Romantic getaways

“Ah, l’amour,” as my French friends would say. Valentine’s Day is next week, and while it might be a little late to book a romantic getaway for the special day, there are 51 weeks left in the year, not to mention 2025. But where to go? When taking your special gal (or guy) out to dinner isn’t quite enough, a trip is called for. This week and next, we’ll be talking about the best romantic getaways out there. Let’s start with the top destinations for romance here in the U.S., according to US News:

·         Kaua’i. All of the Hawaiian Islands are beautiful, but Kaua’i is perfect for both thrill-seekers and sun-worshipers. Lounge on secluded beaches, relax in a private luxury villa or go on a kayaking adventure along the Napali Coast. The hiking in state parks like Koke’e and Waimea Canyon is great, too.

·         Lanai. Right behind its sister island in Hawaii is Lanai. Recovering quickly from last summer’s devastating wildfire, the island exclusivity is its biggest attraction. Indulge in high-end cuisine at a luxury hotel or resort, relax by the pool, or set out to explore Lanai’s landscape, like a hike to the Pu’upehe Overlook, also known as “Sweetheart Rock.”

·         Napa Valley. The heart of California’s Wine Country, this onologist’s paradise north of San Francisco is the top romantic getaway in the continental U.S. Wide lovers can sip Napa’s award-winning reds at intimate venues like O’Brien Estate and Jarvis Estate, or while savoring gourmet cuisine aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. Kayaking on the Napa River, hot-air ballooning, and visits to the spas and hot springs of Calistoga can also be on your itinerary.

·         Sonoma. Still in the Golden State, Sonoma is more laid-back than its neighbor, Napa, but still boasts more than 425 wineries. Outdoor lovers can explore regional parks like Taylor Mountain, or book a one-of-a-kind couple’s massage in a 22-foot wine barrel at Magical Massage.

·         Charleston. South Carolina’s most famous city is filled with pastel-hued historic homes, art galleries and tasty Low Country cuisine. Take in the sights from a horse-drawn carriage or a sunset harbor cruise for two. The city’s bed-and-breakfast hotels are renowned for their antebellum charm.

·         Sedona. Hikers love this Arizona getaway, offering sandstone buttes and challenging trails. Relax indoors at one of the city’s world-famous wellness retreats, or take a self-guided tour of the Verde Valley Wine Trail, which boasts 15 venues.

·         Big Sur. Back to California we go for windswept coastlines and rugged mystique. Luxurious hotels serve as welcome pit stops while you explore by bicycle, or perhaps hiking and camping near Pfeiffer Beach are more your speed. Nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea offers art galleries and fairytale cottages.

·         Big Sky. Experience Montana in style with top-notch ski resorts in the winter and fly-fishing scenic rivers in the summer. Hiking under the endless “Big Sky” is popular, too. For a real “Yellowstone”-style experience, spring for an all-inclusive ranch visit.

·         Amelia Island. One of Florida’s barrier-reef islands off the Atlantic coast, this getaway offers bike trails and the town of Fernandina Beach, with Victorian-style architecture, antique shops and art galleries.

·         Nantucket. Rounding out the Top 10 is this tiny Massachusetts island known for its New England charm. Stroll arm-in-arm down cobblestone streets, unwind on white sand beaches and snap selfies in front of iconic lighthouses. Grab a lobster roll from one of the island’s premier seafood restaurants and revel in extraordinary views of the Atlantic from the Sconset Bluff Walk. Lodging choices include a host of quaint Nantucket inns.

Ready to book for later this year? Or, maybe Valentine’s Day 2025? Give us a call!