With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, what better way to celebrate than with a romantic getaway to the Caribbean or Mexico? Go from lounging in the sun on a peaceful beach, to zip lining and exploring with this list of the most romantic destinations and trip ideas.
Move Mountains in Saint Lucia
At the top of the list is Saint Lucia, best known for its rugged mountainous terrain that overlooks pristine, often private, beaches. Opt for an all-inclusive package at Anse Chastanet for a truly romantic experience that embodies the natural surroundings, with premium rooms showcasing all-around views of St. Lucia’s Pitons. While there, stroll the powdery shores of Anse Chastanet, which are dotted with palms and beach-side cabanas, or visit Anse des Pitons, a scenic beach that sits between two volcanic peaks. If you’re an adventurous couple, take your love to new depths on a scuba or snorkeling excursion with Scuba St. Lucia, or head to Toraille Waterfall and Gardens for a hike and then cool off in the dipping pool as the waterfall streams above you.
Experience Paradise in the Bahamas
Stay at the Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas, if you’re looking for a romantic oasis. This luxury resort is located on Paradise Island and boasts an exclusive white-sand beach, various room packages, including garden cottages and three-bedroom villas, a garden terrace inspired by Versailles and a Balinese-style spa with private outdoor gardens. Make the most of your days by lounging on the beach, or head offshore for a yacht and fishing charter with Bahamas Marine Adventures. Begin your evenings with a toast to one another with the complimentary champagne and strawberries delivered daily to your room, then explore the surrounding area. Head to Atlantis, Paradise Island for gambling at the Atlantis Casino or, for a night of dancing, Aura Nightclub.
An Ageless Love in Cuba
Cuba is a destination rich with culture and heritage. Stay in a luxury “casa particular” in the historic district of Old Havana for an authentic, local experience. While you’re there, learn to roll a cigar on the streets and salsa dance with the locals. Ride through the city in a vintage car and take in the colorful colonial architecture for a romantic step back in time.
Luxury Love in Tulum
Among the most romantic destinations, Tulum, Mexico is earning a rep for trendy getaways, with eco-friendly resorts hosting the likes of Gigi Hadid, the Kardashians and others. You’ll find a lot to love at a luxe and fashionable resort like Be Tulum Hotel. This adults-only hotel is ultra chic with 20 rooms all outfitted with private pools or hot tubs. There’s no need to leave the resort, what with its private beach, beach club, drink service, shaded daybeds and restaurant options. If you do venture out though, head to the Tulum Ruins, which overlook a stunning, stony coastline. Afterwards, take a dip in the ocean – the scenery makes for an epic backdrop.
Beachside Bliss in Puerto Vallarta
Stay at the Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa, a stunning optional all-inclusive resort in Puerto Vallarta overlooking Banderas Bay. The property spans 85 acres of tropical jungle and beach. Opt for the epic Oceanfront Penthouse suite for surrounding views of the ocean. Stray from the resort and walk hand in hand along the Malecón boardwalk for sunset views. For dinner, dine beach side on Playa Los Muertos, where beachfront restaurants and bars like La Palapa, El Dorado and Coco Tropical serve up tropical cocktails and local flavor. Prefer your love with a side of adventure? Get your adrenaline fix during a zip lining canopy tour.
Nature & Adventure at Montego Bay
Montego Bay in Jamaica has some unbelievably romantic resorts. Whether you choose from The Caves, a cottage adults-only eco-boutique hotel or trendy and famed GoldenEye Hotel & Resort, you are in for a treat. Leave the property to explore the surrounding natural treasures like Dunn’s River Falls near Ocho Rios and the Blue Mountains at John Crow Mountain National Park. For both a romantic dip and a Hollywood moment, visit Blue Lagoon near Port Antonio, where the ‘80s film starring Brooke Shields was filmed – the calm azure waters are mesmerizing. Jamaica truly merges nature and adventure in an island oasis.
All About Beaches in the Dominican Republic
Eden Roc at Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic falls nowhere short of luxury. Stay here for the tropical forest surrounding, private beaches, rugged cliff backdrop and Jack Nicklaus signature golf course. Room options include stunning poolside suites and beachfront multi-bedroom villas. If you can pull yourself away from the hotel, head to Santo Domingo to explore the cobblestone streets, where you can dine at local restaurants and enjoy al fresco live music and dancing. Venture to Punta Cana, a popular tourist destination, and lounge on what’s renowned as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, Macao Beach.