Most Romantic Vacations in the USA for a Couples Getaway

As exciting as vacations to far-flung destinations are, sometimes a getaway closer to home is more manageable. Discover the most romantic vacations in the USA to celebrate a special occasion or spend time with your plus one! I'll also recommend the top hotels for each destination.

When I’m asked about romantic destinations, my mind often wanders to far-off places like Tuscany, Santorini, or some remote island. 

Sometimes we have enough vacation days and sufficient funds to travel overseas. More often than not, a romantic getaway in the USA, something closer to home, is more manageable. 

Whether you’re strapped for time or can't travel abroad for other reasons, there are plenty of romantic cities in the United States to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy time with your plus one.

Some of the destinations listed below are perfect for a quick weekend, others require a three or four-day weekend, and a fair few are worth at least a week. 

No matter how much time you have or what your budget is, I’m sure one of these destinations will fit the bill for your upcoming trip.

Now let’s get into the most romantic vacations in the USA for a couples getaway!

1. Maui, Hawaii 

ONE OF THE MOST ROMANTIC vacations IN THE USA FOR ISLAND LOVERS AND ultimate relaxation

Maui is, without a doubt, one of the most romantic getaways in the USA and a popular pick for honeymooners.

One of the reasons I gravitate towards Maui over the other Hawaiian Islands is the variety it offers. You'll find beaches, pristine golf courses, rainforests, and lava formations alongside an assortment of hotels, resorts, and spas.

Family-friendly, romantic, luxurious, secluded…whatever type of couples getaway you’re looking for, you can find it in Maui.

Those preferring to be in the heart of the action and within walking distance of other hotels, restaurants, and shops should head to Kaanapali Beach. Here you'll find over three miles of pristine beach, Whaler’s Village (an outdoor shopping complex), and snorkeling around Black Rock. 

This is a great spot if you don’t want to spend time driving around. There's plenty to do within walking distance and a trolley that will take you to downtown Lahaina (downtown Lahaina is currently closed due to the Maui fires). You could easily spend a week here and never use a car with the number of restaurants, bars, spas, and shops...all along Kaanapali Beach (there's also a golf course to the east of the beach).

The only negative aspect of staying on Kaanapalii Beach is that the resorts tend to be filled with families, are popular for company incentive trips, and lack the "luxury" vibe. Your best options are Kaanapalii Alii, Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa, and The Westin Maui Resort & Spa.

I'm happy with those resorts for a family trip/group trip, but if it were just Jake and me, we would opt for resorts in Wailea or Kapalua.

These resorts are a bit more secluded and offer a higher level of luxury: Montage Kapalua Bay, Hotel Wailea, Relais & Chateaux (Adults Only), Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort (more lively), Fairmont Kea Lani, The Ritz-Carlton Maui Kapalua, or the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.

Whether you plan on spending your days hiking, biking down a volcano crater, lying poolside, snorkeling, or just enjoying the resort and sipping on Mai Tais, Maui is a sure winner for one of the most romantic vacations in the USA. 

2. Scottsdale, Arizona

One of the most romantic cities in the USA for a desert escape, hiking, and spas

Jake dragged me to Scottsdale 10 years ago on our first anniversary. To say he loves the desert is an understatement…hence why we drove eleven hours one way to get to the Sahara when we were in Marrakech…another story for another time. 

When he convinced me to visit Scottsdale for our first anniversary, I didn’t have high expectations. I expected a brown, desolate, meh-type vacation. I was so wrong!

We have visited about fifteen times since! Scottsdale has become one of our favorite romantic cities in the USA. 

The landscaping is pristine with bright desert flowers and 9-foot-tall, perfectly perched cacti. The coffee shop and restaurant scene are on point, and there are desert hikes for every fitness level.

The resorts offer pools perfect for lounging and spas to put you in the ultimate relaxation mode.

Stay at the Omni Montelucia or Andaz Scottsdale, our two favorites. Other solid options are The Global Ambassador Hotel (brand new), The Phoenician, and Arizona Biltmore by Waldorf Astoria.

Be sure to visit Berdena’s, my favorite Scottsdale coffee shop, and Virtu Honest Craft for dinner.

A visit to one of the themed cocktail bars at Century Grand PHX (hands down one of the best cocktail bars on the planet) is an absolute must. It’s an innovative and immersive cocktail experience with three turn-of-the-century themes to choose from: a nautical-themed tiki/pirate ship bar, a Pullman-inspired train car, and a New Orleans apothecary. 

AWA Tip: add a few nights in Sedona if you have more than a weekend for your romantic getaway. The hiking opportunities are endless, and the scenery is out of this world. 

Enchantment Resort has been one of the top resorts for years and offers direct access to some fantastic trailheads. 

Ambiente is new to the scene and beyond unique with its 40 atrium bungalows. 

Inn Above Oak Creek is a budget-friendly bed and breakfast.

Dine at Mariposa for fantastic views and Elote Cafe for incredible margaritas and regional Mexican cuisine. 

Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge, and Subway Cave are some of the most popular hikes.

SEE ALSO:

SCOTTSDALE GETAWAY | A DETAILED TRAVEL GUIDE

BEST BREAKFAST IN SCOTTSDALE | WHERE TO BRUNCH

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PHOENIX & SCOTTSDALE

2 DAY SCOTTSDALE ITINERARY + WHAT TO DO IN SCOTTSDALE AZ

CHECKING IN TO ANDAZ SCOTTSDALE RESORT

3. Napa Valley or Sonoma/Healdsburg, California

One of the most romantic vacations in the USA for wine lovers

Napa Valley is one of the most romantic getaways in the USA for wine lovers. You could easily fill up your days jetting from one wine tasting to the next.

There are tasting rooms and patio spaces to fit every fancy. Farmhouse rustic, ultra-chic, high-tech modern...Napa has enough variety to keep everyone happy.

One of my favorite Bed and Breakfasts, The Inn on Randolph, is located in downtown Napa. It honestly might be one of the main reasons we visit Napa so frequently.

If you want to go all out with an incredible resort, check out Bardessono Hotel and Spa, North Block Hotel, Auberge du Soleil, Meadowood Napa Valley, and Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection.

I also love the setup of Napa Valley. The valley consists of a string of charming small towns. Each town has a main street filled with boutique shops and cozy restaurants. 

Downtown Napa has a more modern vibe and is home to the famous Oxbow Market, Yountville feels like a mini European getaway, and Calistoga and St. Helena offer a more authentic, rustic vibe.

The combination of cozy bed and breakfasts, luxury resorts, farm-to-table dining, incredible scenery, and memorable wine tastings makes Napa one of the most romantic getaways in the USA. 

AWA Tip: If Napa Valley is too crowded or touristy for your taste, head to Sonoma or Healdsburg instead. It’s much more laidback and offers a more authentic feel. If you're looking for a private and intimate getaway, I would definitely lean toward Sonoma/Healdsburg over Napa.

I recommend: Montage Healdsburg, The Madrona, and MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa.

SEE ALSO:

PLANNING A TRIP TO NAPA VALLEY | A NAPA GUIDE

BEST TIME TO VISIT NAPA VALLEY | MONTH BY MONTH GUIDE

BEST NAPA COFFEE SHOPS | TOP 5 IN NAPA VALLEY

INN ON RANDOLPH | A NAPA VALLEY BED AND BREAKFAST

4. Willamette Valley, Oregon (my hometown!)

One of the most romantic vacations in the United States for wine, hikes, and nature, at a reasonable cost

Willamette Valley is one of the most romantic getaways in the United States if you like the idea of a Napa wine weekend, but prefer something more casual, laidback, and affordable (and don't mind a higher chance of rain). 

Willamette Valley wineries offer tastings at a reasonable price. Typically, $20-$50 for a flight (a fraction of what you'll pay in Napa). Tasting rooms are intimate, and the scenery is lush and green with spectacular views...you might even catch a glimpse of snow-capped Mt. Hood or Mt. Jefferson on a clear day. 

With over 500 wineries, world-renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, a growing restaurant scene, unforgettable views, and a charming historic downtown district, a trip to the Willamette Valley wine region will be one for the books!

Stay at the beloved Atticus Hotel in downtown McMinnville, my hometown. Or opt for the luxurious and spacious Allison Inn, which has everything you need for a romantic stay: fine dining, a relaxing spa, walking trails, gardens, and gorgeous views.

Like Napa, the Willamette Valley is a string of small towns. You’ll find the most activity in McMinnville, which has a charming downtown area and plenty of farm-to-table restaurants. Newberg, Dundee, and Dayton are pretty small but are located minutes from some of the best wineries.

If wine isn’t your thing or you’re looking for some variety, this region offers some great beer tastings, hikes filled with waterfalls, rivers for kayaking, and coastline to explore…all within a one to two-hour drive.

While Portland used to be a fun city break, I would stay away for now. Crime is rampant and businesses are leaving left and right. 

SEE ALSO:

WILLAMETTE VALLEY WINE WEEKEND ITINERARY | BY A LOCAL

BEST RESTAURANTS IN WILLAMETTE VALLEY

10 Best Willamette Valley Wineries

Where to Stay in Willamette Valley

5. Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur, California 

One of the most romantic cities in the USA for a fairytale escape

Carmel is one of the most romantic cities in the USA for a fairytale escape. Carmel, specifically Carmel-by-the-Sea, is an absolute dream. You may feel like you’ve landed in some charming German town.

This little gem is the perfect place to stay and wander aimlessly for a few days just to take it all in.

Sleep in late, slowly sip your morning latte, borrow your hotel bike for a leisurely ride, browse the tiny boutiques, and enjoy the company of your plus one over a romantic dinner.

This is a place where you’ll want to rent a car. 17-Mile Drive is a must and considered one of the most beautiful drives in the USA. The $12.25 admission price per vehicle is more than worth it.

Stop by Pebble Beach to see where the best golfers in the world play, check out the world-famous aquarium at Monterey, snap a picture of Bixby Bridge (made famous by the HBO show Big Little Lies), and explore a few wineries around Carmel. Stop at Folktale Winery if you want to continue the fairytale theme. 

Big Sur is a must for nature enthusiasts. It’s a quick 40-minute drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia mountains, this area offers many state parks for hiking, beach time, and camping. 

This is a great area to go out on a whim and drive around. The scenery is truly breathtaking. You'll find plenty of spots to stop the car and take in the views while snapping a few pics. 

AWA Tip: while it costs a pretty penny, the Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur is supposed to be incredible.

L'Auberge Carmel is a good option in the center of town (Carmel-by-the-Sea).

6. Charleston, South Carolina

One of the most romantic cities in the USA for southern charm and history

Jake and I head to Charleston when we're looking for excellent cuisine, culture, history, and charm at a slow pace. Some spectacular hotels have opened in recent years, and the restaurant scene will have you booking your next trip ASAP. 

This is the perfect city to wander at your own pace. Jake and I will ride our hotel bikes all over Charleston and always feel safe doing so; no crazy traffic and speeding taxis here. Book dinner at Verns, have brunch at Husk, enjoy coffee and baked goods at Harken Cafe, and visit the Marion Square Market on Saturdays.

This is one of the most romantic cities in the USA, offering a blend of good old southern charm, history, culture, and incredible cuisine.

Please do not support animal cruelty and skip the horse carriage rides where one horse is pulling 10+ people in extreme heat and humidity.

AWA Tip: if you want to continue your romantic getaway, check out some of the neighboring islands. Kiawah Island is known for its beauty and seclusion: stay at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort or The Dunlin, Auberge Collection.

You could also drive 2 hours south and spend time in Savannah. The restaurant scene is a 10/10.

SEE ALSO:

BEST TIME TO VISIT CHARLESTON, SC | IDEAL SEASONS & MONTHS

WHERE TO STAY IN CHARLESTON, SC | BEST AREAS + HOTELS

Charleston Romantic Getaway | TOP 10 Things to do

Best Coffee Shops in Charleston, SC | TOP 5

7. Aspen/Vail, Colorado (and similar alternatives)

One of the most romantic vacations in the USA for an alpine retreat or a winter wonderland

Aspen and Vail, Colorado, make for a gorgeous couples getaway in summer, early fall, and winter.

Summer is ideal for those looking to fill their days with hikes, bike rides, and river rafting. The temperatures are ideal with a calendar full of events and music festivals.

Fall showcases those stunning golden aspen leaves.

Winter is my favorite. It's a winter wonderland. Skiiers and snowboarders will be in heaven here. Even if you aren't into skiing, there is plenty to keep you busy: snowshoeing, winter hikes, horse-drawn carriage rides, apres ski fireside cocktails, and more.

Aspen has been known as a posh destination for a while. Its reputation as a mountain playground for celebrities and the ultra-wealthy is no joke. It feels like a place to see and be seen. 

Aspen has a decent-sized town center where you'll find designer shopping, art galleries, and fine dining galore. Those looking for a party will also not be disappointed in Aspen, with mountainside ski-in/ski-out champagne parties at 11,000 feet and live music venues like Belly Up Aspen.

Vail, on the other hand, has a European mountain resort vibe. You'll find larger hotels here, which also means more families. It's smaller than Aspen and feels more like a retreat destination, whereas Aspen feels more like a town.

You can easily visit both places as Aspen and Vail are only two hours apart.

AWA Tip: if Aspen and Vail seem too glitzy for your travel style, consider:

• Telluride, Colorado: slightly less expensive than Aspen and Vail, more local without the "see and be seen" vibe, luxury without being pretentious, and more remote.
• Crested Butte, Colorado: considered to be what Aspen was 40 years ago. Feels like a local mountain town with a down-to-earth vibe.
• Park City, Utah: slightly less expensive and with fewer crowds than Aspen and Vail, it's a more sprawling destination, featuring a mix of resorts surrounded by suburban sprawl, offering a nice blend of luxury and mid-range options. Getting around is easy with a rental car.

8. La Jolla, California

One of the most romantic cities in the USA with perfect weather year-round

La Jolla offers perfect weather for most of the year, hiking, and gorgeous ocean views. Go South 20 minutes and you’re in the heart of San Diego. Go North 20 minutes and you’re in the quaint coastal town of Del Mar. 

The Fairmont Grand Del Mar is a wonderful hotel situated in the picturesque hills of Del Mar. It's perfect for a romantic getaway. The hotel is removed and private, yet minutes from downtown La Jolla. The pool is swoon-worthy, the onsite restaurants are delicious, and the overall property is a blissful retreat. Use the Fairmont bikes to ride around the nearby golf course and neighborhood for a morning workout.

The heart of La Jolla (Village of La Jolla) is nestled right up to the ocean. You’ll find art galleries, boutique shopping, rooftop bars with ocean views, quaint brunch spots, outdoor cafes, and upscale dining. It’s the perfect place to stroll and stop at cafes and shops at your leisure. 

Indulge in coastal Italian cuisine on the rooftop of Catania, enjoy sunset cocktails at Eddie V’s or the ocean terrace at George’s, and enjoy excellent sushi in a no-fuss atmosphere at Himitsu.

A few other activities include hiking Torrey Pines, kayaking through the coves, a long run or jog along Del Mar beach, visiting the La Jolla sea lions, and finding your city fix in San Diego.

Between all that La Jolla and neighboring San Diego and Del Mar have to offer you’ve got yourself a nice romantic vacation in the USA.

SEE ALSO:

TOP 5 COFFEE SHOPS IN LA JOLLA

SAN DIEGO WEEKEND GETAWAY | A SAN DIEGO ITINERARY

9. Santa Barbara, California

One of the most romantic cities in the USA for a little bit of everything...nature, coast, food, wine, and weather

Santa Barbara...what a special place! This SoCal city won my heart the moment I landed in its adorable airport. 

Downtown is 100% walkable with palm trees lining the streets. It's a joy stroll. A large portion of State Street, the main street leading to the ocean, is pedestrianized. 

Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the Urban Wine Trail, an assortment of wineries and tasting rooms in walkable zones throughout downtown Santa Barbara/the Funk Zone.

Those looking to explore further afield should spend a day in the wine region of Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. We love Sunstone Winery, Brave & Maiden Estate, and Fess Parker Winery and Vineyard.

Wine not your thing? No worries, there's plenty to keep you busy in Santa Barbara: beaches, hiking, boardwalk biking, neighboring Montecito (where the ultra-wealthy celebrities live), shopping, art galleries, breweries, adorable coffee shops, and fine dining.

There are several luxury hotels where you could spend your days lounging by the pool.

Rosewood Miramar Beach is one of the most popular and prestigious resorts. It's beyond posh.

The Four Seasons is set to reopen sometime in 2025 after a multi-year renovation. It looks STUNNING.

The Ritz, in neighboring Goleta, is in a beautiful area but in serious need of a remodel. The adult pool is nice, and the grounds are pretty. I would only stay here again if I found a decent rate.

Hotel California is a great choice for those looking to be in the heart of downtown. The location on State Street makes for a "walkable" vacation as you're within striking distance of the beach, coffee shops, wine-tasting rooms, restaurants, shops, and more.

10. New York City

One of the most romantic cities in the USA for an urban getaway and top restaurants

NYC should be at the top of the list of the most romantic cities in the USA for foodies, shopping, and urban jungle lovers.

Dine at some of the best restaurants in the world, take part in the clubbing and rooftop bar scene, and see a Broadway show or two. NYC has enough to keep any visitor busy, be it your first visit or tenth.

Be the ultimate tourist and hop around Times Square and Central Park with your plus one. Or wander the "calmer" neighborhoods like the Upper East Side. Head to SoHo and the West Village if you’re planning to splurge on a shopping spree. 

Looking to mix a fun atmosphere with delicious food? Visit Buddakan, TAO Downtown, and Beauty and Essex. My favorite Italian spot is L’Artusi. Head to Mr. Purple for after-dinner drinks with a view.

NYC is a great option for a romantic getaway if you gravitate towards the excitement of city life. With its infamous Broadway shows, bustling dinner spots, and one-of-a-kind metropolitan views, it’s a clear choice on the list of the most romantic cities in the USA.

SEE ALSO:

3 DAY NYC ITINERARY – NYC SIGHTSEEING PRIORITIES

BEST CROISSANTS NYC – TOP 5

My favorite MIDTOWN COFFEE SHOPS

BEST BAKERIES IN NYC | TOP 5

BEST TIME TO VISIT NYC | IDEAL SEASONS & MONTHS

Honorable Mention - New Orleans, Louisiana

ONE OF THE MOST ROMANTIC CITIES IN THE US FOR FOODIES and history buffs

I've decided to remove New Orleans from the top 10 for a few reasons. 

Safety is number one. This has become a place where you need to either stay in the main tourist areas or do your research on where to go and where not to go.

Number two is how dirty the city has become in general. 

All in all, New Orleans still has a lot to offer, which I'll list below, but for now, I would veer towards Charleston over New Orleans for a better experience. 

I'm keeping it as an honorable mention because you can still have a nice trip as long as you don't scrimp on your hotel and stick to the main tourist areas. I truly hope things improve as this used to be one of our favorite US cities.

If you and your plus one are foodies and interested in history, New Orleans is a good pick for one of the most romantic cities in the USA. NOLA has it all: distinctive architecture, a walkable historic center, crazy good food, a lively party scene, history, and art.

The first few times you visit, you'll want to stay in the Warehouse District (a 10-minute walk from the French Quarter). The hotels are much better here, plus you get to skip how loud and dirty the French Quarter is. 

Try a cute Bed and Breakfast in the Garden District once you’ve gotten your fill of the French Quarter/Warehouse District. Be sure to eat at Shaya, La Petite Grocery, and Herbsaint…our favorite restaurants in the Garden District.

Whether you spend your time art gallery hopping, touring famous cemeteries, wandering the infamous WWII Museum, or joining a creepy ghost tour…you'll have no problem finding ways to fill your time in New Orleans.

This is one of the most romantic getaways in the USA if you’re looking for something that is more unique and goes beyond the usual resort, wine-and-dine, lie by the pool type vacation. 

SEE ALSO:

BEST TIME TO VISIT NEW ORLEANS

NEW ORLEANS COFFEE SHOPS – TOP 5 NEW ORLEANS CAFES

TOP 10 ATTRACTIONS IN NEW ORLEANS FOR FIRST TIMERS

In Summary

I hope this list of the most romantic cities in the USA offered some inspiration for an upcoming trip. Whether you’re based on the East Coast, West Coast, or the central US, there’s a romantic destination nearby for you!

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Most Romantic Cities in the USA for a Couples Getaway

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