10 Romantic Travel Destinations in Australia and New Zealand

There’s no better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with a romantic escape somewhere special or new. We’ve chosen these big cities and small towns scattered across Australia and New Zealand as our favourite spots for a romantic weekend away, staycation or grand adventure. 

Whether you and your loved one enjoy lazy days at the beach, world-class dining and wine, or thrilling adventure activities, there’s something for every couple at these top 10 romantic travel destinations in Australia and New Zealand. 

1. Melbourne

Dial up the romance while paddling over lake in the Royal Botanic Gardens, floating above the city in a hot air balloon or enjoying a drink together down a Melbourne laneway. Whether you and your significant other are into sports and burger bars or fine dining and art galleries, Melbourne is a world-class city full of possibilities. Regularly voted at one of the most liveable cities in the world, dive into the Victorian capital’s coffee culture, major events and gorgeous natural scenery with a romantic weekend escape or a city staycation.

2. Darwin 

When dreaming about romantic escapes, Darwin isn’t the first place that comes to mind but it should. Drink up one of its world renowned sunsets on the harbour and embrace the spirit of adventure when you journey to the Northern Territory. Tick Darwin and its surreal surroundings off your travel bucket list together, hopping between the city and its rugged landscapes, waterfalls and coastline. 

3. Port Douglas 

Picture yourself kicking back with a cocktail in Port Douglas, the tropical paradise where the rainforest meets the reef. One hour north of Cairns, use the holiday destination as your base to discover the World Heritage-Listed Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest and even Cape Tribulation. Pack a sense of adventure along with a book and your bathers, as beyond the pool you can snorkel, hike, fly, ride, shop, dine and dive your way around the region. 

4. Hunter Valley

Breath in the fresh country air of the Hunter Valley. For a long time this destination has been a top choice for romantic hinterland escapes, with days spent hopping between wineries, soaking up nature, indulging in decadent meals and treating oneself to a spa day or round of golf. Just a two-hour drive from Sydney, there’s no better place to whisk your significant other away for the weekend.

5. Wellington 

A compact and creative city with a powerful mix of culture, history, nature and cuisine, Wellington is the place to relax, recharge and reconnect. Spend your days drinking coffee, world-class craft beer and snacking through the city – after all, Wellingtonians are masters of casual dining and the city is crammed with great restaurants, night markets and food trucks. Swap the city for the hills with a ride on the historic cable car, venture up Mount Victoria or meet local wildlife at the Zealandia urban ecosanctuary.

6. Gold Coast

There’s more to the Gold Coast than the glittering nightlife of Surfers Paradise and the half-a-dozen theme parks. Your romantic escape to the coastal city could see you spending afternoons at the beach, day trips to leafy Mount Tamborine, chasing waterfalls in Springbrook or watching surf contests at Burleigh. From the bustling north to the relaxed south there’s a burgeoning craft brewery scene and creative pulse to explore.

7. Queenstown 

Queenstown might be New Zealand’s adventure capital, but you don’t need to bungee off a bridge to experience the best of the destination. Fall in love again while taking a wine tour through the Gibbston Valley, cosying up in an Onsen hot pool, cruising Lake Wakatipu or stargazing under clear skies. Of course, you could always book a thrilling tandem bungee jump if action and adventure is your thing. 

8. The Entrance

Almost halfway between Sydney and Newcastle, The Entrance is a blissful seaside spot for simple and nostalgic pleasures. Picture yourself hand-in-hand with your loved one wandering along the coastline or Tuggerah Lake. Spot pelicans, stop for ice-cream and enjoy a swim in the ocean or historic baths. Spend the morning boating or fishing and the afternoon soaking up sunshine and a few drinks by the sea. 

9. Adelaide

With an amazing calendar of festivals and events, there’s almost always a good reason to visit Adelaide. Take your significant other for a long weekend or week-long escape and get to know the city’s fantastic local food scene before heading into the hills. Surrounded by amazing wine regions, it’s hard to resist spending a day or two in the Barossa, Clare or McLaren Vale valleys. Australia’s city of churches might just inspire you to walk down the aisle or renew your vows too! 

10. Kingscliff 

Kingscliff might be the northern New South Wales coast’s best kept secret. While masses flock to Byron Bay, this sleepy village just south of the Gold Coast is the perfect quiet coastal escape. Fill your days with the sunshine, sea and sand, and then cosy up with a film at the local arthouse cinema where they even bring food and wine to your seat.

Ready to fall in love with travel again? Start exploring Australia today with Oaks.