6 Romantic Resort Getaways in North Carolina

Regardless of the vibe you choose for your romantic getaway, send stress and distraction packing when you arrive. Incredible hospitality allows you to focus solely on the one by your side. 

1 Brunswick Plantation Resort & Golf

1 Brunswick Plantation Resort & Golf

CalabashSee on map

Whether or not you’re here for the golf (there are three nine-hole layouts to try), the beach is always within reach. Take lessons at the Carolina School of Surf, paddle a kayak with Summertide Adventure Tours or take a thrilling zip line canopy tour at The Swamp Park. Don’t leave town without trying some famous Calabash-style seafood, which is lightly breaded and fried to perfection.

More to love:

• One- and two-bedroom villas with bright living areas and full kitchens
• A variety of stay-and-play packages
• Driving range

Website(910) 685-7979Directions

2 Sanderling Resort

2 Sanderling Resort

DuckSee on map

It’s all about view at this Outer Banks retreat. Rooms, suites and a handful of private vacation rental homes overlook the ocean and the Currituck Sound. When it comes to fun on the water, you have plenty of options. Rent SUPs, kayaks, boogie boards and more, or book a parasailing excursion for the ultimate bird’s-eye view.

More to love:

• Two pools (including one that’s adults only) and private beach access
• Easy activity planning, thanks to on-site adventure experts from Kitty Hawk Kites
• Boat cruises that take you across the Currituck Sound to Sanctuary Vineyards

Website(855) 412-7866Directions

3 Old Edwards Inn and Spa

3 Old Edwards Inn and Spa

HighlandsSee on map

In downtown Highlands, this European-style resort beckons with a spa and dual outdoor mineral pools. Lie on a chaise in the Serenity Solarium (with fountains and a stone fireplace) while waiting for an immersive bath ritual and Four-Hands massage (two therapists knead away). To unwind even further, sip your drink of choice in the lush Wine Garden while listening to the gentle cascade of a patio-side waterfall.

More to love:

• An easy stroll to the renowned shops and galleries of downtown Highlands
• Farm-to-table fare in cozy on-site restaurant Madison’s
• Luxury spa suites with fireplaces and private porches

Website(866) 526-8008Directions

4 High Hampton

photo credit: High Hampton

4 High Hampton

CashiersSee on map

After a multiyear refresh, High Hampton has kept everything vacationers love about the 1,400-acre property for generations, most notably its showstopping view of Rock Mountain (best enjoyed with a cocktail from one of the Adirondack chairs along Hampton Lake). Within the inn, peruse framed guest ledgers from earlier decades before an invigorating massage in the wood-paneled spa. Then retreat to your spacious inn or cottage suite to get dolled up for an unforgettable meal by executive chef Scott Franqueza.

More to love:

• A Tom Fazio-designed, 18-hole golf course that marries the rolling mountain landscape
• Kayaks, canoes, SUPs and fishing boats available for exploring Hampton Lake
• Casual bites and signature cocktails served at The Tavern

Website(828) 547-0662Directions

5 The Umstead Hotel and Spa

5 The Umstead Hotel and Spa

CarySee on map

Escape to art-filled public spaces situated on 12 wooded acres in the heart of the Triangle. Peruse a portion of the 98-piece private art collection and chill in the luxe outdoor pool featuring a wooded backdrop that frames a 3-acre lake. At Herons (one of 78 Forbes Five-Star restaurants in the world in 2024), frame-worthy entrees often showcase ingredients sourced from the resort’s own farm.

More to love:

• Top-notch spa services, including facials, body treatments and more
• Marble bathrooms with double-sink vanities in each guest room
• Afternoon tea service accompanied by live harp music

Website(866) 877-4141Directions

6 Pinehurst Resort

6 Pinehurst Resort

PinehurstSee on map

It’s Donald Ross’ No. 2 course that makes bucket lists, but this nine-course property isn’t just for golf gurus. Three historic hotels pour on the charm, including The Manor, a 1923 inn with recently upgraded guest rooms. Nearby, enjoy free poolside smoothies after a spa treatment. In the village, Pinehurst Brewing Co. serves barbecue smoked on-site and bold brews in a historic steam plant.

More to love:

• 230 Four-Diamond guest rooms, plus a dining room, lounge and coffee shop at Carolina Hotel
• Tiffany lamps and other vintage touches at the 1895-era Holly Inn
• The Cradle, a nine-hole course for golfers of all skill levels

Website(855) 235-8507Directions