For many, a romantic island brings visions of seclusion on a white sandy beach with palm trees swaying in a gentle breeze. For others, it might be the opportunity to be at the edge of remote wilderness, taking part in outdoor adventures. From far-flung exotic island destinations in the South Pacific to island escapes closer to home, these island getaways are sure to provide that idyllic escape with plenty of opportunities to ignite the flames of romance.
Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort - Cook Islands
Part of the Cook Islands some 400 miles from Tahiti in the South Pacific, Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort is a place fantasies are made of. Along with being one of the best overwater bungalow resorts in the world, it boasts panoramic views that are sure to take your breath away. The unspoiled beaches are the color of champagne and ideal for romantic strolls, while a wealth of activities can be enjoyed while surrounded by the natural beauty, including wading between the shallow water between islets, snorkeling, and kayaking. There’s a spa with a Jacuzzi and sauna, a gorgeous pool, two restaurants, and two bars, while overwater bungalows make for the ultimate stay, complete with Polynesian-style outdoor showers. Honeymooners might want to book the Royal Honeymoon Villa, which has its own private pool, a hydrotherapy bath, Bose digital audio system, a full kitchen, and more.
Coco Bay Resort - Antiqua
Set atop a bluff overlooking the endless expanse of the sparkling Caribbean, Coco Bay Resort is one of the most popular adult-only properties in the world, offering a serene all-inclusive experience with accommodation in pastel-painted cottages that spill down the hillside. All include private balconies with views of the sea or tropical gardens, furnished with Adirondack chairs and hammocks with options for outdoor clawfoot tubs or plunge pools. The property also has two small and two large infinity pools, three white sandy beaches, access to non-motorized sports, yoga and fitness classes, and a tranquil spa.
Petit St. Vincent Resort - St Vincent and the Grenadines
One of the best couples resorts in the Caribbean, Petit St. Vincent Resort sits on a secluded private island at the southern tip of the Grenadines. It boasts two miles of unspoiled white sands and the kind of tranquility where the only sounds you’ll hear are the waves lapping the shore and the songs of the birds. It’s the ultimate in pampering – all you’ll have to do when you need something is place a note in your mailbox and raise the yellow flag. Accommodation is in beachfront villas and cottages on a bluff. There are no TVs, phones, or Wi-Fi, it’s all about connecting or reconnecting with each other and enjoying nature. A wealth of activities are available, including sailing excursions to other islands and yoga classes.
Frangipani Beach Resort - Anguilla
A luxurious boutique resort, Frangipani Beach Resort offers the ultimate in romance, ideal for a proposal, a destination wedding, or a honeymoon with an expert staff who can provide assistance with all the details, including personalized experiences. There’s a spectacular beachfront infinity pool, and complimentary non-motorized and motorized water sports are included along with access to beach-hopping experiences aboard a catamaran. There are just 19 rooms for an intimate stay, ensuring exceptional service, and many come with magnificent sea views. There’s also a private villa that has its own pool and for the best of the best, a private chef and butler can be added as well.
St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort - Costa den Blanes, Mallorca, Spain
The St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort sits in a prime spot for breathtaking views over the Mediterranean while offering the utmost in luxury and exceptional service. Located on Mallorca’s southwest coast, it’s truly an elegant property and succeeds in its aim to provide tranquil rejuvenation. The spa is a big part of that with its impressive menu of Far Eastern and Western treatments, a jet shower, an ice cave, a Jacuzzi and a sauna. There’s a fitness center for keeping up with your workout routine, a free shuttle to area golf courses, and multiple dining options. Spacious rooms include furnished balconies or terraces, flat-screen TVs, and marble bathrooms. The Ocean One suite is spread over 1,500 square feet and includes awe-inspiring sea views and full butler service.
Aeifos Boutique Hotel - Santorini, Greece
Santorini has become world-renowned as one of the top destinations for honeymoons, providing the ultimate in romance to celebrate a lifetime of love, or just because. Aeifos Boutique Hotel perfectly complements that ambiance with a prime spot on the top of a hill for unobstructed panoramic views of the caldera and the sapphire Aegean. It has a seemingly endless infinity pool that melts into the glistening sea, while the luxury rooms and suites come with private plunge pools, hot tubs, and private balconies for enjoying that breathtaking vista.
Layana Resort & Spa - Ko Lanta, Thailand
The Layana Resort and Spa is one of the world’s top adults-only resorts, designed for intimacy and relaxation. Accommodation is in luxurious rooms, suites and villas by the sea with private balconies and incredible panoramic views. There’s a large saltwater infinity pool, an area for yoga and a spa with a sauna and hydromassage pool. Special romance packages can be booked that include daily breakfasts, candelit dinners on the beach, a Thai cooking class, a sunset cruise and massages. Your transportation to and from the airport is included too.
Hana-Maui Resort - Maui, Hawaii
One of the top couples resorts in Hawaii, Hana-Maui Resort is tucked along the famous Road to Hana, often named among the world’s most scenic drives, stretching for 64 miles along the northern coast of Maui. It provides an idyllic romantic oasis with plenty of luxuries and seclusion, including couples’ treatments at the on-site spa, which also hosts steam rooms and a lava-rock hot tub. A shuttle is available to access a beautiful beach eight minutes away for relaxing and enjoying activities in the turquoise water. Dining includes the Hana Ranch Restaurant featuring local farm-to-table fare, while rooms include ocean-view cottages with private lanais, some with hot tubs.
Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina - Scrub Island, British Virgin Islands
Scrub Island Resort is surrounded by white powdery sand beaches and coral reefs with easy access to outstanding snorkeling and diving. It dominates private Scrub Island with ultra-luxe ocean-view suites, rooms, and villas, all of which boast gorgeous sea views. The multi-room villas come with large verandas, private infinity pools, and chef and porter service. The Ixora Spa provides pampering treatments, and it’s possible to charter a catamaran to explore nearby islands.
Amanpulo - Pamalican Island, Philippines
The only hotel on Pamalican, one of the smaller Cuyo Islands in the Sulu Sea, Amanpulo is surrounded by chalk white sand beaches, palm trees and water in brilliant hues of emerald and turquoise. Accommodation is in luxurious stand-alone casitas inspired by traditional rural homes in the Philippines. All include flat-screen TVs, minibars and Nespresso machines. Some sit along the beachfront and others have private pools. Multi-bedroom villas are available too, with outdoor pools, kitchens, chefs, butlers and complimentary loaner cars. There’s an excellent on-site restaurant with sea views that serves Asian fare, a lavish spa, a dive center, a pool, boutiques and more.
Roche Harbor Resort - San Juan Island, Washington
One of the most romantic resorts for couples in the U.S., historic Roche Harbor Resort is a waterfront resort at the north end of San Juan Island, surrounded by stunning Pacific Northwest beauty. It’s a popular spot for weddings with many tying the knot in its gorgeous Sunken Garden or in the chapel on a hill. But whatever the reason for your stay, you’ll appreciate the comforts and fabulous ambiance. There are multiple accommodation options, including the luxurious McMillin House and Quarryman Hall, which has suites that include private verandas with panoramic sea views, fireplaces, and heated bathroom floors. Rooms in Hotel de Haro are filled with antiques, including a clawfoot bathtub where actor John Wayne once enjoyed a soak.
Aminess Korčula Heritage Hotel - Korcula Island, Croatia
Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel sits within a traditional stone building in a spectacular location in front of the quay where boats coming from Split and Dubrovnik arrive at the dock. It’s the ideal blend of modern amenities and historic character, with the hotel providing comfortable accommodations since 1912 as the oldest in Korcula. The luxurious rooms come complete with sparkling chandeliers, vintage decor, and design furniture. Some have private balconies with sea views. The on-site restaurant features a menu of authentic Korcula fare with a modern twist that can be enjoyed on the terrace overlooking the water.
Fogo Island Inn - Fogo Island, Newfoundland
Fogo Island Inn has been ranked among the world’s very best hotels. A unique all-inclusive design hotel in remote Fogo Island at the “edge of the earth,” it’s a place for adventurous couples who want to experience the ultimate in luxuries and island culture. Every room showcases expansive ocean views, with icebergs floating by from mid to late spring and whales making an appearance throughout the summer. Binoculars are included along with a fireplace or wood stove, a giant soaking tub and handmade Scandinavian-inspired furniture. On clear nights from late fall through winter, it’s the perfect place for watching the northern lights.
The 1661 Inn - Block Island, Rhode Island
The 1661 Inn is a family-run boutique hotel on Block Island, easily reached by ferry from mainland Rhode Island, home to 17 miles of pristine beaches, lighthouses, and spectacular bluffs. For those seeking a romantic escape closer to home, it may be the perfect place to enjoy the sun and the sea, with two dozen rooms spread through four buildings, including the inn, two cottages, and a guest house. They feature various combinations of ocean views, fireplaces, and spa tubs. Champagne buffet breakfasts can be enjoyed along with traditional New England or American fare.
