Are you planning a special getaway to Asia or looking for the perfect couples travel destination? This guide sets out the most romantic getaways in Asia. From the world-famous beaches of Mirissa and Langkawi to the hidden tranquil retreats of Jiufen and Bantayan – discover the dreamiest romantic places in Asia here.
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Why plan romantic getaways in Asia
If taking longs walks on secluded beaches, watching sunsets, star gazing, or relaxing in a hot spring at a misty hilltop resort, speak to you; you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we share the most romantic getaways in Asia.
Whether you are looking for honeymoon inspiration, or perhaps even just searching for a unique getaway in Asia, this guide is bound to give you tons of inspiration. Read on to find out which places top our couples travel bucket list as the most romantic places to visit in Asia!
Asia has Mind-Blowing Landscapes
Asia is home to some of the most amazing islands, beaches, mountain retreats, and lush jungles in the world. Here you can swim in crystal clear waters, trek through forests, enjoy amazing sunsets, and even have beaches all to yourself! And, let’s not forget the diverse marine life and fantastic food on offer here.
All in all, you couldn’t find a more perfect place for a romantic trip or a honeymoon!
Before you head out on a romantic Asian adventure, it’s important to think about what to pack for your trip. Read this couples’ beach vacation packing list to make packing a breeze.
Asia is Really Affordable
Another excellent reason to opt for a romantic getaway in Asia is affordability. Asia is exceptionally pocket-friendly, which ultimately means that you can easily enjoy 5-star accommodation on a shoestring budget. Of course, there are many other kinds of unique places to stay – a secluded treehouse in the Malaysian jungles, a hurt in Mongolia or a live aboard in Thailand can be just as romantic!
In a rush? Pin this guide on Asia’s most romantic destinations for later.
The Most Romantic Getaways in Asia
No matter your budget or traveling style, mesmerizing landscapes, and unusual things to do await you here! Read along to discover some of the most romantic destinations in Asia!
Jiufen, Taiwan
Jiufen is highly recommended as one of the best day trips from Taipei, but what most people don’t know is that it is one of the most romantic spots on the island. Especially if you come during low season and you have a few days to spend here.
Seeing that Jiufen is tucked away in the Keelung mountain range, you can enjoy the best of both worlds here. The far-stretching mountain scenes and incredible ocean views is what makes this village so popular among locals and tourists alike.
Here, you can duck into rustic teahouses, enjoy romantic evening strolls through hidden alleyways lined with red lanterns, eat your way through the old street, and even relax in your very own hot spring bathtub.
Pro Tips
The only thing that you need to be aware of when visiting Jiufen is that it gets very crowded. Notably, on weekends and public holidays. It is after all one of Taiwan’s most famous old towns!
Therefore, it’s best to time your visit here. I highly recommend coming during the week (if possible), as accommodation options fill up quickly, and the little alleyways get congested with crowds on weekends. Getting there is also a bit tricky, so be sure to also read this guide on how to get to Jiufen.
Klook.comMirissa, Sri Lanka
Imagine dining on the beach, enjoying a cocktail, and watching some of the best sunsets in the world. Welcome to Mirissa in Sri Lanka. It’s a destination that oozes romance, beauty, and tranquility. Since Mirissa is one of the more quieter places to visit in Sri Lanka, you could easily have beaches all to yourself, making it so much more romantic.
Moreover, there are so many incredible things to do in Mirissa for couples. You can snorkel together, walk hand-in-hand along the golden sandy beaches, discover elephants and leopards on safari, or even camp under the stars at Yala National Park. It has a thriving bar scene that is perfect for evening cocktails, live music, and the chance to dance.
Whale watching is a popular activity, and you’re in a prime spot to take a day trip to the intriguing and incredible Dutch Fort in Galle. One of the great things about Mirissa, and Sri Lanka, in general, is how cheap it is. You can stay in fantastic accommodation, dine out three times a day and enjoy exhilarating activities – all for backpacker prices.
There is something to suit everyone. I’d say the perfect amount of time needed in Mirissa is 4 to 5 nights. But, you could easily stretch that to a week by discovering secret beaches and catching up on your tan.
~ By Bradley, Dream Big, Travel Far.
Klook.comJeju Island, South Korea
Jeju Island in the largest and most popular island of South Korea. It is located just off the south coast of the country. The exotic island is accessible by boat from Busan or by plane from most major cities in Korea or from major airports in South East Asia.
It is a perfect travel destination for couples, as it has a wide range of activities like hiking trails, theme parks, stunning beaches, resorts, and much more. For Korean couples, this is a trendy honeymoon destination as the Island has so many romantic spots that are perfect for young couples.
3 days in Jeju is the perfect amount of time to stay on the island and cover most of the hot spots. The island is huge, so renting a car will be necessary to get around and can be picked up at the airport upon arrival. Book a hotel or guesthouse in Jeju City, this is only 10 minutes away from the airport and is well connected to the other touristic sights around the island.
~ By Marie, Be Marie Korea.
Klook.comKoh Lanta, Thailand
Koh Lanta is a small relaxed island off the Western coast of Thailand, near Krabi and Phuket. Currently, you need a ferry to get there, and that’s one of the reasons why it’s still relatively off the beaten path. (Discover more of Krabi’s beautiful coastline by visiting the best Krabi islands).
Koh Lanta has all the perfect attributes of a Thai island: numerous beautiful beaches with crystal clear water, forest to hike in, vibrant life, and plenty of street food options. What it lacks, though, is the presence of too many parties. You can find regular ones at specific parts of the island, but most of it is very laid back and quiet – which is ideal for a romantic getaway in Asia.
All the beaches are located along the Western shore and offer breathtaking sunsets. I loved having dinners with my husband at the many restaurants located along Koh Lanta’s Long Beach (Phra Ae Beach), followed by long walks in the sand.
~ By Veronika, Travel Geekery.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Vietnam is a country so rich with contrasting experiences and culture that it does not often pop up high on the list of romantic getaways in Asia. However, it should! Especially the beautiful city of Hoi An.
Hoi An gives you the feeling of stepping back in time. And it’s got less of the modern sights you may see in the bigger cities. Instead, you get beautiful temples, a river lined with boats, and one of the best marketplaces in all of Vietnam. Hoi An is famous for a couple of things – their traditional lanterns, which you will see hanging everywhere in the city and lit up at night, and for being the go-to place for getting custom-fitted clothing made.
Enjoy the romance of the city by wandering through the old town, along the river, and enjoying local cuisine in one of the many restaurants.
Hoi An is only minutes from the beach. This means you can enjoy the best of both worlds – old town and beach resorts, all in one destination. They have some incredible luxury resorts perfect for romantic getaways in Asia. We loved our time at Sunrise Hoi An Beach Resort, which is an all-inclusive resort. So there’s no need to worry about your budget, as a lot of meals and drinks are included for your stay.
~ By Holly, Four Around the World.
Klook.comAlso Read: The Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
El Nido, The Philippines
Dubbed as the most beautiful island in the world for many years with its stunning limestone rock islands tucking away white, powdery beaches, dotting its clear blue waters, El Nido in Palawan has definitely become a go-to destination, not only for regular travelers, but more so for couples who are looking for a serene and passionate getaway. Rightly so, El Nido has become one of the most romantic getaways in Asia.
There’s nothing more romantic than going on an intimate adventure in nature. Get onto a private boat trip for just 150 USD and discover the best hideaways that are not crowded with tourists. Then, head to the Big Lagoon and kayak your way to the Small Lagoon. Likewise, swim your way under a cavern and find yourselves in a hidden cove with a small patch of white sand surrounded by tall limestone rock formations. For a unique lunch, enjoy a meal on the boat in the middle of a fish sanctuary, while taking in the beauty of nature both under and above the water. Finally, enjoy a colorful sunset on a hidden beach next to Commando Island.
On land, lovers can drive to the beaches of Nacpan for a quiet sundowner. Otherwise, the lively Las Cabanas Beach offer cocktails and funky music while you watch the sunset. With many other things to do, it is best to stay at least 3 days in El Nido, or longer.
Not only does El Nido hold the title for the best island in the world, it is also one of the cheapest romantic getaways in Asia. For as low as 65USD, be ready to be greeted by marvelous views of rock islands across the sea and gorgeous sunsets every day such as in Caalan Beach Resort. Restaurants lining the beach with picturesque views serve local and western cuisines with prices that can range from 5 USD to 20 USD.
In addition to its romance-inspiring nature, and budget-friendly activities, El Nido is also very easy to reach. Located on the island of Palawan, El Nido is just a short 1-hour flight away from Philippine’s capital, Manila.
~ By Karolina, Lazy Travel Blog.
Klook.comAlso Read: The Best islands to visit in Asia
Bantayan, The Philippines
Bantayan is the perfect romantic beach destination because it’s more of a holiday island than a backpacker island. Compared to the popular El Nido, Bantayan is a sleepy little island that’s actually not so little. It has a huge, perfect white sand beach dotted with adorable little cabins so you can wake up to the ocean every day. They’re not quite backpacker budget, but if you’re not on a shoestring budget, they’re perfect.
Spend your days relaxing on the pristine beach or take an island hopping/snorkeling trip to relax on other pristine beaches. Rent a scooter and explore the island. Visit Ogtong cave (or stay at Ogtong Cave Resort) or see the Omagieca Mangrove Garden. If you want to do something a little more daring, you can even go skydiving.
It’s a great laid-back destination that feels almost luxurious but is still budget friendly. If you enjoy beaches and mango juice, Bantayan is perfect for you. And, I would recommend spending anywhere from two to seven days here.
~ By Megan, Red Around The World.
Langkawi, Malaysia
If there is one place that deserves a spot on your Asian bucket list it is Langkawi. Despite being one of the most visited islands in Malaysia, the tourists’ influx has not affected the charm and serenity Langkawi has to offer.
The island is home to white sand secluded beaches and romantic relaxing spots for the lovebirds! Pantai Cenang is a lesser visited side of Langkawi apt for couples who are looking to spend quality time with each other. Apart from the turquoise water beaches, the town is also home to paddy rice fields and isolated farms with cozy cafes to relax in.
Langkawi becomes even more romantic as the sun goes down. An evening stroll along the streets, especially during the monsoon drizzle, was my favorite activity to do during my visit here. The sunset cruise dinner is also a perfect way to spend a date night with your significant other. Cruising in the Andaman Sea with lush green mountains in the background and viewing the sun set in the sea is one of the most romantic activities to do on the island.
There is an international airport in Langkawi which is accessible either by air or by a bus. Plus, ferry rides from other places in Malaysia. The best time to visit Langkawi is during winter (Nov-Feb) as it rains less during these months.
~By Rahma, The Sane Adventurer.
Klook.comAlso Read: The Most Stunning Places to Visit in Malaysia
Koh Rong, Cambodia
Cambodia is known for the gorgeous temples of Siem Reap but the country’s best-kept secret is a little coastal island off of the popular beach town Sihanoukville— Koh Rong. Koh Rong is a small island that consists of only one main town and port.
Most of the resorts are located outside of this main town and can be accessed by long-tail boat. These resorts range from eco-campsites to private bungalows. The island is a bit of a backpacker hot-spot, making it very a very affordable location even if you avoid the backpacker areas.
You can book day tours that will bring you to various hot spots around the island – including coral reefs to snorkel, fishing spots, Long Beach (a stretch of sand known for its gorgeous sunsets!) and finally a swim with the islands most famous residents, the bio-luminescent plankton. These tours can be booked through your hotel or many restaurants on the main town beach.
There is plenty to eat, see and do on the island but it’s also an excellent location to sit back and relax on a beach hammock. If you are planning on visiting the coast of Cambodia, Koh Rong is not to be missed!
~ By Kassie, The Fly Away Life.
Most Romantic Places in Asia in Conclusion
Whether you’re planning a couples getaway, a honeymoon or simply want to get out of the city with a loved one – there’s something for every kind of traveler in Asia. Have you found the perfect romantic destination in Asia to add to your destination hit-list? We hope so!
So, where is your favorite romantic destination? If you have any suggestions of dreamy places for a romantic vacation in Asia, let me know in the comments below! I’d love to add to this list.
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These all look awesome. So far, we’ve only been to Hoi An (returning for a couple months very soon, actually) and we can definitely agree that it’s a great destination. One of our favorites!
How exciting Michelle! Hoi An and Hanoi were by far my favourite places in Vietnam. Have fun on your trip and hope you get a chance to check out these other romantic destinations in Asia soon!