USA TODAY 10Best
Savannah's Hamilton-Turner Inn voted Best Romantic Hotel
Best Romantic Hotel (2021)
The ambiance of a hotel can make or break a romantic getaway. From city centers to rural retreats, these 10 properties offer couples an intimate escape.
- Auberge du Soleil - Rutherford, Calif.
- The Virginian Hotel - Lynchburg, VA
- Mauna Kea Beach Hotel - Big Island
- Halekulani Hotel - Honolulu
- The Broadmoor - Colorado Springs
- Wentworth Mansion - Charleston
- Hotel Casa del Mar - Santa Monica, CA
- Chateau Bourbon - Louisville, KY
- Enchantment Resort - Sedona, Ariz.
- Hamilton-Turner Inn - Savannah
Photo courtesy of Auberge du Soleil
No. 10:
Auberge du Soleil, a luxurious country inn located in Napa Valley, is a perfect California romantic getaway. Suites and rooms come with private terraces, soaking tubs and rain showers, and fireplaces. Couples can stroll through a magnificent lavender-scented sculpture garden or enjoy a French-inspired picnic for two consisting of cheeses, salads, fruits, and wines at the Parc du Soleil.
Photo courtesy of The Virginian Hotel
No. 9:
The Virginian, a mainstay of downtown since 1913, welcomes the romance seekers to the only AAA four-diamond hotel in the city. Enjoy a stroll along the James River, visit restaurants and shops within walking distance of the hotel, and explore Lynchburg’s arts and creative environs. In February, guests can choose to indulge in a Romance Package, which includes sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries, breakfast for two, and late checkout.
Photo courtesy of Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
No. 8:
Couples can make lasting romantic memories at “the place where the best things in life endure the test of time,” Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on the big island of Hawaii. Stroll along silica white-sand beaches on the Kauna’oa Bay, sip cocktails while enjoying an unending ocean view, take a moonlight snorkel, swim with manta rays, enjoy the weekly Big Island luau, or play a game of tennis next to the sea.
Photo courtesy of Leading Hotels of the World
No. 7:
Translated from Hawaiian as the ”House Befitting Heaven,” the Halekulani has welcomed guests seeking romance to Waikiki Beach for more than a century. Enjoy your itinerary or let the hotel indulge you with their Romantic Weekend Getaway package – breakfast overlooking the ocean, a private morning sail and snorkel, a couples’ treatment at the spa, a sunrise surfing lesson, and much more.
Photo courtesy of The Broadmoor
No. 6:
Experience the romance and unique beauty of the American West at the AAA Five-Diamond resort, The Broadmoor. Couples can luxuriate in rooms, suites, and cottages with modern amenities and plush furnishings. Spend an indulgent day at the spa, enjoy dining in an award-winning restaurant, or take a scenic ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway and escape from the ordinary at this iconic Colorado Springs resort.
Photo courtesy of Wentworth Mansion
No. 5:
Located in charming Downtown Charleston, Wentworth Mansion offers 21 luxe rooms in one of the city's grandest estates. Touches include Italian crystal chandeliers, marble fireplaces, gas fireplaces, day beds, over-sized whirlpool tubs and walk-in showers. Circa 1886, the restaurant housed in Wentworth's carriage house, ranks among the nation's most romantic restaurants.
Photo courtesy of Lisa Romerein
No. 4:
Hotel Casa del Mar combines the inspiration of Mediterranean grand villas and the California “beachy” vibe of Santa Monica to invite its guests to experience romance in style. The oceanfront hotel offers exquisitely styled guest rooms and suites, many of which include coastline vistas. Enjoy a Beachside Bliss al fresco dining experience, a You and Me by the Sea staycation with a couples massage and bicycle built for two, or the ultimate Engagement on the Beach occasion with a customized Chef’s dinner and a private yacht cruise.
Photo courtesy of Chateau Bourbon
No. 3:
Chateau Bourbon is perfect for romantic couples looking for an upscale B&B with a down-to-earth atmosphere. Rooms and suites come with luxury bedding, oversized showers, opulent spa robes, and onsite amenities, including a well-stocked guest pantry and nightly “sips and sweets” happy hour. Memorable experiences focusing on romance include a Picnic in the Park or packages that offer champagne and a bourbon-infused or chocolate treat, silk rose petals and flameless candles.
Photo courtesy of Enchantment Resort
No. 2:
Enchantment Resort sits amid the dramatic red rocks of Sedona, an already romantic setting for an intimate escape. Visiting couples enjoy 70 acres of terrain at the entrance to Boynton Canyon, as well as an award-winning spa, five restaurants and plenty of opportunity for outdoor recreation.
Photo courtesy of Hamilton-Turner Inn
No. 1:
This romantic inn in the already romantic city of Savannah sits just off Lafayette Square in the heart of the historic district. A former private home built in the French Empire style, the hotel offers daily breakfast, complimentary wine and hors d’oeuvres in the evening and a cozy fireplace for a nightcap.
A panel of experts partnered with 10Best editors to pick the initial nominees, and the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote.
Congratulations to all these winning hotels!
About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards
Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best.
The Experts
Anne Dimon
A 25 plus year travel writer and... Read More
A 25 plus year travel writer and journalist, Anne Dimon is Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association and owner/ editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course, a collaboration with the WTA.
Anne Dimon
A 25 plus year travel writer and journalist, Anne Dimon is Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association and owner/ editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course, a collaboration with the WTA.
Ava Roxanne Stritt
Ava Roxanne Stritt has been called the most... Read More
Ava Roxanne Stritt has been called the most influential person in the world on spa travel and a top authority on luxury and wellness travel. She transforms the idea of a regular spa day into a full wellness adventure! You can always find this freelance writer searching for unique experiences near and far. Follow her adventures at Spa Travel Gal and @SpaTravelGal to get inspired!
Ava Roxanne Stritt
Ava Roxanne Stritt has been called the most influential person in the world on spa travel and a top authority on luxury and wellness travel. She transforms the idea of a regular spa day into a full wellness adventure! You can always find this freelance writer searching for unique experiences near and far. Follow her adventures at Spa Travel Gal and @SpaTravelGal to get inspired!
Kyle McCarthy
Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of... Read More
Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com, America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and The Family Vacationist e-newsletter provide destination reviews, tips and seasonal roundups for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.
Kyle McCarthy
Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com, America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and The Family Vacationist e-newsletter provide destination reviews, tips and seasonal roundups for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.
Lawrence Horwitz
Lawrence Horwitz is Executive Director of Historic... Read More
Lawrence Horwitz is Executive Director of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. Based in Washington DC, Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide, the official programs of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, include more than 300 of America’s most prominent historic hotels and more than 300 of the finest historic hotels in 45 countries worldwide. As the leader in marketing to the global historic, heritage and cultural travel market, both programs include historic hotels from more than 40 of the finest global chains, brands, and collections. As active partners of organizations such as the National Trust for Historic Preservation, White House Historical Association, New England Historic Genealogical Society, Organization of American Historians, and National Park Foundation, Horwitz leads a global marketing and tourism organization dedicated to increasing the recognition and celebration of the finest historic hotels and to promoting cultural and heritage travel to the world’s greatest prestigious treasures.
Lawrence Horwitz
Lawrence Horwitz is Executive Director of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. Based in Washington DC, Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide, the official programs of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, include more than 300 of America’s most prominent historic hotels and more than 300 of the finest historic hotels in 45 countries worldwide. As the leader in marketing to the global historic, heritage and cultural travel market, both programs include historic hotels from more than 40 of the finest global chains, brands, and collections. As active partners of organizations such as the National Trust for Historic Preservation, White House Historical Association, New England Historic Genealogical Society, Organization of American Historians, and National Park Foundation, Horwitz leads a global marketing and tourism organization dedicated to increasing the recognition and celebration of the finest historic hotels and to promoting cultural and heritage travel to the world’s greatest prestigious treasures.
Marla Cimini
Marla is a writer with a passion for travel, music... Read More
Marla is a writer with a passion for travel, music and culinary adventures (and combining those whenever possible)! As an avid globetrotter, she encourages respecting and learning about other cultures while traveling. She has visited Hawaii multiple times, and has explored destinations worldwide, including the Mediterranean region, South America, Asia and more. Marla is a contributor to Fodor’s Hawaii guidebooks (Oahu and Kauai 2020) and her articles have appeared in a number of international publications. She calls New Jersey (Philadelphia area) home. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter and read her travel tips and adventures on her website.
Marla Cimini
Marla is a writer with a passion for travel, music and culinary adventures (and combining those whenever possible)! As an avid globetrotter, she encourages respecting and learning about other cultures while traveling. She has visited Hawaii multiple times, and has explored destinations worldwide, including the Mediterranean region, South America, Asia and more. Marla is a contributor to Fodor’s Hawaii guidebooks (Oahu and Kauai 2020) and her articles have appeared in a number of international publications. She calls New Jersey (Philadelphia area) home. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter and read her travel tips and adventures on her website.
Tomiko Harvey
Tomiko has established herself as one of the most... Read More
Tomiko has established herself as one of the most recognized Black Travel writers and top champions of diversity in the travel industry. She gives voice to the underpaid and overlooked Black content creators through her platform and her work with the Black Travel Alliance. Tomiko’s journey inspires audiences to dream big. Through personable and articulate storytelling, she shares her visionary ideas for harnessing the power of observation and creative problem solving, applicable to any organization or community. It’s all about taking responsibility while looking for opportunities to improve. Check out Tomiko's work at Passports and Grub and follow her adventures on Instagram @tomiko.harvey.
Tomiko Harvey
Tomiko has established herself as one of the most recognized Black Travel writers and top champions of diversity in the travel industry. She gives voice to the underpaid and overlooked Black content creators through her platform and her work with the Black Travel Alliance. Tomiko’s journey inspires audiences to dream big. Through personable and articulate storytelling, she shares her visionary ideas for harnessing the power of observation and creative problem solving, applicable to any organization or community. It’s all about taking responsibility while looking for opportunities to improve. Check out Tomiko's work at Passports and Grub and follow her adventures on Instagram @tomiko.harvey.
10Best Editors
USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,... Read More
USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.
10Best Editors
USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.
