Summer Lovin': The six most romantic hotels on the sand

The rising temperatures have all of us dreaming about our summer holidays. And what could better than to share them with a special someone? We’ve already done your homework for you and selected some of our most romantic hotels on the sand, where your dreams of laying under a palm tree on the beach, or relaxing in a private Jacuzzi overlooking the ocean, can become a reality. So stop dreaming and start packing.


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Jamaica Inn, Jamaica


Popular among mature couples, this is the place to embrace your golden years. Located on a private stretch of beach between low cliffs, the Inn's suites are the perfect place to spend time with your significant other: They have deep soaking tubs and some come with romantic, four-post canopied bed frames. The cottages are especially romantic -- they have a spa-like bathroom with a Jacuzzi, and a private outdoor pool and sun deck overlooking the ocean.


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The Setai, Miami


Couples will love the sleek yet opulent rooms of The Setai, which come with a black granite soaking tub right by the foot of the bed, and a sexy, freestanding rainfall shower with floor-to-ceiling black tiles. Its seductively dark, Asian-inspired design; impeccable service; huge, immaculate rooms; three pools (each a different temperature); and prime beachside location, make this exclusive property one of the best -- and most romantic -- hotels in South Beach.


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Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, Aruba


Although this classy resort draws a lot of families, it's subdued vibe makes it well-suited for couples as well. The comfortable rooms are bright and airy, and room service is available 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. -- convenient for couples hoping to enjoy a romantic night in. Couples can enjoy Mandara spa's standard treatments in private huts right on the beach, and there is pricey diamond jewelry for sale in the hotel -- perfect for a surprise gift (especially if that trip to the casino goes well).


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Tortuga Bay, Dominican Republic Oscar de la Renta interiors; comfortable four-poster beds with crisp, white Frette linens and unique wicker canopies; bathrooms with deep Jacuzzis, large stand-up glass showers, and toiletries from L’Occitane… Every detail is thought of at Tortuga Bay. The Six Senses Spa -- one of the D.R.'s best -- offers luxurious treatments, some of them in private cabanas overlooking the ocean. But one of the best romantic touches is without a doubt the nightly turndown, which includes a drawn bath with floating red flower petals and tea lights. **

The Kahala Hotel and Resort, Oahu, Hawaii


A 10- to 15-minute drive from Waikiki Beach, on the nearly isolated beach of a posh Honolulu suburb, the intimate Kahala Hotel has been Oahu's premier romantic choice since it opened in 1964. Even Liz Taylor and Richard Burton honeymooned here, hiding from the paparazzi in a private cabana. And if the side-by-side massages aren't enough to sell you, just take a look at the romantic outcrop known as the "Kissing Point".


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Hotel Casa del Mar, Santa Monica


A location right on the sand (a rarity in Santa Monica) allows the luxurious Casa del Mar to take advantage of stunning, romantic views -- be it from the 5th-floor rooftop pool and hot tub, the large, sumptuous suites with Jacuzzi bathtubs, or the elegant Veranda restaurant with its 20-foot high windows. Couples can sip cocktails and listen to live nightly jazz in the intimate lobby, enjoy private in-room massages -- or take them poolside in the ocean breeze -- and walk barefoot on the beach just a few feet from the hotel. An excellent, accommodating staff that's keenly respectful of privacy ties it all together.


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