Top 5 Romantic Destinations for Couples
February is the month of love, making it the perfect time to do something special for your significant other. Sure, curling up on the couch and binge-watching Netflix together is pretty great—but why not shake things up with a romantic getaway?
Like choosing a movie or TV show, picking a destination for your romantic getaway can feel endless—there are just so many options. To make sure you don’t feel overwhelmed by all the choices, we’ve put together a list of our five favourite romantic destinations. We've handpicked destinations perfect for couples who love adventure, indulgence, or simply unwinding. Read on to find the ideal spot to whisk your partner away.
1. Melbourne
Melbourne is often celebrated as one of the world's most liveable cities, but we'd argue it also deserves a place among the most romantic. We know it's a bold claim, but hear us out—Melbourne could be the perfect destination for your next romantic getaway.
Melbourne offers a vibrant blend of culture, nature, and indulgence. Whether you're wandering through laneways adorned with colourful street art, savouring diverse culinary gems, or soaking in breathtaking coastal views, Melbourne is brimming with romantic charm.
Spend a cinematic evening with your significant other, dining at the Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower. Take in breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and bay - pair this with a signature cocktail at the Southern Hemisphere's highest bar for the perfect moment to share with your loved one.
Does your ideal romance include a touch of adventure? Pack up a picnic for two and hit the Great Ocean Road for a coastal adventure. Take in the awe-inspiring scenery and admire the spectacle of the Twelve Apostles.
If you're seeking adventure a little closer to the city, why not visit Phillip Island to see the world's smallest penguin species, the little blue penguin? Here, you’ll see the iconic Penguin Parade—watching these adorable little birds shuffle back to their burrows after a day in the ocean is sure to leave you with a smile.
2. Adelaide
If your idea of romance is wining and dining, it might be time to book two tickets to Adelaide.
Wine lovers will already know that South Australia's famous Barossa Valley is just an hour's drive from the city centre. Explore the Valley on a bike, in a car, or with a guided tour, and experience some of Australia's most renowned wineries and vineyards. Indulge in the region's famous reds (or a Chardonnay or Riesling if whites are more your thing) and sumptuous gourmet food.
There’s no such thing as too much wine, so maybe another day trip is on the cards? Why not take another short drive from Adelaide (or an even shorter drive from Glenelg) to the McLaren Vale wine region and drink in the world-class wines and picturesque scenery?
You and your special someone don’t have to leave the city centre for a bit of romance. Foodies will be delighted by the diverse award-winning restaurant scene, transporting your taste buds to Thailand, Northern Africa and Italy. If you love to connect over creativity and culture, head to the North Terrace and visit the Art Gallery of South Australia, the South Australia Museum, and Adelaide’s Botanic Gardens.
3. Glenelg
Glenelg may only be 25 minutes from Adelaide’s City Centre, but it offers so much for couples on a romantic getaway that it deserves its own place on this list.
Glenelg is famous for its long white sand beaches, and no romantic holiday is complete without walking hand in hand down the coast. Spend the day walking along the pristine sands, and in the evening, visit Australia’s only official beach bar, Moseley Beach, and enjoy a cocktail with a stunning sunset as your backdrop.
Staying in the heart of Glenelg will give you plenty of time to immerse yourself in its many other attractions. Enjoy an unforgettable wild dolphin tour, explore the lively Jetty Road, lined with boutique shops, charming cafes, and bustling restaurants, and be sure to treat your special someone to a magical twilight cruise.
If you’re ready to embrace a little rom-com magic, Glenelg is home to an iconic Ferris Wheel where you can share a ride with your loved one, soaking in the picture-perfect promenade and the glistening ocean below.
4. Wellington
Are you a couple that loves to immerse yourself in nature? Or perhaps you and your significant other are thrill-seekers at heart? In Wellington, you’re never far from an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Grab a mountain bike and head to Makara Peak or Mount Victoria for an incredible adrenaline rush. For a more relaxed adventure, take a short walk from Oaks (located in the heart of Wellington) to the city's picturesque harbour. There, you can rent a kayak and discover New Zealand's capital city from a breathtaking new perspective.
Get lost in the lush forests of Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary together, where you'll encounter native birds and reptiles in their natural habitat. Are you looking for a challenge? Head to the hills and take on the Skyline Walkway hike - it's a bit of a trek, but you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Kaikoura Ranges, the Marlborough Sounds, Wellington City, and Harbour.
It’s not all non-stop adventure, though. After satisfying your craving for adrenaline, take a stroll through Wellington’s walkable city centre and discover why it’s known as New Zealand’s culinary capital. Spend an evening together exploring the international flavours of Wellington’s night market. The next morning, indulge in the city’s iconic café culture and treat yourself to a rich coffee, flaky pastry, or indulgent brunch.
5. Hunter Valley
Looking to create a romantic memory that will last a lifetime? Picture this - you and your loved one soaring above Hunter Valley’s sprawling vineyards and lush treetops, watching the sunrise from the comfort of a hot air balloon. As if that isn’t magical enough, you’ll be welcomed back to the ground with a champagne breakfast. Do we really need to say more?
If you haven’t already rushed to book your Hunter Valley escape, you'll definitely want to after discovering why it might be the most tranquil place to relax and reconnect with your partner. Hop between award-winning wineries, soak in the stunning natural scenery, and breathe in the fresh country air. Don’t forget to try delicious local cheeses while sipping wine from Australia’s oldest wine region.
We're not usually one to toot our own horn, but for the ultimate couples' Hunter Valley getaway, Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort is the place to be. Nestled in the heart of Hunter Valley, Oaks has everything you need to relax, indulge, and connect, including an onsite spa, three pools, two restaurants, two bars, a pro golf course and two tennis courts. It's the perfect setting to pamper yourself and your loved one.
Maybe your idea of connecting is rebalancing your mind, body, and spirit with an all-inclusive stay at Elysia Wellness Retreat. Together, you’ll tune out unnecessary distractions and enjoy activities designed to improve your well-being, such as morning tai chi with roaming kangaroos, tailored spa treatments, meditation, and hiking.
Where are you heading?
Escaping to a romantic destination is a perfect way to relax and reconnect with your significant other. Whether you're sipping award-winning wines, sharing a cocktail 300 metres above a sparkling city, or embarking on a nature-filled adventure together, Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites provide a range of accommodation in stunning destinations.
With the comfort and convenience of Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites, your romantic getaway promises to be unforgettable.
