20 Best Romantic Tropical Getaways

Dreaming of a romantic tropical getaway? The combination of coconut palms, ice-cold cocktails, gorgeous beaches, and the beauty of the underwater world offers the perfect escape for couples.

From Bali to Barbados, many of these dream locations are found on islands. The Caribbean practically defines a romantic tropical escape, although the Indian Ocean and Hawaii also have their islands in the sun.

Wherever you choose in the world, you and a loved one can enjoy spending precious moments together. From walking hand-in-hand on a beautiful beach, to swimming in warm tropical waters, the memories you make as a couple will last a lifetime.

St. Lucia

St. Lucia’s popularity as a honeymoon destination rests on its natural beauty and mild climate. With a rich green interior fringed with sandy beaches and turquoise waters, St. Lucia is a picture-perfect tropical paradise.

The dramatic volcanic twin peaks of the Pitons are the island’s trademark. However, most visitors spend their time in or near the sea, in scenic spots such as Reduit Beach, one of St. Lucia’s best beaches.

You and your loved one can go snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, or even whale watching. In that tropical interior, escape on off-road tours, swim in waterfalls, or hike around the Pitons.

St. Kitts

You could have a romantic time on St. Kitts without leaving The Strip at Frigate Bay. This line of beach bars along a stretch of sand, and sea is the place to “lime” (chill out) on this lovely island.

Tearing yourself away from the beach, you can explore sights such as Brimstone Hill Fortress, with its spectacular Caribbean views. Even better panoramas can be found by climbing Mount Liamuiga, a shared adventure that you will never forget.

More sedate is the estate at Romney Manor, with its beautiful gardens featuring centuries-old trees. If you want to get away from everything, escape to tiny neighboring Nevis for complete tranquility.

Jamaica

It’s hard to picture a romantic tropical getaway without Jamaica coming to mind. Its beaches, music, and laid-back lifestyle make for the perfect couple’s escape.

At Dunn’s River Falls, you can see where the “land of rivers and springs” found its name. Play in the waterfalls, fly over them on a zipline, or just enjoy the wonderful views.

There’s more swimming at the Blue Hole, one of the best places to visit in Jamaica. Here, couples can plunge together into its azure waters. Hike in the jungle nearby to find caves and waterfalls.

The Blue Hole is part of the White River system in Ochos Rios. This is the place to go river tubing or enjoy a romantic bamboo raft experience.

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British Virgin Islands

Sailing around the British Virgin Islands is to discover what seems like paradise. Tiny islands of white sands rise amid bright blue seas as the perfect escape from daily life.

White Bay, on Jost Van Dyke, is a hidden gem in the Caribbean, where the soft sands and warm waters are as close to ideal as you’ll find. Take it all in at the famous Soggy Dollar Bar, named for the wet cash handed over by sailors who swim ashore from their yachts.

One of the best things to do in the British Virgin Islands is to visit The Baths at Virgin Gorda, a set of granite boulders and hidden grottoes where you can be momentarily lost. Even more remote is Norman Island, a place seemingly designed for a romantic adventure with your partner.

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Grand Cayman

How much romantic Caribbean beach is enough? Grand Cayman’s popular beach, Seven Mile Beach, must surely exceed your expectations for a stretch of perfect white sand to stroll on, and swim from.

The perfect visibility in the waters here make Grand Cayman a major destination for divers. At Stingray City, a shallow sand bar frequented by tame stingrays, even non-swimmers can have a glimpse of the prolific underwater life.

If the romantic in you wonders what it was like to live here in the 18th century, one of the best things to do in Grand Cayman is to visit Pedro St. James National Historic Site. Take in the gardens together, or tour this former plantation house to touch the past.

Cozumel

Cozumel is home to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the world’s second largest coral barrier reef. Head to the south of the island, protected within the Cozumel National Marine Park, to see it at its best.

Whether diving or snorkeling in Cozumel, this is a place to make amazing memories together. At Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, on the island’s very southern tip, a lagoon system adds water birds such as flamingoes and unique flora to the experience.

At Playa Mia, a popular beach, you can find the same beautiful sea, sand, and water in a setting with some extra pampering. From water sports to authentic Mexican cuisine, you’ll create even more precious moments to share.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is an island with many attractions, from surf-rich beaches to a delightful cuisine. However, you need go no further than the capital, San Juan, to enjoy a romantic getaway.

The cobbled streets of Old San Juan are made for strolls with a loved one amid its colorful historic buildings. Walk up to Castillo San Felipe del Morro to take in views that would steal anyone’s heart.

At Escambrón Marine Park, not far from the city center, you can experience sunbathing, snorkeling, or surfing in Puerto Rico. Relax under its shady palm trees, or scuba dive on the offshore reef.

Aruba

The Dutch ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao form a perfect trio of Caribbean delights. The smallest of the three, Aruba is known for its perfect beaches, and nickname of “One Happy Island”.

Eagle Beach is one of the most-photographed beaches in the Caribbean. Framed by gnarled fofoti trees, it’s an image that will bring out the romantic in anyone.

At Palm Beach, you can find two miles of sand, much of it shaded by, as the name suggests, palm trees. Nearby is the California Lighthouse, overlooking another scenic spot in Aruba made for romance.

Barbados

Barbados’ beaches—about 80 if you care to count them—are its main attractions. Bridgetown’s Carlisle Bay is a showcase for the rest: a tropical burst of blinding white sand, and even brighter blue water.

Should your eyes ever need a rest from all that light, enjoy an underground adventure in Harrison’s Cave. The 45-feet-high Great Hall is the centerpiece of this geological wonderland of stalagmites and stalactites.

If you can’t find enough romance in those two places, take your loved one to Farley Hill. A crumbling old mansion, weathered mahogany trees, and spectacular sea views make it a perfect spot in Barbados to enjoy together.

Belize

Belize’s Caye Caulker Island specializes in the best tropical vacations for couples. The tiny island is perfect for those wanting to spend the day swimming or sunbathing on a lovely beach in Belize.

In contrast, quirky Belize City has culture, cuisine, and historic sites. Enjoy a waterfront meal, or take a stroll in the city’s parks.

Near Belize are the Crystal Caves (Actun Tunichil Muknal). A visit here is a unique experience that will instill a sense of wonder. Guided tours let you view ancient Mayan artifacts and admire strange crystalline formations.

Antigua

Nelson’s Dockyard in Antigua has been voted “Best Attraction in the Caribbean”. Walk around this 17th-century naval base in English Harbour, and your imagination will easily bring its forts and warehouses back to life.

For a scenic overview, make your way to Shirley Heights Lookout above the harbor. This restored gun battery’s strategic position is also the perfect place to soak up the island’s beauty.

Galleon Beach is one of the best places to snorkel in Antigua, full of fish and sea glass, which some people collect. It’s quiet and secluded, perfect for enjoying some romantic moments together.

Grenada

Grenada’s contender for the Caribbean’s most picturesque beach is Grand Anse. Only 20 minutes from Saint George’s, its calm water and clean white sand make for an idyllic setting in Grenada.

Around a headland to the south is the even quieter Kalinago Beach. Both beaches in Grenada are perfect for swimming, sunbathing or enjoying a cold drink or two.

Away from the beach, enjoy more precious time together on a hike in Grand Etang National Park. Its 2,000-foot-high peaks are landmarks as you walk amid a paradise of lush tropical greenery, lakes, and waterfalls.

Martinique

One of the prettiest islands in the Caribbean, Martinique’s appeal is a dreamy mix of French romance and Caribbean warmth. Lush gardens, the untamed interior, and incredible beaches make for another winning combination for couples.

One of the best things to do in Martinique is to hike to the summit of Mount Pelée to take in the views of the coastline, and its neighboring islands. Nestled below are the romantic ruins of the former capital, Saint-Pierre, covered by an eruption in 1902.

A more relaxing walk in Martinique is found in the Jardin de Balata, a tropical wonderland of orchids and palms. Its elevated walkways allow wonderful private moments amid the treetops.

Tobago

The first stop for any Tobago visitor should be Mt. Irvine Bay Beach. Its waters are so clear you can feel giddy looking down as you snorkel or swim in its protected bay.

At Buccoo Reef, you can snorkel together over an underwater world rich in marine life. Non-swimmers can sample the same wonders with a glass-bottom boat tour.

One of the best things to do in Tobago to see more of the island’s beauty is to hike to Argyle Waterfalls through the dense rainforest. The reward, apart from amazing views, is a cooling dip in a natural pool.

Labadee, Haiti

The north coast of Hispaniola is an untouched paradise for those in search of a romantic tropical getaway. Haiti’s Labadee is a private peninsula with the secluded Columbus Cove beach, and some unusual attractions.

Chief among those is the Dragon’s Breath zip line, which runs for more than 2,600 feet, much of it over the sea. Reaching speeds of up to 50 mph, it’s a major thrill for any couple who dare to try it.

Amiga Island is a tiny islet ever further detached from the world outside. Relax together on the beach with a tropical cocktail, or swim out to explore the pristine reef.

Dominica

The island of Dominica is full of unique romantic experiences for couples. Beaches, waterfalls, and hot springs make for a dreamy getaway package.

At Morne Trois Pitons National Park, you can find hiking trails amid a lush landscape of mountains, and forest. An unmissable thing to do in Dominica is to hike to the famed Boiling lake, enjoying a soak in a hot spring on the way.

At Trafalgar Falls, you’ll find two beautiful waterfalls, “Father” and “Mother”, after a short hike. There’s more water fun at Hibiscus Eco-Village, where river tubing is a must-do for any couple.

The Bahamas

With more than 3,000 islands to choose from, you’re always close to the water in The Bahamas. Atlantis, on Paradise Island, is among the best known spots for its beaches, water parks, and fine-dining restaurants.

In contrast, CocoCay is a private island where you can rent an overwater cabana, or enjoy water sports. Laid-back and secluded, it’s ideal for just lazing in the sun.

Bimini, too, is a sleepy spot with superb snorkeling and a few more heart-pumping activities that adventurous couples can try together. These include sport fishing, a favorite activity here of Ernest Hemingway, and joining a snorkel tour where black-tipped reef sharks regularly hang out.

Bermuda

You don’t have to go far on Bermuda to find a romantic spot. Along its beautiful coastline, places such as Horseshoe Bay Beach offer pink sands and remarkably clear waters.

Horseshoe Bay is one of the best places to swim in the world. However, similar beauty is also found at Elbow Beach, or the tiny Jobson’s Cove Beach.

For a change of pace, the capital, Hamilton, has romantic dining, and plenty of shopping opportunities. You’ll also find it has its own beaches, and a lovely botanical garden.

Maui, Hawaii

Another famous honeymoon spot, Hawaii is a romantic destination like few others. Maui’s north shore Hoʻokipa Beach Park shows off its best side, with surfers and windsurfers galore.

Maui is dominated by the active volcanic peak of Mt. Haleakala, which reaches just over 10,000 feet. Hike in the national park to see exotic birds and learn about Hawaiian culture.

There are more hikes in the Ho’olawa Valley, where you can find cooling waterfalls with swimming holes. The scenic drive along the Hana Highway is a bonus part of the experience.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali’s legendary romantic beauty is seen at its best at Kuta Beach, a long stretch of pure white sand. While the water is full of surfers, parasailers, and swimmers, traditional Indonesian massage is a more relaxing option.

On the island’s southern Bukit Peninsula, the Balinese beach at Jimbaran is a place for a romantic seafood meal amid idyllic scenery. Stroll its white sands, or browse its handcraft stores for a memorable souvenir.

Bali is unique in the region for its Hindu temples, the most scenic of which is Uluwatu. Perched on a clifftop, this 1,000-year-old temple is frequented by cheeky monkeys that add extra life to the picturesque setting.

Has this list of the world’s most romantic tropical getaways inspired you to whisk your partner off to see one—or several? Then browse our worldwide itineraries to find the perfect cruise for your next adventure together.