It’s just turned fall, and I’m already fantasizing about slipping away for a beach holiday this winter.

With two little ones at home, my husband and I make it a priority to get away a couple of times each year just the two of us… even if just for a long weekend. On those getaways, relaxation tops the charts. No chasing toddlers, no nap schedules to follow, and no early dinners, please. We are all about adult-centric properties with a sexy vibe, exceptional service, and elevated food and wine.

Looking to get inspired for your next beach holiday? Check out 12 romantic beach hotels on our bucket list.

1. AMANERA | Dominican Republic

Perched above the pristine sands of Playa Grande on the Dominican Republic’s north coast, Amanera is a secluded 25-casita sanctuary that blends barefoot luxury with raw natural beauty. Each minimalist yet warm space is outfitted with sleek wood finishes, expansive terraces, and floor-to-ceiling glass that frames uninterrupted ocean vistas. Some casitas include private pools overlooking the sea, perfect for sunset dips in total privacy. Days here move at your own pace, from paddleboarding and snorkeling in the turquoise waters to guided hikes through lush jungle trails. When it’s time to unwind, the Aman Spa offers holistic treatments inspired by the ancient Shamanic healing practices of the Taíno people, creating a sense of connection to the land and its heritage.

Don’t Miss: Moonlit yoga sessions on Playa Grande Beach — an unforgettable blend of movement, ocean breeze, and starlight.

2. AMAnyara | turks + Caicos

Set on the edge of an 18,000-acre protected nature reserve in Turks & Caicos, Amanyara is a remote, design-forward retreat that feels worlds away. Its 36 stand-alone pavilions and 18 expansive villas blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, with open-air layouts, private pools, and sweeping views of the turquoise waters and powder-white sands of North West Point Marine National Park. Adventure and serenity coexist here. Snorkel vibrant coral reefs just offshore, join a naturalist from the on-site Nature Discovery Center for a guided coastal hike, or spend the day lounging beside your pool in total seclusion. The spa, tucked amid reflecting pools and lush gardens, offers holistic treatments rooted in Asian and Caribbean wellness traditions.

Don’t Miss: The “down-winder” kiteboarding safari — a thrilling ride along the island’s coast, launching from Leeward Point or Long Bay depending on the wind.

3. Belmond Cap Juluca | Anguilla

Effortlessly blending barefoot luxury with Caribbean glamour, Cap Juluca is a reimagined island icon nestled along the impossibly turquoise shores of Maundays Bay. Its signature all-white Moorish architecture, framed by lush tropical gardens and crescent-shaped white sand beaches, sets a dreamy tone from the moment you arrive. The 64 rooms and 44 suites all face the sea and come with their own private beachfront loungers and umbrellas — no early wake-ups required. Just press the intercom and your next cocktail or ceviche arrives without ever leaving the sand. Spend your days basking at the oceanfront infinity pool, indulging in treatments at the serene Arawak Spa, or dining across the resort’s four world-class restaurants, each celebrating bold island flavors with a refined touch.

Don’t Miss: A scenic daytime sail to the Prickly Pear Cays, perfect for snorkeling, sunning, and sipping rum punch in castaway-worthy surroundings.

4. BVLGARI RESORT | BALI

*Image courtesy of Bvlgari Resort Bali.*

Dramatically perched on a cliffside overlooking the Indian Ocean, Bulgari Resort Bali is where Italian sophistication meets Balinese soul. Each of the 59 private villas is a sanctuary of indulgence, blending sleek Italian furnishings with hand-hewn volcanic stone, thatched roofs, and rich teakwood for a design that’s both modern and deeply rooted in local tradition. Expansive terraces and plunge pools offer front-row seats to breathtaking ocean views. Descend via the resort’s open-air inclinator — a scenic cliffside carriage — to reach the resort’s secluded two-mile private beach, where soft white sand and crashing surf await. This is a place where time slows down and self-care takes center stage. The spa specializes in deeply restorative treatments, including their signature four-handed Balinese massage.

Don’t Miss: The unforgettable Kecak fire dance at sunset at nearby Pura Luhur Uluwatu, set atop a cliff with sweeping views of the sea.

5. CHABLé MAROMA | Riviera maya

Tucked between lush jungle and powder-soft shoreline, Chablé Maroma offers a serene escape for design lovers seeking both seclusion and soul. Each of the 70 expansive villas is its own private retreat, complete with a plunge pool, outdoor terrace, and natural materials that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. Think sleek lines, handcrafted details, and a seamless indoor-outdoor flow that invites rest and reconnection. When you’re ready to emerge from your sanctuary, snorkel in the clear Caribbean waters, soak up the sun on the private stretch of beach, or immerse yourself in ancient tradition with a Mayan-inspired spa ritual. Off-property adventures, from exploring cenotes to wandering through nearby Mayan ruins, bring even more cultural depth to your stay.

Don’t Miss: The tasting menu at Bu’ul, where modern Mexican cuisine is elevated with seasonal ingredients and artful presentation.

6. CHEVAL BLANC | St-Barth ISLE DE FRANCE

*Image by Pierre Carreau courtesy of Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France.*

Synonymous with barefoot elegance, Cheval Blanc St-Barth stands in a league of its own. As the only Caribbean property to receive the prestigious “Palace” distinction from the French government, this ultra-luxe retreat delivers a blend of refined French hospitality and relaxed island charm that’s truly unmatched. Set along the powdery white sands of Flamands Beach, the resort’s 61 rooms, including breezy oceanfront suites and lush garden bungalows, offer a private, polished refuge just steps from the sea. Here, indulgence comes in the form of sunrise swims, bespoke spa rituals, and long, languid lunches with a chilled glass of rosé never far from reach.

Don’t Miss: A leisurely seaside meal at La Cabane, where toes-in-the-sand dining and market-fresh cuisine create the perfect St. Barth’s moment.

7. FOUR SEASONS RESORT | BORA BORA

*Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora.*

Yes, it takes over a day to reach Four Seasons Bora Bora — but once you step off the boat and onto your overwater bungalow, the journey melts away. Set against a backdrop of crystal-clear lagoons and the dramatic peak of Mount Otemanu, this secluded island sanctuary is the definition of a romantic escape. Each thatched-roof suite floats above turquoise waters, with private decks perfect for sunbathing, stargazing, or jumping straight into the lagoon. The resort’s signature Te Mahana Spa offers open-air treatments infused with Polynesian botanicals, while the resort’s lagoon is home to some of the most vibrant snorkeling in the region. Whether you're sipping Champagne at sunset or simply soaking in the quiet, the experience is all about tranquility, privacy, and slow, indulgent days.

Don’t Miss: A couples’ treatment in the overwater spa suite — a one-of-a-kind setting where the ocean breeze and gentle waves set the tone for total relaxation.

8. Las ventanas al parAíso | los cabos

*Image courtesy of Las Ventanas al Paraíso.*

Set at the edge of the Baja Peninsula where the desert meets the Sea of Cortez, Las Ventanas al Paraíso lives up to its name — the “windows to paradise.” This enchanting Rosewood resort is home to 84 sprawling suites and villas, each with handcrafted Mexican details, wood-burning fireplaces, and private terraces that open to sea views or desert gardens. While families are welcome, the atmosphere is undeniably romantic. Think: candlelit dinners, private plunge pools, and a Director of Romance on staff to personalize unforgettable experiences for two. Whether you’re riding horses along the beach, playing a round of golf, or indulging in a couples' massage in your oceanfront cabana, every detail is designed to elevate your stay.

Don’t Miss: Tequila Sign — a bespoke tequila tasting that’s equal parts education and indulgence, tailored to your preferences and served with ocean views.

9. nihi sumba | INDONESIA

Consistently ranked among the world’s best — including being voted the #1 Hotel in the World by Travel + Leisure — NIHI Sumba is not just a destination, but an experience. Located on a remote, nearly untouched island in Indonesia, this intimate 27-villa retreat invites couples to fully unplug and reconnect with nature and each other in a setting that feels like a well-kept secret. Each villa blends rustic elegance with sweeping views of jungle, surf, or sea, while a personal concierge helps craft your dream itinerary. Spend your days riding horses along the shore at sunset, stand-up paddleboarding the Wanukaka River, chasing waterfalls deep in the national park, or surfing world-class waves with barely another soul in sight. Prefer to slow down? Stretch out in the hilltop yoga pavilion, catch a film at the open-air beach cinema, or simply lounge by the oceanfront infinity pool with a fresh coconut in hand.

Don’t Miss: A full day of indulgence at the Spa Safari™ Nihioka — a remote, clifftop oasis where treatments are paired with panoramic ocean views and the sound of crashing waves.

10. nobu ryokan | malibu

Tucked above the golden sands of Carbon Beach, Nobu Ryokan is a discreet 16-room hideaway that blends the soul of a traditional Japanese inn with the effortless cool of the California coast. With its clean lines, warm teak accents, and ocean-facing serenity, the property feels more like a private retreat than a hotel — and that’s entirely the point. Suites feature luxurious details like hand-crafted teak soaking tubs, fireplaces, and floor-to-ceiling windows with uninterrupted Pacific views. In-room dining is courtesy of Nobu, naturally, so you can enjoy black cod miso or toro tartare without ever leaving your robe. The atmosphere is meditative, with a tranquil courtyard garden and a design philosophy that whispers, not shouts.

Don’t Miss: Book the Horizon Suite, the property’s most coveted corner room with an outdoor soaking tub overlooking the ocean.

11. one + only Reethi Rah | maldives

*Image courtesy of One & Only Reethi Rah.*

If it’s good enough for Madonna, it’s good enough for us. A favorite among celebrities and discerning travelers alike, One&Only Reethi Rah is a private island paradise spread across 109 lush acres in the Maldives, with 3.7 miles of pristine coastline and 12 powder-white beaches to choose from. The resort’s 122 villas — whether set directly on the sand or suspended above the turquoise lagoon — offer complete privacy and a deep sense of calm. Here, your biggest concern might be whether to start your day with a swim in the warm Indian Ocean or with a nap in your villa’s hammock, lulled by sea breezes. Spend your time exploring vibrant coral reefs, enjoying butler-serviced beach picnics, or simply slipping into a slower rhythm. From design to service, every detail whispers indulgence.

Don’t Miss: Nature’s Resonance by ESPA, a fully immersive spa experience that blends sound therapy, energy work, and traditional Maldivian healing rituals, all set in a tranquil garden sanctuary.

12. rosewood miramar beach | Montecito

*Image courtesy of Rosewood Miramar Beach.*

A relative newcomer to the California coast, Rosewood Miramar Beach opened just three years ago and has already established itself as a destination for laid-back luxury. Set across 16 manicured acres fronting the sparkling sands of Miramar Beach, the resort offers 158 guest rooms and suites, all outfitted with breezy coastal décor, private terraces, and a distinctly relaxed elegance. Guests can divide their time between lounging poolside, beachcombing just steps from their suite, or strolling through the storybook charm of nearby Montecito. And on the off chance of a rare rainy day, you’ll find plenty to explore on property — from curated boutiques by Goop and James Perse to an impressive private art collection featuring over 600 works of contemporary photography and sculpture.

Don’t Miss: A sunset dinner at Caruso’s, the resort’s signature oceanfront restaurant. Tables with a view book up weeks in advance so plan accordingly for that golden-hour glow.

12 Romantic Beach Hotels