kruger is popular with honeymooning couples.

Those seeking an extra dash of adventure can opt for a rhino walking safari in Kruger. Combining game drives and bush walks, this allows guests to experience the natural rhythm of the national park, guided by an experienced ranger.

Learn more about South Africa’s walking safaris and book a Rhino Walking Safari .

South Africa safaris for first-timers: 8 things to know before you book

From skyscrapers to stargazing in the deserts of Dubai

It’s clear that Dubai is a place to see and be seen. Its promise of sun, sea and shopping is rarely unfulfilled, but there is more to this gleaming metropolis. Couples searching for romantic adventures can choose to camp in the desert after a day of dune bashing.

Bedouin camps with Arabian tents offer comfortable overnight lodgings while entertainment comes in a range of guises: a feast of Emirati cuisine, lively local music, cookery demonstrations and even a spot of falconry. Above it all lies a glorious expanse of stars gleaming in their desert splendor.

Choose from a selection of tours in Dubai .

Top 10 things to know before visiting Dubai

Mauritian beach to mountain peaks

A beach paradise, Mauritius is popular with couples seeking luxury along with romantic adventures. Formed by volcanic activity eight million years ago, Mauritius is encircled by a broken ring of mountains. Ranging from 300 to 800m (1000-2600ft) above sea level, they’re not quite Alpine, but the views are nonetheless dramatic.

Hike Le Pouce for superb views of the Moka Range. At 812m (2664ft), Le Pouce is the third-highest mountain on the island and can be hiked in a three-hour round trip: gentle at first with some scrambling at the top. Le Morne on the southwest tip of the island is also worth a hike.

Drive to Petit Verger near the village of Saint Pierre in the Moka region. Follow the small paved road that leads off the corner of the B47 road to the small car park by the trailhead. From there, follow the Le Pouce hiking route .

Escape into nature and isolate yourself in a luxurious pod

Venetian feast to mountain retreat

Few cities compete with Venice in terms of romance and splendor. Its motifs are unmistakable – the elegant curve of a gondola, the stone reliefs of Rialto Bridge , ornate basilicas  – while canalside bistros serve  cicheti (Venetian tapas) and prosecco.

Pair Venice with a trip to the Dolomites a few hours north. This region is home to some of the world’s most dramatic mountains: rugged crags, soaring pillars, breathtaking pinnacles and colossal rock walls. Visit from December to March for world-class skiing and May to September for sublime hiking.

Join a trekking in the Dolomites tour or book a Dolomites hotel and go it alone.

Lagoon life and shark dives in Fiji

From the overwater bures (bungalows) of Malolo Island to the lush greenery of Taveuni, Fiji may well be the most beautiful place you have ever seen. Its landscapes are literally out of a movie scene: Brooke Shields’ infamous Blue Lagoon was filmed in part on Turtle Island while Tom Hanks’ Castaway was shot on Monuriki. Throw in rich, flavorsome food from its Indo-Fijian community and you have all the ingredients for an amazing trip.

Those in search of romantic adventures should pause at Pacific Harbour on Viti Levu. Here audacious divers can observe reef sharks, lemon sharks, bull sharks and even the occasional tiger shark. 

Book a dive with a reputable outfitter such as Aqua-Trek Beqa .

Don’t leave Fiji without visiting these national parks and marine sanctuaries

You may also like:  The 10 most romantic places in the world to get engaged An expert's guide to planning a destination wedding

This article was first published May 2019 and updated January 2022

Explore related stories

Astrotourism

Dec 9, 2021 • 5 min read

Hawai‘i’s Big Island's dramatic terrain will surprise you and take you to extremes. Start with these 10 experiences.

Dec 3, 2021 • 9 min read

Nov 12, 2021 • 6 min read

Aug 6, 2019 • 5 min read

Jul 22, 2019 • 6 min read

Jun 14, 2016 • 6 min read

Oct 18, 2013 • 6 min read

Apr 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 25, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 19, 2024 • 7 min read

• Destinations

25 Best Adventure Vacations for Couples

Last Updated By VI on February 1, 2024 in Adventure Vacation Ideas

Incredible Adventures

The three camel lodge, gobi desert, sun mountain lodge in washington state, sanctuary retreats.

• See the Complete List

The company started off by providing flights in MiG-29 Russian fighter jets back in the early 90s and has grown and evolved over the years, now offering an extraordinary range of extreme adventures you’ll never forget. More info

Dino House offers music, dance and a library. Guests dine at The Bulagtai Restaurant which serves dishes made from locally grown organic fruit and vegetables (+1 800-998-6634).

Winter activities include over 200 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails, guided backcountry adventures, sleigh ride dinners, snowshoeing and ice skating. The spa at Sun Mountain Lodge offers massages, facials and a choice of spa packages. More unique Washington resorts, hotels & inns

The company also manages six expedition cruise ships exploring some of the world's most beautiful rivers, including the Nile Adventurer, which has been renowned as one of the world's best boutique ships by National Geographic. sanctuaryretreats.com

Churchill Wild

Uniquely located to experience the Arctic’s wildlife in an unrivalled way, days are spent on the lookout for polar bears, caribou, black bears, beluga whales and the breath-taking display of the Northern Lights . Phone: +1 204-878-5090

Longitude 131 Near Ayers Rock in Central Australia

The restaurant serves contemporary Australian cuisine. The communal seating arrangement allows guests to meet fellow travelers (+61-2-9339-1030).

Shakti 360 Leti in India

For a complete immersion in the local Indian culture, combine a stay at Shakti 360 Leti with a Shakti Kumaon Village Walk. Local guides will take you through remote villages, temples and markets in the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand. (shaktihimalaya.com).

Hotel de Glace - Ice Hotel Quebec

There are two heated outdoor hot tubs and a sauna; remember to pack your bathing suit on your family vacation . VacationIdea.com Tip: You don't have to stay at the hotel to view its interior - sign up for one of the 30-minute guided public tours. (418-875-4522). More day trips from Montreal

Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort

The hotel is an adventure getaway with stunning views and a comfortable base for exploring Australia's Upper Blue Mountains including Katoomba, Leura and Mount Victoria. (+612 4780 1200).

Palacio Nazarenas

Good to know: Best Time to Visit Peru

Saffire Freycinet in Tasmania

The spa offers yoga, meditation, and a menu of services integrating eastern and western techniques. Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and adventures, including hiking, relaxing on the beach, exploring Freycinet National Park and deserted islands. (+61 3 6256 7888).

Picnic in the Himalayas at Wildflower Hall, Shimla

Try one of the Signature Indigenous Rituals, such as the 2.5-hour Himalayan Romance which includes body exfoliation, aromatic steam bath, relaxing massage and a bath with a views of the Himalayas.

Hotel Monasterio in Peru

Ask for a Deluxe Room with a view of the cobbled streets of Cuzco. Junior Suites feature split-level layouts with stairs leading down to a living area. Royal Suites are among the most luxurious, offering a large private terrace for outdoor dining and relaxation. Explore the historic city of Cuzco and the Sacred Valley. You can take a two-day trek to the breathtaking Machu Picchu, or a four-day tour along the Inca Trail. El Tupay serves international cuisine and Illariy Restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine. If you are busy exploring the city and prefer a take out, head to Deli Monasterio. The Lobby bar serves drinks and offers live afternoon Jazz music.

Grasmere Lodge in New Zealand's Southern Alps

The best way to get around is by car. If you do not want to drive, contact the lodge for more information about plane, helicopter and train travel options (+64-3-318-8407).

The Alpenroyal Grand in Italy

The property has a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves world cuisine that incorporates Alpine herbs and plants, Mediterranean and Indian flavors. (+39) 0471 79 55 55.

The property has a 25,000 square foot spa with beautiful water features, and the Floatation Pavilion for color therapy-enhanced flotation treatments. Ask for a massage on one of the outdoor terraces and enjoy views of the mesas. Stay fit on your honeymoon by working out at the fitness center which offers the latest high-tech equipment. (435-675-3999, amanresorts.com).

Deer Lodge, Lake Louise

The Caribou Lodge is open for breakfast and lunch. The property is 4 kilometers off of the Trans Canada Highway, a 2-hour drive from Calgary. There are a number of packages offered in low season (403-410-7417).

Kenauk in Canada

You will probably relax with a barbecue in the privacy of your own cabin. But if you decide to dine out, head to the main restaurant or the bistro bar at the nearby Chateau Montebello . There is no cellular coverage at the hotel, but there is free Wifi at the entrance building and in the parking area.

The Fairmont Mara Safari Club

There is one indoor restaurant in the main lodge serving nutritionally balanced and fresh food. Specially prepared meals are served to guests with specific diet requirements like heart disease, gluten-free and diabetes. There is also the outdoor dining option. Enjoy both African and global cuisine, accompanied by music performances. African theme is even more prominent in the bar and public lounge. There are leather sofas, cowhides, Congolese stools and an enormous fireplace. The bar serves a variety of wines and alcoholic drinks. Enjoy your snacks and drinks while listening to piped music. Or you can head to the pool with its outdoor bar. The property offers a striking wedding experience. Traditional maasai marriage ceremonies can be arranged, with you and your partner wearing traditional tribal clothing. Maasai chanting and dance is performed during the wedding. There is joyful singing and dance, while the laibon pours milk on the couple's feet. Bush lunch, dinner and breakfast is served with cocktails or sundowners.

Evason Ma'In Hot Springs in Jordan

Six Senses Spa is sure to be one of the highlights of your stay. It is located just below a natural hot spring, which flows into the relaxation area and pool. There are ten treatment rooms and a unique steam cave where you can relax and rejuvenate in a natural setting. Signature treatments include Dead Sea therapies and Asian treatments. (+962 5 324 5500).

Hotel Paracas in Peru

If you want more room to spread out when you return home from your adventure, book one of the luxury suites which offer extra living space and other amenities. The Solarium Suite has two spacious terraces from which you can see the ocean. The Plunge Pool Suite has its own pool and stunning views of the ocean. The wellness center is a unique retreat for the senses located directly across from the nature reserve. The diverse menu of spa services and treatments includes massages, exfoliations, facials and body treatments. Signature amenities include the therapeutic water circuit, a salon and a gym. Explorer's Club is a place for kids to socialize and participate in fun and educational activities, including treasure hunts, shell collecting on the beach, and Wii and Playstation championships on a 50" plasma television. Dine on a selection of Peruvian and Mediterranean flavors. Ballestas Restaurant serves dishes inspired by Peru while Trattoria serves authentic Italian dishes. (51)(56) 581333, starwoodhotels.com.

The Royal Palm in Galapagos

The hotel is 20 minutes from the port town of Puerto Ayora where you can go shopping and dine at the various restaurants in the area. The Charles Darwin Research Station is well worth a visit to learn more about the area. The rate includes return transfers, all meals, activities, excursions and taxes (royalpalmgalapagos.com).

The town of Jackson is home to numerous art galleries that sell painting, pottery, and photography (amanresorts.com). The hotel is located 20 minutes from the Jackson Hole Airport where you can rent a car. (877-734 7333, 307-734 7333).

Khwai River Lodge in Botswana

More ideas: Pack for a Purpose

• 1. Incredible Adventures
• 2. The Three Camel Lodge, Gobi Desert
• 3. Sun Mountain Lodge in Washington State
• 4. Sanctuary Retreats
• 5. Churchill Wild
• 6. Longitude 131 Near Ayers Rock in Central Australia
• 7. Shakti 360 Leti in India
• 8. Hotel de Glace - Ice Hotel Quebec
• 9. Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort
• 10. Palacio Nazarenas
• 11. Saffire Freycinet in Tasmania
• 12. Picnic in the Himalayas at Wildflower Hall, Shimla
• 13. Hotel Monasterio in Peru
• 14. Grasmere Lodge in New Zealand's Southern Alps
• 15. The Alpenroyal Grand in Italy
• 16. Amangiri
• 17. Deer Lodge, Lake Louise
• 18. Kenauk in Canada
• 19. The Fairmont Mara Safari Club
• 20. Evason Ma'In Hot Springs in Jordan
• 21. Hotel Paracas in Peru
• 22. The Royal Palm in Galapagos
• 23. Amangani
• 24. Khwai River Lodge in Botswana

There is nothing like sitting back and relaxing with a view after a day of hiking and exploring the great outdoors. These unique lodges , tents and hotels let you see wildlife, lush forests and pristine beaches from their rooms and restaurants. Most are eco-friendly getaways with sustainable practices that preserve the surrounding nature.

More Features

Beach Destinations: 15 Most Awesome Beach Picnics

The Silverbow Inn in Juneau, Alaska

• About Us/Contact Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Romantic USA Trips & Honeymoon Packages for Couples

250+ tour packages for couples in usa with 12,922 reviews.

Anchorage: Kenai Fjords & Denali National Park 5 Day/4 Night Adventure

We had a terrific experience in Alaska. Some wonderful scenery and animal sightings. Our hosts were very accommodating and thoughtful to enhance our experience. Well worth the visit.

• Sightseeing

Great Cities of the West

• In-depth Cultural

Nature's Best: Alaska

We loved everything except the boat tour out of Seward. The seas were way too rough to go out. It was the final tour of the year on that boat. It should of been cancelled and refunded in full. We received $50 each back because the tour was shortened from 6 hours to 5 hours. I repeat again. Waste of time. I did not take a picture. People were throwing up (plenty of them). Did not see any whales. We were notified the day before that the seas could be rough. Globus should of taken the initiative and cancelled. Did not have a good time at all.

Hawaiian Explorer (8 Days, Intra Tour Air Hilo To Kahului)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Coach / Bus

Highlights of the Canyonlands

Loved the trip. Saw some amazing places, and traveled with some interesting people.

American Parks Trail (Classic, End Rapid City, 9 Days)

American Parks Trail (Classic, End Denver, 9 Days)

The trip was great! The tour director and the driver both were very knowledgeable.

America's National Parks

I liked the bus tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable and the tour was not rushed. Most our hotels were conveniently located rather than on the outskirts. I sistered this tour with a Cosmos tour. Globus used to offer a New Mexico tour, but I can't find any longer

Exploring America's National Parks

It was a nice tour. The itinerary was good, perhaps have more time at each site. Pace quite rapid sometimes, just the time for photos. At the same time there was so much to see, the only way would have been to lengthen the trip which was already long. I would recommend this trip.

Majestic Alaska (10 Days)

I cannot speak highly enough of this tour. Kris, our tour director, as well as our driver Rose and wellness director Tyler, were all friendly, knowledgeable, and excited to share Alaska with us. Kris is such a warm people-person and consistently went over and above to make this tour what it was, including staying up one night and waking those of us on his list who wanted to see the Northern Lights. The itinerary was no doubt well laid out, but Kris added so many special touches to support Alaskan businesses but also to provide us with extra opportunities to connect with local Alaskans and have the most comfortable and enjoyable experience possible. September was a perfect time to experience this tour. My travel friend and I would highly recommend this trip.

Wild West, Cowboys and Buffalos (End Denver, 9 Days)

Fantastic group of people ! Sophia was very knowledgeable about all the places we visited. Learned a lot, saw a lot and had a great time.

Best of the West (12 Days)

The tour was good, the destination highlights were amazing! The hotels were good, but sometimes outside towns so there was nothing to do and not much choice for food- a bit disappointing. Breakfast not included. The guide was good, driver amazing! There was a lot of extras to choose from, so spent more than originally anticipated this will cost, especially with tips!

Wild West, Cowboys and Buffalos (End Rapid City, 9 Days)

Highlights of the West Adventure 7D/6N

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of the Canyonlands (7 Days)

Great tour of a vast part of our country. Knowledgeable tour director.

What people love about USA Tours for Couples

Our Tour guide, Wayne, was fantastic! He went above and beyond; to make sure we were comfortable on the bus and on the tours! He also got us as close as he could when there were animal sightings! Lane, our driver, was also an excellent driver; and he kept us safe on the narrow and winding Mountain roads! Hats off to these two!

Wonderful locations, wonderful people we got to meet, and the best tour Director, Elli, and bus driver, Dale

More Tours in USA for Couples

• Western USA tours (336)
• Southwest USA tours (189)
• Sun Belt tours (188)
• Eastern USA tours (103)
• West Coast USA tours (96)
• Four Corners tours (95)
• East Coast USA tours (89)
• Northeast USA tours (60)
• Pacific Coast USA tours (58)
• Southern USA tours (46)
• Northern California tours (40)
• Mideast USA tours (38)
• Southeast USA tours (35)
• New England tours (32)
• Central California tours (24)
• Mid Atlantic tours (23)
• USA Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Backpacking Tours & Trips 2024/2025
• Best time to visit East Coast USA (Low & High Season)
• Best Time to Visit the West Coast, USA in 2024/2025 (with California)
• Best USA Vacation Spots for Couples: Parks, Cities and more
• 5 Best Guided Backpacking Trips & Tours
• Best 10 Day USA Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Other interests

• Solo/Single tours (639)
• Young Adults (31)
• Seniors (564)
• Budget tours (62)
• Luxury tours (69)

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best couple vacations in the US to find romance and adventure

Plan a romantic getaway for two to these dreamy destinations for couples vacations in America.

Unlike honeymoon destinations —where solitude, sexiness and staying in are the name of the game—these cities and towns offer plenty of activities, gorgeous scenery and amazing dining options for a fun-filled vacation geared towards exploring someplace new.

From the vineyards of Napa to the slopes of Aspen, the beaches of Hawai'i to the deserts of Arizona , there’s a perfect couples vacation for all interests. If beautiful architecture and majestic oaks get you feeling warm and fuzzy, Savannah is for you. Does a great party with a side of incredible food and history give you the feels? Head to New Orleans .

RECOMMENDED: Most romantic getaways in the U.S.A.

You can book a stay at one of the most romantic hotels in America or go bigger and plan a whole trip where memories will be made and love connections will be strengthened. These excellent ideas for couples vacations in America mix travel and romance in dreamy destinations that are the perfect backdrop for love.

Whatever you and your special someone are into, these couples vacation destinations are sure to entertain, intrigue and hopefully bring you closer. For an extra dose of romance, accompany your invitation with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a lovely box of chocolates.

RECOMMENDED:   8 best floating Airbnbs in the U.S.

An email you’ll actually love

Best couples vacations

1.  Napa Valley, CA

Majestic, lush landscapes, glorious weather, fantastic dining and the country’s best wineries make Napa Valley not only one of the most romantic getaways in America, but the world over. Whether you’re looking for a scenic bike tour or just want to spend the day relaxing at a 5-star spa , this Northern California destination is perfect for anniversaries, honeymoons or just some couple-time.

2.  Maui, HI

Of Hawaii’s islands, this one gets top billing for secluded beaches , scenic hikes and resorts that will make you and your partner forget the worries of the life you left on the mainland. At every turn, expect a combination of island escapades and cultural immersions , backed by famous rainbows and starry skies. You'll probably forget about all those other islands.

3.  Hunter Mountain, NY

Upstate New York has some of the best and most beautiful countryside on the eastern seaboard. The summers are sensational, the fall foliage is fantastic...and come the holiday season, it offers a winter wonderland of snow-coated shenanigans. The adjacent town of Hunter offers a warm, small-town feel and while it's far cry from any near by city, it reminds you of a time when you actually went to local stores to buy essentials and didn't order them through a website. A by-gone era indeed. The locals are quite used to visitors, strangers from 'out of town' and 'city folk' so they're friendly and extremely helpful. There are several great places to stay, but we believe the best is the Hunter Mountain Sanctuary , where you can enjoy a roaring open fire, a glass of wine and gaze back at the mountain, be it covered in lush, green vegetation or a smooth blanket of pure white snow. Here you can well and truly switch off...if you want to.

4.  Aspen, CO

Snow bunnies who love hitting the slopes for fresh powder in the morning and cuddling up by a raging fire in the evening will find all their winter wonderland dreams come true in Aspen. Couples love Gant Aspen’s luxurious condominiums. Each condo comes with a full kitchen for making romantic meals and a heated ourdoor pool. Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, daily skiing and leisure time in historic downtown Aspen are easily within grasp.

5.  San Francisco, CA

Cable cars, colorful Victorian architecture and Californian cooking make San Francisco a terrific getaway. Traverse the famously hilly landscape for stunning views of the bay and skyline while taking delight in all the ways that the city’s charming history collides with its futuristic, tech-driven present. Dinner-and-a-movie is one of the most romantic dates in town at Foreign Cinema . At this swoon-worthy restaurant, doors open onto a courtyard where classic films are played outdoors under the stars. The elegant menu matches the ambiance.

6.  Savannah, GA

Horse-drawn carriages, Spanish moss, cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture make this coastal Georgia city one of the South’s most romantic destinations. Lounge on the sandy beach on Tybee Island , then pay a visit to the ruins of Wormsloe , Savannah’s oldest standing structure and the 18th century home of carpenter Noble Jones. A photo together on its oak-lined, moss-shrouded boulevard is the only souvenir you’ll need to bring home.

7.  Cape Cod, MA

The eastern peninsula of Massachusetts is one of the East Coast’s finest summer destinations. Harbors with darling lighthouses, chowder shacks, historic architecture, boats of all varieties, cranberry bogs, windswept beaches and small towns make for a relaxing trip enjoying each other’s company. Head into town for upscale seafood (with generous portions) at Impudent Oyster . Consider booking at Chatham Bars Inn Resort & Spa, which offers 25 acres of ocean-front property as well as amenities like a private beach and a heated oceanfront pool.

8.  Woodstock, VT

Escape to an idyllic pastoral haven at this quintessential New England village. A fresh-off-the-fields farmers' market, a general store that dates back to the 1850s, town suppers and some of the most colorful, crisp fall foliage around make this tiny town (population just over 3,000) an off-the-beaten-track destination. For a breakfast or lunch that even locals swear by, grab a rustic table at Mon Vert Café . Here, the coffee is almost as good as the homemade baked goods and the sandwiches are savory delights.

9.  Jackson Hole, WY

Whether you can’t get enough of skiing in the winter, want to hike across a beautiful Western landscape or are just looking for a nice place to stay and eat before you venture into Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole is for you. With an ultra-modern domed ceiling, romantic lighting, chic decor and a menu heavy on fresh fish, The Kitchen is a favorite date spot in Jackson. Seeking the rustic feel of a cabin but really need modern amenities and accommodations? Book a stay at Spring Creek Ranch , where you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the mountains, in rooms with wood-burning fireplaces and cable television.

10.  San Diego, CA

Everyone has heard of San Diego, but not everyone has actually visited. And you should. It's a small city, relatively speaking for the USA, but it's all about location...and it doesn't get much better than this. Situated on the glorious Pacific coast, there are beaches a-plenty to chose from and the Old Town makes for a fun place to explore to find somewhere good to eat. America's finest city didn't just give itself that moniker and for a significantly slowed-down pace, Southern California's mini-metropolis is hard to top.

11.  Tucson, AZ

Laid back and full of nature, Tucson is perfect for couples looking to take in a vast and iconic desert landscape, Southwest culture and art, scenic hiking and rest and relaxation in the warm, dry climate. To really take advantage of the amazing weather and enjoy the ultimate mix of relaxation and activities, stay at Westward Look Resort . Here, challenge your partner to a game of tennis, hit the trails on horseback, find peace at the amazing spa or take a refreshing dip in the saline pool.

12.  New Orleans, LA

The Big Easy is particularly fantastic for lovebirds. Partners who can’t agree on what is most important on a vacation—sightseeing, excellent food , adventure or relaxation—will find their perfect compromise when indulging in live jazz music, river boat rides, strolls through the French Quarter, Cajun food and ghost tours. Splurge on a stay in the French Quarter at the splendid Audubon Cottages . The private, gorgeously decorated cottages come with plenty of amenities, including butler service, while the shared Tuscan-style courtyard boasts a fabulous salt pool.

13.  Miami, FL

While many destinations in Florida are reputed tourist-heavy, there’s something to be said about Miami’s vibrant art scene. Worry not: Plenty of beaches and fantastic pools will satisfy your hunger for some tanning time. Ready to splurge on dinner ? Tropical plants, twinkling lights and so much romance , Komodo Miami is a sexy choice for enjoying high-end Asian fare.

14.  Charleston, SC

Founded in 1670, Charleston is as historic as it is gorgeous: streets lined with pastel antebellum architecture and an exquisite French quarter. Make sure to stop by the Battery Promenade for views of the Charleston harbor. While appreciating the oozing-with-charm downtown Charleston, stop at the Peninsula Grill . Located off Marketplace, this renowned eatery serves some of the finest elevated Southern food in town.

15.  Nantucket, MA

This tiny island off the coast of Cape Cod positively drips in history. A favorite holiday location for many that could be considered US royalty, including the Kennedys and the Bidens. The island also played a significant role during the age where whaling was common:  Moby Dick begins here. And while that doesn't seem like a particularly pleasant period of history, you should remind yourself that at least it wasn't en masse , like it is today. Visit the Egan Maritime Institute & Museum for undoubtedly the best insight into the islands rich history. It also boasts the biggest single collection of work by celebrated marine artist Rodney Charman . The streets have that quaint, colonial feel to them and it truly feels like you've found tranquility. Enjoy the freshly-caught seafood and have a hearty laugh at the property prices. 

16.  New York City, NY

The Big Apple is not the quietest or most serene city in the world, but that might not be what you're looking for. If you're looking for adventure with your nearest and dearest, this is the place to come. From exploring Manhattan on foot or braving the subway to choosing from a near-infinite number of bars and restaurants that cater for every single conceivable taste. From sauntering through Central Park to strolling alongside the Hudson River. There is a ton of stuff to do here and let's face facts, with London and Paris taking the number two and three spots respectively, New York City is the most Christmassy place you can visit on the planet with only exception being Santa's actual grotto in the North Pole.

17.  Los Angeles, CA

The City of Angels is actually a sight to behold. It's as unique as every other major metropolitan city in the US and the palm trees, blue skies, wide open spaces and beautiful, endless sandy beaches, make it a fun place to check out. If you're a movie or TV buff, then so much the better, but...you don't have to be. Explore Santa Monica and Venice  where there are a lot of great restaurants and bars, plus shopping in Beverly Hills, walking in the hills, cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway or along Mulholland Drive or hike up to the Hollywood sign and gaze down upon the city lights below. 

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Couples Travel Bucket List: 25 Epic Adventures To Enjoy Together in 2024

If you and your other half plan to have lots of adventures together in 2024, then I hope this couples travel bucket list will inspire both of you. 

Scott and I have been travelling together since 2014 and it’s safe to say we’ve done and seen a lot during that time – as you’ll see from this blog post and our entire website, to be honest.

And now it’s your turn! It’s never too late to tick off your bucket list and certainly never too late to dream… as Shia LaBeouf would say: JUST DO IT!

But sometimes that’s easier said than done. So, read on for some ideas for what to add to your bucket list plus tips for how to make them happen.

25 Epic Adventures To Add To Your Couples Travel Bucket List

1. try husky sledding for the first time.

If you’ve never tried husky sledding before, then this is an amazing experience to enjoy together!

While one of you controls the steering and brakes, the other can wrap up warm under blankets, sit in the front of the sled and take photos and videos of your adventure. 

You can usually swap with each other halfway through the experience, but you don’t have to. I was way too cosy sitting inside the sled so I let Scott stay on the back of it, which he was more than happy to do.

Head to Scandinavian countries like Finland , Norway and Sweden, or even North American countries like Alaska and Canada where husky sledding is a common excursion.

You can even combine husky sledding with a ski holiday like we did in Ruka, Finland with Crystal Ski .

Top Tip: Read up on reviews before your visit so you know you’re booking with an ethical husky safari company. 

• Things To Know About Husky Dog Sledding in Finland
• Winter in Finland: Tips, Truths & Christmas Tidings

2. Learn to ski or snowboard together (or teach each other!)

Speaking of skiing, if neither of you had the chance to try skiing or snowboarding as a kid, then why not take some lessons together and see if you like it.

Or, if one of you already knows how to do it, you might enjoy teaching the other person.

That’s how our trip to Finland came to be. Scott’s been skiing since he was 10 years old while I’d only tried snowboarding once on a dry ski slope in Southampton. So, he whisked me away to Finland to try and teach me how to ski. 

While I didn’t find my ski legs during that trip, we still had a lot of fun together. Especially as ski trips also mean romantic walks in the snow, delicious hot chocolates and cuddling next to a log fire.

If both of you are beginners, then Val Thorens in France is one of the best ski destinations to go to. There’s a good selection of runs there as well as epic apres-ski and other activities to enjoy, such as tobogganing.

3. Spend the weekend in a log cabin together

If skiing isn’t your thing but you still want to enjoy a romantic weekend together, then why not stay inside a log cabin for a couple of days?

Sure, it can be somewhere with lots of snow. But you can also enjoy a romantic getaway in the woods or by a lake. 

Next year, we’re booked in for a few days at Center Parcs and we can’t wait! Romantic woodland walks, splashing about in the pool and fun activities here we come…

4. Skydive over epic scenery

If you’ve always wanted to try skydiving but were too scared to go alone, then why not try it together? 

While you won’t be able to do a tandem dive together (unless one of you is certified), you can hold hands in the plane on the way up and keep each other smiling and positive until it’s time to take that leap of faith. Then you can cuddle and high-five once you’re back on the ground!

There are countries all over the world where you can try it but some of the most epic skydiving destinations include Australia, Dubai , New Zealand and the USA.

5. See magical underwater worlds via scuba diving

Here’s another epic adventure to enjoy together – scuba diving!

From colourful corals and tropical fish to even sea turtles, there’s so much beauty and magic underwater that you simply must see at least once in your lifetime.

Indonesia , Hawaii and Belize have some of the most sought-after scuba diving locations in the world, so head to one of those destinations for your first session to really catch the bug for it.

We tried scuba diving during our honeymoon to Bali and the Gili Islands , which was nothing short of amazing! We spent about 2 hours in a pool first to get a feel for the apparatus, breathing techniques and safety signals before going in search of giant sea turtles. 

While I was holding hands with the instructor (I’m a scaredy cat!), you can hold hands with each other if you’re more comfortable than I was during the experience. What a way to make special memories, huh?!

6. Try snorkelling somewhere just as epic

If you don’t want to fully submerge yourself underwater, then another way to see incredible underwater marine life is by snorkelling. You’ll probably still get to see some amazing creatures together.

Try it in Hawaii , Indonesia and Belize and you’ll still see colourful fish, corals and maybe even sea turtles and octopi.

Plus, you don’t need lessons to give snorkelling a go. Just stay close to shore and keep each other safe and I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time!

• How to Snorkel for Beginners: The Complete Guide
• Gili Meno Snorkelling Guide: Tips To Know Before You Go

7. Head out on an epic road trip together

Driving with the top down, wind whipping through your hair. Cruising past amazing scenery and pit stops whenever you want.

These are just some of the reasons why road trips continue to be one of the most popular travel experiences for couples.

Some of the best road trips around the world include Iceland’s Ring Road or Golden Circle Route , USA’s Pacific Coast Highway and Australia’s Great Ocean Road. 

But you could go anywhere and still have a fabulous trip together!

• Best Road Trip Destinations For Couples (+ Road Trip Tips)
• 50 Fun Road Trip Questions For Couples (Printable)

8. Go on a long walk or epic hike together

Hiking is one of our favourite pastimes as there’s so much natural beauty to discover all around the world. 

Plus the endorphins feel incredible and you can really get to know each other and enjoy quality couple time when on a long walk or hike together.

Some of our favourite hikes around the world include:

• Singapore’s Southern Ridges
• Hawaii’s Kīlauea Iki crater
• Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park
• Wales’ Pen y Fan mountain
• The Four Waterfalls Route (also in Wales)

9. Travel to see erupting volcanoes

Have you ever wanted to see a volcano erupt and live to tell the tale? Or see the lava boil and bubble away at night?

Add Hawaii’s Volcano National Park to your bucket list and you can see active volcanoes, walk through lava tubes and even hike through an active volcanic crater where steam spurts through cracks in the ground.

Hawaii was one of the first long-haul trips Scott and I went on together and we loved it! We’re already planning our next trip back there.

• Hawaii Big Island Itinerary: 3 Incredible Days on The Big Island

10. Wake up to an incredible sunrise

There’s nothing quite like welcoming a new day with an incredible sunrise. You’ll see the sky brushed with pinks and golds, and as it’s early in the morning, there will probably be fewer people around than at sunset ; adding to the romance of the whole experience.

While there are perfect sunrise locations all over the world, be sure to head east for the best of the best. 

We caught the sunrise on Gili Meno in Indonesia on multiple days during our honeymoon and it was so magical – easily the best sunrise we’ve ever seen!

• The Perfect Gili Meno Honeymoon | Must Sees & Top Tips

11. Crash over sand dunes during a fun desert safari

Where there are sand dunes, adventurous souls like you are crashing over them in buggies and 4x4s! 

We tried it in Dubai during our honeymoon, and wow, was it an experience we’ll never forget! So much fun. So many thrills. And the dunes themselves were incredible to see too!

• Glamorous 2 Days In Dubai Itinerary For First Time Visitors

12. Try sandboarding for the first time

Speaking of sand dunes, you need to try sandboarding at least once in your lifetime!

Whether you choose to go down on your tummy, bum or two feet, it’s a lot of fun. But, if you’re anything like us, be prepared for some epic falls and a mouth full of sand. This is one travel fail you’ll laugh about for years to come, though!

READ NEXT: 

• Travel Gone Wrong Stories: 21 Epic Travel Fails

13. Go on a dolphin or whale watching tour

Some of most romantic travel experiences surely have to include dolphin and whale watching. These animals are mesmerising to watch, so graceful and – just like many of the other activities on this list – you’d be hard-pressed to forget your experience in a hurry.

There are lots of places all over the world where you could do this but Hawaii , Iceland and Madeira are some of our favourite places to do this excursion together.

Just like with husky sledding , be sure to book with an ethical company, which will try to keep its distance from the wildlife.

14. Enjoy a hot air balloon ride somewhere epic

Thanks to companies like Virgin Experience Days , you can enjoy a hot air balloon ride pretty much anywhere. But this is a bucket list, so you must do it somewhere epic!

Over the Nile in Egypt, in Cappadocia in Turkey and during Bristol’s International Balloon Fiesta in the UK are where we’d recommend trying it.

15. Celebrate a holiday in another country

Christmas in Brussels, Belgium . Cinco de Mayo in Mexico. St Patrick’s Day in Ireland.

However you do it, make it your mission to celebrate a holiday in another country together, so you can make your travel memories even more special.

16. Try a new way of travelling and getting around

To mix things up when you travel together (to get a better idea of what you like and don’t like), try a new way of travelling or getting around.

For example, if you’ve never gone on a road trip together, maybe 2024 is the year you’ll do it. Fancy some island hopping on a boat in Croatia or Indonesia ? Plan that trip! Always fancied a cruise? Look for travel deals to see if something comes up!

A cruise is next on our list of things to try. We want to go on a cruise to the Norwegian Fjords, but that’s probably something for our 2025 bucket list.

• 25 Easy Ways To Spend Less On Travel As A Couple

18. Wild camp (or glamp!) somewhere stunning or unique

We’ve mentioned log cabins, but camping and glamping can also be romantic! Especially if you have a stunning view from your tent or the experience itself is unique.

Some of our favourite adventures like this have included camping in the Highlands in Scotland , glamping on a beach in Gili Meno and “Champing” in a 12th-century church in Somerset.

• Our Champing in Somerset Review (+ Tried & Tested Itinerary!)

19. Enjoy an authentic massage abroad together

From traditional Moroccan Hammam to authentic Balinese and Thai massages, you’ll never forget an authentic massage experience abroad. Especially if you have a stunning view like the one we had of some rice paddies in Bali!

While you might find the experience relaxing, in some cases, it’s also hilarious and something you’ll laugh about together for many years to come.

• Moroccan Hammam Massage: 7 Things Nobody Tells You

20. Sleep somewhere weird and wonderful

We’ve already touched on wild camping and glamping, but what about sleeping in a treehouse together? Or a lighthouse? How about a rail sleeper car? 

You’ll never run out of ideas of where to stay that’s unusual! Here are a few suggestions of where to stay together in 2024:

• The Old Petworth Railway Station in England
• Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort in Finland
• Windmill Villas in Santorini
• Icehotel in Sweden
• Le Domaine des Prés Verts Cabins in France
• Houseboat Prinsheerlijk in Amsterdam

21. Enjoy a romantic stargazing experience at a Dark Sky Reserve

You may think you’ve seen a lot of stars from the hill near your house. Or that time you camped out on the beach. But you’ll be BLOWN AWAY when stargazing at a Dark Sky Reserve! 

Here are some suggestions of where to go in 2024:

• Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales
• Exmoor National Park in England
• Aoraki Mackenzie in New Zealand
• Kerry in Ireland
• Alpes Azur Mercantour in France

You should also check out Mauna Kea on the Big Island of Hawaii. Although not certified as a Dark Sky Reserve, it’s home to the world’s largest observatory and makes for a truly unforgettable sunset and stargazing session. We loved it there!

• A Guide To Stargazing On Mauna Kea in Hawaii

22. Act like big kids at Disneyland (or somewhere else!)

While most people don’t visit a Disney Park until they have children, you’re different. You want to hog all the Disney magic for yourself right now. As a couple. Sans kids. 

We get it. Us too – and we finally made it happen in 2022 .

So, this is your reminder to get out there and experience the magic of Disney together where you can cuddle under fireworks and drone light shows and enjoy the thrill of epic rollercoasters together.

This also goes for other experiences that are usually aimed at children such as the Harry Potter Studio Tour near London and the Christmas event at Blenheim Palace . You don’t need kids to enjoy these places when you yourselves are the big kids!

• Disneyland Paris For Adults: Travel Tips + Tried & Tested Itinerary

23. Learn a new language together

Have you both always wanted to be bilingual? It’s never too late to start learning together and you can hopefully impress each other (and have a laugh together) as you learn.

Italian is my favourite language by far because it’s poetic, easy to learn and all kinds of sexy. But some other fun languages to learn are French, German, Hawaiian, Japanese and Spanish.

Try websites like Duolingo and Busuu , which are our favourite apps for learning new languages.

And if you’re wondering, Hawaiian is currently on our list hence why our dog is called Kai (which means sea in Hawaiian) and my craft blog is called House of Mahalo (with ‘Mahalo’ meaning gratitude and thanks).

RELATED: 24 of the Best Travel Planning Apps

24. Get engaged/propose abroad

If you’re not yet engaged, then could 2024 be the year it happens for you? If you like the sound of that, then we can only say good things about getting engaged abroad and having an extra special place you can come back to again and again.

For us, that place is Iceland – on a black sand beach no less!

• How To Plan The Perfect Destination Proposal

25. Go on an incredible honeymoon

Speaking of engagements and marriage, maybe 2024 is the year you’ll finally go on that epic honeymoon you’ve been planning.

Whether you want to travel the world for a year, spend two weeks on a deserted island or fold multiple bucket list destinations into one trip like we did; then have fun planning it, booking it and enjoying every single minute of it!

• 10 Dreamy Mountain Honeymoon Destinations
• Bali Honeymoon Guide: Unmissable Experiences & Top Tips For Couples

Read More About Couples Travel

If you’re after even more tips, ideas and inspiration for enjoying an epic adventure together, then we have various couples travel blogs to help you. Here are a few to start with:

• 50 Best Travel Destinations For Couples
• The Best City Breaks for Couples in Europe
• Couples Travel Budget Spreadsheet [Free Template]

Also, if you want to make your travels a reality next year, then you might enjoy making a travel vision board together so you can visualise exactly what you want to see and do as a couple. Plus, crafty dates are a bit of fun!

And there you have it – 25 epic adventures to add to your joint travel bucket list! How many of them have you ticked off? And how many do you plan to do?

Feeling inspired? Pin this couples travel bucket list now and read it again later!   

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

Leave a reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Meet the Team
• Work With Us
• Itineraries
• Italy Travel Guide
• Hawaii Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Travel Information

10 adventurous vacations for couples around the world.

Would you like to ignite the spark or recharge the romance and strengthen the bonds of your relationship? We think that traveling with your partner is one of the best ways to do that, especially an adventurous vacation.

According to research conducted by the U.S Travel Association, couples who take vacations together are more satisfied with their relationship. Additionally, these couples experience improved romance long after the vacations end.

» You may enjoy one of these 10 Incredible Luxury Vacations Around the World.

Adventurous vacations provide the perfect combination of exercise, adrenaline, and excitement, not forgetting the fear of being in a new place. Studies show that fear and exercise mimic the signs of arousal, and increases your partner’s attraction to you.

If you are thinking of spicing things up in your relationship, consider going on these 10 adventurous vacations for couples.

• 7 Exciting Travel Destinations in Asia
• 21 Top Foodie Destinations Around the World
• 10 Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations You’ll Love

» You might also like Maximizing Your Israel Experience: Where to Stay for Affordable Luxury .

Adventurous Vacations for Couples

1. new zealand.

New Zealand is arguably one of the most interesting and beautiful countries in the world. One of the most interesting things about this destination is that it is sparsely populated. Less than 5 million people live in New Zealand , so you do not have to worry about places being crowded, and there’s lots of wildlife for you to see.

Aside from incredible scenery, there are lots of fun activities for a couple to engage in. We recommend these romantic destinations in New Zealand . And below you’ll find even more experiences couples will enjoy on the island:

• Stargazing – visit an observatory and learn more about constellations and astrology. The view of the stars in New Zealand, especially in Tekapo and Mount Cook, is to die for, owing to strict control on light pollution. The Mackenzie region in the country is known as the International Dark Sky Reserve.
• Bungy jumping – are you and your partner adrenaline junkies? Then you will enjoy bungy jumping in one of the eight jumping sites in this country. Perhaps you should visit Queenstown , which claims to be the first commercial bungy jumping site in the world.
• Wine tasting – what better way to bond with your significant other than through several glasses of wine? New Zealand is one of the world’s greatest wine producers. The country boast of 10 major wine-producing regions. Visit Marlborough in the north of South Island, to taste the world’s best Sauvignon Blanc. For an enjoyable wine tasting experience, take a cycling tour through the vines and stop at different vineyards for a tasting.

>> Here’s the perfect 7-Day Itinerary for New Zealand’s North Island

2. Botswana

Do you dream of going on a wild safari? Botswana is the perfect place for an enjoyable, once in a lifetime safari that you and your spouse will remember forever.

This country boasts of diverse ecosystems, friendly nature, and extraordinary wildlife viewing opportunities. Some of the luxury Botswanan safari tours that you should not miss out on include:

• The Okavango Delta – is one of the last remaining pristine wetlands in the world. This wetland is fed by the floodwaters of Central Africa . It covers approximately 16 000 square kilometers. Enjoy this serene environment with your partner on a dugout canoe, locally known as a mekoro. Make sure that you get a knowledgeable local guide to take you on this safari.
• Chobe national park – this national park encompasses woodland, swamps, and floodplains. Here, you’ll get to see one of Africa’s most beautiful rivers – the Chobe River. You are also guaranteed to see lots of elephants, with herds of up to 100,000 elephants.

3. Argentina

Argentina is the second largest Spanish speaking country in South America. There are lots of features and activities to enjoy in this nation. It’s dining, entertainment, culture, and world-class golf make it ideal for all types of travelers. Save space for a trip to Argentina and enjoy:

• The culture – if dancing is at the top of your priorities during vacation, you’ll definitely love a Tango Show at Gala Tango. You and your loved one can enjoy 30-minute private lessons before dinner, which is a great opportunity to bond.
• Food – couples who enjoy food find Argentina quite exciting. Visit any of the parrillas in Buenos Aires and enjoy a hefty steak that is got from grass-fed and pasture-raised cows.
• Wine – Mendoza is a stunning wine region you must visit if you’re a wine lover. Here are some of the wineries to visit for Malbec, the red wine that Argentina is best known for.
• The beauty – enjoy cool ice hiking on the Fitz Roy Mountain and do not forget to visit the Los Glaciares National Park, which is home to 356 glaciers. You might also enjoy visiting Iguazu Falls, which feed from the Iguazu River that acts as a border between Argentina and Brazil.
• Golf – do not forget to visit various golf courses in Argentina, including the famous Bueno Aries Golf Club.

Cuba is one of the hottest tourist destinations, and there are many good reasons to visit her. What’s even more exciting is that Americans have been visiting this country ( with a few restrictions ) for the past few years. Some of the fun things that you can enjoy with your partner in Cuba are:

• Excellent weather – Cuba has great hot weather, except in some cold days between January and March. If you are looking to spend time in a place where you and your partner can enjoy swimming and countless beach trips, then Cuba is the place to be.
• Vintage cars – one of the things that will catch your eyes when you arrive in Cuba are the old American cars being used. Take pictures with old models of cars, and find out how the drivers keep them in good condition. Another thing that you’ll notice is that most goods in use, including laptops, are very old too. If you’d like to get away to a country that is not faced with consumerism, then you’ll enjoy Cuba.

5. The Caribbean

You might not think of a the Caribbean as an adventure vacation destination, but that’s not true at all. Yes, a beach vacation is meant to be relaxing, but when you visit places like Jamaica , Curacao, and Saint Lucia, you can go on luxury Caribbean vacations to do just about anything your heart desires.

See the beautiful beaches and landscapes, experience the vibrant culture firsthand, participate in all kinds of watersports, or just unwind while sipping the finest cocktails . In the Caribbean, you can swim with pigs in the Bahamas, or the stingrays in the Cayman Islands. You can enjoy snorkeling or even world-class scuba diving in Belize or Cancun .

You can go bareboat sailing in the British Virgin Islands.  Hike the Pitons in St. Lucia, learn about coffee production in the Blue Mountains of Jamaica, or get the party started at the Food & Rum Festival in Barbados. Another way for couples to enjoy an active vacation in the Caribbean is on a cruise .

The best part about a cruise in this region is that you don’t have to arrange flights between the islands. Each day you’ll wake up in a new port city, ready to discover new things. The Caribbean offers a great combination of fun things to do with relaxation.

You can be as adventurous as you want, enjoy amazing food, and still watch the sunset over the ocean at night with a cocktail in hand.

» You might be interested in the Perfect 10-Day Costa Rica Itinerary.

6. Portugal

Portugal is one of the cheapest destinations in the EU and is a must-try for couples. There are various exciting things to see and do in Portugal , including:

• World-class wine – your trip to Portugal will be incomplete if you fail to visit the Douro River Valley . This unique landscape is donned with steep rolling hillsides and beautiful vineyards. Visit various Quintas in the vineyards and get a taste of the finest wine.
• Clean beaches – you’ll find superb beaches wherever you go in Portugal. You can enjoy activities such as surfing, especially in the northern town of Sagres, or just bask in the sun with your spouse.
• Porto is one of our favorite cities in Europe. It’s full of port houses where you can go wine tasting, and there are fantastic restaurants and things to do .
• Lisbon is a cosmopolitan city with a fascinating and well-designed cable car system. It’s a fun city to explore with your partner – stopping often at coffee shops and cocktail bars to people watch.

6. Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia, Turkey, is an area of unparalleled natural wonders. Geologic formations called fairy chimneys — formed from sedimentary rock of ancient volcanic eruptions — are the main draw to the area, bringing thousands of visitors yearly to central Turkey to explore and witness this otherworldly landscape for themselves.

You’ll particularly love Cappadocia if you like to hike and explore on foot. Dozens of hiking trails snake through the valley, passing through some of the best outcroppings of fairy chimneys and through ancient churches and villages that were carved into the rock. Hiking through the fairy chimneys is one of the top things to do in Cappadocia , so be sure to save plenty of time for it. 

One of the most sought after experiences in Cappadocia is a hot air balloon ride , which is an incredibly romantic activity for couples. More balloons lift off from Cappadocia every year than in any other part of the world. It’s a fantastic way to witness some of the area’s most awe-inspiring landscape from above and see the beautiful sunrise at the same time.

7. South Africa Safari / Wine / Beach

A South Africa vacation can be as adventurous as you want it to be. Despite what you might have heard about South Africa, it’s got a lot more going for it than just safaris, although they are great as well.

• The Garden Route – The Garden Route is less of a destination and more of a journey. But a trip to South Africa wouldn’t be complete without experiencing it. This stunning stretch of coastal road spans 190 miles along the southern coast
• Stellenbosch Wine Route – Strung along a belt of strikingly scenic mountains just east of Cape Town, the Cape Winelands – in particular Stellenbosch – are where much of South Africa’s famous wine starts its life. Here is where you’ll find some of the oldest settlements in the country, with historic towns set to the backdrop of the Cape Fold mountains.
• Kruger National Park – Tucked away in the northeastern corner of South Africa, Kruger National Park is the largest and best-known game reserve in the country. The park is considered one of the best on the continent, offering a truly magnificent safari experience.

8. Oahu, Hawaii

Honolulu, the most popular destinations in Hawaii , is where most visitors to Oahu stay, and its where you’ll find a majority of the dining, nightlife and shopping on Oahu. At the end of the beautiful Waikiki beach is the dramatic Diamond Head volcano.

Some of the adventurous things to do in Oahu include:

Shark Diving – Taking shark dives while in Hawaii is a thrilling and unique experience that’s not to be missed. These tours will take passengers from the south shore of Oahu into the Pacific Ocean with prime views to see all types of sea life. Green sea turtles, dolphins, and even humpback whales- during the winter and spring- are common sights.

Parasailing – Parasailing is the perfect way to see the island of Oahu from a whole new perspective. Soar above the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean, and explore a birds eye view with this thrilling experience.

Ziplining – The Jurassic Valley in Oahu is a 4,000 acre private nature reserve, as well as a functioning cattle ranch. It’s a popular tourist destination and filming location due to it’s beautiful views and lush rainforest habitat. You can zipline through the jungles of this gorgeous untouched land.

Waterfall Hikes – Some of the water falls are as high as 150 feet, while others are more subdued, and some of the hikes are longer than others, so no matter what your level of fitness, you can meander through the lush vegetation of the island and enjoy the glorious waterfalls.

See our Hawaii Packing Guide .

9. Whistler, British Columbia, Canada

There are dozens of Whistler summer activities to enjoy that will leave you believing that Whistler is truly more of a summer destination than a winter one!

White water rafting – Imagine how exciting a white water rafting trip must be in Whistler with all those glacial runoffs and pristine mountain rivers. The best part is that no matter how experienced or inexperienced you may be, there’s a river experience to match.

Fly fishing – If you love fishing or have always wanted to learn, Whistler is a fantastic place to do it. There are many rivers and lakes to fish on, and the abundance of fish make the experience fun and exciting.

Hiking and climbing – Jaw-dropping vistas, ancient glaciers, alpine lakes and wildflower-filled slopes. These are but a few of the wonders you’ll lay eyes on while hiking in the Whistler valley. 

Bear viewing – This one is my favorite. Who doesn’t love bears? Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains are home to more than 60 black bears and cubs. On a tour, you can visit bear dens and wander through pristine alpine meadows and old growth Western Hemlock forests in search of those black bears.

10. Florida

Aptly named the sunshine state, Florida reigns as the most popular holiday destination for its long stretches of sandy beaches, larger-than-life theme parks and near perfect climate all year round. But the beach isn’t the only thing there is to do in Florida. In fact, there are dozens of adventurous things you can only do in Florida.

Here are a few activities couples can enjoy together in Florida:

See alligators – The 1.5 million acre Everglades National Park is the only subtropical preserve in North America. The parks residents include over 350 species of birds and more than 600 species of fish along with snakes, turtles, alligators and crocodiles.

Visit Disney World – Disney with its four theme parks, two water parks, Downtown Disney and Wide World of Sports Complex offers something for everybody. You can easily spend a week at Disney facilities alone.

Salt and fresh water fishing – You can go saltwater or freshwater fishing to your hearts content in Florida. Try saltwater sport fishing for blue marlin, wahoo, sailfish, dolphin, kingfish, swordfish, yellowfin, blackfin tuna, redfish, bonefish, tarpon and numerous other sportfish.

Reef Snorkeling – The Florida Keys, at the southernmost tip of the United States , are one of the best places in the United States to go reef snorkeling.

If you have been thinking of rekindling the flame with the person you love, how about you try taking a vacation to one of the places discussed in this article. Which other place did you enjoy visiting with your partner? We’d love to hear from you.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

17 Awesome Places to Visit in the United States

12 Beautiful Places to Visit in Mexico

11 Best Things to Do in San Diego

Reykjavik Itinerary: 4 Spectacular Days in Iceland

Like this post? Share it on Pinterest

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Travel Resources

90 years of expert advice and inspiration, for every couple.

• Engagement Rings
• Wedding Bands
• Celebrity Weddings & News
• Wedding Planning
• Destination Wedding
• Invitations & Stationery
• Wedding Décor
• Flowers & Bouquets
• Food & Drink
• Wedding Cakes
• Photography
• Wedding Dresses
• Bridesmaid Dresses
• Makeup & Hair
• Accessories
• Groom Style
• Wedding Party Attire
• Wedding Guest Attire
• Bridal Fashion Week
• Skincare & Wellness
• Engagement Party
• Bridal Shower
• Bachelorette Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Registry Tips
• Anniversary Gifts
• Wedding Favors
• Friends & Family
• Marriage Proposal Ideas
• Married Life
• Love & Dating
• The Brides Team
• Editorial Guidelines
• Editorial Policy
• Terms of Use and Policies
• Privacy Policy
• Honeymoon Destinations

20 Adventure Honeymoon Destinations for Thrill-Seeking Couples

These exciting locales offer far more than just R&R.

Courtesy of GoTürkiye

Picture this: You and your partner tied the knot and you're ready for your next adventure, but you're not just looking for a getaway that affords you endless miles of sandy beaches and beautiful sunsets. You're the kind of couple who craves heart-pounding moments, who find romance in the rush of adrenaline, who want to spend more time on your feet exploring than in a fluffy robe at the spa . Where should you two thrill-seekers set off on a honeymoon? Though the traditional newlywed getaway tends to be synonymous with rest and relaxation, there are plenty of unique, beautiful locales that cater to couples who love to do .

Whether it's hiking through rainforests in Costa Rica , diving into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life in the Galapagos Islands, skiing down snow-covered slopes in Canada, or embarking on daring wildlife safaris in Africa , we found 20 honeymoon destinations promise to ignite the spirit of spontaneity in couples who share a passion for thrills. Consider one of these epic destinations if you want a memorable, action-packed post-nuptial vacation.

Zambia, Africa

Courtesy of Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara

Does the thought of zebras roaming free outside of your honeymoon suite pique your interest? Along with the typical African safari, honeymoons in Zambia can include a visit to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the thunderous Victoria Falls. The five-star Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara gets you super close, as it sits on the banks of the Zambezi River, with unlimited private access to the falls just a ten minute walk away. Newlyweds can take a helicopter ride right above the falls, take a dip in the "Devil's Pool," spot the Big Five on a river cruise, go water river rafting, or go jet boarding in the mighty rapids of the Batoka Gorge.

Lapland, Finland

Courtesy of Visit Levi

Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, is an active outdoor destination perfect for thrill-seeking, snow-loving honeymooners . Lapland is a winter wonderland, with once-in-a-lifetime arctic experiences for couples including aurora ice floating , husky sledding , and ice climbing. Experiencing the natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights while floating in the icy water in the middle of the night is an adrenaline rush like no other.

Italian Dolomites

Courtesy of Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda

The Italian Dolomites is an underrated honeymoon destination for active couples looking to enjoy adventure while still soaking up some European charm. From skiing to hiking through the UNESCO designated mountains and discovering small alpine villages, there’s endless memories to make. For the ultimate relaxation post-wedding, Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda has a new spa experience that takes place indoors in its 53,000 square foot spa (the largest in the alps!) and outdoors surrounded by nature around the resort. At Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa , newlyweds can embark on a scenic adventure through the Alpine meadows of Val Gardena, home to over 1,500 wildflowers.

Cappadocia, Turkiye

Cappadocia’s mystical landscapes are an idyllic honeymoon destination. Thanks to a combination of erosion and ancient volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago, the region’s topography is otherworldly. Thrill seekers can enjoy a number of memorable adventures from sunset horseback and ATV rides to sunrise hot air ballooning over Cappadocia’s mystical “fairy chimneys.”

Paracas, Peru

Courtesy of Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort

After trekking Machu Picchu, head to Peru’s best kept secret. Paracas is a coastal town known for its natural beauty, archeological significance, and vibrant marine ecosystem. Facing the Paracas National Reserve, Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort offers couples unique nature experiences around Ballestas islands with five-star service. The hotel can arrange honeymooners’ choice of daily activities such as marine wildlife yacht rides or drives through the Paracas Desert in a 4x4 truck.

Faroe Islands

Getty Images / Anadolu Agency / Contributor

Located halfway between Scotland and Iceland and made up of 18 mountainous islands in the north Atlantic Ocean, the Faroe Islands offer plenty of thrilling adventures for couples. Whether it's scuba diving through kelp forests and grottos, rock climbing and rappelling off the mountainous terrain, cold water surfing, or even cliff jumping, there is plenty to do when adventuring around the islands from land to sea. Given the untouched quality of nature, wildlife is in abundance throughout the islands, with visitors able to spot a variety of animals like sheep, seals, and even orcas.

Galápagos Islands

Courtesy of Pikaia Lodge

For opportunities to snorkel, hike, and interact with animals like nowhere else in the world, the Galapagos Islands is one of the best destinations for couples to get close to wildlife. A stay at Pikaia Lodge takes the newlywed adventure to the next level with top-tier exploration packages like kayaking along sea lions or snorkeling with (tame) sharks. Here, pairs can keep a lookout for some of the rarest creatures like giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies.

Courtesy of Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas

Head to Costa Rica for an adventure-focused destination, from ziplines to horseback riding to birdwatching. Located on the northern Pacific coast with miles of shoreline, Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas embodies the pura vida lifestyle. What really sets this destination apart is its thrill-seeking 80 kilometers of mountain biking, hiking trails, and popular triathlons. Couples who enjoy the finer things, indulge in complete privacy and unwind in an individual, private pool villa with hillside locations overlooking either the Guanacaste Coast or the Catalinas Islands.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Courtesy of Park Hyatt Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a vibrant and historic city that's best known as the gateway to the famous Angkor Archaeological Park that houses the stunning ruins of the ancient Khmer Empire. Adventure-seeking newlyweds can explore Angkor Wat; rent a bicycle and embark on a cycling tour through the picturesque countryside surrounding Siem Reap; try ziplining over the jungle canopy; or take a tour of a floating village. Park Hyatt Siem Reap is the most centrally located luxury hotel in the city and is the ideal place to explore the ancient ruins of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the surrounding bustling night bazaars.

Fuji, Japan

Fuji, Japan, is a honeymoon destination that combines iconic natural wonders like Mount Fuji with rich cultural experiences, offering a unique blend of adventure and tradition. At HOSHINOYA Fuji , couples are treated to the full glamping experience and given a backpack upon check-in, filled with camping essentials like a head flashlight, hand warmers, and camping snacks, while being whisked uphill to the property in a jeep. Adventurous activities in Fuji include Jyukai lava hiking, electric bicycle tours, and early morning canoe lessons in Lake Kawaguchi.

Courtesy of Tourism Fiji

A bucket-list destination for many, Fiji is a stunning and idyllic island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. Comprising an archipelago of more than 330 islands, Fiji is renowned for its natural beauty, crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, lush rainforests, and warm, welcoming culture. There’s a reason this locale is such a popular honeymoon destination , and part of the allure is the large amount of activities offered across the islands, such as hiking waterfalls, scuba diving, fishing, and other water sports.

Courtesy of Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

Not only does Oman offer miles of sprawling deserts to explore, but its mountain ranges of canyons and cliffs are a thrill-seekers dream. Perched atop Oman's Green Mountain, the five-star luxury hotel Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort is home to the Jabal Activity Wall, a daring 20-meter climbing route along rugged cliffs, while advanced rock climbers can tackle the new "Ultimate" and "Extreme" routes, featuring via ferrata, zip-lines, and canyon views. Couples can also mountain bike through desert cliffs, indulge in archery, dine on The Royal Edge's suspended glass platform, and unwind with spa rituals and stargazing.

The Maldives

Courtesy of Anantara Kihavah

The Maldives islands aren't just overwater bungalows and beaches. Surprisingly, it’s also great for aquatic-adventurers who want to swim with sharks, snorkel with Manta Rays, scuba dive with coral reefs, surf, or water ski.  Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas prides itself on luxury and relaxation, with unique action experiences for adventurous couples. It’s even home to the Maldives’ only Overwater Observatory where couples can stargaze and learn about the constellations with a cocktail in hand. At Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort you can learn to surf with one-on-one coaching. 

Alberta, Canada

Courtesy of Travel Alberta

Honeymooners can experience the year-round beauty of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta. Snowy peaks, waterfalls, blue lakes, and vast glaciers await, along with one of the world's largest dark sky preserves for stargazing. Thrill-seekers can embark on an exhilarating honeymoon journey from Banff to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway to spot wildlife or even go ice-climbing, heli-skiing, and snowboarding during the winter months. Don't miss exploring the Columbia Icefield, the largest Northern Hemisphere glacier field, with activities like hiking, camping, helicopter tours, ATV rides, and glacier walking.

Northern Territory, Australia

Courtesy of Tourism NT

This vast region of Australia’s Northern Territory is filled with stunning landscapes and wildlife. You can truly immerse in nature at the Kakadu National Park, with its cascading waterfalls, natural swimming pools, ancient rock art sites and diverse flora and fauna. From luxury wilderness lodges to private glamping sites, couples can unwind in style while enjoying the serenity of the outback. Whether it's stargazing under the clear desert skies, embarking on a thrilling 4WD Jeep adventure, or taking in the Aboriginal culture, The Northern Territory promises a honeymoon filled with romance and excitement. 

Courtesy of Turneffe Island Resort

Belize is home to countless beachy adventure opportunities, especially for those who are fascinated with the marine world. Most notably, the Great Blue Hole is a world-renowned destination for scuba divers, and it's located just off the coast from Belize City. For honeymooners, Turneffe Island Resort sets the stage for an intimate island getaway on a private island. Newlyweds can live the life of a castaway, spend their days with fins or fishing rods in hand, and seek respite in their coral island villas with private plunge pools. Scuba diving, snorkeling, and fly fishing are the best way to experience the biodiverse Turneffe Atoll.

Northern Iceland

Courtesy of Forest Lagoon

Iceland is a country rich in culture and natural wonders to explore. From buggy cruises across 800-year-old lava fields to experience the beauty of a glacier firsthand, to ice cave tours in the winter months, and flights over the occasional erupting volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula, thrill-seekers can find unparalleled and otherworldly adventures year round. One of the most romantic destinations for honeymooners is the Forest Lagoon in North Iceland. Using geothermal water from the mountain above, Vaðlaheiði, Forest Lagoon visitors are invited to bathe in large pools surrounded by the forest.

Telluride, Colorado

Courtesy of Auberge Resorts Collection

With beautiful national parks, whitewater canyons, and forests, Telluride is an adventurer’s basecamp for newlyweds. The destination is home to Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall, Bridal Veil Falls, making for great photo-ops. For gravity-defying thrills, Mountain Village’s Adventure Activity Center houses a bungee trampoline, intricate ropes course and giant hamster ball experience to walk on water. The destination’s luxury accommodation, Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection , offers private fly fishing lessons followed by a picnic lunch. To mix in slower-paced experiences, newlyweds can embark on a restorative Mountain Tea Trek inclusive of a private tea ceremony in the mountains of Telluride.

Courtesy of Miavana by Time + Tide

In perfect seclusion and with views of the Indian Ocean’s turquoise waters, Madagascar is just what honeymooners want after dealing with the hustle of the wedding. The island and its sole resort, Miavana by Time + Tide , offer an escape with nature. Picture lemurs swinging from trees, humpback whales seen in the distance, and chameleons among the island’s walkways. At Miavana, guests also have their pick of 14 ocean-front villas with floor to ceiling windows providing sea views and direct beach access. Couples can explore Madagascar’s unique wildlife, go on underwater excursions, and watch the sunsets.

Phuket, Thailand

Courtesy of Banyan Tree Phuket

As Thailand’s largest island, Phuket is a destination perfect for adventure-seeking newlyweds. Banyan Tree Phuket is the ultimate homebase for adventurous honeymooners, spanning across 1,000 acres of tropical parkland that seamlessly blends natural beauty with luxury. The property features all-pool villas encircling a lagoon, authentic and innovative culinary experiences (like sourcing fresh ingredients at Thalang local market to bring back to the resort’s kitchen to learn how to cook Thai food like a local), access to Laguna Golf Phuket,  island excursions and more. Fill your days with visits to the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary and PhraThong Temple, sightseeing and shopping in Phuket Old Town, island hopping aboard yachts and catamarans, or kayak tours through the surrounding lagoons and mangroves.

Related Stories

28 Islands That Are Perfect Tropical Honeymoon Destinations

23 Unique Bachelorette Party Destinations That Aren't Las Vegas

The 19 Best Bachelor Party Destinations

10 Unique Honeymoon Activities Around the World

Best All-Inclusive Honeymoon Resorts

The 50 Best Honeymoon Destinations in the World

The Best Honeymoon Destinations by Month

20 Romantic Napa Valley Honeymoon Hotels

The 10 Best Destinations for a Honeymoon in October

The 25 Best U.S. Honeymoon Destinations

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in the Maldives

20 Best Cities in the U.S. for a Romantic Getaway

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Puerto Rico

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Bora Bora

Best Hawaii Honeymoon Resorts

10 Winter Honeymoon Destinations That Aren't the Beach

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Romantic Getaways

The Best Weekend Getaways for Couples

Want to spice things up in your relationship? Then it's time to get out of town.

Patrick Tappe/EyeEm/Getty Images

Nothing keeps the sparks flying like traveling together. Navigating new places with your significant other while spending quality one-on-one time is a great way to deepen your bond and create lasting memories.

Whether for Valentine's Day, an anniversary, or just a long holiday weekend, why not go away together to a rustic lodge, laze on a tropical beach with an umbrella-topped beverage, or cheers to your love at a countryside winery somewhere warm and sunny? Whatever your idea of a romantic escape is, we'll help you get there with these great weekend destinations perfect for couples. Get ready for starry-eyed bliss.

Montreal, Canada

If you're seeking a European-esque destination without the transatlantic flight, head to Montreal. This sophisticated Canadian metropolis is rich with history, centuries-old architecture, and bustling French bistros.

Most tourists shy away from Montreal until spring, so those who enjoy a winter wonderland vibe can delight in a quieter visit full of cold-weather charms, like ice skating at Parc La Fontaine, dogsledding in Mont Tremblant, and guided nighttime snowshoeing on Mont Royal complete with beautiful views of the city lights. Travelers can then warm up with hot chocolate by a roaring fire at one of Old Montreal's cushy hotels.

After checking out the vibrant downtown scene, couples can treat themselves to an indulgent massage or facial at the luxurious Spa St. James at The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal, or enjoy cocktails and tapas at the W Montreal's Living Room . The sexy space and its relaxed vibe will set the mood for romance.

Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Just a short drive from many locations in the northeast, Watch Hill is an idyllic place to visit year round. For an intimate stay, hightail it to Ocean House , a grand 1868 Victorian oceanfront beauty and the crown jewel of the New England town. Couples can enjoy long walks on the private white-sand beach and canoodling in front of the stately stone fireplace, cocktail in hand. There's a farm-to-table restaurant on site, plus a prestigious cooking school offering guests gourmet classes and intimate tastings.

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is one of the Caribbean's best destinations for a romantic retreat. These easy-to-access islands — flights are under two hours from Miami and under four from New York — will have couples in paradise in no time.

For a dreamy place to call home for a few days, settle in at The Shore Club . The first resort on beautiful Long Bay Beach — the most private stretch of sand on the island of Providenciales — offers seclusion and modern amenities. Start your day on a paddle board over dazzling turquoise waters, lap up some much-needed R&R at four cabana-lined pools, and cap off your night with fresh seafood at SUI-REN, the resort's Japanese-Peruvian restaurant.

In between lounging, couples can embark on a lovely horseback ride along the white-sand beach or indulge in a stress-relieving spa treatment. And don't miss downtown Grace Bay, a hub for eateries, bars, shopping, and nightlife. There's so much on offer to refuel the spark in any relationship.

Palm Springs, California

Glamorized as Old Hollywood's vacation destination of choice, Palm Springs is still as hip as it was in Frank Sinatra's day. The desert oasis entices travelers with stylish resorts, world-class restaurants, and majestic desert views. It's a haven for hikers, adventure seekers, and golfers — with more than 100 area courses.

Try a backcountry Jeep tour through the San Andreas Fault Zone or make a trip to Joshua Tree National Park , about an hour's drive away. Looking to unwind? Soak in the natural healing waters at Desert Hot Springs or head to one of the area's many day spas for a hot-stone couples massage. Palm Springs also has a foodie scene, and many of the city's finest establishments offer patio dining under the stars.

For a relaxing staycation, book a suite at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage . With everything from clifftop dining to a luxe spa surrounded by the beautiful Santa Rosa Mountains, you won't have to leave the grounds to have an unforgettable weekend. There's postcard-worthy scenery in every direction, and we recommend taking it all in from a cabana at the pool while sipping an Arnold Palmer. The golf legend debuted the now-famous iced tea-lemonade drink in Palm Springs in the late '60s.

Walland, Tennessee

Take your love of adventure to new heights with a luxurious mountain retreat. Blackberry Mountain , a Relais & Châteaux resort nestled among 5,200 wondrous acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, is the perfect place to get cozy with your other half.

This rustic sanctuary balances a peaceful environment with active and wellness offerings. Outdoorsy couples can revel in everything from hiking, mountain biking, and candlelight yoga to relaxing forest baths, woodland meditation, and restorative spa treatments. After nourishing your mind and body, feed your soul at three one-of-a-kind restaurants that showcase Blackberry Farm's celebrated hospitality and culinary program.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston , called "Holy City" because of its long history of religious tolerance, is a beloved destination of many travelers due to its historic landmarks, cobblestone streets, booming food scene, and Southern charm.

Foodie couples will be in heaven: The culinary capital of the South boasts a myriad of standout spots and immersive experiences. Don't miss oysters at King Street's seafood stunner, The Ordinary , spicy fried chicken at Leon's Oyster Shop , and Texas-style brisket at Lewis Barbecue , just to name a few. For a post-dinner classic cocktail, belly up to The Bar & Patio at Husk . Fancy some bubbly? Check out the Champagne bar Camellias at Hotel Bennett.

Opt for a stay at the French Quarter Inn , a boutique gem in the heart of the historic district. At the end of a jam-packed (and no doubt delicious) day, the hotel's top-notch turndown service with a "pillow menu" — featuring seven different comfy options for resting your head — will ensure the sweetest dreams.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

The largest of the three Cayman Islands is the ultimate sanctuary for couples looking for a Caribbean beach oasis — at any pace. With warm, dry weather and fewer crowds than during the height of winter, early spring is an ideal time to visit Grand Cayman and its world-renowned Seven Mile Beach.

A range of water sports invites epic adventures surrounded by the island's sparkling waters. You can kayak through lush, tropical mangroves or charter a catamaran to Rum Point on the north coast. Want to indulge in some rest and relaxation with your beloved? Sun-drenched afternoons spent lounging on pink-sand beaches or entwined in a hammock will do the trick.

Grand Cayman's spectacular sunsets are a quintessential backdrop for passionate evenings. Catch magical views of the fiery spectacle at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa , followed by an exceptional dinner experience at Avecita with a custom chefs' counter tasting of seasonal, wood-fired fare that's unique to the Caribbean. Pro tip: snag a reservation in advance — there are only 30 seats and just one seating per night.

Paso Robles, California

Uncork that lovin' feeling with a jaunt to California 's third-largest wine region (following more famous territories, Napa and Sonoma). Nestled halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco along the state's central coast lies a vast rolling countryside speckled with vineyards, olive groves, farms, and ranches.

With its natural beauty and laid-back vibe, Paso Robles is a perfect stop for a relaxing long weekend. Wine is the main attraction here: Sip your way through cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel, merlot, and more at 200-plus wineries. Many tastings take place on sun-drenched outdoor spaces with breathtaking vistas, creating a next-level experience. Visitors tend to fall in love with Paso's chill ambiance, and lodging is typically more affordable than in California's more well-known wine regions.

If you get wined out — is that even a thing? — you can switch it up by sampling local olive oils, touring a craft brewery, or taking a dip in a hot spring. Downtown, you'll find interesting boutiques and great eateries. Stop by The General Store for honey, olive oil, soaps, and handmade goods from area producers to bring home.

Park City, Utah

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

What's more dreamy than cozying up by a fireplace in a snowy mountain lodge? Having local whiskey and chocolates in hand, of course. Park City is a winter wonderland rich with small-town charms, and it's quickly accessible from Salt Lake City International Airport.

Hit the slopes at two world-class resorts — Park City Mountain and Deer Valley — which offer some of the world's greatest ski conditions. In between runs on fresh powder, savor magnificent snow-capped landscapes and gourmet fare at several on-mountain pit stops. For a stellar après-ski situation, make your way to the ski-in, ski-out St. Regis Deer Valley resort for decadent hot chocolate, fireside s'mores, and craft cocktails.

Beyond mountain sports, Utah's historic mining town is like a holiday postcard come to life, full of perfect date activities like sleigh rides, ice skating, hot-air balloon rides, dogsledding, and shopping along historic Main Street, where the facades of many acclaimed restaurants and saloons are preserved from the 1880s. Unwind with a whiskey flight at Park City's own High West Distillery . For an excellent candlelit dinner featuring local live music, head to Riverhorse on Main , then saddle up to popular No Name Saloon Bar & Grill for a nightcap. There's so much for couples to see and do in "Winter's Favorite Town."

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Just a short drive south from the Cancun airport, Playa del Carmen is situated along the Yucatán's palm-lined Caribbean coastline. With its unspoiled natural setting and upscale hotels, Mexico's Riviera Maya is a first-rate vacation destination — and an ideal escape for lovebirds seeking warm weather.

If privacy and luxury is your speed, say "hola" to the area's most romantic resort: The five-star Rosewood Mayakoba . Set along the edges of a freshwater lagoon, the property features refined accommodations with over-the-top amenities, heated plunge pools, and in-room mezcal to spice things up. You'll also find three infinity pools sunken in the sand, an open kitchen for interactive culinary experiences, and a beachfront fire pit to curl up next to in the moonlight.

New Paltz, New York

Looking for a place that's a short drive from New York City but feels worlds away? Reserve a room at Mohonk Mountain House . Family-owned and -operated since 1869, this Victorian resort is perched on the the banks of crystal blue Lake Mohonk in New Paltz.

The grand, castle-like property offers couples an award-winning spa, farm-to-table cuisine, and a range of daily outdoor activities. In winter, you can go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on groomed trails and ice skating on the private pavilion. Warmer months bring horseback riding, canoeing, and hiking in the surrounding Shawangunk Ridge.

Leisurely, romantic days are also welcome: Sip hot chocolate and snuggle up by one of the stone fireplaces, soak in the outdoor heated mineral pool, or watch the sunset from rocking chairs on the porch. Just being with your sweetheart, surrounded by pristine mountain wilderness, is enough to make you fall in love all over again.

20 Epic Adventures and Dream Destinations for Your Couples Bucket List

A re you researching ideas for your couples bucket list? Discover dream destinations with inspiration for your bucket list of adventures, dreamy coastal escapes, and romantic European cities for getaways?

Discover amazing destinations for your getaways with the perfect amount of adventures for couples balanced with an ambiance of romance.

20 Adventures and Dream Destinations for Your Couples Bucket List

Are you looking for adventure ideas for couples? Maybe you need a weekend getaway as a couple to rekindle the romance.

Or perhaps you are empty nesters who love to travel the world together and want a little adventure as well?

Maybe you are searching for dream destinations for your honeymoon? US News and Travel ranks the top honeymoon destinations around the world . There is no better way to start your marriage than with a little bit of adventure. Start creating your bucket list of adventures today!

Some of these locations bring to mind romance, some adventure, and some simply shout, "Take your picture here!" —famous landmarks, historic cities, or destinations off the beaten path...these destinations are sure to inspire your couples bucket list.

Romantic European Cities

1. aix-en-provence, france.

Did you know that Aix-en-Provence in the  South of France makes a great choice for an off season getaway for an adventurous couple? Plan your visit in the fall or spring and you'll encounter fewer tourists, temperate weather, and a more relaxed vibe.

Bucket list of adventures to do in Aix-en-Provence:

• Stroll along the Cours Mirabeau .
• Plan your visit around the Christmas Market
• Visit Aix Cathedral
• Explore "Old Aix"
• If you have never had a beignets before, stop by PAUL bakery
• Visit the studio of Paul Cézanne where he worked for the last four years of his life
• Don't forget Camp des Milles —France’s only World War II internment and deportation camp

After a thorough discovery of Aix-en-Provence, plan for some amazing day trips to villages and towns around Aix-en-Provence. You won't be disappointed. Rent a car, pack a picnic lunch, and set off along the winding back roads of the French countryside to explore during your adventures as a couple.

Your hotel concierge will be a wealth of knowledge as you plan your days.

2. Florence, Italy

There is just something magical about Florence as a dream destination for getaways and adventure ideas for couples.

Some of the world's greatest artistic treasures find a home in the museums, palaces, and churches of Florence. Masterpieces from Botticelli, Correggio, Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Raffaello (to name a few Renaissance and 14th-century artists) are featured in the Uffizi Museum. Other treasures include:

• Michelangelo's David , you will find a replica in the Piazza della Signoria. The original is to be found in the Accademia Gallery .
• The Arno River and the Ponte Vecchio.
• The Corridoio Vasariano runs above the shops along the Ponte Vecchio. Meander across the bridge exploring the shops as you go.
• Set your sites on the Piazzale Michelangelo (Michelangelo Square) lookout point
• Boboli Gardens
• Visit the markets: Mercato Centrale, San Lorenzo Outdoor market, Mercato Nuovo, Mercato Sant'Ambrogio

3. Ghent, Belgium

You may not fully recognize the magic of Ghent , one of my favorite dream destinations, until you emerge from your hotel after a delicious European breakfast of pastries and breads, fruit, sliced meats and cheeses.

Step into a storybook setting of Ghent with the architecture, the canal, the cobbled streets, the smell, and the beautiful sunshine highlighting Korenlei (street) next to the canal in the center of the historic district. The sights and sounds are simply amazing.  

During your visit to Ghent, be sure to see:

• St. Bavo's Cathedral
• St. Nicholas' Church
• The canal on a boat tour
• Gravensteen or Castle of the Counts
• St. Michael's Bridge
• St. Bavo's Abbey
• Vrijdagmarkt (Friday Market) in the city square
• Old town Ghent in the evening

4. Lucerne, Switzerland

When you add Lucerne, Switzerland to your couples bucket list, you'll discover some amazing adventures. Adventure ideas for couples?

• Stroll along Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge—a famous landmark in Switzerland)
• Explore Old Town
• Hike on Rigi Kulm
• Find the Lion of Lucerne
• Cruise on Lake Lucerne
• Paraglide from Mount Pilatus

Need more ideas? Explore my recommendations for 20 super things to do in Lucerne, Switzerland .

The palm trees and sunshine are a welcome sight in the off season when you explore the Republic of Malta. Chris and I were delighted to find some pretty amazing things to do in Malta and the neighboring island of Gozo.

Be sure to include Malta as one of your coastal escapes.

• Visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens
• Explore Blue Hole at Dwejra on the island of Gozo
• Visit Marsaxlokk Bay
• Explore the fortress of Mdina
• Snorkel or Dive at the HMS Maori
• Explore the Lascaris War Rooms via tunnels under the Barrakka Gardens
• Ride Horses at Golden Bay
• Explore ruins of the Ggantija Temples on Gozo
• Visit Ta’ Qali Craft Village

6. Milan, Italy

While long considered one of the “fashion capitals” of the world, as the 3rd largest city in Italy, Milan is also thought of as one of the  most romantic cities  in all of Europe. Perfect for a couples bucket list!

Instagrammable places to see for a dream escape weekend:

• Book a tour to see  The Last Supper  painting by Leonardo da Vinci
• Tour the  rooftop of the Duomo
• Attend a performance at the world-famous  Teatro alla Scala  or Scala Theatre
• Wander along  Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II . Find the bull mosaic, place your heel inside the hole, and spin 3 times. Tradition says to make a wish and hope it comes true!

My wish? Come back to Italy for more adventure and travel with my husband!

7. Mt. Pilatus, Switzerland

You can experience Pilatus as a day trip or have a truly  fantastical couple’s getaway  and spend the night at either Hotel Bellevue or the Hotel Pilatus Kulm.

Check availability and Book Hotel Pilatus Kulm

If you plan to visit Mt. Pilatus as a day trip, many tourists ride either the gondola or cogwheel train to the top of Mt. Pilatus and explore, hike, and take pictures. Be sure to check the  timetable  for the last trip down the mountain each day.

It is a loooooong way down the mountain if you have to hike!

Chris and I stayed at Hotel Pilatus Kulm overnight and LOVED it. It was getting close to the  end of the summer season , so when the last Dragon Ride and cogwheel train left the top of Mount Pilatus, the atmosphere was quiet and relaxed.

If you are looking for adventure ideas for couples in dream destinations, how about paragliding from Mt. Pilatus? It was EPIC!

>> Related: Paragliding Switzerland's Mt. Pilatus: An Epic Adventure for Couples

8. Paris, France

As the City of Love , Paris is often considered to be one of the most romantic dream destinations for couples in the world . Is Paris on YOUR couples bucket list? Not only is Paris great for romance, but it also offers getaways and adventures as a couple for those who love to explore the world together.

Need some ideas and reasons to visit Paris ? Discover things to do in Paris during your romantic adventures as a couple:

• Plan to capture Instagrammable places all over Paris
• Visit one of the many churches and cathedrals of Paris
• Stroll hand in hand through the Jardin du Luxembourg
• Spend an afternoon exploring The Louvre
• Book a river cruise along the Seine

>> Related: 15 Dreamy Reasons to Visit Paris

9. Pompeii, Italy

Pompeii has been on my bucket list of adventures before I even knew there were such things as bucket lists.

When deciding on dream destinations in Italy, I highly recommend a visit to Pompeii . Even if you are planning weekend trips in Italy, Pompeii should be one of your destinations.

Chris and I walked into Pompeii and it was… awesome, inspiring, magnificent.

We toured the men’s and women’s ancient baths, the basilica, homes, the colosseum, and the theater, the forum, public toilets, restaurants, bars, and inns.

We spent four hours wandering through the streets of Pompeii and loved every minute of the adventure.

10. Prague, Czechia

No trip to Prague would be complete without visiting the main tourist sites during your adventures as a couple in the land of Bohemia.

• See the Prague Astronomical Clock
• Tour the Prague Castle
• Peruse the Old Town Square
• Walk across the Charles Bridge
• Find the Prague Golden Lane
• Explore Queen Anne's Summer Palace
• Search for Cocovan  on the Střelecký Ostrov under the bridge
• Visit the Jewish Quarter

11. Riquewihr, France

Take time for a detour to one of the most charming European towns in France —Riquewihr.

You will feel as though you are stepping into a fairy tale, which makes it one of the best dream destinations for your couples bucket list.

Riquewihr is encircled by a double fortification wall with ruins of the 13th-century ramparts surrounding a portion of the city. You discover its charm the moment you step through the arched entryway.

The scene before you is delightful and picturesque. Riquewihr is classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France . The allure of Riquewihr can be found in the wandering.

Riquewihr's main street, the Rue Charles de Gaulle , is lined with Renaissance homes, courtyards, and inviting alleyways. Alleyways that simply invite exploration.

12. Siena, Italy

Siena is a short one hour and 15 minutes bus ride from Florence along a beautiful route skirted with wineries dotting the mountain sides. Bellissimo . Fall in love with the Italian countryside as you find more adventures ideas for couples.

After exiting the bus, you will need to climb up to the Central Square.

There is so much to explore in Siena; purchase the  OPA SI Pass  and explore all of the museums in the Cathedral Complex:

• Cathedral (with art treasures by Michelangelo, Donatello, and Bernini and its amazing marble-inlay floor)
• Piccolomini Library
• Baptistry of San Giovanni
• Museo dell’Opera
• Panoramic terrace of the Duomo Nuovo (unfinished facade of the cathedral)
• San Bernardino Oratory
• Santa Maria della Scala hospital and museum
• Old Hospital

Plan to climb up to the unfinished facade of the church carefully navigating the narrow circular stairs until the breathtaking view of Siena unfolds around you in 360 degrees of glory. The view is totally worth it and may be a highlight of your bucket list of adventures.

Beach Escapes

13. cinque terre, italy.

If you are looking for  fun AND romance along with the best things to do in the town of Cinque Terre  on a getaway for couples, plan to stay for  at least  two to three days. Especially if you really want to capture the magic of Cinque Terre… and each other.

7 Awesome adventure ideas for couples in Cinque Terre:

• Sunbathe on the beaches of Monterosso
• Explore all five towns
• Hike from Monterosso to Vernazza
• Enjoy delicious food
• Savor the gelato
• Enjoy the market days
• Book a sunset cruise

14. Cruise to the Caribbean

Hey everyone!  Are you ready to soak up some Vitamin Sea?

Scheduling a cruise to the Caribbean offers fun adventure ideas for couples and romantic retreats all in one. Pick your dream destinations to hot and sunny beaches in tropical places . Why should you add adventures at sea to your couples bucket list?

• Couples spa retreat onboard
• Beach escapes for excursions
• Romantic dinners for two in your cabin
• Movie under the stars
• Watch the sunset from your balcony
• Leave love notes for each other
• Adventurous excursions: zipline tours, rafting in Jamaica, snorkeling, jeep tours

15. Moorea, Tahiti

Chris and I recently returned from a dream vacation in Tahiti. It was outstanding, amazing, terrific. All the best adjectives.

We stayed in an overwater bungalow in Moorea and explored the island with this bucket list of adventures:

• Snorkel off the deck of our overwater bungalow
• Visit the Tiki Village Cultural Center
• Rent an e-Bike or scooter to explore the island
• Book snorkel excursions and swim with black tip sharks
• Rent a jet ski
• Paddleboard

16. Oregon Coast

Any time of year is a stunning time to visit the Oregon coast for fantastic adventures as a couple.

Your days along the coast may simply include strolling hand in hand along the beach for an early morning walk or a quiet afternoon meandering as you look for seashells.

If you are searching for a little more adventure, numerous hikes along the coast are available with varying skill levels. For instance, for an easy 0.5 mile trail, you can hike the Cape Meares Lighthouse Loop just outside of Tillamook, Oregon.

For something a little more vigorous, explore the Cape Meares Beach Trail. It is a 1.5 mile out and back trail. Be sure to check the tide schedule and plan your time on the beach at low tide.

Don't forget to add a short side trip to the Tillamook Cheese Factory and enjoy a scoop or two of their delicious ice cream... followed by another walk along the beach.

Today, there are just 11 lighthouses that remain along the Oregon Coast. Plan to visit them all or choose a few. If you are in Bandon for the chocolate, the Coquille River Lighthouse is not too far away.

At the end of the day, head back to the beach. There is just something about the crashing of the surf and spectacular sunsets that helps to rekindle connections with your partner...and maybe a little romance.

17. Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica

If you are looking for a beach that  IS  beautiful, rarely crowded, and a destination with calm ocean waters, Playa Hermosa is the beach for you! You’ll find plenty of vacation rentals and condos a short distance away.

Dig your toes in the sand, sit back and relax as you enjoy the pleasant, tropical climate of Costa Rica.

Adventure ideas for couples in Costa Rica include:

• Hike through the tropical rainforest
• Get a massage
• Go horseback riding
• Hike to a waterfall
• Learn to surf
• Book a sunset catamaran tour

18. St. John, US Virgin Islands

Whether you are visiting St. John in the US Virgin Islands as a destination or simply on a ship excursion, you will be mesmerized by the beautiful sandy beaches and clear water.

Trunk Beach is a must-see on many couples bucket lists for the beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear water, snorkeling along the snorkel trail, showers and bathrooms along with food, drinks, and chair rentals. Trunk Bay does have a lifeguard… as well as a minimal  entrance fee .

There are a variety of amazing beaches in St. John, but if you have to choose just one for your bucket list of adventures, you won't be disappointed with Trunk Bay.

River Rafting Adventures

19. buena vista, colorado.

If you are a lover of all things outdoors, whether it is hiking, biking or water adventures,  Buena Vista has a sport with your name on it .

In fact, all of  Colorado is known for its abundant outdoor adventures , great landscapes, epic mountain views, and amazing wilderness areas. Isn’t it about time you add Colorado to your couples bucket list?

If you are looking for something new, exciting and memorable, you can’t go wrong with a white water rafting Buena Vista adventure. Whether you are looking for a gentle beginner rafting adventure through Class I & II white water or a more advanced Class IV technical experience, you can find some of the best white water rafting in USA along the Arkansas River in Buena Vista.

Chris booked our white water rafting adventure on the Numbers—a Class IV section along the Arkansas River. It is considered  “advanced” . When we arrived, we found that we were the only two that had signed up for this trip. Score!

20. Wellington, New Zealand

Interested in Class 5 white water rafting? An excursion to the heart of New Zealand for one of the best getaways and adventures as a couple that you could imagine should be on your bucket list.

Not only is the Rangitikei River popular for white water rafting but also for jet boating, kayaking, and fishing.

Experience the exhilaration of class three to class five rapids for two and half hours of fun if you opt for the morning trip, longer if a full day trip is on your schedule.

Don’t forget your  sunglasses if you are going to be on the river all day long as well as your sunglass strap to avoid losing your glasses in the river!

Check out Adventure Gear on Amazon

Tips for Choosing A Place to Stay for Your Getaways and Adventures as a Couple

Whether you are using reward points to plan your accommodations, booking a hotel room , or planning a stay at a vacation rental, here are a few questions to consider—especially if your dream escape will last longer than a week.

• Is breakfast included?
• Are your accommodations close to the main tourist areas?
• Will you need to rent a car? Is parking included?
• Are you staying within your budget?
• Will you need to do laundry?
• Are you interested in making your own meals?
• How many flights will you have to climb to reach your accommodation (in Europe the first floor is actually on the second level)?
• Is there an elevator in the building?
• Is A/C mentioned in the rental listing? If not, it likely is not included. Is that important?
• Are your accommodations in a safe part of the city?
• Have you checked the cancellation policies for all of your lodgings?

Be sure to read the reviews and do your research to see what previous guests have to say about the accommodations.

Depending upon the length of your stay, you might find yourselves needing to make multiple lodging reservations in multiple cities. If you can, choose a place to stay for 4 to 5 days, explore the area, and then move on to another location.

Ask Each Other Questions on Your Dream Escape

You will find that time together as a couple is time well spent. In fact, print a list of Fun Questions to Ask Your Partner as You Travel to learn something new and spark the conversation.

After one, five, or twenty-five years together, you may be surprised to find out that there are still things you can discover about each other. If you are newly engaged (or even just dating), these questions are perfect for digging deep and covering the questions that are vital to knowing each other.

>> Related: Romantic Instagram Captions for Couples Who Travel

Frequently Asked Questions

What is one of the most popular dream destinations in the world, how can you make a couples weekend getaway special.

Plan surprises, bring snacks, ask your partner what they would like to do, and be sure to pack the essentials.

How often should a couple vacation together?

I would recommend that couples plan  at least one vacation a year  together to focus on each other and on strengthening their relationship.

Love this Post? Pin it!

Final thoughts on 20 epic adventures and dream destinations for your couples bucket list.

If you have ever thought to yourself, "I do believe it is time for another adventure," consider making plans to go as a couple.

Getaways and adventures as a couple are an exciting way to add a little romance in your life, reconnect with your sweetheart, and explore the world.

You may also enjoy these articles...

• 101 Love Notes for Your Favorite Traveler
• 5 Spectacular Days in the South of France
• 7 Best Things to Do In Cinque Terre on a Romantic Couples Getaway
• How to Use Travel Rewards to Plan Adventures
• 14 Genius Gadgets for Travel
• 15 Dreamy Reasons to Visit Paris
• 20 Epic Adventures for Your Adventure Bucket List

Protect Your Trip »

21 most romantic getaways in florida.

For couples who love the beach, Florida is the ultimate destination for a romantic getaway.

Romantic Getaways in Florida

Courtesy of Marriott Harbor Beach Resort

The Marriott Harbor Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale provides all the essentials for a romantic getaway in Florida.

From world-renowned beaches bordered by small towns and big cities to island escapes and even all-inclusive resorts , Florida offers a seemingly endless variety of destinations perfect for an escape with your partner. To help you choose your next romantic getaway in Florida, we've rounded up the best of the best.

St. Augustine

• Bungalows Key Largo
• Little Palm Island Resort & Spa
• The Don CeSar

Miami Beach

Sanibel island, fort lauderdale.

• Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Henderson Park Inn

Amelia Island

• The Breakers Palm Beach
• JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
• Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach
• The Boca Raton Beach Club
• Cheeca Lodge & Spa
• Islamorada Resort Collection
• White Elephant Palm Beach

Courtesy of Casa Monica Resort & Spa

Head to St. Augustine if you and your soul mate appreciate history. Start your visit exploring Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where you and your significant other can drink from the mythical spring early settlers believed had anti-aging properties. Then, spend some time at the aptly named Old Jail before visiting the town's famous Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. Round out your trip by signing up for one of St. Augustine's spooky ghost tours .

If you and your beau would rather explore at your own pace, plan a leisurely stroll up and down St. George Street. This downtown, pedestrian-only thoroughfare is lined with old-world structures that house boutique shops, eateries and art galleries, including local favorites like Whetstone Chocolates and the Spanish Bakery & Café. Later, you'll have the chance to fall in love all over again on a romantic sunset cruise , amid a horse-drawn carriage ride or after climbing to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse.

Where to stay: After a day of sightseeing, share a bottle of wine and gourmet international cuisine at lovebird-approved restaurants like Collage and Michael's before retreating to one of several enchanting properties located within the town center. The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens boasts impeccable service, beautiful grounds, and well-appointed rooms and suites, which feature charming details like fireplaces, coquina walls and rain showers; verandas are also offered in select suites.

Meanwhile, the Casa Monica Resort & Spa , an Autograph Collection property, appeals to couples in search of old-world charm, spacious accommodations and an exclusive atmosphere (thanks in part to the pool cabanas and private beach club).

Bungalows Key Largo: Key Largo

Courtesy of Bungalows Key Largo

Located on the sun-kissed island of Key Largo, around 70 miles south of Miami, Bungalows Key Largo appeals to couples in search of an adults-only, all-inclusive escape . One of few all-inclusive resorts in Florida, the resort offers luxuries spanning an in-town courtesy car to complimentary valet parking, along with amenities such as free cruiser bikes and daily yoga sessions. While here, go for a dip in one of two outdoor pools, relax on 1,000 feet of private beach, or get out on the water in one of the resort's kayaks or paddleboards. For an additional cost, lovebirds can even pamper themselves with decadent treatments like a bamboo massage or mineral bath at the resort's on-site spa.

For dinner, enjoy coastal Mexican cuisine with your beau underneath a bevy of palm trees at the beachfront Sea Señor restaurant, then grab a cocktail under the Sunset Tiki Bar's thatched roof. When you're ready to bed down, you'll get to kick back in an exclusive bungalow that comes with a pillow-top mattress, rain shower and private veranda with a soaking tub. All bungalows feature garden or ocean views, but for a separate sitting area with a sofa bed, opt for the King Bungalow. For additional romantic perks, Bungalows Key Largo offers vacation packages for special occasions ranging from honeymoons and babymoons to engagement and elopement celebrations. With the popular "Romance Package," couples will receive extras like chocolate-covered strawberries, a bottle of sparkling wine and rose petals upon arrival.

Address: 99010 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa: Little Torch Key

Courtesy of Little Palm Island Resort & Spa

Twosomes who crave peace and quiet will love visiting Little Palm Island Resort & Spa , a Noble House property. Located roughly 25 miles northeast of Key West on Little Torch Key, this adults-only property is solely accessible by seaplane or boat. Inside all of the British West Indies-inspired bungalow suites, visitors will discover details like vaulted ceilings, private decks and indoor-outdoor showers. Dial up the romance even further by adding on a turndown package that includes perks like a bottle of Champagne, a drawn bath for two and chocolate-covered strawberries. But while the resort is certainly laden with luxury, what makes Little Palm Island's suites ideal for couples is what they lack: Guests won't find TVs or telephones inside the accommodations, an intentional move by the resort to help travelers disconnect from everyday stress.

When you're ready to venture outside your digs, you can arrange off-site fishing excursions, scuba diving outings and more through the concierge or take advantage of the resort's countless amenities. The on-site spa offers a variety of treatments, including couples massages and an aromatherapy bath, while the beach is the place to go for activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. The outdoor pool also features front-row views of the ocean, lounge chairs, and a bar that serves tropical cocktails and casual bites. For more substantial meals showcasing fresh seafood, grab a bite to eat in the resort's dining room. Enhance the mood even further by arranging a private dinner on the beach at sunset.

Address: 28500 Overseas Highway, Little Torch Key, FL 33042

The Don CeSar: St. Pete Beach

Courtesy of The Don CeSar

Opened in the late 1920s as a tribute to real estate scion Thomas Rowe's lost love, The Don CeSar regularly welcomes vacationing couples to St. Pete Beach, a community just west of St. Petersburg . Upon entering the "Pink Palace," you and your sweetheart will feel as if you've stepped back in time thanks to the property's old-Florida details, such as retro tile floors, wicker furnishings and palm leaf print. This Roaring '20s vibe is especially apparent in the lobby bar, which plays live jazz music and serves a selection of sophisticated cocktails and small plates. For a more romantic setting, grab a sweet treat at the ice cream parlor before enjoying a sunset, or cuddle by one of The Rowe Bar's outdoor fire pits. Maritana, the main restaurant, is the place to go if your ideal date night involves dressing up and savoring gourmet seafood.

Later, you can go for a dip in one of two heated outdoor pools, pamper yourselves at the full-service spa or borrow loaner bicycles to check out nearby attractions like Fort De Soto Park, a 1,136-acre park that sits a little more than 5 miles south of the property. When it's time to bed down, you and your partner will enjoy charming digs decorated with blush-pink tones and beds dressed in plush linens. Some previous guests said basic rooms are small, so for more elbow room, reserve one of the hotel's penthouses, whose two-story layouts come with kitchenettes and furnished balconies.

Address: 3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

Getty Images

For a dose of art and culture in a chic atmosphere, travel to bustling Miami Beach . In this ritzy seaside community just east of Miami, you'll discover miles of gorgeous sand and boulevards lined with upscale shops. Begin your vacation sunbathing at Lummus Park, or head north to Haulover Park for some fun in the sun sans clothing. If you and your partner would rather get out on the water than gaze at it from the shore, you can sign up for a private sailing charter ; take to the skies on a parasailing trip ; or rent water sports equipment like paddleboards, Jet Skis and powerboats through a reputable outfitter like Miami Tours & Water Adventures.

After soaking up some rays, get a dose of contemporary art at The Bass – a top Miami-area museum – then explore the lush Miami Beach Botanical Garden or admire the incredible structures that constitute the Art Deco Historic District on a guided tour. If your stomachs start to grumble, sit down for an Italian-inspired meal in Casa Tua's garden; the tropical plants, hanging lanterns and candles will help set the mood. Another top dining option involves savoring plates of salmon tartare, wagyu beef gyoza or truffle risotto at the rooftop restaurant Juvia.

Where to stay: In the evening, hang your hats at Fontainebleau Miami Beach , one of the best hotels in the city. Past guests praised the attentive staff and clean accommodations (which include amenities like iMac computers and minibars) but said it was the property's on-site facilities that set it apart from the rest. Duos can swim in one of 11 pools, lounge on the beach and enjoy a luxurious spa treatment, among other activities.

Few Florida destinations are as serene and laid-back as Sanibel Island , which continues to make a remarkable recovery following damages sustained from Hurricane Ian in 2022. Situated about 25 miles southwest of Fort Myers on Florida's Gulf Coast, Sanibel Island appeals to couples seeking rest and relaxation. While there are no shortage of fun activities – such as shopping along Periwinkle Way or bird-watching at the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge – lovebirds will likely spend the bulk of their time at Sanibel Island's beautiful beaches. Turner Beach and Blind Pass Beach are especially popular for shelling, while the shoreline by the Sanibel Island Lighthouse is an excellent place to spot wild dolphins.

Where to stay: Local accommodations here run the gamut from charming cottages and inns to beachfront resorts and hotels. Couples who prefer boutique-style properties will love staying at Island Inn , which features an outdoor pool, two tennis courts, a restaurant and 500-plus feet of pristine shoreline.

Take your partner to Fort Lauderdale if having a mix of things to see and do is just as important as sticking to a budget. Spend some time lounging on the beach – Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Beach earn rave reviews from visitors for their crystal-clear waters, clean sand, and proximity to restaurants and hotels. You may also want to prioritize Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, a lush oasis in the heart of the city where couples can rent tandem kayaks and pedal boats. Outside the park, you'll find countless other ways to keep yourselves occupied, whether you're exploring the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District on a bike tour or paddleboarding along Fort Lauderdale's famous waterways.

Once you've worked up an appetite, head to traveler-approved eateries like Kaluz Restaurant for fresh seafood, premium cuts of meat, and comfort classics like burgers and flatbreads. Diners also loved Steak 954 and Casablanca Cafe, which serves up specialties such as baked escargot. Meanwhile, couples seeking an enchanting ambiance can opt for an exclusive gondola dinner cruise along the city's New River.

Where to stay: Check in to the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort , where you and your partner can lounge by the pool, enjoy a couples massage at the spa and go for a stroll on the beach at sunset. For a romantic dinner, make reservations at the hotel's signature restaurant 3030 Ocean, which specializes in fresh seafood and oceanfront views.

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Lake Buena Vista

Matt Stroshane | Courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

Reserve a room at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa if you and your significant other are kids at heart. Unlike other properties on the Walt Disney World Resort grounds, this hotel – situated less than 25 miles southwest of central Orlando – offers an opulent setting made for couples. While you and your partner will undoubtedly want to take advantage of the Grand Floridian's easy access to Magic Kingdom, which is only one stop away on Disney's monorail, the hotel's Victorian-style architecture and upscale amenities shouldn't be overlooked. Inside the grandiose lobby, sweethearts can forget about life's stresses while listening to live piano music. What's more, the hotel's two zero-entry pools provide a quiet atmosphere ideal for adults. And if you're feeling nostalgic, you can participate in property activities like making s'mores by a fire pit or watching movies beneath the stars.

Following a day of relaxing or Orlando theme park hopping, get dressed up for a romantic evening on-site. You can start the night toasting to your love at the Enchanted Rose, an elegant lounge with four areas inspired by "Beauty and the Beast," including an outdoor patio and a library. Then, treat yourselves to dinner at Cítricos. Featuring decor inspired by the film "Mary Poppins Returns," this upscale restaurant serves mouthwatering Mediterranean-influenced cuisine. To explore Orlando's culinary offerings outside of the hotel, guests can reserve a table at traveler-approved restaurants Kres Chophouse or Capa. After filling up on gourmet fare, retreat to your guest room or suite. You can upgrade to an Outer Building suite with a direct view of Cinderella Castle, or choose a club-level room for extras like health club access and admission to a lounge with complimentary refreshments.

Address: 4401 Floridian Way, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Henderson Park Inn: Destin

You may not immediately think of Destin when planning a romantic getaway in Florida, but this quiet town on the Florida Panhandle makes a perfect escape for twosomes. In addition to offering ample outdoor activities, such as fishing and sunset cruises , this laid-back town overlooking the Gulf of Mexico is where you'll find the Henderson Park Inn . At this adults-only, all-inclusive Florida hotel, you and your sweetheart will have access to all kinds of amenities, including loaner bicycles, daily happy hour beverages and the use of a fitness center. You can also check out the hotel's sister property – Henderson Beach Resort – to lounge by the upper-deck pool or unwind at the spa.

When hunger starts to set in, make your way to the Henderson Park Inn's Beach Walk Café to savor delectable seafood and meat dishes. (Keep in mind, though, that the all-inclusive plan does not cover dinner here.) With the restaurant's "Toes in the Sand" private dining experience, you and your partner can enjoy an intimate sunset dinner on the beach. Once you've finished your meal, retire to one of the hotel's plush rooms or suites. The Presidential Suite offers amenities ranging from a whirlpool tub to a spacious private balcony, while the Studio Suite is the only suite equipped with a kitchenette.

Address: 2700 Scenic Highway 98, Destin, FL 32541

Located less than 35 miles northeast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island draws twosomes in search of secluded shores, lush vegetation and ample activities. Spend your visit lounging on the 13 miles of beaches – complete with soft Appalachian quartz sand – and strolling hand in hand beneath Spanish moss-covered oak trees. For a more active getaway, explore the island on a 6-mile bike ride through Fort Clinch State Park before hitting the links at one of Amelia Island's five world-renowned golf courses. In the evening, lovers can head to Peters Point Beach Front Park for a sunset horseback ride along the coast, and round out the night with a romantic dinner for two at traveler-approved restaurants like Le Clos or Salt at the Ritz-Carlton, an AAA Five Diamond award recipient.

Where to stay: For those looking to pamper themselves during their vacation, Amelia Island offers a variety of luxurious hotels. Bed down at The Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island for access to a spa with sea-inspired treatments, multiple pools with private cabanas and an oceanfront tennis court; the accommodations here feature romantic touches like terraces with fire tables and plush bathrobes. Or, couples can opt for a stay at Omni Amelia Island Resort , a 1,350-acre property that boasts an adults-only infinity pool, a spa, a steakhouse, and 400-plus guest rooms with ocean-facing balconies or patios.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

The Breakers Palm Beach: Palm Beach

This colossal South Florida property – which has been a fixture in Palm Beach since 1896 and sits less than 2 miles from downtown West Palm Beach – features an extravagant appearance that pays homage to Rome's Villa Medici. After driving down the palm-lined driveway at  The Breakers , past manicured lawns and a Florentine Fountain, step into the grandiose lobby to admire beautiful Venetian chandeliers hanging from painted ceilings. Though standard accommodations come outfitted with everything you need for a romantic date night in (think: minibars, plush bathrobes and flat-screen TVs), you may want to upgrade to a Flagler Club room or suite to make your stay extra memorable. These accommodations, which sit on two restricted floors of the resort, come with exclusive perks like chauffeured Tesla car service, a cocktail hour, and access to a private lounge and rooftop terrace.

Outside your room or suite, you'll find numerous amenities made for twosomes. Head to the resort's private beach to enjoy activities like paddleboarding, kayaking and surfing; lounge by the adults-only infinity pool; tee off on the state's oldest golf course; or treat yourselves to a personalized couples massage at the spa. When you're ready to eat, sit down for a meal at the property's steakhouse or seafood bar, both of which earn rave reviews from past patrons. Another top dining option is nearby Renato's, an Italian-inspired eatery with an enchanting outdoor courtyard.

Address: 1 S. County Road, Palm Beach, FL 33480

JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort: Marco Island

Courtesy of JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort

At the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort in southwest Florida, you and your significant other will instantly feel at ease while lounging on the resort's 3-mile-long private beach or challenging each other to a game of tennis on the outdoor courts. The resort also houses a 24,000-square-foot spa, where you can unwind in the steam room or soothe aching muscles during a couples massage. Should you crave a Caribbean-inspired cocktail or bite to eat, head to the on-site Quinn's on the Beach – in the evenings you can witness both a gorgeous sunset and fire dancers putting on an incredible performance.

Most accommodations here offer balconies that face the Gulf, but if you don't mind splurging for newer digs and additional privacy, previous visitors suggest booking a Paradise by Sirene room or suite. Located on the top four floors of a private tower that only permits guests ages 21 and older, these accommodations include extras like access to an adults-only rooftop pool, daily breakfast for two and concierge services in their nightly rates. Guests can also enjoy the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, Tesoro, that offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Address: 400 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island, FL 34145

Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach: Sunny Isles Beach

Courtesy of Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach

Feel worlds away from busy Miami Beach without sacrificing proximity to its top attractions by staying at the serene Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach . Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from its perch in Sunny Isles Beach, a town situated about 10 miles north of South Beach, this award-winning property offers all kinds of relaxation-focused amenities. Guests can arrange a treatment in the ESPA-affiliated spa's Royal Spa Suite, equipped with a two-person rainforest shower and a private wraparound balcony. Then, reserve a cabana for additional privacy and pampering while enjoying the adults-only pool, or sink your toes in the sand at the 400-foot-long beach. To satiate your appetite, surprise your beau with a picnic or private dinner on the beach. A highly regarded Italian restaurant with charming terraces and an excellent selection of wines is also located on-site.

Past guests praised the hotel's kind and attentive staff, and many said the resort's smaller size added to its tranquil atmosphere. Standard rooms are spacious at 600 square feet and feature everything from Jacuzzi tubs to minibars to private balconies. Meanwhile, suites offer even more square footage and additions like dining chairs and separate living rooms. Enhance your stay by booking the resort's "Ultimate Spa Package for Two," which covers an oceanfront room or suite, four spa treatments, a welcome amenity, and a spa lunch for you and your partner, among other perks.

Address: 17875 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160

A romantic getaway to Naples is all about spending time outside while also enjoying the finer things in life. In this luxe coastal town on Florida's Gulf Coast, you'll discover uncrowded beaches, world-renowned golf courses, and an abundance of high-end shops interspersed between alfresco dining and boutique art galleries. Stroll hand in hand along a favorite beach, or venture approximately 30 miles northwest of town to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, where you can admire verdant vegetation and spot alligators, otters and more. If you'd rather surround yourself with water views and sunsets, you'll have your pick of beautiful beaches, including Vanderbilt Beach Park and Clam Pass Park.

Balance your time in nature with some retail therapy. Downtown's Fifth Avenue South is where you'll find a variety of locally owned art galleries, clothing boutiques and specialty shops. Later, satisfy your appetite at one of the best restaurants in Naples ; top romantic eatery options include BALEEN, Campiello's or Bleu Provence with its extensive wine collection.

Where to stay: Because Naples offers a ritzier vibe than most beach destinations in Florida, you can expect to pay a pretty penny for accommodations here. Those who love to golf should seek out a room or suite at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón , which features two Greg Norman-designed courses at its famous Tiburón Golf Club, plus an outdoor pool and restaurant that overlook the links. For lodging closer to the water, choose the centrally located Inn on Fifth . Situated a few blocks east of the beach on Fifth Avenue South, this property offers accommodations with Juliet balconies or terraces, a spa, and a rooftop pool.

The Boca Raton Beach Club: Boca Raton

Courtesy of The Boca Raton Beach Club

Couples who want to spoil themselves while on vacation should consider a room or suite at The Boca Raton Beach Club , part of the larger Boca Raton resort. Nestled on a private peninsula in the Palm Beaches resort town of Boca Raton, just north of South Inlet Park, this luxurious property aims to please with its plethora of perks. Inside the modern accommodations, twosomes will find minibars and floor-to-ceiling windows alongside marble bathrooms equipped with rainfall showers and soaking tubs. Select upgraded rooms and suites also come outfitted with lanais, sun decks or balconies that provide phenomenal ocean views.

Duos interested in getting some vitamin D may want to spend the bulk of their time swimming and sunbathing at the resort's private beach or three oceanfront pools. For those who need a break from the water, there is an 18-hole championship golf course and 16 tennis courts available to test your athletic skills. In the evening, clink glasses with your sweetheart at the chic Colin Cowie-designed lobby lounge.

Address: 900 S. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33432

Choose charming Vero Beach for a romantic trip away if you and your partner appreciate art and love spending time outside. Situated on Florida's east coast about 80 miles north of West Palm Beach, this idyllic town offers ample ways to pass the time. Craving some outdoor solitude? Stop by Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, a natural oasis known for its diverse bird population and excellent stargazing opportunities. If you'd rather stay within town limits, grab a pair of paddleboards or kayaks from Orchid Outfitters and head to Round Island Riverside Park. In this quiet park by the Indian River, you can paddle past wild manatees (taking care not to disturb them) or admire them from the 400-foot-long boardwalk; you'll also find beach access across the street in Round Island Oceanside Park. Meanwhile, couples seeking a dose of culture can check out nearly 900 pieces on display at the Vero Beach Museum of Art or McKee Botanical Garden's impressive collection of sculptures and native plants.

Where to stay: After a leisurely day of exploring town, split a bottle of wine and Florida-inspired bites like conch fritters at The Tides – or watch the sun dip below the ocean's surface while savoring fresh seafood, prime cuts of meat and more at Ocean Grill. Both restaurants sit within walking distance of the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa and Costa d'Este Beach Resort & Spa , two beachfront hotels made for couples. The Kimpton property features tropical accommodations, as well as a spa and an outdoor pool surrounded by swaying palm trees. Meanwhile, Costa d'Este offers sunrise yoga classes, water sports equipment rentals, and ocean-facing rooms and suites.

Laurence Norah | Courtesy of Florida Keys News Bureau

Key West attracts couples seeking dreamy accommodations set amid a laid-back island atmosphere. Look for lodging at the well-appointed Ocean Key Resort & Spa , where every guest room comes with a personal balcony and whirlpool tub, or opt for a charming personal cottage at Sunset Key Cottages . Located on a private island and only reachable by boat, this enchanting property features luxe amenities like fully equipped kitchens and separate living rooms. Here, couples can relax at the resort's serene spa during the day and, in the evening, dine at the award-winning beachfront restaurant Latitudes. Recent diners complimented the terrific service and delicious menu but said the view was what really made their experience unforgettable.

When you're not lounging around your resort, spy a six-toed cat at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, watch the sun go down from Mallory Square or grab a drink with your beau along bustling Duval Street. Plus, thanks to its abundant marine life and colorful coral reefs, Key West is a perfect place to snorkel or scuba dive. If you're looking to up the romance factor even further, take an exhilarating seaplane tour with your sweetheart to Dry Tortugas National Park, which sits roughly 70 miles west of Key West and is known best for its 19th-century fort and cobalt-blue waters.

From stunning beaches to historic estates, couples will find plenty to see and do in this southern Florida locale. Explore nearby Lovers Key State Park on a guided ecotour, or plan your visit for winter to spot wild manatees at Manatee Park. For an unforgettable Fort Myers date night, board the Murder Mystery Dinner Train, an interactive show where lovebirds can put their sleuthing skills to the test while savoring delectable meat dishes and sipping on specialty cocktails. Round out your romantic getaway to Fort Myers with a chocolate-making class at Norman Love Confections, where you and your other half can learn how to create decadent sweets like truffles and fudge. When your stomach starts to rumble, check out romantic restaurants like Bayfront Bistro & Bar and The Veranda, where couples can fill up on specialties like veal piccata and Chilean sea bass.

Where to stay: After spending the day reconnecting with your sweetie, couples can retire to upscale digs at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa , a lovebird-approved property facing the Caloosahatchee River. Or, book your stay at Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina , a quiet beachfront retreat that offers exclusive amenities such as a full-service marina, a zero-entry pool and a relaxing spa.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa: Islamorada

Courtesy of Cheeca Lodge & Spa

If you and your sweetie like to keep busy while on vacation, book a room at Cheeca Lodge & Spa , one of the best resorts in the Florida Keys . This tropical paradise offers myriad ways for couples to spend their romantic getaway. Work on your swing at the resort's nine-hole golf course, challenge your partner to a volleyball tournament on the beach, cast a line from the property's 525-foot-long pier or get out on the water in a clear-bottomed kayak. Later, you can give your aching muscles a break by taking advantage of the resort's Xbox arcade, extensive book collection and game room, which features classics like air hockey, pool and ping-pong.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa is also home to three heated swimming pools, more than 1,000 feet of white sand beach and seven spa treatment rooms. Plus, with two outdoor bars and three top-notch restaurants serving everything from sushi to artisanal pizza, foodie couples will rejoice come dinnertime. When you're ready to hit the hay, you'll be treated to accommodations that feature either resort, lagoon or ocean views and come equipped with screened-in or open-air balconies, plush bedding and rain showers. While many travelers raved over the resort's beautiful property and well-appointed rooms, others lamented that the beach can sometimes get overrun with seaweed, so consider elsewhere if you plan on spending the majority of your vacation lounging on the beach.

Address: 81801 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036

Islamorada Resort Collection: Islamorada

Courtesy of Islamorada Resorts Collection

Perfect for couples seeking seclusion in the Florida Keys, The Islamorada Resorts Collection comprises four hotels: Amara Cay Resort , Pelican Cove Resort & Marina , Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina and La Siesta Resort & Villas . No matter which accommodations you choose, you'll enjoy access to the amenities at all four hotels – including 55 boat slips, eight restaurants, two fitness centers, complimentary beachside yoga, daily scheduled events and water sports ranging from jet skiing to fishing charters. There's also a lagoon-style pool at Amara Cay. When and if you decide to leave the property, you'll enjoy its proximity to local attractions like the History of Diving Museum and the arts and culture district.

Address: 80001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036

White Elephant Palm Beach: Palm Beach

Chi-Thien Nguyen | Courtesy of Elkus Manfredi Architects

Different from the region's mega beach resorts , the White Elephant Palm Beach feels more like a private residence, with just 19 suites and 13 guest rooms. The aethestic varies from many local hotels, too, with black-and-white-striped awnings, terracotta roof tilings and hardwood floors throughout the property. Upscale accommodations are outfitted with custom-designed furniture including king beds with beautifully upholstered head boards, and two penthouse suites feature terraces overlooking Bradley Park.

Complete with a patio, pool and ice cream cart serving complimentary treats, the lush outdoor courtyard is the ultimate place to relax and recharge at this boutique hotel. And at the brand's signature restaurant, Lola 41, you can enjoy globally inspired cuisine and seafood specialties.

If and when you and partner are ready to dig your toes in the sand, grab your complimentary beach gear and hop on the hotel shuttle (also complimentary), which will transport you to the beach a few blocks away. For other romantic rendezvous in Palm Beach, you can borrow bikes, be chauffeured into town via a BMW 7 Series luxury sedan or book an exclusive excursion aboard a Barton & Gray yacht.

Address: 280 Sunset Ave., Palm Beach, FL 33480

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Florida
• The 12 Best Places for Camping in Florida
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• The Cheapest Travel Insurance Policies

Tags: Florida Vacations , US Vacations , Couples Vacations , Southeast Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Flight canceled or delayed what to do.

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024