Couples need quality time away from the hustle and bustle, and it’s one of the secrets to maintaining a healthy relationship. 

But vacations are often expensive, meaning romantic-minded couples frequently put them off for the distant future. Hitting the road does not have to be budget-breaking though; in fact, taking a cheap romantic vacation is as simple as knowing where the deals are. 

Here are some of the best vacation spots for couples on a budget. 

South Padre Island

Taking a sunset walk on the golden sand beaches of South Padre Island in Texas is a postcard-worthy moment that doesn't cost a dime, making it one of the best vacation spots for couples on a budget. 

The island feels like a faraway tropical paradise but it’s easy to get to from anywhere in the southern U.S. via a simple road trip. And actually, the drive across the turquoise blue water from Port Isabel on the mainland is super romantic in and of itself.

Once on the island, take a walk on the Laguna Madre Nature Trail, check out the cute residents of the Sea Turtle Rescue Center, and top off the day with a cocktail or two at Coral Reef, a local bar with great drinks and nightly karaoke. 

As far as cheap romantic vacations go, you will find that South Padre Island is hard to beat.

Napa Valley

Nestled among the oak-studded golden hills of Northern California lies Napa Valley, home to the best wineries in the United States and one of the most romantic vacations for couples on the planet. 

Driving there is also part of the pleasure, as the landscapes of this part of the country are breathtakingly beautiful and the small towns that dot Napa are as charming as can be.

Stop by Yountville and St. Helena for historic downtown areas made just for shopping, take the Napa Valley Wine Train to a handful of celebrated vineyards, and then soak away your troubles in the company of your partner at the natural hot springs of Calistoga. 

When it comes to romantic vacation spots for couples on a budget, Napa Valley will sweep you off your feet.

Sedona

Visitors often describe the rugged red rock canyon walls cozily cradling Sedona as nothing short of magical, making this pretty small town one of the best vacation spots for couples on a budget looking for an epic setting. 

Just 120 miles north of Phoenix and only 30 miles from Flagstaff, the artsy small town is also an easy road trip from many cities.

While Sedona itself is packed with art galleries, bookstores, and interesting boutiques, the real attraction here is the landscape. Take the Desert Canyon Scenic Loop to immerse yourself in the surroundings—it makes for incredible romantic photo opportunities.

Couples can also swing by the Chapel of the Holy Cross to see this magnificent church built right into the natural rock mountains. 

The Columbia Gorge

As the Columbia river cuts through the rugged mountains of the Pacific Northwest, it creates one of the best vacations for couples on a budget who enjoy spectacular scenery. 

The drive into the gorge from nearby Portland is one of the most dramatic in the world, passing over the top of the gorge itself before plunging down to the riverside.

Once in the gorge, don't miss Multnomah Falls, an impressive waterfall that drops more than 620 feet and sports a historic bridge where couples often pose for wedding photos. If you want to get even more romantic, head off-the-beaten path for Bridal Veil Falls, which requires a 20-minute hike through an enchanting forest. 

After a day of chasing waterfalls in one of the most naturally beautiful places on earth, check out the town of Hood River for dinner and drinks. 

The hip and bustling riverside town is known as the "kite surfing capital" of Oregon and is home to more than 30 restaurants and cafés in the picturesque downtown historic district.

Charlevoix

Sitting pretty on the banks of massive Lake Michigan, Charlevoix is a cheap vacation idea for couples who are in the Chicago area, located just a six-hour drive away. 

It's also the jumping-off point for visiting Beaver Island, a rustic natural resort area located out on the placid waters of the lake itself. 

Shop at the quaint stores lining the small downtown area, check out the local vintages at Castle Farms winery, and book a sunset cruise on the lake. You can spend a day picking apples and cherries at Frisk Orchards, or take a walking tour of the more than two dozen mushroom houses, created out of raw local materials by former resident Early Young.

Who says low-cost vacations can't be romantic? At Charlevoix, you’ll feel like you have escaped to Europe for the weekend, but your wallet will feel otherwise. 

What Makes a Good Place for Couples to Go on Vacation?

Couples need alone time, meaning that the best vacation destinations for couples are places where they can enjoy each other's company with a beautiful backdrop. While nightlife is an important factor for many couples, having a place to come back to that is private and comfortable is even more important. This is where Wyndham Hotels & Resorts comes in.

The Cheapest Places to Vacation

Where to go for a cheap vacation is often a hard question. But the truth is that there are many low-budget vacation ideas for couples that include popular tourist destinations, just like we’ve listed above. The trick is choosing activities that don't cost too much money, and instead, spending quality time with your special someone in a truly amazing place. Having high-quality accommodations is part of that equation, so book your road trip stay at a Wyndham Hotels & Resorts location today.