Looking to get away with your significant other, but can’t decide where to go? While the possibilities are certainly endless, StudyFinds set out to find the best vacation spots in the U.S. for couples to connect (or reconnect) — according to travel experts.
In most relationships, the initial thrill of that incredible connection between partners wears off with time. We grow apathetic. As we get to know our significant other, there are fewer discoveries that bring that spark of surprise and joy. We become more routine-oriented, and the excitement fades. Moreover, when we lack excitement in our relationships, we feel unsatisfied.
Vacations help to stimulate excitement and refresh our minds. According to a recent study, a vacation-for-two can also help to rekindle the flame and strengthen the bond in a relationship. This study shows that approximately 42 percent of Americans have fallen back in love with a partner after going on vacation together. Based on the survey of 2,000 adults, nearly 77 percent feel that vacations are ideal for couples who want to maintain or rekindle their romantic flame!
It’s no surprise that the five best vacation destinations according to experts are found in some of the country’s sunniest states. In a recent study, sunlight was shown to increase the romantic passion of individuals. The research finds that UVB rays trigger the release of sex hormones, which stimulate arousal. Combine the natural rays with the breezy, tropical surroundings of these sunshine states, and you have a vacation getaway that is sure to send sparks flying!
Looking for a getaway? We researched ten expert travel sites to find the best vacation spots for couples in the U.S. Here’s a look at the top five romantic vacation destinations that were most recommended across these sites. If we missed a spot that you recommend, let us know in the comments below!
The List: Best Vacation Spots for Couples in the U.S., Per Experts
1. Napa Valley, California
From the Sonoma Coast State Beach to the gourmet restaurants of Yountville, this travel destination has it all! It is best known, however, for its beautiful vineyards.
“Brimming with rolling vineyards, cozy wine caverns, chic restaurants, and top-notch hotels, this wine lover’s paradise 50 miles north of San Francisco is the ultimate romantic getaway,” says Travel.US News.
Discover the history of California’s wine country and visit the shops on the riverfront. “Napa also has a vintage railway with a ‘Wine Train.’ It offers a special ‘Romance of the Rails’ package, which includes a 3-hour evening journey, with a gourmet dinner, and of course plenty of wine,” adds Hotels Escape.
2. Kauai, Hawaii
Relax on remote beaches, stay in a remote, luxurious villa, or go backpacking along the scenic Napali Coast. According to Via Travelers, “the most romantic sites you can find are the Mahaulepu beaches, Lydgate Beach Park, and Kuilau Ridge Trail.”
“Waimea Canyon is one of the most stunning tourist attractions on Kauai. Sometimes referred to as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific,’ this picturesque wonderland is about as dreamy as you’d hope for a romantic holiday,” adds Planet Ware.
3. Savannah, Georgia
Complete with southern charm, historical sites, and beautiful architecture draped with Spanish moss, Savannah is a great destination for rekindling the romance!
Roaming the USA adds: “Savannah’s Historic District is the perfect place for a romantic stroll, admiring the beautiful mansions and historic squares before having a picnic lunch at Forsyth Park. The best part of exploring the Historic District? You can grab a to-go alcoholic beverage to enjoy during your walk! For a romantic dinner date, make reservations at The Olde Pink House, one of the city’s best restaurants.”
According to Buzzfeed’s list of best couple’s destinations, Savannah made the top 10 for its “buzzworthy” cuisine and atmosphere.
“Couples looking for an urban escape can take a romantic stroll along Savannah’s River Street. The historic waterfront path is constructed from cobblestones that are more than 200 years old, while the street itself is chock-full of cute restaurants, bars, galleries, and shops, all offering spectacular views of the Savannah River and docking cargo ships,” says Travel + Leisure.
4. Key West, Florida
Part of the stunning Florida Keys, Key West, is a beautiful, secluded island that’s ideal for a romantic weekend trip.
According to Today, “nearly 20% of visitors participate in a wedding or vow renewal while visiting this remote archipelago comprised of more than 1,000 islands.”
Specifically, the Little Palm Island Resort and Spa is named one of the most romantic spots in the Florida Keys. “This private escape, located in Little Torch Key, features diverse wildlife, and the coral reef surrounding the island is one of the best in the country for snorkelers,” adds Travel + Leisure.
5. Charleston & Beaufort S.C.
For the final spot, there was a toss-up between two of South Carolina’s oldest towns: Charleston and Beaufort. The romantic cobblestone streets of Charleston, S.C., create an ambiance sure to help reignite the spark!
“Strolling through the pastel-colored, lamp-and-palmetto-lined downtown feels like stepping into a spring watercolor. Opt for after-dinner walks down Rainbow Row, slurp fare like oysters at Leon’s Oyster Shop, and visit the Insta-worthy Pineapple fountain in Waterfront Park,” says Women’s Health Magazine.
Charleston’s sister town, Beaufort, is the second oldest town in S.C. and is equally full of charm!
Beaufort was named Parade’s third most romantic low-ley vacation destination in the U.S. “Beaufort’s more intimate mood and easygoing pace attract visitors in search of a quiet place to reconnect,” adds Parade.
The best part is, if you can’t make your mind up, these towns are only an hour and a half away from each other, making it easy to visit both in one trip!
You might also be interested in:
- Best Florida Beaches
- Best Beaches in the U.S.
- Best Caribbean Vacation Spots
- Best Luxury Vacation Spots
- Best Travel Credit Cards
Sources:
- Parade
- Today
- Travel + Leisure
- Women’s Health Magazine
- Travel.US News
- Buzzfeed
- Hotels Escape
- Via Travelers
- Planet Ware
- Roaming the USA
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.