11 Romantic Travel Ideas for Valentine's Day

Image: Find romance at Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen. (Photo Credit: Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen)

by Holly Johnson
Last updated: 8:00 AM ET, Thu February 1, 2024

Valentine's Day is supposed to be romantic and fun, but it doesn't always end up that way when you have workplace responsibilities, household chores and kids who still live at home. When you're in the "busy season" of life, you may even find that Valentine's Day is not something you can prioritize, much less celebrate.

But, what if you could get away from regular life to enjoy a romantic, private vacation somewhere relaxing and special? In that case, there are all kinds of Valentine's Day bookings you can still make around the world in destinations like Anguilla, Barbados, Mexico and even the Maldives.

For example, you could book a relaxing stay at an?all-inclusive resort, or you could figure out a last-minute cruise option with availability. You could also lock in a romantic getaway in the mountains or drink your way through?wine country.

Whatever your travel style, consider this list of 11 romantic trip ideas for Valentine's Day or any other day of the year.

Relax at the Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen

The?Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen?is located just steps from the bustling city's main tourism area, the colorful Quinta Avenida, and it features 314 guest rooms that sit adjacent to the sparkling Caribbean sea. This resort is also bookable with World of Hyatt points, and it offers incredible amenities like three infinity pools, an on-site spa, two restaurants, a sushi bar and a coffee bar.

Several room types also feature an outdoor mini plunge pool that's both romantic and private. All-inclusive packages are also bookable at this resort if you want the convenience of all your drinks and meals included in the nightly rate.

Plan a Great Smoky Mountains Getaway

Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains offer another idyllic place to escape if you love nature and what you really want is peace and quiet. You can rent log cabins and other types of vacation rentals in destinations like Pigeon Forge,?Gatlinburg?and Sevierville, which often feature private hot tubs and panoramic mountain views.

If you love staying active and want to connect with your partner, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park also features endless hiking trails through the backcountry.

Jet Off to Velaa Private Island in the Maldives?

If you want to get away from it all and travel as far as possible, consider booking a luxury stay at Velaa Private Island in the?Maldives. This resort features several beach houses and private residences you can book, but it also offers a newly remodeled Romantic Residence that is only accessible by boat. This truly private overwater home in paradise features an outdoor dining gazebo, a private jacuzzi and a personal chef and butler that are available upon request.

The Velaa Private Island also has a luxurious spa, several fine-dining restaurants and its own wine cellar.

Book a Romantic Beachfront Condominium

Maybe you want a romantic getaway you can easily drive to, and you prefer to go where the weather is warm. In that case, you can consider booking a beachfront condominium in any number of waterfront destinations around the United States. For example, you could look at vacation rental rates in Naples, Florida,?Myrtle Beach in South Carolina?or Galveston, Texas, to name a few spots.

Fortunately, there are all kinds of beachfront condos and vacation rentals to choose from on booking sites like VRBO.com and Airbnb.

Explore the Island of Anguilla

The tiny Caribbean island of?Anguilla?is slightly more difficult to get to than other nearby destinations, so its lodging options are much more exclusive. For example, Anguilla only has one "name brand" resort to consider, and it's a Four Seasons. Other notable luxury resorts on the island of Anguilla include Zemi Beach House, Cap Juluca (a Belmond Hotel) and Malliouhana.

The laid-back atmosphere of Anguilla makes it easy to relax and feel all the romantic vibes. Also note that Anguilla has some of the most beautiful and highly-rated beaches in the world, including Rendezvous Bay and Shoal Bay East.

Book a Stay at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun

The?Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun?has one of the best beaches in all of Mexico, and it's just a short ferry ride from nearby Isla Mujeres. This all-inclusive resort is also ideal for romance due to its upscale atmosphere, its incredible rooms and suites and its Infinite Luxury experience that can be added to bookings when an upscale experience with the best of everything is required.

This resort also stands out due to its exclusive and award-winning dining options, including its formal French restaurant Le Basilic. The property also added three new restaurants recently, including an Argentinian Mexican steakhouse, an immersive Asian fusion dining experience and a casual elegant Italian restaurant.

Book a Last-Minute Cruise

You still have time to book a last-minute cruise if you start shopping now, and you may even land a great deal if you can move fast. After all, many cruise fares drop if you can book at the last minute, and shopping around gives you the option to compare prices and snag the best deal.

Use the website?VacationstoGo.com?to search their 90-day ticker, which lets you hone in on cruises that depart within 90 days based on where they depart, cruise length and other factors. When you do, you'll find all the best cruise fares from lines like?Explora Journeys,?MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and more.

Visit the New JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge in Kenya

If you're looking for a romantic adventure that's completely out of the ordinary, consider staying at the new JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge in?Kenya. This resort opened in April of 2023 with much fanfare, and it is bookable with cash or with rewards points in the Marriott Bonvoy program.

The lodge itself features 20 luxurious tent suites, all of which have their own outdoor Jacuzzi tub. Every stay also includes breakfast, lunch, high tea and dinner, along with the chance to see incredible wildlife in an awe-inspiring safari destination.

Head Off to Barbados

Barbados?is one of the most laid-back and romantic destinations in the Caribbean, and that's especially true if you book a stay along the island's Platinum Coast. Here you'll find powder sand beaches, swaying palm trees providing ample shade, calm turquoise waters and a range of high-end hotels and resorts.

You can even book a stay at an all-inclusive resort on the Platinum Coast if you prefer, with options like Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels and Waves Hotel & Spa available. Or, you can book a luxury resort like the world-renowned Sandy Lane Hotel.

Visit Napa Valley, California

Looking for an adult getaway where you can indulge in fine wines??California's Napa Valley?should be at the top of your list. This area of the country features quaint communities with adorable boutique hotels, restaurants galore and 475 wineries that produce more than 1,000 different wine brands.

Things to do in the area include wine tastings, bike tours, fine dining experiences and hiking, to name a few. Whatever you want to do, Napa Valley makes it easy to piece together lodging and adventures for a few days (or a few weeks) of romance and fun.

Book a Stay In Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina?is also worth a visit if you love history, architecture and enjoying food and fun with a splash of southern charm. This area of the country is perfect for couples who are into deep-fried foods, ghost tours, golf, spas and even sports and recreation.

You can head to Charleston to take part in a range of culinary tours, imbibe in a historic brewery or distillery or visit one of the many art galleries in the area. While you're there, make sure to visit the Charleston City Market and book a horse-drawn carriage for a relaxing ride through town.

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