Romantic Vacation Destinations In US

1. Manhattan, New York

Hopeless romantics will always find inspiration in the Big Apple. Restaurants are everywhere, but couples flock to the West Village's One if by Land, Two if by Sea (considered one of the best places in the city to pop the question). For skyline views, head to Top of the Rock, the observation deck crowning the GE Building at Rockefeller Center; rockefellercenter.com. For a different view of the island, try a Manhattan Harbor Brunch Cruise for two aboard a 1920s-style yacht.

2. Big Island, Hawaii

The Mauna Lani Resort, on the Big Island's Kohala coast, indulges romantic guests with its Lava Love getaway package. For at least three nights, health-conscious couples may stay in a deluxe oceanfront suite and enjoy sunrise workouts on the beach; a private, lava-rock sauna; spa treatments.

3. Whidbey Island, Washington

Stress starts to melt away as you step off the ferry onto this Washington island, just one hour north of Seattle. Rich in natural beauty, Whidbey Island is also home to picturesque towns and romantic B&Bs. Spend the day in Langley (for a special treat, pick up a picnic for two from the Chef's Pantry). Journeying north, drop by Greenbank Farms for wine and cheese before climbing the Admiralty Head Lighthouse for a gorgeous view of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Toast to your travels at the new Frasers Gourmet Hideaway in Oak Harbor;

4. Lovers Key, Florida

This Gulf Coast island is popular, but it still offers secluded nooks and stretches of beach where Valentines can get away from it all. Rent a canoe or tandem kayak at Lovers Key State Park, and paddle the canals among manatees and other wildlife. Later, snuggle at sunset on a beach that, at least for the evening, is yours alone;

5. Cumberland Island, Georgia

This hidden gem gained national attention in 1996 when John F. Kennedy Jr. married Carolyn Bessette inside the island's First African Baptist Church. Renowned for its privacy and serene beauty, Cumberland has more than 17 miles of white-sand beaches to explore, and numerous wild horses to admire. We recommend an overnight stay at the Greyfield Inn, a 1900-era mansion on more than 200 acres of protected shore;

6. The Grove Isle Hotel & Spa, Miami, Florida

Secluded on a 20-acre island in Biscayne Bay, The Grove Isle Hotel & Spa provides a relaxing escape from the big city nearby. A pool and jogging path overlook the bay, as do 49 bayview rooms. Dine at the acclaimed oceanfront Baleen restaurant, and spice things up with the Tantra Lovers Island Escape package;

7. Naples, Long Beach, California

Naples, near Belmont Shores in Alamitos Bay, is actually a series of islands divided by waterways. In classic Italian style, gondoliers take lovebirds on a tour of the canals―no doubt, the best way to explore this watery village. Surprise your sweetheart with a bottle of vino, then take a Venetian-style moonlit ride. (Don't forget to smooch under every bridge for good luck!)