Whether it's Valentine's Day or any day, planning a romantic beach getaway doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, it's as easy as 1, 2, 3. All you really need to do is think ahead and remember the small details that make a big difference, and you're well on your way to whisking your loved one off on a romantic adventure of epic proportions.
Here are three simple, yet effective, steps to having the best romantic getaway ever. Of course we'd highly recommend a Topsail Island escape for you and your loved one, but regardless of where you go, these tips will help you heat up the romance and make your dreams of an amorous escape a lovely reality.
1. Plan it now.
Plan your trip as far in advance as possible. This gives you time to prepare, research, plan ahead and have everything in place before the time comes. Once you arrive at your destination, you'll want to focus your time and energy on your loved one. Having everything ready to go in advance takes away the other distractions and gives you ample opportunity to zero-in on what matters most—your time together.
Secure your beach vacation rental, choose your amenities. Part of advance planning is securing the vacation rental you desire with all of the amenities that matter most. Sweeping views of the beach from your rental or outdoor deck, a luxurious hot tub or spa, and a floor plan that works well for two are some of the things you may want to consider. Once you know where you're staying, that's a huge step in the preparation process. Now you have time to put more energy and thought into the rest of your trip.
Think about all of your options and possibilities. Planning ahead gives you the freedom to explore what to do with your time, where to go, what to do when you stay in, and all of the other, finer details of your romantic getaway. You'll want to make it memorable and extra special, so taking the time to really consider your partner's wants, needs, interests and passions and incorporating them into your stay are important. You want it to be obvious that you took the time to be considerate, thoughtful, insightful—and romantic, of course.
Prepare your activities ahead of time. Book your restaurant reservations. Get advance tickets to a show. Reserve your spots for that special cruise or vacation experience. Plan to stay in one night (or more) for a romantic dinner for two. Get a jumpstart on your romantic escape itinerary, so you know how things are going to flow and what's planned for each day. Don't overplan your time, obviously, because you'll want to leave room for making adjustments or spur-of-the-moment changes. Have a plan, but also be flexible and willing to go with the flow.
Set the stage for romance. Special romantic touches like flowers, wine, a gift basket, or a thoughtful gift are simple ways to show you care. Surprise the love of your life with one each day or weave them into your romantic plans throughout your getaway however it works best for you. Think about how you can encourage moments of reconnection and rekindling of romance every step of the way.
2. Remember the details, focus on the big picture.
Think about the finer details of what will make your trip and your time together extra special. Details, details, details. It's all in the details. Show that you've taken time to really think about the little things. Those add up to the big impressions that you and your partner will take home with you; the memories, the unforgettable times. Plan a night out on the town where you have everything in place and ready to go and all your parter has to do is get dressed for the occasion. Plan an intimate dinner in the comfort and privacy of your rental where you're the chef for the evening and your sweetheart is the guest of honor. Draw a bubble bath and plan to pamper your love with a spa-like experience. Or plan a couples' spa day out where you both enjoy a little pampering together. The options are only limited to your imagination!
Keep focused on the big picture with the end-goal being a romantic, relaxing trip where the focus in on your relationship and togetherness. That's what this all about, isn't it? Take time to just be in the moment. Relax together. Talk openly. Listen carefully. Be affectionate. Be thoughtful. Go out of your way to do these things and they will be remembered for a very long time. Sometimes we think a romantic getaway has to be elaborate and over-the-top, but that's not so. Don't put all that pressure on yourself or your partner. It's much better to focus on the quiet, still moments and make the most of the opportunity to get away from it all and just be together.
Everything may not go exactly as planned but that's okay. Be flexible and open to change, expect the unexpected. Things may not always go exactly as you expect or have planned, but keeping an eye on the big picture and zoning in on your time together and its importance is paramount. Keep your sense of humor. Stay relaxed and resilient. Be open to new things or changes as they come along. Don't worry, you're doing great.
3. Add a touch of romance every chance you get.
Add romance wherever you can, whenever you can. Don't force it, but make its presence known. From the candles on the table to the fresh flowers delivered to your door, find small ways to take it up a notch on the romantic scale. Pack a picnic lunch, bring a bottle of wine to the beach, or just share a coastal sunset together.
Go out of your way to be attentive. Pay attention to your partner's needs and wants. Take notice when they need a refill on their glass of wine. Give a shoulder rub. Initiate a hug or kiss. Make a kind gesture. Be the one to grab your loved one's hand during your daily stroll on the beach. Find ways to anticipate and seize the moments when they present themselves, and you'll find that romance is a natural result of thoughtfulness and consideration. Don't underestimate its power.
Think of special ways to surprise your loved one at least once during your trip. The element of surprise is a way to add a touch of romance in an unexpected way. Stash a special gift in your partner's suitcase. Present them with a meaningful token of something memorable from your trip that they can take home and cherish. Do something new and exciting together that neither of you have experienced before. These are only a few of the many ideas you can use to surprise your sweetheart.
Take advantage of the beauty around you, and make the most of it. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Take the time and make the effort to appreciate the beauty in everything. The ocean has a way of giving one perspective and focus. Breathe in the salty sea air. Feel the sun on your face. Sink your toes in the sand and listen to the waves crash along the shoreline. Relish the peace and tranquility that the beach has to offer. Explore local parks and trails together. Go out on the water. Let nature be your guide and get out and see what's out there for you to experience. And most importantly, experience all of this together.
Now that you know how to plan your romantic getaway and ways to make it the best it can be, it's time for action. As we mentioned earlier, we find Topsail Island to be the perfect romantic vacation destination with its pristine sandy beaches, sparkling blue-green waters, and laid-back island ambience. There are plenty of things to do without the crowds and commercialization found elsewhere. Explore Topsail's unique area attractions and things to do. Preview a list of Topsail Island restaurants and see where'd you like to dine during your time here. Explore our area shops and services to familiarize yourself with your options and see what's available to you.
You can search our Topsail vacation rentals by amenities, view our map of Topsail Island rentals, or peruse our complete list of Topsail beach vacation rentals and see what catches your eye. Let us know if we can be of assistance. We're here to help you have the most romantic Topsail Island escape ever.
Have you ever planned a romantic beach getaway? What tips do you have to offer?
