When you’re planning a romantic getaway, you want it to be more than just a trip; you want it to be a journey that lingers in your memory, a collection of moments so special that you and your partner can cherish them for years to come. While the United States is brimming with popular romantic spots, sometimes the most unforgettable experiences come from discovering a hidden gem, a place where you can escape the ordinary and indulge in the extraordinary. In this article, I’ll guide you through ten of the most enchanting and lesser-known romantic destinations across the U.S., each offering a unique blend of charm, beauty, and intimacy that will undoubtedly steal your heart.
Secluded Beach Destinations for Couples in the U.S.
When I think of a perfect beach getaway, it’s not just the soft sand or the crystal-clear waters that come to mind. It’s the serenity, the feeling of being in a place where the rest of the world seems to disappear, leaving only you, your partner, and the infinite horizon. While popular beaches like Miami’s South Beach or California’s Venice Beach have their allure, there’s something incredibly special about finding a secluded spot where you can truly unwind.
Cumberland Island, Georgia is one such place, a barrier island stretching over 36,000 acres with 17 miles (27.4 kilometers) of unspoiled coastline. This island is a sanctuary for those seeking privacy and natural beauty, with an average daily visitor count of only about 300 people due to restricted ferry access. Here, you can explore over 9,800 acres of designated wilderness, where the sight of wild horses roaming free across the dunes is as common as the waves crashing on the shore. The Greyfield Inn, a historic 16-room mansion, offers luxurious accommodations and exclusive access to the island’s most remote areas. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the ocean, spending the day exploring ruins from the Carnegie era, and ending it with a romantic dinner on a veranda overlooking the Atlantic.
Contact Information for Greyfield Inn:
– Name: Greyfield Inn
– Address: 4 North 2nd Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
– Phone: (904) 261-6408
– Email: info@greyfieldinn.com
– Website: Greyfield Inn
Another hidden gem is Big Sur, California, where the Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in a dramatic convergence of land and sea. This stretch of coast is about 90 miles (145 kilometers) long and is characterized by its rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and towering redwoods. The Post Ranch Inn, perched 1,200 feet (366 meters) above the Pacific, offers stunning views that can only be described as breathtaking. With just 39 guest rooms, this eco-friendly resort ensures privacy and intimacy, making it an ideal spot for a romantic retreat. Here, you can indulge in couples’ massages, enjoy stargazing from your private deck, or simply bask in the serenity of the ocean’s endless horizon.
Contact Information for Post Ranch Inn:
– Name: Post Ranch Inn
– Address: 47900 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
– Phone: (831) 667-2200
– Email: reservations@postranchinn.com
– Website: Post Ranch Inn
For those who prefer the East Coast, Nantucket, Massachusetts offers a quaint yet luxurious experience. This small island, measuring just about 105 square kilometers, is a haven of historic charm and natural beauty. With a year-round population of around 11,000, it swells to over 50,000 in the summer, yet retains a sense of exclusivity, especially in the shoulder seasons. The island’s beaches, such as Siasconset and Madaket, are perfect for a quiet, romantic day out, while the charming bed and breakfasts, like the White Elephant, offer top-tier service with a personal touch. The off-season, particularly in the fall, brings a quietness to the island, with cooler temperatures around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) that are perfect for cozying up by a fire after a day of exploring.
Contact Information for White Elephant:
– Name: White Elephant Hotel
– Address: 50 Easton Street, Nantucket, MA 02554
– Phone: (508) 228-2500
– Email: info@whiteelephanthotel.com
– Website: White Elephant
Lastly, Sanibel Island, Florida is a destination that feels like a world apart. This island, spanning just 33 square miles (85.5 square kilometers), is known for its shell-strewn beaches and tranquil ambiance. Unlike the bustling scenes of nearby Fort Myers, Sanibel remains a quiet retreat, with strict building codes that limit structures to no more than three stories, ensuring that the natural beauty dominates the skyline. Here, you can stay in beachfront cottages or luxury resorts, such as Casa Ybel Resort, where you’ll have direct access to the Gulf of Mexico and can collect some of the 250 species of seashells that wash up on the shore. The island’s beaches are particularly known for their sunset views, where the sky turns into a canvas of pinks, oranges, and purples, creating the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening.
Contact Information for Casa Ybel Resort:
– Name: Casa Ybel Resort
– Address: 2255 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
– Phone: (239) 472-3145
– Email: info@casaybelresort.com
– Website: Casa Ybel Resort
U.S. Mountain Spots Ideal for a Romantic Escape
Mountain retreats offer a different kind of romance—a quiet, introspective experience where you can feel at one with nature while enjoying the cozy comforts of a secluded cabin or lodge. The crisp mountain air, the scent of pine, and the sound of a crackling fire can turn a simple getaway into something truly magical.
The Great Smoky Mountains, which span the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, are among the most visited national parks in the United States, drawing over 12.5 million visitors annually. However, its vastness—spanning over 522,000 acres (211,000 hectares)—means there are plenty of opportunities to find solitude. My personal favorite spot here is Cades Cove, a lush valley that offers some of the most stunning views in the park. You can stay in one of the many cabins nearby, like those offered by The Swag, a luxury mountain inn located 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) above sea level, where the misty mornings are as much a part of the scenery as the mountains themselves. The lodge offers a perfect mix of rustic charm and modern comfort, with activities ranging from guided hikes to private picnics in the meadows.
Contact Information for The Swag:
– Name: The Swag
– Address: 2300 Swag Rd, Waynesville, NC 28785
– Phone: (828) 926-0430
– Email: reservations@theswag.com
– Website: The Swag
In upstate New York, the Adirondacks offer a different kind of mountain experience. Spanning over 6 million acres (2.4 million hectares), this region is one of the largest protected areas in the United States. The area is home to more than 3,000 lakes and 30,000 miles (48,280 kilometers) of rivers and streams, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. My recommendation for a romantic stay is the Mirror Lake Inn in Lake Placid, a luxurious resort that has been welcoming guests for over 90 years. Here, you can take a leisurely canoe ride on the lake, enjoy a couples’ massage at the spa, or simply relax in your room with a view of the mountains reflecting in the still waters of the lake.
Contact Information for Mirror Lake Inn:
– Name: Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa
– Address: 77 Mirror Lake Drive, Lake Placid, NY 12946
– Phone: (518) 523-2544
– Email: info@mirrorlakeinn.com
– Website: Mirror Lake Inn
For those seeking a bit of luxury in their mountain retreat, Aspen, Colorado is hard to beat.
This renowned ski resort town, located at an elevation of 8,000 feet (2,438 meters), is not just for winter sports enthusiasts. In the summer, the area transforms into a verdant paradise, with wildflower-covered meadows and countless hiking trails. A stay at The Little Nell, a five-star hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, offers the ultimate in luxury and convenience. Each of the 92 rooms is elegantly appointed with modern amenities, and many offer views of the Aspen Mountain or the charming town below. Whether you’re skiing down the slopes in winter or hiking through Maroon Bells in the summer, Aspen offers a unique blend of adventure and romance.
Contact Information for The Little Nell:
– Name: The Little Nell
– Address: 675 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
– Phone: (970) 920-4600
– Email: info@thelittlenell.com
– Website: The Little Nell
Further west, Lake Tahoe, which straddles the California-Nevada border, is a year-round destination that never ceases to amaze. The lake itself is the largest alpine lake in North America, covering an area of 191 square miles (494 square kilometers) and offering 72 miles (116 kilometers) of shoreline. In the summer, the lake’s crystal-clear waters, which reach depths of over 1,645 feet (501 meters), provide a stunning backdrop for boating, swimming, or simply relaxing on the shore. In winter, the area transforms into a winter wonderland, with some of the best skiing in the country. A stay at the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, located at an elevation of 6,000 feet (1,829 meters), offers unparalleled luxury, with ski-in/ski-out access, a full-service spa, and rooms with views that will take your breath away.
Contact Information for Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe:
– Name: The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
– Address: 13031 Ritz Carlton Highlands Ct, Truckee, CA 96161
– Phone: (530) 562-3000
– Email: ritz@ritzcarlton.com
– Website: Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
The Most Romantic Small Towns in the U.S.
There’s something undeniably charming about small towns—the slower pace of life, the friendliness of the locals, and the sense of stepping back in time. These are places where you can truly relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of life, whether it’s a stroll down Main Street or a quiet evening in a cozy inn.
Stowe, Vermont, is a perfect example of New England charm at its finest. Nestled in the Green Mountains, this town of just over 4,300 residents is known for its picturesque village, outdoor activities, and vibrant fall foliage. Stowe is home to Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak at 4,393 feet (1,339 meters), which offers some of the best skiing in the region in winter and beautiful hiking trails in the summer. The Trapp Family Lodge, a luxury resort owned by the family that inspired “The Sound of Music,” offers a unique blend of Austrian charm and American hospitality. Here, you can enjoy cross-country skiing on over 60 kilometers of groomed trails, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the countryside, or simply relax by the fire with a good book.
Contact Information for Trapp Family Lodge:
– Name: Trapp Family Lodge
– Address: 700 Trapp Hill Rd, Stowe, VT 05672
– Phone: (800) 826-7000
– Email: reservations@trappfamily.com
– Website: Trapp Family Lodge
On the West Coast, Mendocino, California offers a completely different but equally enchanting experience. This tiny town, with a population of just under 1,000, is perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and is known for its stunning views, charming Victorian architecture, and vibrant arts scene. The Mendocino Hotel & Garden Suites offers luxurious accommodations with breathtaking ocean views, making it the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. You can spend your days hiking in the nearby Mendocino Headlands State Park, which offers over 300 acres (121 hectares) of trails along the rugged coastline, or visiting the many art galleries and shops in town. In the evening, enjoy a romantic dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, where you can savor locally sourced cuisine while watching the sun set over the ocean.
Contact Information for Mendocino Hotel & Garden Suites:
– Name: Mendocino Hotel & Garden Suites
– Address: 45080 Main St, Mendocino, CA 95460
– Phone: (707) 937-0511
– Email: info@mendocinohotel.com
– Website: Mendocino Hotel & Garden Suites
Fredericksburg, Texas offers a taste of the Old World with a distinctly Texan twist. This town, founded by German immigrants in the mid-19th century, is located in the heart of Texas Hill Country and is known for its wineries, historic sites, and charming Main Street. With a population of just over 11,000, Fredericksburg has managed to retain its small-town charm while offering plenty of modern amenities. The town is home to over 50 wineries and vineyards, making it one of the top wine destinations in the country. A stay at the Fredericksburg Herb Farm, a charming bed and breakfast with a spa and beautiful gardens, is the perfect way to unwind after a day of wine tasting. In addition to its wineries, Fredericksburg is also known for its rich history, with sites like the National Museum of the Pacific War offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Contact Information for Fredericksburg Herb Farm:
– Name: Fredericksburg Herb Farm
– Address: 405 Whitney St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
– Phone: (830) 997-8615
– Email: info@fredericksburgherbfarm.com
– Website: Fredericksburg Herb Farm
Further south, Beaufort, South Carolina is a town steeped in history and Southern charm. Located on Port Royal Island, this town of just over 13,000 people is known for its antebellum architecture, moss-draped oaks, and scenic waterfront. Beaufort’s historic district, which covers about 300 acres (121 hectares), is a designated National Historic Landmark, and it’s easy to see why. The streets are lined with beautifully preserved homes, many of which date back to the early 19th century, and the town’s waterfront park offers stunning views of the harbor. The Rhett House Inn, a historic bed and breakfast located in a beautifully restored mansion, offers the perfect blend of elegance and comfort. Here, you can enjoy a gourmet breakfast on the veranda, take a leisurely stroll through the historic district, or explore the nearby Hunting Island State Park, which offers 5,000 acres (2,023 hectares) of pristine beaches, marshes, and forests.
Contact Information for Rhett House Inn:
– Name: Rhett House Inn
– Address: 1009 Craven St, Beaufort, SC 29902
– Phone: (843) 524-9030
– Email: reservations@rhetthouseinn.com
– Website: Rhett House Inn
Luxury Spa Retreats for Couples in the U.S.
Sometimes, the most romantic thing you can do is nothing at all—just relax, unwind, and let the world take care of itself for a while. That’s where luxury spa retreats come in, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and romance.
In Big Sur, California, the Post Ranch Inn is a sanctuary for those seeking peace, privacy, and luxury. Perched 1,200 feet (366 meters) above the Pacific Ocean, this eco-friendly resort offers stunning views, world-class spa treatments, and an atmosphere of serenity and romance. The inn’s spa offers a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate, including couples’ massages, facials
, and private yoga sessions. The accommodations at Post Ranch Inn are equally luxurious, with rooms that feature private decks, hot tubs, and floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the breathtaking views. Imagine soaking in a hot tub while watching the sunset over the ocean, or enjoying a private dinner on your deck, with only the sound of the waves and the wind to keep you company. The inn also offers a variety of activities designed to enhance your experience, from guided nature walks to stargazing sessions with an astronomer.
If you’re looking for a lakeside retreat, Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, Texas, offers a peaceful and luxurious setting for a romantic getaway. Nestled along the shores of Lake Austin, this award-winning spa resort offers a range of treatments designed to promote relaxation and well-being, including couples’ massages, hydrotherapy, and Ayurvedic therapies. The resort also offers a variety of fitness and wellness classes, including yoga, Pilates, and meditation, as well as outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking. The accommodations at Lake Austin Spa Resort are designed with comfort and luxury in mind, featuring plush bedding, private patios, and beautiful views of the lake and gardens. After a day of pampering, you can enjoy a romantic dinner at the resort’s restaurant, which offers a farm-to-table menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Contact Information for Lake Austin Spa Resort:
– Name: Lake Austin Spa Resort
– Address: 1705 S Quinlan Park Rd, Austin, TX 78732
– Phone: (512) 372-7300
– Email: relax@lakeaustin.com
– Website: Lake Austin Spa Resort
For those who prefer the mountains, The Lodge at Woodloch in Hawley, Pennsylvania, offers a serene and romantic setting in the Pocono Mountains. This luxury destination spa is located on 150 acres (61 hectares) of private land, offering a tranquil environment where you can relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect. The spa offers a comprehensive range of treatments, including couples’ massages, body wraps, and facials, as well as unique experiences such as private meditation sessions and hydrotherapy in the Aqua Garden. The Lodge at Woodloch also offers a variety of fitness and wellness programs, including yoga, tai chi, and cooking classes. The accommodations are equally luxurious, with rooms that feature private verandas, soaking tubs, and views of the surrounding forest and lake. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic walk through the woods, relaxing in the spa’s outdoor whirlpool, or savoring a gourmet meal at the resort’s restaurant, The Lodge at Woodloch offers everything you need for a romantic and rejuvenating getaway.
Contact Information for The Lodge at Woodloch:
– Name: The Lodge at Woodloch
– Address: 109 River Birch Ln, Hawley, PA 18428
– Phone: (570) 685-8500
– Email: info@thelodgeatwoodloch.com
– Website: The Lodge at Woodloch
If you’re looking for a desert escape, Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, offers a unique blend of luxury, wellness, and adventure. Located in the Sonoran Desert, this world-renowned wellness resort offers a serene and tranquil setting where couples can focus on relaxation, rejuvenation, and connection. The spa at Canyon Ranch offers a wide range of treatments, including couples’ massages, body therapies, and skincare treatments, as well as unique services such as acupuncture, energy healing, and nutritional counseling. In addition to the spa, Canyon Ranch offers a variety of fitness and wellness programs, including yoga, Pilates, and outdoor adventures such as hiking and biking. The accommodations at Canyon Ranch are designed with comfort and relaxation in mind, featuring plush bedding, private patios, and beautiful views of the desert landscape. After a day of pampering and adventure, you can enjoy a romantic dinner at the resort’s restaurant, which offers a healthy, gourmet menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Contact Information for Canyon Ranch:
– Name: Canyon Ranch Tucson
– Address: 8600 E Rockcliff Rd, Tucson, AZ 85750
– Phone: (520) 749-9000
– Email: info@canyonranch.com
– Website: Canyon Ranch
Romantic U.S. Cities for Couples
While small towns and secluded retreats have their charm, there’s something undeniably romantic about the energy and excitement of a city. The United States is home to several cities that offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and romance, making them ideal destinations for couples looking for a romantic city break.
Charleston, South Carolina is one of the most romantic cities in the United States, with its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and Southern hospitality. The city’s historic district, which covers about 5.5 square miles (14.2 square kilometers), is a treasure trove of antebellum architecture, charming gardens, and picturesque waterfront views. Couples can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district, enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the city’s many fine dining restaurants, or take a sunset cruise on Charleston Harbor. The city’s historic inns and bed and breakfasts, such as the Wentworth Mansion or the John Rutledge House Inn, offer luxurious accommodations with a touch of Southern charm. The median price for a stay in one of these historic inns is around $450 per night, depending on the season.
Contact Information for Wentworth Mansion:
– Name: Wentworth Mansion
– Address: 149 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC 29401
– Phone: (843) 853-1886
– Email: info@wentworthmansion.com
– Website: Wentworth Mansion
Savannah, Georgia is another city that exudes romance, with its moss-draped oaks, historic squares, and vibrant arts scene. The city’s historic district, which covers about 2.5 square miles (6.5 square kilometers), is a beautiful blend of history and natural beauty, with cobblestone streets, historic homes, and lush gardens. Couples can enjoy a leisurely stroll through Forsyth Park, take a guided tour of the city’s historic sites, or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the city’s many acclaimed restaurants. Savannah’s historic inns and bed and breakfasts, such as the Kehoe House or the Gastonian, offer luxurious accommodations with a touch of Southern charm. The median price for a stay in one of these historic inns is around $400 per night, depending on the season.
Contact Information for Kehoe House:
– Name: Kehoe House
– Address: 123 Habersham St, Savannah, GA 31401
– Phone: (912) 232-1020
– Email: reservations@kehoehouse.com
– Website: Kehoe House
San Francisco, California offers endless opportunities for romance with its iconic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and stunning views. The city, which covers an area of about 46.9 square miles (121.4 square kilometers), is home to some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Couples can enjoy a romantic walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, explore the charming streets of North Beach or Haight-Ashbury, or take a scenic cable car ride through the city. San Francisco is also home to some of the best dining in the country, with a wide range of romantic restaurants offering everything from gourmet cuisine to cozy bistros. The city’s luxury hotels, such as the Fairmont or the Ritz-Carlton, offer luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views of the city and the bay. The median price for a stay in one of these luxury hotels is around $550 per night, depending on the season.
Contact Information for Fairmont San Francisco:
– Name: Fairmont San Francisco
– Address: 950 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94108
– Phone: (415) 772-5000
– Email: sanfrancisco@fairmont.com
– Website: Fairmont San Francisco
New Orleans, Louisiana offers a unique and unforgettable romantic experience with its rich history, vibrant culture, and lively music scene. The city
’s French Quarter, which covers about 0.66 square miles (1.7 square kilometers), is a beautiful blend of history and culture, with its colorful buildings, charming courtyards, and vibrant street life. Couples can enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the city’s many acclaimed restaurants, take a scenic riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River, or explore the city’s rich history and culture on a guided tour. New Orleans is also home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the country, such as the Roosevelt or the Ritz-Carlton, which offer luxurious accommodations with a touch of Southern charm. The median price for a stay in one of these luxury hotels is around $500 per night, depending on the season.
Contact Information for The Roosevelt New Orleans:
– Name: The Roosevelt New Orleans
– Address: 130 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans, LA 70112
– Phone: (504) 648-1200
– Email: info@therooseveltneworleans.com
– Website: The Roosevelt New Orleans
Honolulu, Hawaii offers a perfect blend of romance and adventure with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and breathtaking scenery. The city, which covers an area of about 68.4 square miles (177.2 square kilometers), is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including Waikiki Beach, Lanikai Beach, and Hanauma Bay. Couples can enjoy a romantic sunset cruise along the coast, explore the beautiful beaches of Waikiki, or take a scenic hike to the top of Diamond Head for panoramic views of the city and the ocean. Honolulu is also home to some of the most luxurious resorts in the country, such as the Halekulani or the Moana Surfrider, which offer luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the ocean and the city. The median price for a stay in one of these luxury resorts is around $600 per night, depending on the season.
Contact Information for Halekulani:
– Name: Halekulani Hotel
– Address: 2199 Kalia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
– Phone: (808) 923-2311
– Email: reservations@halekulani.com
– Website: Halekulani
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Cumberland Island, Georgia?
The best time to visit Cumberland Island is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the island is less crowded. During these seasons, temperatures typically range between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C), making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the island.
Are there any special permits required to visit Big Sur, California?
No special permits are required to visit Big Sur itself, but certain activities, like camping or parking in state parks such as Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, do require permits. It’s advisable to check with local authorities or park services in advance to ensure you have the necessary permits for your planned activities.
How accessible is Nantucket, Massachusetts for travelers?
Nantucket is accessible by ferry from Hyannis, Massachusetts, with trips taking about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Alternatively, flights are available from major East Coast cities such as Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C., with flight times ranging from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Once on the island, many areas are accessible by bike or on foot.
What are the average costs for a romantic weekend in Aspen, Colorado?
A romantic weekend in Aspen, including accommodations at a luxury hotel, dining, and activities such as skiing or hiking, can cost between $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the season. Winter is the peak season, with higher prices, while summer offers slightly lower rates for lodging and activities.
What makes Fredericksburg, Texas, unique among romantic destinations?
Fredericksburg’s blend of German heritage, Texas Hill Country charm, and its status as one of the top wine-producing regions in the U.S. make it a unique romantic destination. The town offers over 50 wineries, historical sites, and an array of bed and breakfasts, providing a perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and scenic beauty.
Is it possible to enjoy a romantic trip to Charleston, South Carolina on a budget?
Yes, Charleston offers a range of accommodations from budget-friendly inns to luxury hotels. By visiting during the off-season (winter months), you can find lower rates. Additionally, many of Charleston’s historic sites and parks are free to visit, and there are numerous affordable dining options that still provide a romantic atmosphere.
Conclusion
Romantic getaways are about more than just a change of scenery; they’re about creating moments that deepen your connection with your partner, in places that resonate with your shared sense of adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re drawn to the secluded beaches of Cumberland Island, the majestic peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, the charming streets of Stowe, the luxurious spas of Big Sur, or the vibrant culture of Charleston, each of these destinations offers a unique opportunity to rediscover the joy of being together. By choosing one of these hidden gems for your next romantic escape, you’re not just planning a trip—you’re creating memories that will last a lifetime.
