If the regular romantic islands getaways are all booked up, or the need to explore new islands is stronger, here are four of the best romantic islands to cater to all kinds of romantics. Visit one of the most beloved Celtic fairy tale islands of Scotland, one of two unspoiled tropical paradises in the Caribbean, or indulge in a Portuguese dream in the Atlantic Ocean.
Isle Of Skye—Scotland
Famous for its sometimes sad but often romantic history and its many fairy tales, the Isle of Skye is perfect for couples looking for cozy accommodation, interesting geology, whimsical romantic tales of lovers, and a magical setting true to books and movies.
Skye, also known as the Misty Isle, offers a variety of beaches, some on the lochs and others along the North Atlantic. Go castle hopping, beginning just off the island with the MacRae’s Eilean Donan—featured on countless shortbread tins and Bond movies, then travel across the island to Dunvegan Castle—the seat of the MacLeods and their Fairy Flag talisman. Take a moment in Kyleakin to walk along the loch behind the Skye Bridge, looking for otters and walking to the ruins of Castle Maol, where Saucy Mary, a Viking princess who charged a toll for sailing ships, entertained the sailors in her own eccentric way.
Learn about the disfigured princess who was blessed by the fairies when she washed her face near Broadford and reveled in the wildness of the imposing Cuillin Mountains.
Getting there
Fly into Glasgow or Edinburgh airports or into Inverness Airport.
Drive up the West Coast via Oban or inland through Rannoch Moor and then over the infamous Skye Bridge. In summer, take the historic Glenelg to Skye short-crossing ferry. Alternatively, take the Mallaig to Armadale ferry run by Calmac.
By Rail: Take the Inverness Scotrail service from Glasgow or Edinburgh to Kyle of Lochalsh, then the Highlands bus service to the island.
Top Experiences For Couples
Shop in Portree. Look for clan tartans, local hand-crafted textiles, and artwork, and browse the local boutiques and stores for delicious treats and teas.
Visit the Fairy Glen. Near the northern side of the island, this magical landscape with its castle-like formations and many hills has delighted visitors for years despite its lack of fairy history. It’s an interesting 30-min walk from the small town of Uig—a Hebridean ferry port.
Hike the Cuillins and many trails of the island with its spectacular rock formations, basalt cliffs, and stunning views with magical coastlines.
Grenada, Caribbean
This Caribbean group of islands composed of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique is a gem perfect for couples looking for less frequented resorts and individual accommodations.
Getting there
Fly into Maurice Bishop Airport in St. Georges on daily flights on major airlines from New York or Miami. Fly on to Carriacou (20 min flight) or take the ferry (about 2 hours). Reach Petite Martinique by regular ferry from Carriacou.
Top Experiences For Couples
Walk and swim along pristine beaches each day, such as Paradise Beach on Carriacou. Have a spa day in the capital city of St. George, and explore the rainforest in the Grand Etang Forest Reserve on short or long hikes. Visit De La Grenade Nutmeg Garden for a fragrant treat, then move on to the Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station (Grenada is also known as the Spice Islands), then end the sweet tour with a trip to House of Chocolate before heading back for lunch or dinner.
Dominica
Unspoiled Dominica recalls and provides a quaint island getaway experience from yesteryear for true romantics. Situated in the eastern Caribbean, the island offers a variety of accommodations to suit every budget: From hotels to apartments to cottages.
Getting there
Fly in on one of the direct flights from Miami International or Puerto Rico. Most flights arrive on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Check for additional seasonal flights.
International flights also connect via various destinations in the region, including Antigua and Trinidad.
Top Experiences For Couples
Unwind in Wotten Waven mud pools and gardens for a unique hot springs experience. Hiking trails abound with easy trails to the twin Trafalgar waterfalls near Roseau, the capital city. Add a short swim to walk through the magical Titou Gorge. Explore the Morne Trois Piton National Park, a world UNESCO site, visit the Kalinago Territory, where the ancient tribe follows their ages-old way of life, then round out the day by dropping in at the Rum Museum or wandering around Old Market Square in Roseau. Divers will delight in the warm, vibrant waters around the island.
The Azores
A European favorite for its sustainability and unique beauty, this Portuguese archipelago is perfect for adventure seekers and those looking for something a little different. The Azores was formed by its volcanoes which continue to shape the islands. With a long history as a supply station for Atlantic seafarers that continues till today, the Azores has something special for every couple to explore.
Getting there
Fly into Porta Delgada on San Miguel island on regular flights from the USA. Azores Airlines has various flights linking the islands to Portugal and abroad.
Sailing vessels can berth at various marinas.
Self-drive packages and adventure packages are easy to find with local tour operators.
Top Experiences For Couples
Hike, canyon, or dive together and explore the amazing ecosystems created by the location of the islands in a climatic transitory zone. Drive through stunning scenery formed by the local volcanoes: lakes, craters, and verdant forests.
Whale and dolphin watch, then enjoy the local cuisine. Visit the vineyards of Pico—the Criação Velha—and see the unique adaptations used to produce wine since the 1500s in such a windy region.