15 Of The Best Romantic Vacation Spots In The U.S.

Whether your preferred kind of place to be with your significant other is a beach, a mountain, an ocean or a desert, you can find romance almost everywhere. Some places, however, are simply better suited for a romantic, and adventurous, honeymoon or a weekend getaway. And they are not all islands.

The Valley's proximity to San Francisco and Sacramento make it an easy choice for a weekend getaway. U.S. News and World Report ranked Napa Valley as the best romantic getaway in the country. The region also ranked No. 1 in the honeymoon category. Plan a Napa vacation in either the winter or spring when hotel deals are at their cheapest, and try not to go on weekends if handing big crowds is not your thing. The fall is also a good season to stop by. Try the world-famous wine and get your fix of stunning fall foliage. 

This top summer romantic destination is also ranked as the second best weekend getaway in New England by U.S. News. What lures people there are the clam shacks, shingle-style cottages and serene beaches. Quaint B&Bs surround rugged sand dunes; picturesque bike trails takes you on a walk in the middle of forests; and the long and sandy seashore offers many sea adventures.

If you and your partner are looking for a romantic city that won't break the bank, Charleston is a good option. People go to this inner-harbor paradise for the food, golf courses, and historic sites. Wander the cobblestone streets, lined with buildings that date back to the 1700s. Go on a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride, gaze at the harbor for incredible scenery, and explore tons of historical homes and plantations.

Couple of all ages come to this amazing city to enjoy its charm, music and, of course, cuisine. As the Cajun French say, "Laissez les bons temps rouler"—let the good times roll. New Orleans is a destination unlike any other. Make sure you do a lot more than eating and drinking because Nola has it all. The Crescent City will charm you with an astonishing variety of thrilling activities and not-to-be-missed events.

This desert reserve is one of the most underrated cities in the U.S. Whether you're drawn to it by its beautiful red rock formations or the energy vortices rumored to exist there, this city is for active people who love the outdoors. Take to Submarine Rock on a mountain bike, head off the beaten path with ATVs and hike Red Rock State Park. Hiking and relaxing at world-class spas are among the favorite activities.

This gorgeous island is only 90 minutes south of Miami which means you can get the best of both worlds – lively night scene and calm, postcard-perfect beaches. Islamorada is known as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World," according to Visit Florida. There is something to do under, above or near the water 24 hours a day. The "Village of Islands," located just below the wilderness of the Everglades, has been popular among newlyweds for several years.

Did you know that you and your significant other can go on a ski trip in this city that is rich in culture, arts and delicious food? Located a few miles from the city center, the mountain is one of the highest ski areas in the continental U.S. The quality of the terrain is world-class. If you are into running, go on an improvised training camp together. Santa Fe has repeatedly made the lists of best trail running destination in America. Or take a road trip. The 56 miles between Santa Fe and Taos offer a charming view and a twisted road through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Hawaii is the third happiest state in America, according to a recent study. The Aloha State is a true paradise for couple, solo travelers as well as families. The stunning beaches, rugged hills, sheer cliffs, epic volcanoes, and impressive hikes will keep adventurers quite busy on the "Garden Isle." Hawaii's second largest island boasts a lush landscape littered with wondrous waterfalls, bamboo forests, surfing and scuba diving sites, as well as rappelling, zip lining, and paragliding opportunities.

Don't head for crowded Seattle and "get away from it all." The archipelago is known for its rural Pacific Northwest landscapes and wildlife. The San Juan Islands are one of the world's best whale watching spots. The majestic killer whales live in there year round. Experience island life without leaving the country. Go on lighthouse strolls, try coastal kayaking, visit lavender farms and eat tons of fresh seafood.

Savannah is often referred to as one of the most romantic cities on the planet. You won't ever be bored in historic Savannah where Southern charm comes to life everywhere. Take your pick between imaginative architecture, haunted houses or the area's lavish historic district. You can go on a dinner cruise that will treat you to a delicious buffet dinner and live entertainment. Take a break from dancing and head up to the deck for spectacular sunset views.

Gorgeous and naturally wild, this island is an understated destination with tons to offer for active romantics. Hike lush green hills meeting towering coastal bluffs, explore the 17 miles of beaches, or go biking with your partner and turn it into a race. All kinds of water sports pull visitors into the water, too. The Nature Conservancy called it one of the "last great places in the Western Hemisphere."

Eureka Springs is dubbed "Victorian mountain village." This is enough to make newlyweds book a trip there for a relaxing and unwinding vacation. They can have it all – festivals, hiking, culinary adventures, and cozy spa experiences – minus all of the tourists if you go in the winter. You can stay in a unique treehouse or a haunted hotel. Explore the dozens of natural springs tucked into the mountains and winding trails, small lakes and pocket parks.

Mystic is famous for being the place where Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall left for after getting married. It's easy to see why. This is a beautiful, small, charming coastal town that lacks annoying crowds and the hustle and bustle of the big city. Head to the Mystic Seaport to see old restored ships and a tiny recreated 19th-century village. Stop by the aquarium and planetarium, too.

This Rocky Mountain is known for being one of the best ski resorts in the world. Snuggled between the Rockies, this charming small mountain town is a favorite summer destination as well. Try skeet shooting or go on a thrilling river tour. With summits higher than 14,000 feet, there is always something to see and explore. Festivals showing off art, wine and music are scheduled year-round.

Imagine yourself and your loved one leading horses to a meadow as the sun sets above the breathtaking mountain hills surrounding you. The wilderness of the West is on the horizon as you start a fire to make dinner and marvel at the clear skies and stars. Old-school guest ranches offer visitors a chance to work with the staff to keep the place functioning – you get to actually do cattle work. This only makes the experience a lot more thrilling and certainly unique.