If you’re searching for the perfect Valentine’s Day getaway destination in or near the U.S., there are many things that you’ll have to consider before making a decision. You should think about details like the location, accommodations, amenities, nearby attractions, and other considerations. The romantic ambiance of the various places you might like to visit would likely also need to be factored in, along with the availability of activities for couples to do together.
As there is just so much to think about when planning a couples vacation for Valentine’s Day, it can take a little while to decide where you want to go. To help get you to a place of romantic bliss that much sooner, we’ve compiled a list of the best Valentine’s Day getaways for couples who want a little bit of (and the best of!) everything.
Imagine this: you’ve just made your way to the dazzlingly blue resort pool, and now you’re contemplating whether to go for a swim or grab a cocktail from the convenient swim-up bar. You look up at the sunny skies, then realize you have more than enough time to do both as you are in Montego Bay on the Caribbean isle of Jamaica where time almost literally slows down, making for the ultimate Valentine’s Day getaway.
You and your loved one can be in Montego Bay in no time too — it is just about a one-hour flight from Miami. There are so many romantic things to do in and near Montego Bay, from river rafting on the Martha Brae River to exploring the beautiful flowers of Ras Natango Gallery and Garden to enjoying as many water sports as you can fit into your vacation agenda (here are some of the best water sports for couples!). All in all, couples are bound to love the Montego Bay scene.
While in Montego Bay for Valentine’s Day, you’ll have amazing options like booking private boat tours, indulging in couple’s massages, and even spending some time in overwater bungalows like those available at Sandals Royal Caribbean!
Picture: Sandals Royal Caribbean is an all-inclusive resort in Jamaica, specifically Montego Bay, that offers lots of quality inclusions, including free access to a private offshore island, unlimited food and (alcoholic) drinks, day and night entertainment, themed parties, and just about everything you’ll need for an extra special Valentine’s Day getaway!
Napa Valley, California is considered one of the most romantic places to visit in the US. So romantic is this destination that some couples come back year after year. In Napa Valley, couples can enjoy a getaway that’s upscale and active or that’s low-key and relaxing. This destination is just about an hour north of San Francisco and it is known for its stunning scenery which includes rolling hills and beautiful mountains. Napa Valley is also well known for its amazing restaurants, spas, and wineries. Adventure-seeking couples will feel right at home in Napa Valley, which is the perfect setting for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and exploring the beautiful natural surroundings.
For a Valentine’s Day getaway that is truly exceptional and romantic, look no further than Nassau in The Bahamas. Located on the island of New Providence, Nassau is a great destination choice for couples who are looking for a Caribbean vacation experience that has it all.
Nassau stands out for more reasons than one. For starters, it is just an hour away from Miami, Florida, which makes it a convenient location for a romantic weekend escape. Then, there’s the fact that there are so many things to do in Nassau, from spending time on gorgeous beaches to scuba diving in places like Nassau’s underwater statue garden in Clifton Heritage Park to visiting nearby islands. The Bahamian capital is also well known for shopping, entertainment, dining, and of course the luxurious all-inclusive resorts located on Nassau’s beaches.
Expert tip: There are many gorgeous beaches in Nassau, but one of the best hidden beaches is perhaps the beach at the back of Sandals Royal Bahamian’s private island. This beach is only accessible for guests and you’ll be able to snorkel with turtles right off the beach!
Located in the southeastern Caribbean Sea, Saint Lucia is one of the more romantic islands in the Caribbean. You will be struck almost immediately by the vibrant greenery that’s pretty much everywhere you look. The calmness of this island also stands out, and it truly is a feeling that will stick with you as you explore some of the fun things to do in Saint Lucia, including the Pitons (world-famous twin mountains), the Sulphur Springs (home to a drive-in volcano), Pigeon Island, and so much more.
Adventure calls in Rodney Bay, Saint Lucia and it could certainly do you well to respond to these calls. This part of the island offers lots of entertainment, great beaches, and quite an exciting and varied experience for couples overall. In and around Rodney Bay, couples can enjoy amazing diving, horseback riding, waterfall safaris, hiking some of the best trails, and even spending time eating out at some of the most romantic over-the-water restaurants.
Insider tip: Take your Valentine’s Day getaway in Saint Lucia to new heights by booking one of the romantic Rondoval Suites at Sandals Grande Saint Lucian!
New York is one of those places that you must visit at least once in a lifetime. Valentine’s Day is a great time to do just that! This is a city where almost anything is possible for couples, no matter their interests. During a New York City Valentine’s Day getaway, you will be able to enjoy some of the best restaurants in the world, visit museums and art galleries, and even go ice skating at Rockefeller Center. For an even more magical experience, try taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park, or staying at a romantic boutique hotel in the city.
Good to know: New York is a short distance away from Philadelphia, Boston, Baltimore, and Washington D.C (in case you’re planning a road trip or want to hit multiple locations on your trip!).
Located just north of the Dominican Republic, the Turks & Caicos Islands appeal to couples looking for a romantic escape. This destination is about a 2-hour flight from Miami, a 4-hour flight from New York City, and a 9-hour flight from Los Angeles.
There are roughly 40 islands and cays that make up the Turks & Caicos Islands, but only eight of these are inhabited. During your vacation in Turks & Caicos, you’re likely to be enjoying the best of Providenciales, which is the territory’s most populated island.
In terms of romantic allure, Turks & Caicos is a top choice for many couples because this destination combines adventure and romance in the best way. In Turks & Caicos, couples can enjoy everything from exotic, nature-oriented explorations to more refined and elegant indulgences like exclusive all-inclusive resorts in Providenciales.
On the adventure side, spending the day on Grace Bay Beach is a Turks & Caicos vacation must, as is getting in some snorkeling and kayaking. Island hopping can also be fun to do as a couple as you can discover new places together!
Did you know? Grace Bay beach was voted the most beautiful beach in the world! It’s a wonderful place to have your breakfast at one of the restaurants looking out over this beach, with the person you love most!
Acadia National Park in Maine is a popular spot for couples looking for a new experience. The park can sometimes get crowded depending on the time of year you visit. Around Valentine’s Day, this national park is usually less crowded than during the summertime, so this is a perfect time for you and your significant other to make the most of the experience.
Couples love Acadia National Park for the amazing scenery and the intimate experience you can have while spending a couple of days in this area. As part of an Acadia National Park visit, you can watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, especially between October 7th through March 6th as this is the first place in the country to see the sunrise during this time. You can also stay in a boutique hotel or at a bed and breakfast in the nearby Bar Harbor area, which should set the tone for a truly romantic time together.
If you’re into seafood, there are many great seafood spots in the area where you can dine together, or you can enjoy some of the other amazing dining options available around town.
Expert tip: Take some time to see the Harbor seals along the coast while in Maine. This can be an unforgettable experience no matter what time of year you go!
Asheville in North Carolina is a beautiful destination that couples can enjoy on a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway. This destination is in the Blue Ridge Mountains and it is popular for its award-winning restaurants, outdoor activities, and breweries. Couples who travel to this destination for a Valentine’s Day vacation might also enjoy visiting one of the hipster coffee shops or unwinding at a scenic location with beautiful mountain vistas.
Other popular things to do in Asheville include hiking, skiing, and even visiting the chateau-style castle known as Biltmore Estate. The estate was built in the late 1800s by George Vanderbilt and a visit there may include some wine tasting, a tour, and a romantic walk in the surrounding gardens.
In Antigua, you and your special person can spend days on end lounging on picture-perfect, white sand beaches. There are over 365 beaches in Antigua and during a vacation on this island, it’ll be quite exciting to visit at least a few of these.
Once your beach-hopping thirst is quenched, you and your love can return to your luxury all-inclusive resort in Antigua and enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day candlelight dinner for two, or even set off on a private sunset cruise! Other enjoyable things to do in Antigua might include hiking, kayaking or riding a canoe through the island’s mangroves, swimming with stingrays, and so much more!
Another popular island in The Bahamas is Great Exuma which offers couples a slightly different experience from what is available on New Providence. For one thing, Great Exuma is not as populated as the island of New Providence, a reality that makes way for a quieter island experience. For another, Exuma has a rugged and undiscovered island feel while still managing to offer luxury, which is not something most islands can deliver.
On a wider scale, Great Exuma is the largest island of the Exumas, a district of The Bahamas that includes over 365 islands, islets, and cays. Great Exuma is loved by travelers to The Bahamas thanks to its excellent beaches, natural beauty, and all the exciting things to do in Exuma. The swimming pigs of Pig Island are an especially unique feature that pulls people to Exuma’s shores!
A Valentine’s Day getaway in Great Exuma is bound to be laid back, relaxing, and altogether fantastic as you’ll get to see The Bahamas at its very best (pink and white sandy beaches included). While in Great Exuma, don’t miss out on visiting Coco Plum Beach (which has a picture-perfect over-the-water swing), enjoying great fishing opportunities, or golfing at the Sandals Emerald Bay golf course, one of the best golf courses in the Caribbean.
A romance package for couples at an all-inclusive resort in Exuma can be well worth the spend as well.
Whether you’re looking to travel in the winter or summer, Aspen Colorado in the Rocky Mountains is a good option for a special occasion couples trip. In the winter, couples can throw on some skis and hit the slopes, or just cozy up for a spa date that includes a couples massage. There are lots of other options for couples’ activities in Aspen as well like sleigh rides, cooking classes, or even signing up for a romantic hot air balloon ride. Couples are sure to appreciate the beautiful sights and attractions of Aspen, and its high-end restaurants, which are the perfect backdrop for an intimate Valentine’s Day date night.
A Charleston Valentine’s Day getaway can be both laid back and romantic with a high chance of cozy temperatures as well. Charleston is relatively warm year-round, and if you travel there for Valentine’s Day, you’re likely to find the temperature somewhere around 60°F, which is still warm enough to take long, romantic walks on the beach with your significant other.
In Charleston, couples can go on horse-drawn carriage rides, visit the lovely Cypress Gardens, walk along the Morris Island Lighthouse Trail, sail on the Schooner Pride, or simply indulge in some spa time together. For those who just want to take it easy, there’s also the option of simply soaking in the romantic ambiance of this city as you stroll the cobblestone streets and admire the architecture of its beautiful buildings.
Beautiful Barbados is known for its stunning blue waters, striking coastlines, and adventure that’s sure to be found during a visit to the island. This destination in the southeastern Caribbean Sea is most ideal for couples looking for a Valentine’s Day weekend getaway that includes poolside cocktails, parties, sunny temperatures, and amazing beaches.
Activity-wise, there are lots of great things to do in Barbados. The most popular option is spending time on the gorgeous beaches. The beaches on the west coast of Barbados are known for their calm waters, while the beaches on the east coast are popular with surfers. Some of the most popular beaches in Barbados, such as Brownes Beach and Pebbles Beach, can be found on Carlisle Bay, which is to the south of the capital, Bridgetown. This beach has an extensive shoreline, stunning blue waters, and there are lots of restaurants and bars in the vicinity.
Divers will have a blast at Carlisle Bay as well since there’s usually lots to see beneath the waves, such as shipwrecks, and sea creatures like turtles. One of the wrecks that can be explored near the shore is the Bajan Queen, the largest wreck in the bay.
While in Barbados, couples can explore Bridgetown, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also visit the botanical gardens, intricate cave systems like Harrison's Cave, and enjoy exciting water sports available for free at some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Barbados.
Couples seeking sand, surf, and romance will likely agree that Grenada is one of the best options for this in the Caribbean. Located in the southeastern Caribbean Sea, Grenada is just south of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and north of Trinidad & Tobago. You’ll love this island’s natural beauty and the authentic experiences that you can have while there.
Some of the things that make Grenada stand out as a great destination for a couples vacation are the amazing waterfalls, beautiful botanical gardens, and endless possibilities to lounge on stunning beaches. Diving is great on this island as well, so whether you’re a pro or a newbie, you’ll be able to see some of the incredible coral reefs on your dive sessions.
Nature lovers will be completely in their element since attractions like the Grand Etang National Park offer lots of great things to do in Grenada. Within this park, couples will be able to embark on hiking trips, as well as explore the waterfalls within. If you plan to go on excursions, consider staying at an all-inclusive resort in Grenada that’s specifically designed with couples in mind!
Expert tip: If you’re dying to see the colorful reefs of Grenada and swim amongst its diverse sea life, an all-inclusive scuba resort in Grenada is just what you need! At Sandals Grenada, scuba diving is included for certified divers and aspiring divers have the unique opportunity to become certified in one of the most beautiful settings in the Caribbean.
Stowe, Vermont appeals to travelers looking for a wintery getaway. This is a mountain town in the north of Vermont, and it is frequently referred to as the ‘ski capital of the East.’ Couples who choose to spend their Valentine’s Day getaway in Stowe can opt to stay at a romantic boutique inn and enjoy activities like sleigh rides through the woods, which is popular in the month of February. You can also go ice skating or snowboarding, set up a spa date, dine at one of the world-class restaurants along the main street, and truly feel as though you’re living a real-life Hallmark movie!
Picture: Capture the very essence of romance from a breathtaking Skypool Suite at Sandals Grenada. The perfect place for a perfect Valentine's Day!
Whew! There you have it… some of the best Valentine’s Day getaway locations in the Caribbean and the US. Whether you’re looking for somewhere close enough to drive to or a destination that requires air travel, one of the destinations above is bound to be just right for you and your partner.
As awe-inspiring as your chosen destination may be, there is so much more you can do to make this Valentine’s Day the best you’ve ever had. It is worth looking into a Sandals all-inclusive resort for this special occasion as all-inclusive resorts, in general, take away some of the stresses of vacation planning. By staying at any of the luxurious Sandals Resorts, you and your loved one will have multiple high-quality restaurants to choose from - all included and all unlimited. It’ll be easy to reserve special add-ons as well, like candlelight dinners, and spa treatments, and even to plan outings together as you celebrate your love in a new and wonderful place!