This post is sponsored by Marriott but all opinions expressed within are my own.
Looking for romantic weekend getaway ideas? From a vineyard vacation and a tropical tryst to urban escapes, these five destinations are the perfect places to get away from it all with someone special.
Romantic Weekend Getaway Ideas
1 Napa Valley
Just north of San Francisco is Napa Valley, where you’ll find hundreds of vineyards nestled into the hillsides. This romantic, world-famous wine region welcomes almost 4.5 million visitors each year, making it an incredibly popular California romantic getaway. Visiting vineyards and doing wine tours are probably the biggest attractions here but when you’ve had your fill or if you’re looking for a non-alcoholic Napa experience, there are lots of other ways to spend your time.
The beauty of the area means that it’s the perfect place to get outside and explore. From teeing up for a round of golf to bike tours and hot air balloon rides, there are plenty of ways to enjoy everything that Napa Valley has to offer. For such a quaint destination, it also has a robust arts scene. The Uptown Theatre Napa offers live entertainment and the Napa Valley Museum showcases the history of the region as well as provides a place to exhibit the work of local artists.
Where to stay
A romantic weekend getaway deserves an unforgettable stay someplace luxurious. The Las Alcobas, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Napa Valley will not disappoint. The hotel, which is in a Georgian-style farmhouse that dates back to 1907, has rooms designed by international design firm Yabu Pushelberg, and offers up luxury in spades. The beautifully appointed rooms feature custom furniture, luxe linens, and oversized bathrooms perfect for pampering. The on-site restaurant, Acacia House, by Top Chef Master Chris Consentino has a show kitchen and dishes up fresh, farm-to-table California cuisine.
2 Los Cabos
Also known as ‘Land’s End’ because of its location at the tip of the southern Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos is a romantic getaway that offers couples incredible natural beauty, spas, beaches, adventure activities, arts and culture experiences, vibrant nightlife and luxurious accommodations to while the days away. Depending on the time of year you visit, you can expect to find a variety of festivals and exhibits happening, from the annual San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend Concert Series, held every February and the Los Cabos Comedy Festival, held every October. And of course, don’t forget to visit El Arco (The Arch), the iconic rock formation that emerges from the water at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, right where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean meet.
Where to stay
For the ultimate tropical escape for two, check into the JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa. This beautiful beachfront property offers guests serenity and sophistication … what more could you ask for from a romantic getaway? Enjoy the gorgeous outdoor setting by lounging by one of the many pools, strolling the beach or teeing up for a round of golf on the property’s 18-hole golf course. When it’s time to relax, book an appointment at the luxury Jasha Spa & Salon, then head to dinner at one of the hotel’s six on-site restaurants where you can witness the beauty of a Los Cabos sunset while you dine.
3 Dallas
When we think of romantic getaways, we tend to think of destinations that are far afield or tropical but that’s not always the case. Dallas is a great city and there are tons of things to do here to stoke those romantic fires. The Dallas Museum of Art is a great date night spot. Their ‘Late Nights’ program happens on the third Friday of every month and offers visitors access to film screenings, concerts, readings and more. If jazz is your jam, you might want to check out Twilite Lounge, a New Orleans-inspired jazz bar that pays homage to the jazz greats and welcomes touring bands as well.
And if you really want to up the romance ante, take your date on a gondola ride with Gondola Adventures. It’s not Italy but it’s still a romantic date night idea. There are various options to choose from, from a one-hour tour to a gourmet dinner cruise with your love.
Where to stay
From the beautiful and comfortable rooms to the European-inspired dining properties, The Adolphus, Autograph Collection in Dallas offers the perfect luxury accommodations for your romantic Dallas getaway. Recharge your batteries at the Spa Adolphus and enjoy poolside dining and sweeping views from the heated rooftop pool. Some of the hotel’s more unusual features include an on-site barber shop, a lobby library and a long communal table in the lobby where you can catch up on some work, enjoy a coffee and mix and mingle with other guests.
Maui
You don’t even have to do anything special on a trip to Maui for it to feel like a romantic getaway. The sparkling ocean, the majestic mountains and lush landscapes are the perfect backdrop to your romantic getaway. But if you’re looking for inspiration, here are some ideas to consider. The island is so beautiful that you’ll want to explore as much of it as you can. Whether you drive around the island on your own, take a helicopter tour, book a horseback tour or a romantic sunset cruise, you’ll fall in love with Maui over and over again. (It’s the perfect place for a romantic photo shoot as well; check out Flytographer, which is our favourite travel photography service.)
If you and your love enjoy a good road trip, drive the historic road to Hana, which will take you over 59 bridges and reward you with breathtaking views. If adventure is more your speed, head to Maui’s North Shore and gear up for the North Shore Zipline, which will get your hearts pumping!
Where to stay
Situated on the shores of the shimmering Pacific Ocean, Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui is the ultimate romantic getaway. On property, you’ll find a championship-level golf course to hit a few rounds and a beautiful, ocean-view spa that features 12 treatment rooms, including four couples rooms for a romantic couples massage. The rooms have ocean-inspired décor and lanais that offer ocean and garden views. There are lots of dining options including a restaurant with Hawaiian-inspired dishes by Roy Yamaguchi and an open-air bar and grill that serves up delicious food and even better views. Open for lunch is the Mo Bettah Food Truck where you can enjoy local favorites like poke bowls and shave ice.
Houston
From arts and culture and fine dining experiences to wildlife, space and science museums to explore, Houston offers couples tons of date options. Houston is home to plenty of live music venues so consider hitting up White Oak Music Hall, House of Blues Houston or the Continental Club. If outdoor activity is more your speed, take a farmers market bike tour that’ll take you to a variety of markets across the city where you can sample fresh produce as you go. Or consider a visit to the Houston Zoo, the Downtown Aquarium or the Hermann Park Conservatory, the largest park in Houston, which includes monuments, a golf course and a Japanese garden spread out over 445 acres. Plus, you can rent tour trains or private paddle boats to up the romance on your day trip.
Where to stay
Situated in Houston’s Uptown district, The St. Regis Houston is ideally situated for exploring. The Galleria, the city’s prime shopping destination and the Museum District, an area of 19 museums within four walking zones, are just steps away from the hotel. On the hotel property, recharge your batteries at the outdoor pool and fitness centre. But for true relaxation, check yourself into the Spa at the St. Regis Houston … or if you don’t feel like leaving your room, just book an in-suite massage. Time to eat? Enjoy dinner at the Remington Restaurant and live music at the Remington Bar. Afternoon Tea at the lounge is also an experience not to be missed!