Best Romantic Coastal Towns for a Couples Getaway

There’s just something about the ocean that feels like love, right? The salty breeze, the sound of waves, and those long sunsets—perfect recipe for romance. If you and your favorite person are craving a getaway, the U.S. is packed with coastal towns that practically scream romantic escape. So grab your sandals, maybe a bottle of wine, and let’s explore some of the best romantic coastal towns in the U.S.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Carmel is basically a fairytale village dropped onto the California coast. Think white-sand beaches, whimsical cottages, and tiny art galleries at every turn. It’s small and walkable, which makes it perfect for strolling hand-in-hand.

Romantic highlight: Watching the sunset at Carmel Beach. Locals literally clap when the sun disappears—it’s quirky and adorable.

Best time to visit: September and October. The summer crowds are gone, the weather is still gorgeous, and you can actually find a cozy spot on the sand.

Cape May, New Jersey

Forget what you think you know about Jersey. Cape May is all Victorian charm with colorful gingerbread houses, B&Bs, and quiet beaches. There are even horse-drawn carriage rides for extra romance points.

Romantic highlight: Climb the Cape May Lighthouse together for dreamy ocean views. Bonus: There’s a winery nearby to celebrate afterward.

Best time to visit: Late spring or early fall. You’ll avoid the heavy summer crowds and still get sunny beach days.

Key West, Florida

If you’re craving both romance and a little fun, Key West is the spot. Pastel houses, turquoise water, bike rides, and sunsets that feel straight out of a painting.

Romantic highlight: The nightly Mallory Square sunset celebration, complete with live music and street performers. Oh, and don’t forget to share a slice of Key lime pie.

Best time to visit: December through May. You’ll get dry, sunny weather and avoid the sticky summer humidity.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket is cozy, charming, and full of New England romance. Cobblestone streets, lighthouses, sailboats, and inns with fireplaces—what more could you want?

Romantic highlight: Rent bikes and ride out to Brant Point Lighthouse, then grab lobster rolls for a casual seaside picnic.

Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall. June is gorgeous, but September is quieter and still warm.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is for couples who love dramatic scenery. It’s known for the giant Haystack Rock rising out of the waves, plus cozy art galleries and coffee shops in town.

Romantic highlight: A slow beach walk at sunset when the mist rolls in—it feels like your own personal movie scene.

Best time to visit: July through September. Summer brings clear skies, but even moody spring days can be incredibly romantic.

Charleston, South Carolina

Okay, Charleston isn’t just a beach town, but it’s too romantic to skip. The cobblestone streets, pastel houses, and moss-covered trees are straight-up dreamy. Plus, you’re just a short drive from Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island.

Romantic highlight: Take a carriage ride through historic downtown, then end with a candlelit dinner of Lowcountry cuisine.

Best time to visit: March through May or September through November. The weather is warm but not swampy, and the city blooms in spring.

Bar Harbor, Maine

If you want a mix of adventure and cozy romance, Bar Harbor is perfect. It’s right next to Acadia National Park, so you can hike by day and snuggle up in a harbor-view restaurant by night.

Romantic highlight: Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain. Imagine sipping coffee together as the very first rays of sun hit the U.S.

Best time to visit: July through early October. Summer is lively, but fall foliage makes September and October spectacular.

La Jolla, California

La Jolla is a coastal gem with rugged cliffs, coves filled with sea lions, and a lively village vibe. It’s romantic but also adventurous.

Romantic highlight: Kayaking through the sea caves together, followed by a sunset dinner overlooking the Pacific.

Best time to visit: Year-round, but September and October bring the warmest water and fewer crowds.

Monterey, California

Just up the road from Carmel, Monterey is famous for its coastal beauty and rich history. The scenic 17-Mile Drive is one of the most romantic road trips you can take.

Romantic highlight: Walking along Cannery Row and then cuddling up at Lover’s Point Beach (yes, that’s its real name).

Best time to visit: September through November. The fog clears, and you’ll get beautiful blue skies.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

If you want long bike rides, wide sandy beaches, and golf-cart-level relaxation, Hilton Head delivers. It’s calm and peaceful—ideal for couples who just want to slow down.

Romantic highlight: A sunset dolphin cruise. Imagine clinking glasses while dolphins leap nearby. Unreal.

Best time to visit: April through May or September through October. Warm, less crowded, and way more romantic than the peak summer months.

Mendocino, California

This Northern California town feels like a mix of rugged coastline and cozy romance. Perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific, it’s full of charming inns and dramatic views.

Romantic highlight: Booking a cliffside cottage with a fireplace and listening to waves crash outside your window.

Best time to visit: September and October for warm weather and fewer tourists.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Just 20 minutes from Savannah, Tybee Island has that laid-back, toes-in-the-sand romance. It’s small, quiet, and perfect for couples who want beach walks and little seafood shacks.

Romantic highlight: Watching the sunrise from the Tybee Island Pier. Bring coffee and a blanket—it’s pure magic.

Best time to visit: April through June. Summer gets hot and sticky, but spring is perfect.

Why Coastal Towns Are So Romantic

So, what makes these towns such perfect couple getaways? It’s the slower pace, the salty air, and the way sunsets feel like a private show (even when you’re surrounded by strangers). Whether you’re sipping wine by a lighthouse, biking through cobblestone streets, or cuddling by a fire, coastal towns have this way of making simple moments feel special.

And isn’t that what romance is all about?