7 Surreally Beautiful Summer Vacation Destinations for Couples
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik tops lists of couples vacation destinations year-round, but they have a very special natural occurrence that happens only in the summer. During this time, the sun doesn’t set.
Instead you get to witness a midnight sun, which is often accompanied by a colorful sky — the perfect setting for a romantic toast or camping trip.
About two-thirds of the population lives in the capital city, so if you want to be alone, it’s just a short drive to peace and quiet. In particular, the Snæfellsjökull glacier (also an active volcano) is a must-see in addition to Kirkjufell Mountain, which is surrounded by beaches and waterfalls.
While there is plenty to choose from when it comes to what to do in Iceland, no trip would be complete without a visit to the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa about 40 minutes outside Reykjavik. You can bask in the healing waters together, followed by an enjoying meal of Nordic delicacies.
While the summer months are still relatively chilly compared to the rest of the world, they’re still the warmest for Iceland. To get the most out of your summer holiday, visit in August when there are plenty of festivals and cultural celebrations going on.
Taha’a, French Polynesia
One of the Leeward Islands in French Polynesia, Taha’a has become prime real estate as a summer holiday destination for couples. Secluded and only accessible by boat, the island offers much more intimacy — perfect for honeymooners or anyone looking for a romantic getaway.
Taha’a is home to a number of prestigious accommodations, including the Le Taha’a Island Resort and Spa. Here you can stay in a bungalow built over the water and have your breakfast delivered by kayak.
Some of the most interesting activities on the island involve the local vanilla crop. In addition to the air smelling of sweet vanilla 24/7, you can book Jeep safaris that include a tour of a vanilla plantation and take home authentic French Polynesian vanilla beans or extract.
There are also plenty of activities in and out of the water. Hiking is a favorite land activity amid the mountains and valley.
However, Taha’a is best for water sports like scuba diving. There’s a beautiful natural reef off the coast in addition to artificial ones created by shipwrecks.
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Amsterdam, Netherlands
For couples looking to party on their next summer vacation, Amsterdam has everything you’re looking for. You can barbecue in local parks, drink beer on the grass or from one of the many hip terrace bars, and swim at an urban beach.
Festival season is in full effect during summer so it’s also prime time for music fans and foodies alike.
Like Venice, Amsterdam is a city of canals that circle out from the center of the city. There are plenty of cruises of the area as it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.
This is also where you can see the famous red light district, where things can get really interesting.
More adventurous couples might enjoy exploring the debauchery of the red light district, which is full of sex shops, brothels, peep shows and the like. Even if you’re not looking to expand your horizons, you can still take home a souvenir from the Museum of Prostitution, Eroticism, or Cannabis.
