They say any place in the world can be romantic as long as you’re traveling with your special someone. That may be true but escaping to a serene and secluded island paradise will definitely help set the mood. Surrounded by sparkling seas and blessed with breathtaking sights, here are some island destinations in Asia that are just made for romantic couple getaways – may it be Valentines’ day vacays, honeymoons or all-out destination weddings.
1. Phuket, Thailand
A couple on a sunset yacht charter over Phang Nga Bay in Phuket. Photo: @boatinthebay via Instagram
One of the most popular islands in the world, Phuket is dotted with gorgeous beaches, stately palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. Couples who are looking for a luxurious island getaway will surely have plenty of choices on the island. Whether it’s spending an afternoon out in the glistening seas on a private yacht charter or fine dining in one of its many world-class restaurants, there is no shortage of things to do or places to see in Phuket.
2. Koh Samui, Thailand
A couple having sunrise breakfast by their private pool in Bophut, Koh Samui. @paigunna via Instagram
While it is smaller in size and has fewer beaches compared to the more popular Phuket, Koh Samui still attracts a lot of visitors because it offers a more laid-back atmosphere. It is also home to some of the best luxury wellness resorts in Southeast Asia making it a great island escape for couples looking for relaxing retreats. Alternatively, if you’re seeking utmost privacy, there are also many stunning private luxury villas in Koh Samui to choose from.
3. Palawan, Philippines
A couple swimming under Barracuda Lake in Coron, Palawan. Photo: @explorerssaurus_ via Instagram
Spending some alone time with your special someone in a place considered as the dreamiest destination in the world is undeniably romantic. Hailed as the most beautiful island in the world for three years in a row by Travel + Leisure Magazine and a yearly mainstay in Condè Nast Traveler’s Best Islands in the World list, this picture-perfect island in the Philippines will make couples feel like they’ve truly escaped to paradise on earth.
4. Boracay, Philippines
A couple lounging during dusk while overlooking waves crashing the beach in Boracay. Photo: Shangri-La Boracay
Known for its powdery white sand beaches, Boracay is a favorite destination among beach lovers all over the world. Dotted with five-star resorts and hotels offering first-rate hospitality services, Boracay is another great destination of choice for couples looking for an island experience that is both authentic and indulgent. The island offers a myriad of exhilarating water activities for thrill-seekers including parasailing, jet-skiing and helmet diving among others. Boracay is also known for being one of the best kitesurfing spots in Asia.
5. Bohol, Philippines
The sun sets behind the majestic Chocolate Hills in Bohol, Philippines. Photo: @muradosmann via Instagram
Nature-loving couples looking for something beyond breathtaking beaches will find paradise in the charming island of Bohol, the Philippines’ center for eco-tourism. While there are many beaches on this quaint island, especially on the southwestern island of Panglao, Bohol is more popular for its great selection of natural attractions like the famous Chocolate Hills. With so many scenic locations and lots of activities to enjoy on the island, Bohol has become a popular location for destination weddings in the Philippines.
6. Bali, Indonesia
A happy couple posing against Bali’s rice terraces. Photo: myguidebali.com
Blessed with a wonderful climate, dramatic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and a rich culture, Bali is an island of idyllic charm which is why it’s one of the most popular destinations in the world. Witnessing the awe-inspiring sunset at Uluwatu Temple, admiring the marvelous rice terraces of Tegalalang Village in Ubud and surfing the world-class waves of Keramas are only a few activities couples can enjoy in Bali.
7. Lombok, Indonesia
Sunset horseback riding by the beach of Gili Trawangan in Lombok, Indonesia. Photo: @tintimruivo via Instagram
Lombok is Bali’s sister island. While the island is not as popular as its neighbor, it is in many ways just as beautiful. Its beaches are comparable to those in Bali and there’s a good selection of accommodations, restaurants, and activities to enjoy on the island. Lombok may also have fewer attractions, but that also means lesser crowds and a more intimate atmosphere. The Gili Islands northwest of Lombok is an island-life-loving couple’s dream. Gili Meno, the smallest and quietest of the island triplets is a popular choice for honeymooners for its secluded and romantic vibe.
8. Langkawi, Malaysia
A couple strolling down an unspoiled beach in Langkawi. Photo: @saltinourhair via Instagram
Malaysia’s coastal gem, Langkawi is an island of exquisitely pristine beaches and untouched rainforests. Picturesque in almost every corner, the stunning island sceneries are best viewed from the Sky Bridge, a walkway suspended above the mountain’s forests where couples can enjoy romantic strolls. A leisurely sunset cruise across the Andaman Sea and around the archipelago’s islets is also a popular activity for couples in Langkawi.
9. The Maldives
A couple enjoying a floating breakfast in the pool of their overwater villa in the Maldives. Photo: @rachaelizzabeth via Instagram
The Maldives has a blissful combination of sand, sky, and sea that gives it a heavenly charm. Couples on a tropical vacation will surely find the privacy they need in Maldives’ famous overwater bungalows, surrounded by sparkling clear blue waters, sandy beaches, and soaring palm trees. On the flip-side, Fairmont Maldives offers safari-style luxury tented jungle villas for adventure-seeking couples who wish to reconnect with the great outdoors.
10. Sri Lanka
A couple marveling at the beauty of Lion Rock in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka. Photo: @elise_despy via Instagram
For nature enthusiasts and culturally inclined couples, Sri Lanka may just be the best island destination to explore. One of the up-and-coming destinations in the world, this island nation boasts postcard-worthy beaches, lush rainforests, legendary temples, and ancient ruins, all waiting to be discovered. Greeting the sunrise on a hot air balloon in Kandalama or visiting the misty tea estates of the highland community of Nuwara Eliya are both popular endeavors for couples.
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Featured photo credit: Banyan Tree Samui
