The 15 Best Couples Vacations in the US (Updated for 2024)

The 15 Best Couples Vacations in the US

The best couples vacations in the US will be a reflection of who you two are as people – your interests, your history, and the love you share.

Whether that looks like a relaxing tropical getaway in Hawaii or a laid-back stay on secluded Ocracoke Island, picking a destination that matches what you’re looking for is the key to planning the ideal romantic getaway. 

You won’t find better US destinations for couples than these 15 stunning spots:

1. Kauai, Hawaii: Offers pristine natural beauty, snorkeling, hiking, and the chance for a romantic beach getaway.
2. Charleston, South Carolina: Boasts historic charm with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and a vibrant culinary scene.
3. Napa Valley, California: A wine lover’s paradise, offering beautiful vineyards, winery tours, and Michelin-starred dining.
4. Poconos Mountains: Known for romantic seclusion, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure in a natural setting.
5. Honolulu, Hawaii: Provides incredible sunsets, tropical landscapes, luau dinners, and outdoor activities for couples.
6. Ocracoke Island, North Carolina: Remote and picturesque destination with a rich history, beaches, and wild horses.
7. Park City, Utah: Ideal for adventurous couples who enjoy skiing, snowboarding, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and cozy evenings by the fire.
8. Nantucket, Massachusetts: Romantic New England island with activities such as whale watching, kayaking, and exploring lighthouses.
9. Sonoma, California: Perfect for wine enthusiasts, with numerous wineries, restaurants, and scenic beauty.
10. Asheville, North Carolina: Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers outdoor adventures, art galleries, and historic attractions.
11. Niagara Falls, New York: A popular honeymoon destination known for its stunning waterfalls and wine trail.
12. Vail, Colorado: Mountain paradise for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and outdoor activities in the summer, paired with Bavarian culture.
13. St. Augustine, Florida: Rich in history, architecture, and museums, ideal for history buffs.
14. Bar Harbor, Maine: Offers stunning coastal landscapes, hikes in Acadia National Park, and fresh seafood.
15. Girdwood, Alaska: Provides breathtaking Alaskan scenery, outdoor adventures, and Northern Lights viewing.

We’ll explore each of the best couples vacations in the US next and show you why they’re worth visiting when you’re seeking a place for romance, seclusion, and adventure together. 

1. Plan a Romantic Tropical Getaway in Kauai, Hawaii

The gorgeous island of Kauai isn’t just one of the best Hawaiian islands to visit – it’s one of the most incredible places for a couples vacation in the US.

Kauai is known for its unspoiled natural beauty (also known as the “Garden Island”), but it’s far from undeveloped. You’ll find a host of top-tier resorts and hotels, restaurants, and shops to visit while you’re here. 

The two of you will enjoy snorkeling with colorful fish and sea turtles at Tunnels Beach, hiking Kalalau Trail for epic views of the Nāpali Coast and Kalalau Beach, and venturing into the rainforest to discover Hanakapi’ai Falls in all its glory. 

Boat and helicopter tours, authentic Hawaiian dishes, tropical breezes, nighttime luaus, and romantic dinners on the beach make Kauai unbeatable for a couples vacation. 

Head to the secluded Polihale State Park to access over 17 miles of golden beaches where you may not see another soul for hours. Privacy in this beautiful setting is perfect for a romantic getaway!

The sprawling, lush grounds at Kauai Beach Resort & Spa, the ultra-luxe Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort Lihue, and the plantation-style Kauai Inn are excellent options for couples seeking a relaxing, tropical getaway on Kauai.

2. Spend a Weekend Exploring Charleston, South Carolina

If historic cities with cobblestone streets, Spanish moss draping over tree limbs, and stunning examples of Antebellum and Gothic Revival architecture strike your fancy, Charleston, South Carolina is the ideal couples weekend getaway. 

This port city is home to some top-rated restaurants and bars, but it doesn’t feel like the typical metropolis with no towering skyscrapers and a cozy, hometown feel.

It’s been voted the #1 City in the World by Travel + Leisure, the very first in the US to receive the honor. 

Walk down Rainbow Row next to the harbor to see pastel-hued homes from the 1700s, enjoy a meal at any of Charleston’s popular restaurants or cafes, take in a show at Dock Street Theatre, and shop the downtown area to find new treasures. 

A weekend in Charleston calls for taking a haunted walking tour, dining on fresh daily catches at a waterfront seafood shack, sipping cocktails in a rooftop lounge, and exploring historic homes-turned-museums in the Historic District. 

Hop into a carriage together for a unique tour of the city, visit old plantations, and hit up King Street – one of the country’s best shopping streets for items new and antique. There’s so much to do in Charleston!

Take a short trip out of the city to discover and tour some of the impressive plantations in the area, like McLeod Plantation Historic Site, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, and Boone Hall Plantation. 

It’s not hard to decide where to stay when you’re here. The best boutique hotels in Charleston tend to book up quickly, but if you can snag a room at 86 Cannon Historic Inn, John Rutledge House Inn, or French Quarter Inn, don’t think – just go!

March to May and September to November are both considered the best times to visit Charleston. Mild weather, lots of events taking place, and smaller crowds make it perfect for couples. 

3. Slow Down and Unwind in Napa Valley, California

Sipping award-winning wines on the terrace of a local winery as you take in scenic views of the vineyards dotting the rolling, green hills of Napa Valley – could a couples vacation get better than this?

For lovers that happen to be wine lovers – or oenophiles – a few days in Wine Country is just what you need. Get a breath of fresh air in an idyllic setting that encourages you both to slow down and unwind in each others’ company. 

For a true taste of perfection, make reservations to dine at Auberge du Soleil, The French Laundry, or La Toque – all Michelin-starred restaurants in the heart of Napa Valley.

If you’re here in the fall, the best time to visit Napa Valley, you can see the wine grape harvest in action and get a glimpse of the bottling process as the leaves create a gorgeously colorful display all around you. 

Spring, summer, and winter all have their own draws, too. Make reservations to enjoy different wineries each day and taste dozens of local blends and varietals to find your new favorite. 

There are plenty of excellent places to stay in Napa Valley, including the luxe Harvest Inn with a full-service spa onsite and Golden Haven Hot Springs Spa & Resort where you can swim in a covered pool heated by a hot spring. 

4. Spark Some Romance in the Poconos Mountains

The Poconos Mountains – the Old Honeymoon Capital of the World – is a wonderful place for a couples vacation when you’re up for sparking a little romance in a secluded, private setting with natural beauty surrounding you. 

While alone time may be high on your list, you’ll find that there’s no shortage of things to do in the Poconos if you’re up for a little adventure, relaxation, or simple strolls through the picturesque towns. 

In historic Hawley, PA, you can check out local bands at the Hawley Silk Mill and visit the charming Antler Ridge Winery. Go for a relaxing couples massage at Skyview Spa in beautiful Skytop, PA. 

Award-winning adults-only resorts in the region make it easy to unwind in total serenity. You’ll find tons of dining and entertainment options to suit every mood. 

Discover the best Poconos lodging by staying at Cove Haven Resort (home of the first heart-shaped tub), unwinding at The Lodge at Woodloch with a world-class massage, or on the shores of a private lake at Paradise Stream Resort. 

5. Head to the Paradise of Honolulu, Hawaii

Incredible sunsets on the beach, exciting luaus, gorgeous palm-tree lined shores, massive volcanic craters, and delicious food all make Honolulu an amazing spot for a couples vacation in the US. 

It’s a true island paradise, offering warm, sunny weather year-round and idyllic beach scenes with tropical plants and flowers surrounding the shores. Honolulu’s Waikiki area is a favorite spot for couples. 

Romantic walks along the beach, biking through the city, going to a fiery and exciting luau dinner show, enjoying tantalizing food and drinks at a beachfront grill, and hiking through lush tropical forests are all fun things to do in Oahu (the island where Honolulu is located). 

Don’t pass up the chance to don your flippers and snorkel gear to check out schools of colorful fish around the coral reefs just offshore. Boat cruises and watching dolphins and whales play can be great options, too! 

March through June is the best time to visit Honolulu on a couples vacation with weather in the low-to-mid 80s, little rain, and tons of festivals and events taking place. 

6. Steal Away to Secluded Ocracoke Island

One of the southernmost islands of the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Ocracoke Island is the definition of romantic seclusion in a paradisiacal setting. It’s one of the best couples vacations in the US. 

You’ll arrive via ferry boat or private plane since the island is only accessible by water or air. Once you breathe in the salty air and see picturesque lighthouses in the distance, you’ll know you’re in the perfect place for a couples vacation. 

Visit the old Ocracoke Lighthouse, browse the Ocracoke Preservation Museum to learn about the island’s rich past, stroll through a historic British cemetery together, and marvel at outstanding views of the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound. 

Hand in hand, you can enjoy shelling along the beach, dining on fresh locally-caught seafood, and trying out charming coffee shops and waterfront pubs for something a little harder. 

If you’re lucky, you’ll see the Ocracoke bankers – wild mustangs – running free down the beach, but kept separated with a long wooden fence. 

The Blackbeard legends run deep on Ocracoke and you’ll find his memory etched into Ocracoke’s extensive history. Stop by the Teach’s Hole Blackbeard Exhibit to learn all about it while you’re here. 

7. Take to the Slopes in Park City, Utah

Adventurous duos will find their paradise in Park City, Utah where skiing, snowboarding, and romantic nights by the fire in a cozy lodge are just the beginning of a great couples vacation. 

Bundle up and hit the slopes to show off your skills or learn together as you ski or snowboard your way through the famous ski runs down the mountain. 

Grab a delicious lunch somewhere special with lots of award-winning cafes and restaurants to choose from. Afterward, you can share fondue and a 4-course, alpine-inspired meal together at Fireside Dining to set the mood. 

Take a couples horse-drawn sleigh ride and cuddle up under a warm blanket as you dash down the trail under the stars. Iceskating and snowshoe tours are a lot of fun to do together!

Downtown, you can check out shops, go dancing, listen to live music, and sample extensive options for cocktails and drinks. Returning to your hotel with a bubbling hot tub will make your trip to Park City one of the best couples vacations you’ve ever taken. 

Try to plan your trip between November and March, the best time to visit Park City for winter sports and the snow-covered, picturesque appeal that will make your trip special. 

8. Soak Up Summertime Together in Nantucket

Condé Nast Traveler calls Nantucket, Massachusetts New England’s most romantic island, and once you’ve been there with your special someone, you’ll agree. 

Ideal for a weekend getaway for two, there’s so much to see and do in this charming seaside town. From whale watching and kayaking to crabbing and incredible sunsets, your trip will be full of Nantucket adventures. 

Can you picture the two of you climbing the stairs of lighthouses for sweeping ocean views, wandering down a cobblestone street, and enjoying succulent, fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant?

Stroll the footpath at Sconset Bluff Walk hand in hand, relax on the beach as you soak up the Nantucket sun, visit a whaling museum, and take a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard to sip delectable wines. 

Expect plenty of events and festivals taking place during the busy summer season with amazing fresh seafood and tasty meals served up at waterfront and hidden gem restaurants, dives, and bars. 

Rent bikes from a local shop (Young’s Bicycle Shop is perfect) and ride through the town together, stopping at restaurants, lighthouses, beaches, and viewpoints that grab your interest. 

Take a Boston day trip to experience the energy and sights of the city with the slower pace and charm of a cozy nautical-themed room at a B&B or inn on Nantucket waiting for you when the day is done. 

Let loose at the famous Chicken Box – an “unpretentious roadhouse” with live music – and retire to one of the many charming places to stay here, like the Nantucket Inn, Hotel Pippa, or the Regatta Inn Bed & Breakfast.

While Nantucket can be a fabulous place to visit year-round, it really comes to life in summertime – the best time to visit Nantucket. The weather is warm and pleasant, the beaches are inviting, and the shops and restaurants are operating in full swing. 

9. Enjoy the Valley of Vineyards in Sonoma, California

Sonoma is in California’s renowned Sonoma Valley wine region, making this bustling-yet-laid back city an amazing place for a couples vacation in the US. Vineyards, wineries, beautiful scenery, beaches, and exquisite architecture make it a worthy destination. 

Stroll through town to see interesting adobe buildings like the Sonoma Barracks and the Mission San Francisco Solano. The hub, Sonoma Plaza, was built in the colonial period and hosts weekly farmer’s markets and events.

You’ll find lots of art galleries filled with works by local and regional artists. Jack London Historic Park – yes, that Jack London – is a great place to spend an afternoon hiking trails and learning about the author’s life. 

But the real centerpiece of a couples vacation in Sonoma are the wines and vineyard tours. From rustic to upscale, there are over 425 wineries in the county to pique your interest and offer delicious sips of local wines! 

You’ll also find an expansive list of restaurants – casual and gourmet – serving up delicious fare from international cuisine to Pacific Coast favorites and American diner-style classics. 

Goat Rock Beach in Bodega Bay is about an hour away and ranked as one of the best beaches in California with its gorgeous, sandy shores and interesting rock formations where seals congregate. 

Plan your couples getaway between May and June – it’s the best time to visit Sonoma, though it can be crowded and require you to book your room and winery reservations well in advance. 

10. Find a Piece of Heaven in Asheville, North Carolina

If you’re looking for “almost heaven” in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll find it in Asheville (the Paris of the South). Artsy, naturally beautiful, and delightfully laid back with a vibrant cultural scene, it’s great for a couples vacation. 

If you’re outdoors lovers, you’ll find no shortage of things to get into in Asheville. Hike famous parts of the Appalachian Trail, like Lover’s Leap and Max Patch, and out to Bridal Veil Falls for incredible views. 

Hang out in the River Arts District to browse a collection of art galleries, studios, and unexpected street art. Stop into a cafe, restaurant, or bar downtown for tasty fare in a range of styles that makes Asheville so unique. 

You can’t skip a Biltmore tour while you’re here. This massive, 250-room mansion boasts sprawling grounds teeming with meticulously maintained gardens and footpaths for the ultimate romantic way to spend a day in Asheville.

There’s even a winery onsite! If imbibing is on your list, you’ll want to check out some of Asheville’s popular breweries and pubs for distinct local flavors that you’ll both enjoy. 

March through May and September through November are tied as the best time to visit Asheville. Both feature great weather for outdoor activities and strolling the downtown area! 

11. Marvel at the Cascades in Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls is ranked as one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world. It’s also the original Honeymoon Capital of the World – a guaranteed spot for a nice couples getaway in the US. 

Located on the New York/Canada border, Niagara Falls is famous for its cascading falls, natural beauty, easy to challenging hiking trails, and the Niagara Wine Trail. 

A rite of passage when visiting Niagara Falls is taking the Maid of the Mist boat ride up to the 325′ falls where you’ll be showered in mist as you approach the roaring cascades (ponchos are provided). 

Head up to the Observation Tower for an incredible perspective of the park, hike behind the falls on the Cave of the Winds walking tour, and wrap up the day with a meal on the terrace at Top of the Falls restaurant. 

The Niagara Wine Trail is packed with wineries and restaurants that span a 60-mile stretch through Niagara and neighboring counties. The area’s microclimate makes it perfect for a long growing season.

Sample pinot gris, chardonnay, riesling, sauvignon blanc, mead, cider, and pinot noir at wineries along the trail. It’s a great activity for couples who enjoy unique wines! 

Come between August and September, considered the best time to visit Niagara Falls, for great, mild weather and beautiful fall foliage that’s even better from a helicopter tour for two! 

12. Hike to Scenic Views in Vail, Colorado

Among the rugged Rocky Mountains at the base of Vail Mountain sits the picturesque ski destination of Vail, Colorado. It’s an interesting mixture of Bavarian Alps and US culture that delights visitors along with its natural beauty. 

Vail is in the White River National Forest and surrounded by evergreen and deciduous trees that lend its mountainous landscape a gorgeously lush touch. People enjoy skiing, snowboarding, fly fishing, hiking, golfing, and huge events in Vail.

While you can always head to the famous Vail Ski Resort for winter sports, you’ll appreciate the warm-weather activities in Vail just as much. Wade out or float on Gore Creek to catch a brown trout on a fly line while you’re here! 

Vail has tons of beautiful hiking trails through the mountain scenery and the setting is beyond romantic for a couple that loves the great outdoors. The Eagle’s Loop trail and the challenging hike to Booth Falls are amazing. 

The German (Bavarian) culture here is everywhere – in the food, the history, the architecture, and the festivals. Oktoberfest is a big deal in Vail and this is the ideal place to nosh on schnitzel, fondue, and Weisswurst sausage. 

It feels a lot like a fairytale when you visit Vail. Can you think of a better place for a couples vacation in the US? Come during the best time to visit Colorado: Mid-June to September for warm weather or December to early March for snow sports. 

13. See America’s Oldest City in St. Augustine, Florida

Founded in 1565, St. Augustine, Florida is the oldest city in America (by far!) and is one of the best places to visit in Florida for couples who enjoy history and architecture to spend a few days exploring a new place together. 

The city’s old architecture and brick-paved streets will make you feel like you’ve been transported through time or landed in a distant European city. 

Walking through St. Augustine’s downtown area leads you to countless restaurants, shops, antique stores, and art galleries where it’s easy to spend an entire day browsing together. 

Historic sites are abundant in St. Augustine, like the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse in the United States, old jails and Spanish forts, intricate bridges, and fascinating museums. 

There’s also the Archaeological Park, where you can visit the famed natural spring that has been rumored to be the Fountain of Youth of Ponce de Leon’s endless pursuit. 

It’s worth the steep climb up 219 steps to the St. Augustine Lighthouse. You’ll be rewarded with views of nearby beaches, the vast Atlantic Ocean, and St. Augustine’s impressive cityscape. 

Trolley tours of the town, visiting wineries and distilleries, browsing old homes-turned-museums, and tasting delicious foods at locally owned restaurants and cafes mean you’ll never be bored in this historic US city. 

The period between March and May is generally the best time to visit St. Augustine, thanks to mild spring weather with little rainfall and plenty of events happening in the city. 

14. Find Relaxation and Coastal Vibes in Bar Harbor, Maine

Looking for a town that’s slightly sleepy but still offers tons of activities and attractions for couples in a gorgeous coastal setting? Look no further than Bar Harbor – that’s Bah Hahbah – for a couples vacation in the US. 

There are stunning views of the craggy Maine coast with cliffs and glacial valleys, lighthouses standing proud and tall on the shore, and a bustling downtown area with shops, bars, and restaurants.

Bar Harbor offers convenient access to Acadia National Park if you two are up for a hike (easy or challenging) that rewards you with incredible vista views. 

Together, you’ll stroll through the quaint downtown area down Main Street and Cottage Street. Pop into a bar for a cold drink or grab some fresh seafood at a restaurant by the water – lobster rolls are always recommended!

If you’re there during the spring, you’ll be able to sit on the deck of a bar or restaurant and watch whales playing and swimming just offshore. 

April and May are generally the best time to visit Bar Harbor with whale watching and the popular Taste of Bar Harbor Festival of Food. September to October are great for the Outdoor Art Show and Downtown Oktoberfest! 

During spring and fall, the cost to visit is a little lower and crowds are smaller since the peak tourism season is in the summer. 

15. Experience Luxury in the Wilderness in Girdwood, Alaska

Striking Alaskan mountain scenery, endless outdoor adventures for two, and a whole host of romantic couples activities make Girdwood, Alaska one of the best couples vacations in the US. 

If you’ve never heard of Girdwood, you’re not alone – and that’s part of the charm of this beautiful, hidden gem in Alaska. It’s known for its ski resorts, spas, fine dining, and outdoor adventures. 

Just south of Anchorage with the Chugach Mountains between the two cities, Girdwood is uniquely shielded from Anchorage’s light pollution and offers unbelievable viewing opportunities of the Northern Lights. 

This is where you can come to live dangerously throughout the day, venturing 2,500 feet up a mountain on the Veilbreaker Skybridges or skiing downhill on snow-covered slopes, then wrap yourselves in a cocoon of comfort in the evenings. 

Alyeska Resort in Girdwood is a favorite destination for couples with its highly-rated gourmet dining, onsite full-service spa (couples massage, anyone?), hot tubs and saunas, and prompt room service when you’d rather stay in bed. 

Did we mention it’s also the biggest ski resort in Alaska? This place really is the best of both worlds. We’ve found that May through September is the best time to visit Anchorage and Girdwood, but skiing is ideal from September to May.

Note that September to late April is usually the best time to get a glimpse of the dancing Northern Lights!

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that you’ve got a clear idea of the best couples vacations in the US and which destinations seem to be the best fit, let’s take a look at the FAQs to explore it in a little more detail. 

Book Your Couples Vacation Today!

From the tropical shores of Kauai, Hawaii and the cobblestone streets of Charleston, South Carolina to the snow-covered slopes of Park City, Utah and the coastal New England charm of Nantucket, Massachusetts, the best couples vacations in the US are as varied as they are beautiful. 

Talk it over with your partner to discover which destination is best for your romantic getaway and start looking at hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, museums, and beaches you want to visit while you’re there. 

You’ll make this precious time together memorable and further forge your deep connection while you’re away on any of the best couples vacations. And the best part? You won’t even need a passport!