There is no sweeter luxury than spending time with the one person you love most in all the world, especially on a last-minute romantic getaway. Whether you prefer to curl your toes together into soft, warm sand, or snuggle up with a plush blanket in front of a crackling fire, there are many ways to enjoy the perfect romantic retreat.
Los Cabos, Mexico
The dramatic coastline and tranquil white sand beaches of the Baja Peninsula are a natural setting for a perfect romantic getaway. Take a water taxi to Playa del Amor, Lover’s Beach, an idyllic location for sunning, swimming, snorkeling, and picnics. Indulge in a private couples massage when you return, followed by an gourmet al fresco dinner and a soak in the spa with a margarita or cocktail.
If adventure is what you crave, schedule surfing lessons, a swim with dolphins, or try big-sea fishing aboard a local charter. Sunset cruises around El Arco at Land’s End are available by sailboat or catamaran, or you can try paddle-boarding alongside the sea lions and whales if you don’t mind getting wet.
For a romantic dinner in town, try La Pangua Antigua, where musicians roam the courtyard and fairy lights illuminate the trees above. Or book a table at El Farallon, a gorgeous restaurant set right on the cliffs so you can listen to crashing waves as you enjoy your meal. For stunning views arrive about an hour before sunset at Sunset Da Mona Lisa and fall under the spell of the Sea of Cortez as the sun slips below the horizon.
Vail, Colorado
Remember the simple thrill of looking into each other’s eyes? Celebrate all your favorite memories and toast the thrills to come over a glass of your favorite champagne in Vail, Colorado. Whether on or off the slopes, the atmosphere of Vail is intimate and serene, ideal for a romantic getaway.
Spend a day on the slopes, and then soak away sore muscles in the The Arrabelle’s rooftop hot tub. Or head to the ice rink in the heart of Vail Square for a romantic spin, hand-in-hand, under gently falling snow. Admire the sunset from the top of Vail Mountain and then visit The Red Lion for drinks before taking a romantic carriage ride around town. Or head to Beaver Creek for a spectacular fireworks show under the stars.
There are many decadent dining options in Vail and Beaver Creek for special occasions. Try La Tour in Vail Village, or reserve a table at Spago at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch. To make the night unforgettable, ask your concierge to schedule a sleigh ride and dinner at Zach’s Cabin in Beaver Creek. At evening’s end enjoy the privacy of your mountain sanctuary with a glass of wine and a cozy fire.
Hawaii
The word “Aloha” is special to native Hawaiians. Not only does it signify greetings, it also is an expression of love. Bring your special someone to the Big Island for an aloha-filled ultra-luxury retreat on sugary sand beaches lapped by turquoise water.
The most romantic activities in Hawaii allow for plenty of leisure and laughter. Try a canoe ride for two, or go golfing on the Jack Nicklaus-designed Hualalai Golf Course. A nighttime manta ray snorkel and dive experience is available for the adventurous, or you can light the firebowls at your villa and schedule your own private luau.
While there are many excellent dining choices such as The Beech Tree or the Ulu Ocean Grill and Sushi Lounge at the nearby Four Seasons, we recommend you take the delicious opportunity to reconnect over a romantic sunset dinner on the beach. Softly lit torches and candles set the mood as you enjoy your customized menu for two and a bottle of champagne. Enjoy a private performance by a hula dancer and a ukelele musician or guitarist, and then relax hand in hand as the stars come out overhead.
*Originally written for Cuvee Magazine
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