Four Seasons Resort Lana’i at Manele Bay in Lanai, HI
If this “private island” and resort is exclusive enough to host Bill Gates’ wedding, it’s probably private and romantic enough for you. And if your jaw hasn’t dropped at a new vista recently, prepare to be dazzled. You’ll be hard pressed to move from a lobby sofa here (think paradise personified). But move you must. For a crescent cove filled with spinner dolphins awaits.
(www.fourseasons.com/manelebay; 808.565.2000, 800.565.2483)

The Marquesa Hotel in Key West, FL
This enchanting tropical oasis, within walking distance of all that’s fun and quaint about Key West, is also a world apart. It’s a perfect perch when you retreat from watching sunsets at the southernmost tip of the US. Or after cruising 70 miles offshore to the Dry Tortugas National Park for snorkeling and birding.
(www.marquesa.com; 305.292.1919, 800.869.4631)

Anse Chastanet Resort, Saint Lucia
Behind the coconut palms, where sand meets water meets sky, beneath palm thatched gazebos, lies the perfect place to do nothing. This intimate resort is so nestled into its surroundings—all 600 acres of it—that nature takes center stage. Put your feet up, swing in a hammock, float in the ocean.
(www.ansechastanet.com; 758.459.7000, 800.223.1108)

Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica, CA
Leave the chill behind upon checking into this quintessential southern California boutique hotel. From spacious rooms with clean lines and understated elegance, you’ll throw open the shutters onto the beach, swaying palms, and a setting sun. Then stroll the sands or cozy up in the corner of the lobby in front of the fire.
(www.shuttersonthebeach.com; 310.458.0030)

Copperwynd Resort & Club in Scottsdale, AZ
In the near distance, mountain ranges and saguaro cactus stand like sentinels, protecting your spirit. Within the intimate resort (there only 42 rooms and villas), you’re sure to soar with signature spa treatments, inspiring high desert views from each guestroom balcony, and elegant dining at Alchemy. Luxe linens, gracious service, and gas fireplaces don’t hurt either.
(www.copperwynd.com; 480.333.1900, 877.707.7760)

Esencia in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Plunge into a soaking pool or a private solarium on the edge the Mayan Riviera and count your blessings. For few know about this serene 29-room refuge from modernity. Book a big jungle villa or an ocean-view suite, plug your iPod into their docking station, and order 24-hour room service. The super-white aesthetic will purify whatever inhibits you.
(www.hotelesencia.com; 713.528.3490, 877.528.3490)

Yosemite National Park and The Ahwahnee, CA
Put a little awe back into awesome. Yosemite’s absolute majesty settles life’s curveballs back to their rightful place. Whether you’re awakening a relationship or renewing gratitude for one humming on eight cylinders, The Ahwahnee hotel and icy waterfalls at dusk will do the trick. So will snow-covered meadows at dawn and long talks in front of the giant fieldstone fireplace.
(Hotel Reservations: 559.253.5636)

Rusty Parrot Lodge in Jackson Hole, WY
Wake to a towering mountain range blanketed in new-fallen snow. And go to sleep with visions of fine wine and finer cuisine from the Wild Sage Restaurant dancing in your head. This perennial (and prestigious) award-winning B&B provides plenty of breathing space to act out your own passion plays. Go for the gusto with the lodge’s “celebration plan.”
(www.rustyparrot.com; 307.733.2000, 888.739.1749)

Elk Mountain Resort Near Telluride, CO
Get one last frosty blast before winter turns to spring. Snuggle into luxury digs—southwestern-style. Book an oh-so-private two-story “cottage” or a traditional but contemporary lodge room. Work up a sweat with every winter activity imaginable (Telluride skiing is an hour away) and then take a long soak with someone you love.
(www.elkmountainresort.com; 970.252.4900, 877.355.9255)

Quebec City, Canada
Bundle up in your warmest sheepskin and trundle around this 400-year old walled city. Duck into convivial bars and snug bistros, whose windows drip with breathy conversation. Indulge your sweet side (and sweetie) with a trip to a sugar shack (www.cabaneasucre.org) and return to your guestroom at Hotel Dominion 1912 (www.hoteldominion.com/en/accueil.asp) with a dozen floating candles waiting.