8 Secretly Romantic American Towns For A Great Couples' Getaway

Want to whisk away your special someone without following the crowd? Here are some secretly awesome-and-picturesque American places where romance flourishes.


If you’re sifting through search results to find the perfect romantic getaway, stop here. We—or rather, millions of TripAdvisor reviewers—have already done the hard work for you. We analyzed every vacation rental review on our site to discover which cities and towns boast the most romantic properties, and plenty other couples' activities. Think newlyweds, honeymooners, and anniversary celebrators who have written about their trips on TripAdvisor.

These eight places, receiving some of the most romantic reviews in the country, are just right for any couple in need of some time away together. Their settings vary from barrier islands swept by ocean breezes to mountaintop idylls framed by forest and sky. You might already be familiar with some of them, but keep scrolling—you might just find a new gem.

You can up the romance with a beautiful private vacation home to share from TripAdvisor Rentals. There’s a wealth of property selections in the destinations below, so whether your idea of honeymoon heaven is a cabin in the mountains or a beach-facing Hawaiian condo, you’ll find just the thing to make your stay the best yet.

BOONE, NORTH CAROLINA

There’s plenty to do in Boone, part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Take a cruise à deux with the top down along the jaw-dropping Blue Ridge Parkway, step up the adventure on a white-water raft, tour the local breweries, or soak in a spa.

See all TripAdvisor rentals in Boone!

FOLLY BEACH, SOUTH CAROLINA

The relaxing pace of life, ocean-fresh air, and soothing coastal views of Folly Island make this a top choice for a couples’ getaway. Folly Beach encompasses 12 square miles of barrier island scenery, which you can explore on a gentle eco tour—or on a surfboard, if you prefer.

See all TripAdvisor rentals in Folly Beach!

LAKE ARROWHEAD, CALIFORNIA

Lake Arrowhead’s setting in the San Bernardino National Forest makes it a much-loved retreat for LA folk fleeing the city. Here you’ve got all the breathing space you could hope for. Sit and marvel at the peaceful lake views and the forested slopes, or take a romantic hike with views to die for.

See all TripAdvisor rentals in Lake Arrowhead!

SNOWSHOE, WEST VIRGINIA

In this pretty resort town, the mountain’s the main attraction. Whether you’re snowboarding down it or getting hitched on top of it, you’ll agree that the stunning views and cool, clean air are out of this world. A perfect place to celebrate finding your other half.

See all TripAdvisor rentals in Snowshoe!

BRYSON CITY, NORTH CAROLINA

This welcoming Great Smokies stop-off has a relaxing small-town feel and plenty of fun activities to try. Mountain biking, kayaking on the Nantahala River, zip-lining through the forest, or riding the vintage railroad at a gentle pace—let the romantic adventure begin!

See all TripAdvisor rentals in Bryson City!

CAPTIVA ISLAND, FLORIDA

“Fantastic location near the heart of Captiva village—we barely used our car all week, as all of the restaurants are within easy walking distance. Beautiful beach accessible via a nice boardwalk from the pool area, with amazing sunsets where the community comes together and cheers the setting sun.” — TripAdvisor Reviewer

Get away from it all on pretty Captiva Island, filling your days with romantic shoreline cruises, lingering beach walks, and unforgettable sunsets from your cottage or beach house rental. It’s also perfectly placed for exploring the outdoorsy delights of adjacent Sanibel Island.

See all TripAdvisor rentals in Captiva Island!

SAINT SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA

Foodies and golfers, consider Saint Simons Island for your next couples’ trip. Here you can enjoy everything from the wildness of the windswept marshlands and spectacular sandbars to the interiors of the cozy local pubs. Finish your day with a booking for two at one of the excellent local restaurants, or a home-cooked dinner by candlelight in your private rental.

See all TripAdvisor rentals in Saint Simons Island!

WAIANAE, HAWAII

“Loved everything about this condo—the location, beach, people, proximity, etc. Highly recommend. Great owners who have taken meticulous care of the property as well.” — TripAdvisor Reviewer

We’re finishing up our list with peaceful Waianae on the island of Oahu. This is the place to watch fishing boats bob in the harbor, snorkel with dolphins, or take a leisurely swim along the protected beach at Poka’i Bay Beach Park. For something a bit more energetic, take a board out and catch some waves at Makaha Beach Park.

See all TripAdvisor rentals in Waianae!

For more travel inspiration, from affordable family getaways to luxurious ski cabin rentals, visit our TripAdvisor blog!