Many people firmly believe that a couple’s first trip together can make or break the relationship.
With that in mind, where you and your lover choose to go is a critical decision that could ultimately impact the longevity of your romantic bliss. And while that might feel like a lot of pressure, it doesn’t have to be. There are several low-stress destinations where partners can actually enjoy their quality time together instead of chasing pre-scheduled romantic moments from an itinerary. After all, what most truly want to remember are those natural moments that happened on the trip when they couldn’t help but feel butterflies.
What Makes A Destination Good For A Couple’s First Trip Together?
Believe it or not, you’ll want the place you and your partner choose for your first trip together to be more than just romantic. Couples massages, sunset cruises, and beach strolls definitely help set the tone. However, romance often feels the most special when it pops up in uncurated, unexpected moments. That’s why laid-back destinations where memorable experiences are easily accessible are the best choices for a first trip together. Those destinations help take the pressure off the two of you to make sure the other is having a good time. Instead, a couple can easily get lost in the moment, wandering between neighborhoods, restaurants, and activities, naturally sinking into the pleasure of the destination’s stress-free romance.
You’ll want where you choose to offer a range of couple-friendly accommodations that you guys can pick from, such as adults-only hotels, boutique stays, and bed and breakfasts. Additionally, even if you and your lover are locked in, book a destination for your first time away together that isn’t a crazy distance from home. That way, if things take a turn (for whatever reason), or one of you has an emergency, you’ll be able to get back home together — or separately — as soon as possible.
Below, scroll through five low-stress destinations that are the perfect blend of laidback and interesting for the best first-time baecations.
First Baecation Destinations For Couples Seeking Stress-Free Romance
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is a great destination for couples who want memories of their first trip away together to include evening kisses on softly lit streets, the sounds of jazz bands filling the air, and moments as sweet as the beignets you’ll share.
The city is one of the best baecation destinations in the country because couples can easily become enamored with the French Quarter, enjoy each other’s company over local food, and let spontaneous, unexpected romance float their way.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
No passport required, San Juan provides elements that many couples look for when considering a destination for their first time away together.
The city’s coast offers tropical beaches perfect for relaxation or partying, depending on your mood. Old San Juan is a hub of history and culture, making it ideal for interesting tours where you and your boo can hold hands as you learn new things together. Additionally, the city itself is brimming with restaurants, boutiques, markets, cocktail bars, and nightclubs — all there for lovebirds to explore and make memories in.
And if you don’t want to explore on foot, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft will help you get to where you want to go. Furthermore, if you and your partner are up for it, you could easily venture out of the city for a tour in Loíza, which is rich in Black Boricua cultural heritage, or to El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System.
Napa Valley, California
Napa is a classic baecation destination for those fond of being wined and dined. And that is no different for couples who’re looking to take their first trip together.
Wine tastings can be romantic whether you bond over the notes you taste or you two simply enjoy getting buzzed together. Even for those who don’t drink, Napa’s strong, innovative food scene will remind any lovebird that the way to a person’s heart is often through their stomach. Needless to say, it’s a perfect couples getaway spot for wine enthusiasts and foodies alike.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta offers beachfront beauty like many other quintessential baecation destinations, but it’s so much more than a sun-and-sand getaway. With more laid-back ease, lovebirds can hole up in their romantic accommodations or spend time together enjoying the city’s relaxing spas, vibrant art scene, and lively nightlife. It’s a place where couples can intentionally set their distractions aside and truly focus on what matters most — making memories together.
Puerto Vallarta offers a balance of stunning resorts and boutique hideaways, and the city is notably friendly for LGBTQIA+ couples. Whether strolling the cobblestoned Zona Romantica, doing seasonal local whale watching, or zip-lining in the jungle of the nearby Sierra Madre Mountains, lovers can visit and embrace what speaks to them most.
Noord, Aruba
Aruba is one of the most ideal international destinations for a laid-back couples getaway because it’s a small, easy-to-navigate, safe, and stunning island. Home to the world-renowned Eagle Beach, among several well-beloved others, the island offers the perfect backdrops for the best beachside baecation pics. Additionally, resorts and tours easily accommodate couples looking to prioritize romance. So go ahead and ask for chocolate-covered strawberries in your room — and maybe a bottle of champagne for your sunset cruise.
Regarding Noord in particular, couples there will easily be able to walk to markets, boutiques, beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. And if you want to rent a car — maybe to explore San Nicolas’ street murals or hike in Arikok National Park — it’s easy to do with an American driver’s license.
