The best couples' vacations in the U.S. for romance and adventure

Majestic, lush landscapes, glorious weather, fantastic dining, and the country’s best wineries make California Wine Country not only one of the most romantic getaways in America but also the world over. While many gravitate to Napa, the county and town of Sonoma offer a quieter luxury and maintain a local feel. For the most romantic of accommodations, book a stay at the luxurious Lodge at Sonoma, which offers a spa, pool and several on-site restaurants. It is also within walking distance of the charming shops, tasting rooms and restaurants surrounding Sonoma Plaza. Overall, this Northern California destination is perfect for anniversaries, honeymoons or just some couple-time.

Of all Hawaiian islands, Kauai gets top billing for its remote setting, secluded beaches, and local feel. While Oahu and Maui may be more cosmopolitan, couples come to Kauai for a more laid-back and rural—not to mention the stunning scenery. For true luxury and romance, book a stay at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay on the North Shore. Romance is around every corner here. 

Upstate New York has some of the best and most beautiful countryside on the eastern seaboard. The summers are sensational, the fall foliage is fantastic...and come the holiday season, it offers a winter wonderland of snow-coated shenanigans. The adjacent town of Hunter offers a warm, small-town feel, and while it's a far cry from any nearby city, it reminds you of a time when you actually went to local stores to buy essentials and didn't order them through a website. A bygone era indeed. The locals are quite used to visitors, strangers from 'out of town' and 'city folk', so they're friendly and extremely helpful. There are several great places to stay, but we believe the best is the Hunter Mountain Sanctuary, where you can enjoy a roaring open fire, a glass of wine and gaze back at the mountain, be it covered in lush, green vegetation or a smooth blanket of pure white snow. Here you can well and truly switch off...if you want to.

Snow bunnies who love hitting the slopes for fresh powder in the morning and cuddling up by a raging fire in the evening will find all their winter wonderland dreams come true in Aspen. Couples love Gant Aspen’s luxurious condominiums. Each condo comes with a full kitchen for making romantic meals and a heated outdoor pool. Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, daily skiing and leisure time in historic downtown Aspen are easily within grasp.

With its hilly streets, waterfront views, and charming Victorian homes, the City by the Bay is a great place to stroll hand-in-hand and embrace romance. Traverse the famously hilly landscape for stunning views of the bay and skyline while taking delight in all the ways that the city’s history collides with its futuristic, tech-driven present. For a splurge-worthy meal, book a table at a Michelin star restaurant. While there are plenty to choose from, our top pick is Lazy Bear (Two Stars), an iconic San Francisco experience showcasing creative, innovative takes on nostalgic American fare using seasonal Bay Area ingredients. Book a waterfront room at the 1 Hotel San Francisco and end your evening watching the sparkling Bay Bridge in the distance. 

Horse-drawn carriages, Spanish moss, cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture make Savannah one of the South’s most romantic destinations. Lounge on the sandy beach on Tybee Island, then visit the ruins of Wormsloe, Savannah’s oldest standing structure and the 18th-century home of carpenter Noble Jones. A photo together on its oak-lined, moss-shrouded boulevard is the only souvenir you’ll need to bring home.

The eastern peninsula of Massachusetts is one of the East Coast’s finest summer destinations. In Cape Cod, harbors with darling lighthouses, chowder shacks, historic architecture, boats of all varieties, cranberry bogs, windswept beaches and small towns make for a relaxing trip enjoying each other’s company. Head into town for upscale seafood (with generous portions) at Impudent Oyster. Consider booking at Chatham Bars Inn Resort & Spa, which offers 25 acres of ocean-front property as well as amenities like a private beach and a heated oceanfront pool.

Escape to Woodstock, an idyllic pastoral haven at this quintessential New England village. A fresh-off-the-fields farmers' market, a general store that dates back to the 1850s, town suppers and some of the most colorful, crisp fall foliage around make this tiny town (population just over 3,000) an off-the-beaten-track destination. For a breakfast or lunch that even locals swear by, grab a rustic table at Mon Vert Café. Here, the coffee is almost as good as the homemade baked goods and the sandwiches are savory delights.

Whether you can’t get enough skiing in the winter, want to hike across a beautiful Western landscape or are just looking for a nice place to stay and eat before you venture into Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole is for you. With an ultra-modern domed ceiling, romantic lighting, chic decor and a menu heavy on fresh fish, The Kitchen is a favorite date spot in Jackson. Seeking the rustic feel of a cabin but really need modern amenities and accommodations? Book a stay at Spring Creek Ranch, where you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the mountains in rooms with wood-burning fireplaces and cable television.

Everyone has heard of San Diego, but not everyone has actually visited. And you should. It's a small city, relatively speaking for the USA, but it's all about location...and it doesn't get much better than this. Situated on the glorious Pacific coast, there are beaches plenty to choose from and the Old Town makes for a fun place to explore to find somewhere good to eat. America's finest city didn't just give itself that moniker and for a significantly slowed-down pace, Southern California's mini-metropolis is hard to top.

Just twenty minutes outside of Phoenix, Scottsdale beckons couples with an endless number of resorts and spas that invite you to relax and take in the desert sun. For the most romantic resort in the area—Jay Z and Bey's choice on their honeymoon–book a stay at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain. When not lounging or getting pampered, stroll Town, go on a horseback ride, or even book a wine tasting (Arizona wine is up and coming!). 

New Orleans is particularly fantastic for lovebirds. Partners who can’t agree on what is most important on vacation—sightseeing, excellent food, adventure, or relaxation—will find their perfect compromise when indulging in live jazz music, riverboat rides, strolls through the French Quarter, Cajun food, and ghost tours. Splurge on a stay in the French Quarter at the splendid Audubon Cottages. The private, gorgeously decorated cottages come with plenty of amenities, including butler service, while the shared Tuscan-style courtyard boasts a fabulous salt pool.

Founded in 1670, Charleston is as historic as it is gorgeous: streets lined with pastel antebellum architecture and an exquisite French quarter. Make sure to stop by the Battery Promenade for views of the Charleston harbor. While appreciating the oozing-with-charm downtown Charleston, stop at the Peninsula Grill. Located off Marketplace, this renowned eatery serves some of the finest elevated Southern food in town.

Nantucket, a tiny island off the coast of Cape Cod, positively drips in history. A favorite holiday location for many that could be considered US royalty, including the Kennedys and the Bidens. The island also played a significant role during the age when whaling was common: Moby Dick begins here. And while that doesn't seem like a particularly pleasant period of history, you should remind yourself that at least it wasn't en masse, like it is today. Visit the Egan Maritime Institute & Museum for undoubtedly the best insight into the island's rich history. It also boasts the biggest single collection of work by celebrated marine artist Rodney Charman. The streets have that quaint, colonial feel to them and it truly feels like you've found tranquility. Enjoy the freshly-caught seafood and have a hearty laugh at the property prices. 

The Big Apple is not the quietest or most serene city in the world, but that might not be what you're looking for. If you're looking for adventure with your nearest and dearest, this is the place to come. From exploring Manhattan on foot or braving the subway to choosing from a near-infinite number of bars and restaurants that cater to every single conceivable taste. From sauntering through Central Park to strolling alongside the Hudson River. There is a ton of stuff to do here, and let's face facts, with London and Paris taking the number two and three spots, respectively, New York City is the most Christmassy place you can visit on the planet, with the only exception being Santa's actual grotto in the North Pole.

The City of Angels is actually a sight to behold. It's as unique as every other major metropolitan city in the U.S., and the palm trees, blue skies, wide open spaces, and beautiful, endless sandy beaches make it a fun place to check out. If you're a movie or TV buff, then so much the better, but...you don't have to be. Explore Santa Monica and Venice, where there are a lot of great restaurants and bars, plus shopping in Beverly Hills, walking in the hills, cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway or along Mulholland Drive, or hiking up to the Hollywood sign and gazing down upon the city lights below. 

While many destinations in Florida are reputed tourist-heavy, there’s something to be said about Miami’s vibrant art scene. Worry not: Plenty of beaches and fantastic pools will satisfy your hunger for some tanning time. Ready to splurge on dinner? Tropical plants, twinkling lights and so much romance, Komodo Miami is a sexy choice for enjoying high-end Asian fare.