Is that special day coming up? Or maybe you and your partner just need to run away from life for a few days. Whether you’re planning an anniversary trip, honeymoon, or a “just because” vacation, the US has several stunning beach destinations perfect for a romantic retreat – no passport required. Here are some of our favorite romantic beach getaways.
California
Monterey Peninsula
Just two hours south of San Francisco, the Northern California coastal region boasts stunning cliff-top views of the Pacific Ocean and many parks to get back in touch with nature. Hit the surf or enjoy a beach picnic at Carmel Beach. Head to Pacific Grove in the spring to see the “magic carpet” or pink ice plants bloom all over the landscape, or in October to view the monarch butterfly sanctuary – a grove of eucalyptus trees that becomes home to thousands of monarchs. Explore the 17-Mile Drive and stop at various lookout points to see harbor seals, cypress trees lined cliffs, and the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course. Finally, go to the town of Monterey or Carmel for a fantastic steakhouse or fresh seafood for a romantic dinner and watch the sunset.
See resorts in the Monterey Peninsula
Central Coast
Halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles is California’s Central Coast. A local favorite of the region is Avila Beach, a charming small town tucked into a coastal cove. Shop boutique stores, sample fresh seafood, spend a day soaking in natural hot springs; or sip your way through the nearby wineries. The cool coastal breeze creates a perfect climate for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Venture to nearby beach towns like Morro Bay and Pismo Beach or head to San Luis Obispo for lively farmer’s markets and excellent tri-tip barbecue. More of an adventurous couple? Oceano Dunes Natural Preserve is one of the largest coastal dunes left in California. Go horseback riding, dive into the ocean, or speed down the sandy slopes on an ATV.
See resorts in California’s Central Coast
San Diego
Vibrant yet laid back, it’s hard to deny that San Diego is one of the coolest cities in the US for a romantic beach getaway. There’s something for everyone in San Diego: lively nightlife, perfect year-round weather, trendy craft beer and cuisine, a thriving arts scene, and perfect sparkly white beaches. Feel like kids again as you soar down Belmont Park’s Giant Dipper roller coaster. Visit Mission Bay Aquatic Park for paddleboarding, water skiing, kite surfing, and any other water sport you can think of. Explore the historic Old Town and feast on some of the best Mexican food and margaritas. Then end the night with a fun and artsy date night in the Gaslamp Quarter, where you can find art galleries, nightclubs, fine dining and gastropubs, rooftop bars, and craft brews.
Hawaii
Maui
Nothing says romance more than an island getaway, and a visit to Maui is one of the best. The second-largest Hawaiian island is home to some of the best beaches to surf, swim, snorkel, or simply work on your tan. Explore the island and find white, black, and even red sand beaches. Go on an adventure to Hana for incredible hikes and discover secret waterfalls and beaches. If you visit during winter, keep an eye out for the humpback whale migration. After a day of trekking, swimming, or soaking up the sun, take in the beautiful sunsets with your special someone. Enjoy a sunset cocktail cruise or a classic luau and pretend you’ll never have to leave.
Oahu
For those who want the laid-back beach life and the energy of big cities, the island of Oahu is just what you want. A dynamic blend of ancient and modern, you’ll struggle to run out of activities to do. Hang out on the world-famous Waikiki Beach and bring some poke bowls for a beach picnic. Visit Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and snorkel with over 400 species of fish, turtles, rays, and even dolphins. Hike Diamond Head for gorgeous panoramic views of the ocean and Honolulu or the lush trail to Manoa Falls – a 150-foot cascade surrounded by tropical rainforest. For the foodie couple, go on a Hawaii Food Tour and sample your way through hole-in-the-wall gems and diverse island flavors.
South Carolina
Hilton Head Island
On the East Coast, relaxing and welcoming Hilton Head Island offers perfect romantic getaway vibes and some of the country’s best beaches. Explore the land and sea with hiking trails, bike rides, kayak expeditions, or a fishing trip. Set the mood with a candlelit dinner and jazzy beats at The Jazz Corner or The Studio, which offers a wide variety of food for everyone’s tastes. For an exceptional day trip, take the ferry and travel to another time to Daufuskie Island. Get lost among ancient oak tree forests, visit art galleries full of colorful woodwork and paintings, play a round of golf, and walk along the soft white sand beaches.
See resorts in Hilton Head Island
Myrtle Beach
With sixty miles of coastline, Myrtle Beach offers sixty miles of opportunities for gorgeous sunsets, sandy beach days, and ocean adventures. Stroll through the boardwalk and bar hop along the way, or satisfy your sweet tooth with premium ice cream and giant candy stores. And sunset would be the perfect opportunity for a romantic ride on the SkyWheel and see the sights from 187 feet up. For a unique blend of art, history, and nature, couples should check out Brookgreen Gardens. Part botanical garden, part collection of American figurative sculptures, and part historical and wildlife preserve, the Gardens offer a comprehensive look at South Carolinian culture and biodiversity. When you’re feeling thirsty, stop by Duplin Winery for a taste of southern wine and then head to the Murrells Inlet Marshwalk – a half-mile boardwalk along a saltwater estuary for live music and waterfront dining.
Florida
Miami Beach
This romantic getaway is for nightlife lovers. Dance the night away to Latin beats in the countless nightclubs in South Beach and feast on tacos and delicious Cuban food when you need to rest your feet. In the daytime, though, take your sweetheart on a kayak trip through the mangroves, enjoy the sandy Miami Beach and perfect water, or tour through fragrant flowers at the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. For architecture lovers, check out the Art Deco Historic District to see the world’s most extensive collection of Art Deco-styled buildings. For a refreshing drink and unique wine tasting experience, visit Schnebly Redland’s Winery in nearby Homestead for handcrafted beers and wines made from exotic fruits like coconut, guava, passionfruit, mango, and even avocado. Salud!
Key West
The southernmost point of the continental US boasts sandy beaches, excellent water sport activities, historic sites, and a lively nightlife with a dash of eccentricity. For the free spirit couples who enjoy going with the flow, visit Key West and see where it takes you. Visit famed novelist Ernest Hemmingway’s home and hang out with the six-toed cats who call it home, then have a drink at one of his favorite haunts on Duval Street. Go on a walking tour around the small island and see the eclectic mix of courtyards, gardens, and homes that once belonged to the likes of Robert Frost, Jimmy Buffet, and Tennessee Williams. Join the sunset celebration at Mallory Square and watch jugglers, animal acts, and tightrope walkers perform. Take a seaplane or ferry to Dry Tortugas for a water-filled adventure – 100 square miles of mostly open, crystal-clear water perfect for snorkelers, divers, and swimmers.
Whatever style you and your significant other enjoy, you don’t have to travel too far for a romantic beach getaway. Happy traveling!
