The 10 Best Winter Vacations for Couples

Introduction

Winter can be a romantic time for couples to travel together and enjoy quality time away from the busyness of everyday life. From snowy mountain retreats with cozy fireplaces to warm beach getaways with sunset strolls, there are many great options for reconnecting and making memories on a winter vacation.

This article will outline the 10 best winter vacations for couples based on amenities, activities, scenery, and romance. Whether you prefer snowboarding down slopes or kayaking tropical waters, these destinations offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable trip with your significant other.

Spending quality time together exploring new places and having fun is what really matters. But the location and amenities certainly help set the mood!

The winter destinations highlighted here provide top-notch accommodations and amenities for couples, along with plenty of activities you can enjoy together. From intimate meals to adventurous excursions, you’ll make treasured memories and deepen your connection on these romantic getaways.

So pack your bags and get ready to snuggle up by a cozy fireplace or stroll hand-in-hand along a moonlit beach. These are the 10 best winter vacations to take with the one you love!

1. Aspen, Colorado.

For an upscale winter wonderland, it’s hard to beat Aspen, Colorado. This historic ski town offers luxury and romance with an authentic mountain charm.

Luxury Accommodations

Aspen is home to several high-end ski-in/ski-out resorts perfect for couples, including:

• The Little Nell - Five-star slopeside lodge with fireplaces, jetted tubs, and stunning mountain views. Also home to the acclaimed Element 47 restaurant.

• Hotel Jerome - Historic downtown hotel dating to 1889 with a beautifully renovated interior and lavish suites.

• Limelight Hotel - Contemporary lodging right at the base of Aspen Mountain’s ski lifts. Rooms have modern rustic decor, spacious layouts, and ski valet service.

World-Class Skiing

With four mountains spanning over 5,000 acres, Aspen offers some of the best downhill skiing and snowboarding in the world. Couples can cruise down slopes together and then relax slopeside with a warm beverage.

Romantic Activities

Beyond the slopes, Aspen offers plenty of romantic activities including:

• Horse-drawn sleigh rides through the snowcapped Maroon Creek Valley
• Snowshoeing and cross-country ski tours through peaceful aspen groves
• Browsing the charming shops and art galleries in downtown Aspen
• Cozying up for an intimate meal and wine at restaurants like Matsuhisa and Cache Cache

With its unparalleled ski facilities, pampering amenities, and plethora of romantic activities, Aspen is a top choice for an unforgettable winter escape as a couple.

2. Park City, Utah.

For skiers looking for an idyllic Rocky Mountain setting, Park City, Utah tops the list. This former silver mining town offers a vibrant mix of luxury accommodations, exceptional skiing, and plenty of activities for couples to enjoy together.

Slope-Side Luxury

Park City boasts numerous high-end resorts with ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes. Properties like the Waldorf Astoria Park City and St. Regis Deer Valley offer lavish rooms with stone fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, spa services, and unbeatable mountain access.

World-Class Skiing

With 7,300 acres of skiable terrain, Park City includes two interconnected world-class ski resorts: Park City Mountain and Deer Valley. Couples can ski and ride together down the mountain and take breaks in the European-style base villages.

Fun Winter Activities

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, couples can enjoy many other activities together in Park City:

• Night skiing and snow tubing under the lights
• Ice skating hand-in-hand at the Park City Ice Arena
• Taking a twilight sleigh ride pulled by draft horses
• Zipping side-by-side down mountainous ziplines
• Enjoying Park City’s lively après ski scene together

With luxurious slopeside lodging, exceptional skiing, and fun activities galore, Park City is a premier winter playground tailor-made for couples.

3. Lake Tahoe, California.

For stunning mountain scenery and a variety of winter activities, Lake Tahoe is a top romantic getaway in California.

Cozy and Charming Lodging

Lake Tahoe boasts numerous lodges and cabins perfect for couples, including:

• Cedar House Sport Hotel - Boutique slopeside lodge with modern-rustic rooms, outdoor firepits, and hot tubs.

• Basecamp Tahoe South - Charming property with stylish cabins featuring fireplaces, kitchens, and deck hot tubs.

• Landing Resort & Spa - Upscale lakeside resort with fireplace suites, walking access to the shore, spa treatments, and fine dining.

Abundant Winter Activities

The options for winter fun as a couple are endless in Lake Tahoe. Popular picks include:

• Downhill skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Heavenly, Kirkwood, and Squaw Valley
• Cross-country skiing through pristine forests and meadows
• Ice skating on outdoor rinks with mountain views
• Scenic gondola rides to admire Tahoe’s picturesque shores
• Action-packed snow tubing
• Peaceful snowshoeing excursions

Breathtaking Beauty

Of course, the real star of Lake Tahoe is the lake itself. Couples can enjoy stunning vistas of the blue waters backed by snow-capped peaks throughout their stay. Meals with a view and lakeside strolls make for perfect romantic moments.

With its unbeatable mix of cozy lodging, winter activities, and natural beauty, Lake Tahoe promises an idyllic winter vacation for couples

4. Quebec City, Canada.

For couples seeking old world charm and romance, Quebec City is a dream winter destination. With European styling, winter festivals, and plenty of cozy spots to keep warm, this historic city has it all.

Storybook Settings

Quebec City’s Old Town (Vieux-Québec) transports couples to Europe with its 17th and 18th century buildings, towering castle walls, and narrow cobblestone streets. Meandering the area hand-in-hand amid snowflakes is wonderfully romantic.

Winter Magic

Quebec City comes alive in winter with magical attractions like:

• Outdoor ice skating rinks at Parc de la Cité-Limoilou and Place D’Youville
• The German Christmas Market on the Old Port featuring crafts, treats, and warm drinks
• Nightly sound and light shows projected onto the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hotel
• Igloofest music festival with DJs performing on an outdoor snow stage

Romantic Side-by-Side Activities

Beyond the festivals and sights, couples can partake in classic winter fun together including:

• Gliding in a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy Battlefields Park
• Strolling the art galleries and shops of the Old Port
• Snow tubing or dog sledding on the outskirts of the city
• Dining at cozy bistros and cafés like Chez Boulay and Palais Fou

With its European flair, seasonal magic, and wealth of couple-friendly activities, Quebec City is a top pick for a romantic winter getaway.

5. Banff, Canada.

Few places can compete with Banff, Canada for stunning mountain scenery. Situated within Banff National Park, this charming town offers majestic views, natural hot springs, and plentiful winter activities for couples.

Breathtaking Backdrops

As part of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is surrounded by towering, snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes. The postcard-worthy views provide a dramatic backdrop for a winter escape.

Soothing Hot Springs

After a day on the slopes or trails, couples can unwind together at the Upper Hot Springs. These naturally heated mineral pools allow visitors to relax in near 100°F waters amid snowy vistas.

Outdoor Winter Fun

Banff offers skiing at Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Ski Resort along with many other winter activities for couples including:

• Snowshoeing on scenic trails with mountain panoramas
• Ice skating on Lake Louise under the peaks
• Thrilling horse-drawn sleigh rides through the woods
• Exhilarating dog sled tours through the backcountry

Charming Lodgings

At day’s end, couples can retreat to cozy accommodations like the Fairmont Banff Springs or Moose Hotel & Suites, with warm fireplaces and beautiful mountain views.

With its unbeatable scenery, hot springs, winter activities, and charming lodges, Banff makes for an incredible romantic winter getaway.

6. Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

For couples seeking majestic mountain views and adventure, Jackson Hole, Wyoming is an ideal winter destination. Known for world-class skiing and proximity to two national parks, this scenic town offers plenty of activities for couples along with rustic-chic lodging.

Dramatic Backdrops

Jackson Hole is framed by the rugged Teton Range, whose jagged snow-covered peaks jut sharply into the sky, creating a dramatic backdrop. Grand Teton National Park also lies just north of town for stunning vistas.

Top-Tier Skiing

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort boasts over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, with some of the steepest vertical drop in North America. Couples can ski and ride together through wide open bowls and tree-lined slopes.

Unique Excursions

Beyond skiing, couples can partake in special wintertime excursions like:

• Wildlife safaris via heated snowcoach into Yellowstone National Park to spot elk and bison
• Peaceful snowshoeing in Grand Teton with professionals guides
• Exhilarating snow tubing runs lit up for nighttime fun
• Romantic sleigh rides in the National Elk Refuge among thousands of wintering elk

Rustic Lodging

After active days, couples can unwind in front of crackling fires at cozy accommodations like the Wort Hotel, Lodge at Jackson Hole, and Four Seasons Jackson Hole.

With its iconic Tetons views, world-class skiing, unique tours, and rustic-chic lodging, Jackson Hole hits the sweet spot for adventurous couples.

7. Big Sky, Montana.

For laid-back charm and a range of winter activities, Big Sky, Montana entices couples looking to enjoy the outdoors together. With its beautiful mountain setting, abundance of trails and inviting restaurants and bars, Big Sky beckons couples.

Quintessential Rocky Mountain Setting

Situated high in the northern Rockies, Big Sky’s soaring peaks and evergreen forests create a picturesque winter backdrop. The fresh powder snow and charming mountain town vibe provide an idyllic setting away from crowds.

Outdoor Activities Galore

Big Sky offers a huge diversity of winter activities for couples to enjoy side-by-side including:

• Downhill skiing and snowboarding - With 5,800 acres between Big Sky Resort and Moonlight Basin, couples have endless terrain to explore.

• Nordic skiing and snowshoeing - Over 80 km of trails span majestic mountain scenery.

• Snowmobiling - Guided tours take couples through Gallatin National Forest.

• Dog sledding - Snuggle under blankets on rides through the backcountry.

• Ice fishing - Cut holes in the ice to catch trout on remote lakes.

Local Food and Nightlife

After working up an appetite, couples can refuel on bison burgers, craft beer, and regional wine at local spots like Lone Peak Brewery and Beehive Basin Brewery. For nightlife, live music and dancing at The Rocks and Scissorbills Saloon make for fun date nights.

With plentiful winter recreation amid stunning scenery coupled with local charm, Big Sky is a top choice for active couples.

8. Sanibel Island, Florida.

For couples seeking warmth and tropical charm without massive crowds, Sanibel Island on Florida’s Gulf Coast fits the bill. With beautiful beaches, outdoor recreation, and romantic sunsets, Sanibel offers a tranquil winter escape.

Endless Shores

Sanibel stretches over 12 miles in length, offering couples countless spots to stroll hand-in-hand on white sand beaches. The most famous is Bowman’s Beach, known for shells, seclusion, and sunsets.

On-Water Adventures

Paddling together through the mangroves is a classic Sanibel couples’ activity. Options include:

• Kayaking - Glide through clear waters and observe wildlife.
• Stand-up paddleboarding - Enjoy an easy adventure across the bay.
• Boat cruises - Look for dolphins at sunset on cruise boats.

Beachfront Romance

Resorts like 'Tween Waters Inn and Sanibel Inn offer rooms with views of the Gulf, along with beachfront restaurants perfect for dining under the stars. Building a bonfire on the sand makes for lasting memories too.

Laid-back Vibe

With no high-rise hotels or chain retailers, Sanibel retains a peaceful, tropical vibe. Couples can support local shops and eateries for date nights. The island pace is slow and serene.

For a warm winter escape with plenty of relaxation and outdoor adventures to share, Sanibel Island is a secluded paradise tailored for couples.

9. St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands.

For a truly secluded tropical getaway, couples should consider the island of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. With honeymoon-worthy seclusion, stunning beaches and snorkeling, and an overall romantic vibe, this Caribbean escape checks all the boxes.

Intimate Lodging

St. John offers a range of intimate accommodation options where couples can relax in privacy, including:

• Eco-friendly tent cottages at Concordia or Maho Bay Camps
• Luxurious villas with private pools and butler service
• Small beachfront resorts like Caneel Bay offering peace and quiet

Deserted Beaches

Over half the island is protected parkland, leaving many beaches blissfully uncrowded. Some top spots for couples include Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and Francis Bay.

Underwater Beauty

The rich coral reefs make for excellent snorkeling. Couples can float weightlessly together while spotting vibrant fish and sea turtles.

Romantic Dining

Under the stars with the gentle Caribbean breeze, dinner for two at Extra Virgin Bistro, La Tapa, or Rhumb Lines goes down easy after days relaxing on the beach.

For honeymoon vibes and intimate escape on a beautiful Caribbean island, lovers should head to St. John.

10. Oahu, Hawaii.

No list of top winter destinations for couples is complete without the classic Hawaiian island of Oahu. Honolulu and the famous North Shore offer the perfect blend of romance, activities, culture and natural beauty.

Iconic Beaches

Famed spots like Waikiki Beach, Lanikai Beach, and Sunset Beach let couples relax in the sand against palm trees and azure waters. Watching the waves roll in never gets old.

Outdoor Excursions

Couples can surf together, hike to panoramic lookouts, embark on whale watching cruises, or snorkel at Shark’s Cove. Experiencing Oahu’s beauty side-by-side creates lasting memories.

Luau Nights

Swaying to Hawaiian music at Paradise Cove Luau or Chief’s Luau, sipping tropical cocktails and dining on traditional cuisine under the stars makes for a quintessential couples’ night out.

Luxury Stays

Resorts from Kahala Hotel & Resort to Turtle Bay create a romantic atmosphere with oceanview rooms, couples’ massages, and fine dining.

With its iconic setting, abundance of activities, Hawaiian culture, and romance in the air, Oahu sweeps couples away on an unforgettable island adventure.

Conclusion

A winter getaway with your significant other provides a chance to focus on each other and build your bond through new shared experiences. Whether snowshoeing scenic trails, soaking in hot springs, or dining beachside at sunset, these destinations deliver perfect settings for romance, fun couple-friendly activities, and memories to cherish for years to come.

The best vacations are often the simplest - just quality time together in a beautiful place. Whichever amazing destination you choose, the most important ingredient is the person by your side. With so many options for romantic winter escapes, you’re sure to find the ideal spot to cozy up with your sweetheart.

For more vacation inspiration, check out these blog posts for the 20 Best Places to Visit in December, 10 Best Winter Travel Destinations for Couples and Winter Park Resort Travel Guide, 10 Hot Places in December for a Beach Vacation ,GlobetrotterGO