19+ Romantic Getaways in Washington State: From Locals!

Best Small Towns for Romantic Getaways in Washington State

La Conner

Recommended by Alanna of Periodic Adventures

The charming, seaside town of La Conner is a fantastic romantic getaway destination. It is especially great for couples who need some relaxing time together.

The easiest way to get to La Conner is to fly into Seattle and drive up to the town. Specifically, you’ll drive north on the 5 then cut west around Conway until you reach La Conner.

Walla Walla

Recommended by Sarah of All About Glamping

If your vision of romantic getaways in Washington state include small-town charm with cozy accommodations, sipping wine while overlooking rolling hills of vineyards and dining in award-winning boutique restaurants, then Walla Walla, Washington is calling.

Located in the southeastern corner of the state, Walla Walla is the heart of Washington wine country. It is just a 4-hour drive from both Seattle and Portland, Oregon. If flying is your preference, Alaska Airlines provides service from Seattle to Walla Walla Regional Airport in 40 minutes.

Walla Walla is home to more than 130 wineries, most of which are open for public tastings. They are accessible by car or tour. If you arrive without a car, there are also over 30 tasting rooms in town which you can walk to.

The historic downtown is full of many great restaurants, shops, breweries and art galleries. So there is plenty to explore before retiring to your romantic guest house or hotel room. If you’re looking for something uniquely romantic there are some amazing stays nearby at luxury glamping sites.

Port Angeles

Recommended by Jessica of Next Up Adventure

Port Angeles is a beautiful city along the Juan De Fuca Strait, the closest city to Olympic National Park. Because of its location nestled in the rainforest, it is particularly cozy and romantic during the wet winter months. But also the perfect romantic getaway in Washington year round. There are plenty of delicious restaurants and cafes, shops, and outdoor exploring very close by.

Port Angeles is located on the north west coast of Washington and is easily accessible via car, bus, and ferry.  Although there are no airports in Port Angeles you can fly in Victoria, Canada and take a direct ferry. Or fly into Seattle. Most people find they do like having a car to explore the Olympic Peninsula.

One of my favorite things to do on a romantic getaway in Port Angeles is to check out Soak On The Sound. It’s a luxurious soaking & sauna experience with private Salt-water soaking tubs & private saunas.

Another must-do while in Port Angeles is to explore Olympic National Park. You can  go on a short, but beautiful hike to Sol Duc Falls. Or a longer adventure to Olympic Hot Springs, which is great to experience by bike. For a romantic sunset, make the drive up to Hurricane Ridge!

Take a sunrise kayaking tour and paddle among sea lions and marine life. Then head out for breakfast at one of many cafes in town like First Street Haven!

Leavenworth

Recommended by Yesenia of The Sisters Who Voyage

Want a European-like escape in Washington? Head to Leavenworth! Snuggled in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, this cute Bavarian-style town is the ultimate romantic escape for outdoorsy couples in Washington, with many nearby scenic hikes. A few good hikes, like Alpine Lookout and Colchuck Lake, are great for advanced hikers. Or if you are looking for a more relaxed walk, Icicle Gorge is a great option.

After you’ve had your fill of outdoorsy things, you can relax and look for unique souvenirs for each other. Like matching ornaments and delicious cheese from the Cheesemongers shop. If you’re a fan of wine, then going on a wine tour is perfect. You and your partner can learn more about Leavenworth’s history and try tasty wines. 

One last thing you’ll want to do as a couple if you love wine and German food is head to München Haus and grab their famous Glühwein. Make sure to pair it with their delicious German Sausages or a Bavarian Pretzel! 

If you’re heading to Leavenworth from Seattle, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive through US Highway 2. However, you can also take the Amtrak train from Seattle. Which may be more accessible due to the difficulty with parking. We have many more tips about planning a trip to Leavenworth in the summer, and a trip to Leavenworth in the winter to help you plan out your time there!

Yakima

Recommended by Taylor of Culture Craving Couple

Yakima, nestled in the heart of Washington state, is an ideal spot for a romantic getaway because it’s an amazing blend of natural beauty, wine, and delicious food.

The area is covered with sprawling vineyards and gorgeous mountains. And the adorable towns are heavily focused on wine, but in a relaxed way. You get delicious wine like in Napa Valley, but with a chill vibe and cheaper prices!

Some of the best things to do in Yakima are to go on an organized wine tour or beer tour, if that is more your thing.

For the outdoorsy couple, the nearby mountains make for a beautiful and romantic morning hike. And the Yakima Farmers Market or Johnson Orchards is a great place to stroll hand in hand and taste the farm-fresh produce that makes Yakima so delicious! To end your day, enjoy a romantic dinner at Crafted.

Accessible by car, it’s a scenic drive from Seattle, taking approximately 2.5 hours via I-90 E and I-82 S.

Best Cities for Romantic Getaways in Washington State

Seattle

Recommended by Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones

Seattle is a great city for a romantic getaway in the state of Washington. There are plenty of top things to do in Seattle to keep you entertained. Including many free and cheap activities to choose from. But there’s also plenty of places to relax and spend a quiet moment with your special someone.

Seattle is located in northwestern Washington, on the Puget Sound. Fly into the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. If you don’t want to rent a car, you can easily get around via public transit.

It’s easy to put a romantic spin on Seattle’s top attractions!

Spokane

Recommended by us!

Spokane still feels very undiscovered, even though it is the second largest city in the state. In our opinion, Spokane is one of the biggest hidden gems in Washington, and makes for a perfect romantic getaway in Washington State.

It’s one of the only spots on this list that is located in the eastern side of the state, but don’t let that scare you. You can fly into the Spokane International Airport (GEG) from 20 destinations in the US, so it’s pretty easy to fly here despite it being a smaller city.

Spokane is loaded with adventurous activities close by, including the beautiful Spokane River which flows through the city. There’s also the Centennial Trail that goes all the way from town to Idaho! Some other great options include Mount Spokane, which is only 45 minutes away, 76 lakes in the area and 5 ski resorts! 

Tacoma

Recommended by us!

Located just 45 minutes south of Seattle lies Washington State’s third largest city, Tacoma! It’s another great option for romantic getaways in Washington State since it’s so easy to get to and has a lot to do in town and nearby!

We recommend flying into Seattle and renting a car to get to Tacoma. While you don’t need a car here, it definitely will allow you to visit more of the nearby hikes and parks. It can make for a great day trip from Seattle, but you’ll probably want to stay for a few days to fully appreciate this city!

Start by checking out some of the city’s cool photo ops like the umbrella mural on 216 Puyallup Ave., the Chihuly Bridge of Glass and the Chihuly installations at Union Station. All of which are free to enjoy.

Orcas Island

Recommended by us!

Orcas Island is one of our favorite places in the state, so it’s a no-brainer that it has to be included on our list of the most romantic getaways in Washington State. We have visited several times just the two of us (and Kona of course) and love spending some quality time here.

The island has an adorable little town called Eastsound. There’s restaurants and shops, and an awesome state park, Moran State Park. This is a great coastal destination but also offers lots of outdoorsy activities with small town vibes. The perfect blend of the three!

This ones a little harder to get to, but still totally doable even for just a long weekend. Fly into Seattle, rent a car and drive up to Anacortes where you’ll hop on a ferry to get to Orcas Island.

Whidbey Island

Recommended by Tabitha of Travel Compositions

Whidbey Island is a convenient romantic island getaway in Washington state. You can drive or take a fun ferry ride to visit cute seaside towns, beautiful parks, and plenty of restaurants.

Langley is an artsy town on the south end of the island. One of their claims to fame is their mystery weekend in February, where the whole town is involved in putting on a murder mystery and you have to solve the crime.

Coupeville is the state’s second oldest town and is home to the US’s largest and oldest mussel farm. Film junkies will enjoy knowing that “Practical Magic” was filmed here.

Mercer Island

Recommended by Trijit of Cheap Travel Trail

If you’re looking for romance without breaking the bank, then Mercer Island might just be one of the most affordable places to travel in the US. Nestled in the heart of Lake Washington, this idyllic getaway is not only accessible via the I-90 bridge from Seattle, but also offers lush parks, a scenic waterfront, and a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for couples seeking tranquility without burning a hole in their pockets.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a romantic picnic in Luther Burbank Park amidst both the park’s greenery and waterfront views. You can also rent a boat and explore the picturesque surroundings of Lake Washington, creating memories on the water. This is an especially great summer activity if you need a way to help cool off!

Long Beach

Recommended by Noel of Travel Photo Discovery

Visiting the Washington Peninsula at Long Beach is desolate, wild and also very romantic. It has a rugged coastline, untouched forests and gorgeous windswept beaches that are fun to explore with a partner. If you love the outdoors then this is the place to explore.

For a romantic activity, walk together along some amazing solitary beaches. You can actually even drive on some of the beaches and enjoy a bonfire, which is allowed on the beach areas.

Explore Cape Disappointment State Park for the gorgeous landscape, coastline, and lighthouses. You will love doing some fun hikes here, like the 2 mile Cape Disappointment Trail. For history buffs, you should also visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Museum, which overlooks the Columbia River and details the famous explorers of the area.

Be sure to explore Long Beach Town for some cool attractions, like the kite museum, play mini-golf, or relax with a couples massage at Body Essence Massage. And for a nice dinner, head to The DEPOT Restaurant.

Best Outdoors Destinations for Romantic Getaways in Washington State

Mount Rainier National Park

Recommended by Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

Mount Rainier National Park may be known for its rugged wilderness, but the national park, located about 2.5 hours southeast of Seattle, can be a great romantic getaway in Washington state for adventurous couples.

With breathtaking vistas and lots of beautiful hikes like Skyline Trail or the Mount Fremont Lookout Trail, Mount Rainier makes an ideal destination for an escape brimming with excitement. There’s so many great things to do at Mount Rainier!

Spend your days exploring the park’s majestic scenery, and then relax at night in a cozy lodge, like Paradise Inn, located inside the park. 

Towering over the landscape, Mount Rainier offers a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable shared experiences for active couples embarking on a nature hike along the park’s extensive network of trails. With cascading waterfalls and alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers, exploring the park’s diverse terrain is a memorable adventure. 

Looking for another great National Park to visit for a Romantic Getaway in Washington state? In nearby Montana, visit Glacier National Park where you can hike the famous Highline trail, hand in hand with your partner!

North Cascades National Park

Recommended by Jamie of Photojeepers

If you’re looking for one of the best romantic getaways in Washington state then you cannot beat the North Cascades. After all, this enchanting national park is nicknamed the “American Alps!” It is a great place to go in the Northern part of the state if you enjoy the peace of nature and want to reconnect with your partner.

To get here, just fly into Seattle and then grab a rental car. It will be essential as you explore the park and make the 2+ hour drive from Seattle to the North Cascades. 

Fun couples activities at the park include a stunning drive along the North Cascades Highway where you can stop at countless viewpoints and take amazing couples photos. Some of the best Washington hikes are located here. You can hike the Thunder Creek Trail or the Blue Lake Trail. Or take a boat ride on Ross Lake!

You can also do a bit of wildlife spotting as you search the mountains for Bald Eagles, Gray Wolves, Black Bears, and more.

Snoqualmie

Recommended by Dan Bagby of Honeymoon Always

Snoqualmie is a perfect romantic getaway in Washington state, offering a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and opportunities for relaxation. The town is a destination convenient to Seattle, only about a 30-40 minute drive from downtown. 

The highlight of Snoqualmie is the 268-foot Snoqualmie Falls. There is a viewpoint area next to a parking lot that is very easy to access and a longer trail to get closer to the falls. In the morning and before the sun sets, the falls are a beautiful sight with the mist often creating rainbows to admire. 

During a trip to Snoqualmie, the best place to stay is at the Salish Lodge & Spa which provides suites and a dining room with unbeatable views of the Snoqualmie Falls. There is an amazing spa, but the highlight is eating at The Dining Room for breakfast and experiencing the iconic Honey from Heaven service, where house-made biscuits are topped with honey from their own bee hives, from high above your plate. 

Chelan

Recommended by Lauren of the Traveling Moore

One of my favorite places for romantic getaways in Washington State is Chelan, a small lake town in north central Washington.

Chelan is known for outdoor activities such as boating and hiking, and wine tasting at the local wineries. This makes it a great romantic destination because there is so much to do with your partner.

The best way to get to Chelan is by driving. It’s around 3 hours to drive from Seattle and 4 hours from Spokane, both cities with international airports. So either way, you’ll want to grab a rental car once you arrive.

My favorite thing to do in Chelan in the summer is spend time on the lake. You can rent ski boats, jet skis, paddle boards, and kayaks at many vendors around town.

In the winter, there are also great snow activities in Chelan such as cross-country skiing or snow tubing.

Regardless of when you visit, the top thing to do in Chelan is wine tasting. Over the past decade, many Chelan apple orchards have been converted to vineyards. Now, Chelan is one of the top wine regions in the state! 

Ashford

Recommended by Jess of Uprooted Traveler

The tiny town of Ashford, right outside of the Paradise entrance of Mount Rainier National Park, is the perfect place to have a romantic getaway. The town is surrounded by a stunning landscape of lush pine tree forests, sweeping meadows of wildflowers, and the rugged Cascade Mountains.

While Mount Rainier gets all of the attention in this area, there’s incredible hiking opportunities outside of the national park near Ashford. For example, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest offers world-class hiking trails, like the bucket list-worthy High Rock Lookout. Wake up and climb to its summit for sunrise to watch the sun illuminate Mount Rainier, the tallest mountain in Washington state.

If you’re visiting in the wintertime, then consider climbing the challenging snowshoeing trail to High Hut, a cozy cabin in the backcountry with a wood-burning stove and epic views of Mounts Rainier, Adams, and St. Helen.

Ashford is located about an hour and a half drive southeast of Seattle and is most easily accessed via car. So if you are flying into Seattle, rent a car from there and drive.

Olympic National Park

Recommended by Catherine of Day Trip Nomad

Retreat together into Olympic National Park, a vast land of diverse ecosystems, from the rugged Pacific coastline to the rainforests and alpine peaks. Whether you’re looking for a one day Olympic National Park escape or a longer getaway, this park offers a combination of adventure and romance.

This national park is on the Olympic Peninsula in the northwestern corner of Washington State, about a three-hour drive from Seattle. You can either drive directly or take a ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, followed by a scenic drive to the park. An Olympic Peninsula road trip is a great option if you have the time!

Visiting multiple National Parks? We highly recommend getting the America the Beautiful pass, which costs about $80 per year and gives you free access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including ALL National Parks.

Mount Baker

Recommended by Us!

One of the most popular romantic getaways in Washington State that locals love is renting a cabin in the woods and enjoying nature together. It allows for tons of quality time together! One of the most popular areas in the state for cabin rentals is Mount Baker.

Mount Baker is located about 3 hours drive north of Seattle or about 2.5 hours southeast from Vancouver, Canada. Either would make for a great road trip if you are flying in from out of state!

There’s tons of cabins to choose from in the area. There are high end ones that are brand new and have hot tubs, or more budget friendly options as well.

If you’re visiting Mount Baker in the warmer months, then hike to Artist Point for stunning views of several nearby peaks and is 4.4 miles and has 980 feet of elevation gain.

Alternatively, enjoy a scenic drive through the Mt. Baker National Forest, go fishing on the Nooksack River or go chasing waterfalls at Nooksack Falls and Franklin Falls.

With a remote and charming destination like Mount Baker, you’re sure to have the best romantic getaway in Washington state after just a few days here.