Romance and vacations go together better than Cupid and his arrow. Searching for country retreats, southern hospitality, or quaint towns? Done, done and done! We’ve rounded up eight hotels and resorts around the nation that make for the best winter vacations for couples by creating an unforgettable stay.
There’s nothing more lovely than sharing a delicious meal and glass of bubbly with the person you love so we picked the perfect dining spot to visit during your stay.
Palm Springs, California
Nestled in the desert, Palm Springs is an oasis that celebrities have flocked to since the Golden Ages and it’s easy to see why. Picture perfect views of the San Jacinto Mountains creates an intimate retreat designed for whisking away your significant other.
Take a trip up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway or a hot air balloon ride over the Coachella Valley. Soar over the desert and see it like never before. If you choose the tram, you can spend the afternoon exploring San Jacinto State Park’s nature trails and pristine landscapes 8,500 feet above the mountains.
Where to stay:
Check in to Arrive, the neighborhood hotel in the heart of Palm Springs. The hotel boasts marble bathrooms, high-quality bedding, and bespoke bath amenities.
Book your stay well in advance to secure one of the luxurious 32-rooms in the boutique hotel. While you’re there, take a dip in the heated pool and cozy up by the fire pits at night while taking in the spectacular mountain view’s.
Where to dine:
Recreate the spaghetti scene from lady and the tramp as you indulge in a savory plate of homemade pasta at Birba. The traditional Italian restaurant also serves killer wood-fired pizzas and handcrafted cocktails. Snuggle up on the outdoor patio and enjoy the stunning sunset.
Camden, Maine
Picture a bay side oasis dusted in powdery white snow with your sweetheart and that’s exactly what this village provides. New Englanders always find a way to embrace the winter months, whether that’s by playing in the snow or staying cozy indoors.
If skiing isn’t your thing, then go for a drive along the coast to a handful of the MidCoast Marine lighthouses, watch live performances at the historic Strand Theatre, or book a wintertime helicopter tour. Whatever you lovebirds decide to do, we guarantee you’ll fall in love with the glistening harbor, well-preserved 19th century homes, and of course the sea-food eateries and local wineries.
Where to stay:
Make yourself at home at Captain Swift Inn, a newly renovated Bed and Breakfast rated #10 in the United States by Tripadvisor. Guests can enjoy oversized whirlpool tubs, plush robes, fireplaces in almost every room, and candlelit breakfasts. Located just two blocks from the seaside village’s picture perfect harbor, the Inn is the perfect place to stay to spoil your loved one.
Where to dine:
You can’t go wrong with any restaurant providing top notch seafood but Hartstone Inn serves up the most romantic ambiance with an impressive wine list hard to pass up. The upscale eatery offers a variety of crustacean and fish dishes as well as gluten free and vegan options. Save room for a decadent dessert you won’t soon forget.
Fairbanks, Alaska
If you’re looking for that wow factor, watching the northern lights is an unforgettable spellbinding experience you’ll treasure forever. Although Fairbanks will be undeniably bitter during the winter months, the cold makes up for it by producing clear skies to give you a perfect view of Aurora Borealis.
Where to stay:
You could spend almost your entire vacation at Chena Hot Springs Resort without ever leaving. Book one of their many offered winter activities during the day and heat things up in the soothing hot springs while watching the dazzling light show at night. The resort proves to provide one of the best winter vacations for couples.
The resort also offers different packages starting at $550. The Romantic Getaway package includes massages, hot spring passes, welcome basket complete with champagne, late check out, a tour of the Aurora Ice Museum, and dinner and breakfast at the restaurant.
Where to dine:
Break away from the resort one evening for a unique fine dining experience at Lavelle’s Bistro. Sink your teeth into the best of land and sea in the elegant venue with impeccable service.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Escape to Oregon’s swoon worthy views of the northern coast where you can watch gray whales pass off shore between mid December and mid January. Cannon Beach is consistently recognized as a top destination for romantic getaways for many reasons, from strolling the beach hunting for treasures, cuddling by the fire, to watching the sunset over the Pacific. There’s even a park called Hug Point, although you can get away with some kisses, too.
Where to stay:
Both the Stephanie Inn and The Ocean Lodge are known for amazing ocean views, private balconies, jacuzzi tubs, and in-room fireplaces perfect for snuggling up to. There’s nothing that screams romance more than the roar of the ocean and glow of a fire. Need we say more?
Where to dine:
Whether you’re staying at Stephanie Inn or not, the award winning restaurant is a must. Chef Aaron Bedard uses local ingredients to cook up a give-course dinner with your choice of entree. Soak up each other’s company over a glass of wine and candlelight.
Sedona, Arizona
It’s no secret that one of the best winter vacations for couples is a trip to Sedona thanks to the jaw-dropping landscapes and world-class spa services. Enjoy views of fiery red mountain tops dusted with white powder as you winery hop on the Valley Verde Wine Trail.
In the evening, clear skies will present impressive views of twinkling stars and what’s more romantic than stargazing? Did you know Sedona is one of only 20 certified Dark Sky Communities in the world? This means Sedona has shown dedication to avoiding light pollution in order to preserve unobstructed views of the heavens.
Where to stay:
Sitting on 70 acres of panoramic natural terrain, Enchantment Resort is practically designed with romance in mind. Each room features a private deck or patio and fireplaces to make you feel at home. You must not leave before unplugging and indulging in a spa treatment at Mii Amo.
Where to dine:
There’s no need to step foot off the resort for meals because each of the three dining options prepare innovative, seasonal dishes by the culinary team who were recently spotlighted at the James Beard House in New York City. Serving up panoramic views of Boynton Canyon, the dining experiences will be unlike any other featuring fresh ingredients and award-winning wines.
Kauai, Hawaii
Romance comes easy in a place like Kauai. From honeymooners to elopers or parents on a kidless retreat, love is always in the air in Kauai. If you’re a sucker for natural beauty, Kauai will deliver with pristine bays, sweeping ocean panoramas, dramatic cliffs and luscious forests.
Relax on one of the postcard-perfect beaches and soak up the bikini weather or seek a thrill on a helicopter tour, ATV adventure, volcano voyage, or snorkeling.
Where to stay:
Stay Timber Kauai Ocean Club and Residences, a luxury oceanfront residential enclave with a championship golf course, freshwater lagoons, and a two-tiered infinity pool. Here, there is no shortage of island adventures and luxury amenities as well as opportunities for romantic alone time.
Where to dine:
The Beach House Restaurant was voted the 6th most romantic restaurant in the U.S. by Travel and Leisure and for good reason. From the breathtaking setting to the Pacific Rim Cuisine, this slice of paradise is the best spot to wow your other half. See what everyone’s talking about and sink your teeth into one of the best steaks you’ll ever eat.
Lake Placid, New York
The Romantic town sitting on the banks of the picturesque lake will steal your heart. Lake Placid has a walkable downtown filled with shops, bars, restaurants, and attractions. Bundle up and rekindle that spark on a magical sleigh ride through the Adirondacks. We recommend the nighttime ride along a lantern-lit trail to create memorable moments under the starry sky.
Where to stay:
Mirror Lake Inn is an enchanting resort that makes for the perfect authentic Adirondack experience. This gem offers a couples package with accommodations in one of their recently renovated Great Range Rooms with a stunning view of the lake, seating area, and sunroom. Couples receive a $75 nightly credit to indulge in a romantic dinner at The View or relax at the spa.
Where to dine:
For live music and twists of classic barbeque, visit Smoke Signals located right on Mirror Lake. For a laid back dining experience with top notch service, head to Salt of the Earth Bistro. The small menu is thoughtfully curated with traditional dishes switched out yearly to keep things fresh.
Charleston SC
It’s not hard to make a case for Charleston being the most romantic city, making it one of the best winter vacations for couples. The low country city boasts eight distinct types of breathtaking architecture, including the colorful Rainbow Row. If instagrammable spots are your love language, then make sure you have your camera ready when strolling around the charming city.
Where to stay:
Any B&B or Inn you book in Charleston will cater to couples with attentive service, unique decor, and privacy. HarbourView Inn is a top choice for it’s newly refreshed and modern hotel whose lobby features original artwork and a cozy fireplace.
Couples can choose from traditional rooms, HarbourSide Room, Historic Room, HarbourView Room, or the suite on the top floor. You can also select a room with private balconies or french doors that open out onto the Waterfront Park.
Where to dine:
Charleston offers a myriad of award winning restaurants so it’s hard to pick just one but High Cotton on East Bay Street takes the cake. The refined eatery with live music and Lowcountry plates created with local ingredients presents true southern hospitality. The heart pine floors and antique brick creates the perfect ambiance for an intimate evening.
These top 8 destinations make for the best winter vacations for couples to rekindle the romance that maybe took a back seat to daily life. Several restaurants and hotels have gained significant attention so be sure to book your reservations now!
