Flowers and chocolate are fine. But if you want to take the romance to the next level for Valentine’s Day, plan a luxurious trip with your partner in crime this year. RedWeek has some ideas for where to go where to stay, and what to do.
Maui, Hawaii
The Destination: The second largest island in Hawaii, Maui — popularly known as “The Valley Isle” — is one of the most romantic places on the planet. The beaches are legendary for a good reason, with soft white sand and sparkling waters. Away from the beach, you’ll find incredible eco-adventures, including the famed Road to Hana, a 52-mile road that twists and turns around Maui’s northeastern shore.
The Resort: Spread across 16 lush acres of beachfront property, Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club is perfect for couples seeking the ideal blend of tropical romance and luxury. Book a couples’ treatment at the tranquil day spa, or take a soak in the massive Superpool, with evocative waterfalls, lazy rivers, and a stylish pool bar.
The Romance: Take a sunset catamaran cruise along the picturesque West Maui coast. There are many outfitters who can get you and you sweetheart out on the water in style, including such romantic add-ons as champagne and authentic local eats.
Discover all that the destination has to offer in our Maui Travel Guide.
Newport Coast, California
The Destination: Known as the “Pacific Riviera,” Orange County’s Newport Coast offers couples a sunny southern California escape. You’ll enjoy pristine coastal beauty, a lively cuisine scene (with fresh seafood taking center stage), scenic golf courses, and classic attractions like the charming Balboa Island.
The Resort: Perched atop a cliff overlooking the Pacific and Laguna Beach, Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas feature spacious, two-bedroom, two-bathroom villas, each with a private furnished balcony — the perfect spot to watch those glorious California sunsets.
The Romance: You don’t have to go to Venice, Italy, to enjoy a romantic gondola ride. You can coast gently through the intimate inlets and canals of Newport Harbor at sunset, guided by an expert gondolier. As in Italy, the tradition is to kiss under every bridge!
Find out why the Newport Coast is one of our user’s favorite spots.
Miami, Florida
The Destination: High-energy romance awaits in Magic City. Miami is a place where anything is possible, whether you’re looking for incredible nightlife, a thrilling cultural scene, or the best Cuban food you can find outside of Havana. And when it’s time to relax, the sands of South Beach are always close at hand.
The Resort: The irresistible fun and excitement of South Beach is easy to find when you’re staying at Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, South Beach. With a choice location right on the buzzing Ocean Drive, you’ll never be far from the sand or the area’s best nightclubs, shopping, and restaurants.
The Romance: Love is always in the air at Miami’s Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, where you’ll be surrounded by the wonders of nature at every turn. Take a guided tram tour, wander through teeming garden paths, and discover serene water features. If you’re thinking about proposing during your Valentine’s Day trip, you couldn’t do much better than the Fairchild.
Sedona, Arizona
The Destination: The beach doesn’t have a monopoly on romance. Sedona, located in Arizona’s high desert is a mystical destination, filled with natural beauty and stunning landscapes. During a Sedona rendezvous, you’ll walk amidst striking red rock formations, be rejuvenated by healing wellness treatments, and enjoy some of the Southwest’s finest dining.
The Resort: Located in the heart of Sedona’ “Red Rock country,” Hyatt Piñon Point’s Southwest-style architecture and décor blends perfectly into the surrounding environment. The resort offers luxurious rooms, two great on-site restaurants, and attention-to-detail service.
The Romance: Find your creative spark during an intimate couples’ ceramics course at the Sedona Arts Centre. You’ll get personalized attention from pottery masters, discover an ancient and contemplative art form — and maybe create your very own masterpieces.
Get the scoop on Sedona with our expert travel guide.
