Amazing Weekend Getaways for Couples
Traveling together keeps the sparks flying like nothing else. Exploring new places with your significant other while spending quality one-on-one time together is an excellent way to strengthen your bond and create lasting memories.
And every couple deserves a romantic getaway to enjoy to their hearts’ content, whether that means snuggling up in a rustic lodge, lounging on a tropical beach, hitting the slopes, or sipping wine in the countryside. It’s never too late to plan a romantic getaway with your partner, whether it’s for Valentine’s Day or a long Labor Day weekend.
Whatever pace you prefer for your ideal couple’s trip, these are some of the best weekend getaways for couples — prepare to be starry-eyed.
#1 Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Playa del Carmen is located along the Yucatán’s palm-lined Caribbean coast, just a short drive south of the Cancun airport. Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a first-rate vacation destination, with its unspoiled natural setting and upscale hotels — and an ideal escape for lovebirds seeking warm weather.
If privacy and luxury are your thing, head to the Rosewood Mayakobá, the area’s most romantic resort. Set along the banks of a freshwater lagoon — a riverboat will take you to your private suite! — the property offers refined accommodations with lavish amenities such as heated plunge pools and in-room mezcal to spice things up. There are also three sunken infinity pools, an open kitchen for interactive culinary experiences, and a beachfront fire pit to curl up next to in the moonlight.
#2 Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
The largest of the three Cayman Islands is the ideal retreat for couples seeking a Caribbean beach oasis at their own pace. Early spring is an ideal time to visit Grand Cayman and its world-renowned Seven Mile Beach, with warm, dry weather and fewer crowds than during the height of winter.
A variety of water sports beckon epic adventures in the midst of the island’s sparkling turquoise waters. Kayak through lush tropical mangroves or charter a catamaran to the north coast’s must-see Rum Point. Do you want to spend some time resting and relaxing with your significant other? Sun-drenched afternoons spent lounging on pink-sand beaches or wrapped in a hammock will suffice. The breathtaking sunsets on Grand Cayman are the ideal setting for passionate evenings.
#3 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos is one of the Caribbean’s best romantic getaway destinations. These accessible islands — flights from Miami take less than two hours and flights from New York take less than four — will have couples in paradise in no time.
The Shore Club is a dreamy place to call home for a few days. The first resort on beautiful Long Bay Beach, the island’s most private stretch, offers seclusion and modern amenities. Start your day on a paddle board over dazzling turquoise waters, then relax in one of four cabana-lined pools before finishing the night with fresh seafood at SUI-REN, the resort’s Japanese-Peruvian restaurant.
Couples can take a relaxing horseback ride along the white-sand beach or indulge in a stress-relieving spa treatment in between lounging. Don’t miss downtown Grace Bay, which is a hub for restaurants, bars, shopping, and nightlife. Turks and Caicos has so much to offer to rekindle the flame in any relationship.
#4 Montreal, Canada
If you want to visit Europe without taking a transatlantic flight, head to Montreal. This sophisticated Canadian city is steeped in history, with centuries-old architecture and bustling French bistros.
Most tourists avoid Montreal until spring, so those who enjoy a winter wonderland atmosphere can enjoy a quieter visit full of cold-weather charms, such as ice skating at Parc La Fontaine, dogsledding through Mont Tremblant, and guided nighttime snowshoeing on Mont Royal with stunning views of the city lights. After that, travelers can warm up with hot chocolate by a roaring fire in one of Old Montreal’s comfortable hotels.
After exploring the vibrant downtown scene, couples can indulge in a luxurious treatment at The Ritz-Carlton Montreal’s Spa St. James, or enjoy handcrafted cocktails and tapas at the W Montreal’s Living Room. The sensual atmosphere and relaxed atmosphere will set the tone for romance.
#5 Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is still as hip as it was in Frank Sinatra’s day, despite its reputation as an Old Hollywood vacation destination. The desert oasis entices with chic resorts, world-class restaurants, and breathtaking views of the desert.
There’s something here for everyone. It’s a haven for hikers, golfers (there are over 100 courses in the area), and adventure seekers. Try a backcountry Jeep tour through the San Andreas Fault Zone or travel less than an hour to Joshua Tree National Park. Do you want to unwind? Soak in the natural healing waters of Desert Hot Springs or book a hot stone couples massage at one of the area’s many day spas. Palm Springs also has a thriving foodie scene, with many of the best restaurants offering patio dining under the stars.
#6 Park City, Utah
What could be more romantic than curling up by a fireplace in a snowy mountain lodge? Of course, with local whiskey and chocolates in hand. Park City is a winter wonderland full of small-town charms, and it’s only a short drive 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 best ski conditions in the world. Enjoy magnificent snow-capped landscapes and gourmet fare at several on-mountain pit stops in between runs on fresh powder. Make your way to the ski-in/ski-out St. Regis Deer Valley resort for decadent hot chocolate, fireside s’mores, and craft cocktails for an unforgettable après-ski experience.
Aside from mountain sports, Utah’s historic mining town is a holiday postcard come to life, with a flurry of perfect date activities such as sleigh rides, ice skating, hot air balloon rides, dog sledding, and shopping along historic Main Street, where the facades of many acclaimed restaurants and saloons from the 1880s have been preserved. Ritual Chocolate offers handmade confections, and High West Distillery in Park City offers whiskey flights. Head to Riverhorse on Main for an excellent candlelit dinner with local live music, then saddle up to popular No Name Saloon Bar & Grill for a nightcap. Couples will find plenty to see and do in “Winter’s Favorite Town.”
#7 Watch Hill, Rhode Island
Watch Hill is an idyllic year-round destination that is only a short drive from many locations in the northeast.
For a more intimate stay, head to Ocean House, a grand 1868 Victorian oceanfront beauty that serves as the town’s crown jewel. Long walks on the private white-sand beach and canoodling in front of the stately stone fireplace with a cocktail in hand are ideal for couples. On-site dining options include a farm-to-table restaurant and a prestigious cooking school that offers gourmet classes and intimate tastings.
#8 Charleston, South Carolina
The “Holy City,” so named due to its long history of religious tolerance, is a popular tourist destination due to its historic landmarks, cobblestoned streets, thriving food scene, and southern charm.
Foodie couples will be in heaven: the South’s culinary capital has a plethora of standout spots and immersive experiences. Oysters at The Ordinary on Upper King Street, spicy fried chicken at Leon’s Oyster Shop, and Texas-style brisket at Lewis Barbecue, to name a few. Husk’s The Bar & Patio is a great place to go after dinner for a classic cocktail. Do you want something bubbly? Check out Hotel Bennett’s Champagne bar Camellias.
Choose to stay at the French Quarter Inn, a boutique gem in the historic district. The hotel’s top-notch turndown service with pillow menu — featuring seven different comfy options — will ensure the sweetest dreams at the end of a jam-packed (and no doubt delicious) day.
#9 Paso Robles, California
Uncork that feeling of love with a trip to California’s third-largest wine region (following more famous territories, Napa and Sonoma). A vast rolling countryside dotted with vineyards, olive groves, farms, and ranches lies halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco along the state’s central coast.
Paso Robles, with its natural beauty and laid-back vibe, is an ideal destination for a relaxing long weekend. The main draw here is wine: sample Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Merlot, and other varietals at over 200 wineries. Many tastings take place in sun-drenched outdoor spaces with breathtaking views, resulting in a truly unforgettable experience. Visitors are drawn to Paso’s relaxed atmosphere, and lodging is typically less expensive than in northern California wine regions.
Is it even possible to get wined out? You can mix it up by tasting local olive oils, touring a craft brewery, or swimming in a hot spring. Downtown, you’ll find interesting boutiques and delicious restaurants. To bring home honey, olive oil, soaps, and handmade goods from local producers, visit The General Store.
#10 New Paltz, New York
Looking for a getaway that’s only a short drive from New York City but feels like a world away? Make a reservation at Mohonk Mountain House. This Victorian resort, which has been family-owned and operated since 1869, is perched on the banks of crystal blue Lake Mohonk in New Paltz.
The grand, castle-like property has an award-winning spa, farm-to-table cuisine, and a variety of daily outdoor activities for couples. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on groomed trails are available in the winter, as is ice skating on the private pavilion. During the warmer months, horseback riding, canoeing, and hiking in the surrounding Shawangunk Ridge are popular activities.
Days of leisure and romance 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 the porch rocking chairs. Being with your sweetheart in the midst of pristine mountain wilderness is enough to reignite the flame.