The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Romantic Weekend Getaway

a couple on their romantic getaway in paso robles

If you’re looking to plan a romantic getaway with your partner, then you’ve come to the right place. Getaways for couples are a great way to rekindle your romance and spend some quality time together.

However, with so many unique romantic getaways to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go and how to plan the perfect trip.

That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate guide to planning a romantic weekend getaway, filled with tips and tricks to help you plan an unforgettable trip that you and your partner will cherish for years to come. From choosing the perfect destination to packing the right essentials, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Why Vacations Are Good For Couples

Getaways for couples are not just about the sunsets on the beach or the charming cobblestone streets; it’s about discovering who you are as a team. Traveling often pushes you out of your comfort zone, and in those moments, you witness the good and the bad. 

Vacations force you to make compromises, are a shortcut to break down walls and get to know each other on a deeper level, plus help you escape the stress of your everyday lives.

According to a survey commissioned by the U.S. Travel Association “Couples who travel together have healthier, happier relationships compared to those who do not travel together.”

This may be because quality time is an often overlooked love language. And while it’s true you can spend quality time together doing just about anything, setting aside time to visit someplace new, share experiences, and create new positive memories are some studied and proven ways to strengthen the bond between you and your partner.

a latina couple on a wine tour in paso robles on their romantic getaway in a vineyard

Where To Go On A Romantic Getaway

Choosing the perfect destination for a unique romantic getaway is key. The destination sets the stage for unforgettable moments and shapes the narrative of your experience.

The right destination caters to both your interests, whether it’s lounging on a sun-kissed beach, exploring vibrant city streets, or immersing yourselves in the tranquility of nature, the destination should resonate with both of you.

You’ll want to be sure you’re going somewhere that has something you’re both interested in, and that fits your budget. 

Some questions to consider when choosing the right location: 

  • Do you want more relaxation or adventurous activities?
  • Are you looking for cultural and historical activities, or to relax and rejuvenate? 
  • Do you want beautiful views and countryside, or do you want to be in a city? 
anniversary trip to wine country
  • Are quality dining and foodie options important, or do you want something all-inclusive and convenient? 

It’s likely you want a combination of these things, and that’s Ok too! Many of the best destinations offer a variety of options for travelers.

How To Plan A Romantic Getaway

Once you’ve chosen the perfect destination and dates that work for both of you, booking your accommodations should be the next step.

Where You Stay Matters

The accommodation is more than just a place to sleep on a romantic getaway. It’s the place where you share intimate moments and get to relax. 

The right accommodation sets the mood and can enhance the romantic atmosphere, whether it’s a charming boutique hotel, luxurious resort or a cozy bed and breakfast. An intimate setting, beautiful views or a unique décor can add a touch of magic to your time together. 

Having a memorable place to stay where you can enjoy each other’s company deepens the connection and adds an extra layer to your romantic getaway and creates lasting memories.

Take the time to select accommodations that align with your preferences as a couple, offering the right mix of ambiance, privacy, and special touches to make your romantic retreat truly unforgettable.

Planning What To Do

The most important part of planning a romantic getaway is to celebrate the love you share and to create an environment where you can connect, enjoy each other’s company, and make lasting memories together. 

1. Mix It Up

Your itinerary should have a thoughtful blend of shared interests, surprises, and activities that allow you to connect on a deeper level.

2. Don’t Forget To Relax

Relaxation is a key component to connect, whether it’s a leisurely stroll, lounging by the pool or a quiet moment by the fire.

cool wine tour in paso robles
3. Add An Intimate Activity Or Tour

Adding a surprise activity, such as a tour, can add excitement to your vacation. A tour can take those little stresses off the table, such as planning an itinerary, making reservations or not getting lost, and let you focus on enjoying yourself and spending more time recharging and connecting.

4. Share A Special Meal Together

Don’t forget to factor dining into your itinerary- sharing a special meal together can be a small but powerful tool in helping you get closer. 

According to a study by the American Heart Association84% of adults wish they could share a meal together more often” and according to Robin Dunbar at the University of Oxford “evening meals at which laughter and reminiscences occur and alcohol is drunk are especially likely to enhance feelings of closeness.”

a couple having a romantic dinner in paso

You’ll want to determine the type of restaurants and dining experiences you and your partner are interested in and be sure to book a reservation if necessary or check when wait times are longest so you don’t end up hangry with each other. 

Your perfect dining experience could be at an intimate and casual mom-and-pop or you could book the chef’s table at a high-end restaurant to boost the wow factor. 

Just be sure to put down your phones and focus on spending quality time together. 

wine in an ice bucket and two glasses of white wine at a vineyard for wine tasting
5. Include A Thoughtful Surprise

To add to the level of excitement for your partner, consider sending a bouquet of flowers or a bottle of Champagne to the hotel room as a surprise. If these gestures seem out of your budget, making a personally curated playlist for your special weekend can have the same effect at no cost.

Additional Tips to Keep in Mind When Planning

  • Make a budget and stick to it.
  • Unplug & connect to help focus on your time together. You’ll want to take photos, but try not to spend too much time on your phone. 
  • Check local events during the dates you’ll be traveling – maybe there’s something unique going on that you both would enjoy!

Why Paso Robles is the Perfect Destination for Couples

Still trying to decide on the perfect destination for your romantic getaway? 

When it comes to California’s most romantic places to craft unforgettable memories, Paso Robles should be at the top of your list. 

Whether you’re interested in world-class wine, beer or distilled spirits, relaxing spa days, activities like ziplining or horseback riding, top-rated cuisine at a Michelin level or dining more under the radar, coastal views, historical sites, and so much more – Paso Robles has it all!

Located along California’s picturesque Central Coast, midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco on Highway 101, this cowboy town is anything but sleepy and boasts a charming downtown plaza with highly rated restaurants, boutiques, an underground Jazz lounge, speakeasy cocktail bars and much more. 

Tin city Water Tower

They also have a range of quality accommodations from intimate B&B’s with vineyard vistas, indulgent resorts, to luxury & boutique inns just steps away from quality dining & shopping. 

Paso Robles is also a great alternative to some of the overcrowded, more expensive wine regions in California, and offers a variety of high-quality wines being produced – ranging from high-rated 100-point wines to approachable easy drinkers, offering impressive quality at a great value. 

If you’re interested in avoiding crowds – visit during the week! 

Our Top 5 Reasons to Visit Paso Roble for a Fun Couples Getaway

1. Visit Scenic Vineyards and Wineries that range from casual and fun, to luxury and intimate, so if you’re looking for a certain experience, ambiance or wine style there’s sure to be something for you. 

2. Intimate Accommodations to suit every budget and preference, from luxury inns to relaxing resorts and quaint B&B’s with vineyard views, you’re sure to find your perfect spot. 

La Quinta SLO

3. Hot Springs and Spa Retreats! Did you know that Paso Robles was founded for it’s natural hot springs, where people would come to relax and treat their ailments? We still have a few natural hot springs left where you can spend the day and enhance the romantic experience. 

Things to Do in Paso Robles; river oaks hotsprings spa

4. Art & Culture – Paso Robles has ample local galleries, live music performances, public art installations like Bruce Munro’s Field of Lights at Sensorio (promo code TOAST gets you a discount) and more!

Sensorio Discount Promo Code TOAST

5. Romantic Dining Options – Paso Robles has a diverse culinary scene, offering Michelin starred & other fine dining options, as well as intimate farm-to-table cuisine and more

Paso Robles Wine Merchant

Not to mention, Paso Robles maintains a laid-back and friendly atmosphere where couples can escape the hustle & bustle of daily life and focus on enjoying quality time together. 

With so much to offer in terms of wineries, activities, places to stay, restaurants and more, it may feel overwhelming to plan your perfect trip. 

If you want to take some of the stress out of planning, at Toast Tours we specialize in building custom itineraries that are the perfect fit for you.

Whether you’re looking for a specific wine style, experience, or ambiance, or if you have other interests such as beer, distilled spirits, olive oil, great food, etc – we’ll build your perfect day start to finish. 

We can also help by recommending the perfect place to stay, dining options and more. 

If you’re ready to start planning your perfect romantic getaway in Paso Robles, or if you have any questions, reach out to get a quote today. 

We’ll look forward to toasting with you soon!

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