Picture the scene – you’re enjoying gentle sea breezes and a refreshing sundowner on an exotic beach before night falls and you’re ushered to a table set just for two. Looking to impress someone special? Cap off your next loved-up getaway with one of these sumptuous toes-in-the-sand dining experiences…
Related article: Thailand insider guide: Koh Samui’s best dining spots
Private Island Dinner Experience at Four Seasons Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora… a private island… dinner by bamboo torchlight – it doesn’t get much more romantic than that, right? Go all-out and book yourselves the Private Island Dinner Experience at Four Seasons Bora Bora to feel as if you’ve stepped into a daydream. After a scenic canoe ride to a secluded white-sand motu (islet), you’ll be treated to Champagne-paired canapés and dinner tailored to your tastes from the resort’s talented Executive Chef. One last glamorous touch? You’ll feel like royalty with a private server on-hand to tend to your dining needs. Yes, we said this is one for going all-out.
The Grotto at Rayavadee Krabi, Thailand
This enchanting restaurant on the tropical Thai island of Krabi looks straight out of Robinson Crusoe. Hidden under an ancient limestone cliff on the edge of laid-back Phranang Beach, The Grotto at the Rayavadee Krabi takes in breathtaking views of turquoise waters and majestic limestone formations. Admire it all cocktail in-hand before feasting on sumptuous Thai fare and succulent barbecue.
Discover the most beautiful accommodation for romantic holidays in Thailand here.
Private beach dining in Seminyak, Bali
Bali’s beachy region of Seminyak is known for its toes-in-the-sand dining experiences, with many restaurants and bars lining its coastline. Two of our favourite options? The Samaya Seminyak offers a Royal Canopy Dinner experience that’s hard to go past. Set up by the beach, a canopy adorned with fresh blooms and surrounded by candles provides an idyllic setting for Champagne and dinner (before walking hand-in-hand along the shore, of course).
Looking for something totally unique? Anantara Resort Seminyak Bali offers a once-in-a-lifetime Dining by Design experience where the entire evening is customised around the two of you. You’ll collaborate with the resort’s expert Chef to create your own special menu and be guided by the resident Wine Guru to find the perfect pairing. Topping it all off, you’ll enjoy it all (plus service from a private butler) in your own intimate spot on the sand, lit by flickering candles.
We’ve handpicked a selection of Bali’s best romantic getaways.
Beach barbecue on Kennedy Island, Solomon Islands
For a romantic getaway that’s a little off-the-beaten-path, plan your next escape for the unspoiled Solomon Islands. Here, you can hop around its 900-odd islands and stop in at one of its most infamous, Kennedy Island, for an incredible day-trip. This tiny speck of sand is where former American president John F. Kennedy hid from the enemy after his ship was rammed by a Japanese destroyer in WWII (hence the name). Today, it’s a postcard-perfect spot for snorkelling and enjoying a beach barbecue supplied by Fatboys Resort nearby. Love lobster? The Solomons is known for the delicacy and Kennedy Island is a fantastic spot for enjoying it grilled.
Helicopter flight and beach picnic in the Whitsundays, Australia
Want to feel like celebrities for the day? Whisk yourselves away to Queensland’s sun-kissed Whitsundays and book a helicopter flight over its islands with one of the many local operators. Easily one of the most famous spots here, Whitehaven Beach and its seemingly endless white sands make for an unforgettable picnic after circling over the iconic Heart Reef.
Private island picnic at Nanuku Auberge Resort and Likuliku Lagoon Resort, Fiji
Haven’t yet had your fill of beach picnics? Fiji’s Nanuku Auberge Resort and Likuliku Lagoon Resort both also offer picnic experiences on the beach and on their own off-shore private islands. Expect fresh seafood, turquoise water surrounds and the feeling of being the only two people in the world. Sigh.
The Velhi Restaurant and private beach dining at Club Med Kani, Maldives
Known for its OTT all-inclusive offerings, Club Med Kani in the Maldives mixes luxury with relaxed dining at its Vehli restaurant. Here, pull up a chair on blindingly white sands for a generous buffet-style dinner under the stars. Celebrating a special occasion? Watch the sun set behind the resort’s overwater bungalows from your own private spot on the beach before sitting down for a candlelit dinner.
The Rock Restaurant, Tanzania
Okay, so it’s not exactly on the beach but time it right (when the tide’s out) and you can walk along this restaurant’s private beach after lunch. Situated in the crystalline waters of Zanzibar’s coast, The Rock Restaurant matches its spectacular location with mouthwatering local cuisine. Getting here is also a memorable experience, with a boat trip required to access the exclusive dining spot.
Related article: Bali’s 14 coolest wine-and-dine spots
Image credits: Jules Ingall and SIVB Tourism, and www.fourseasons.com/, www.rayavadee.com/ and www.therockrestaurantzanzibar.com/
