Long-term love or just budding, a romantic destination without distractions is the cure for the cold weather blues. From an ocean front weekend getaway, delicious dinner, or an exploring adventure, Onslow County offers some unique romantic destinations.

Beachfront Getaway

Coastal areas tailored for tourists is an ideal area for a local getaway. During colder months, you can rent a beachfront room at reduced, off-season rates. Take advantage of cold weather discounts in sought after beach communities, such as Emerald Isle and Topsail Island. Pack your bags for an overnight or two-night stay.

Pack warm layers including headgear and gloves. This will keep you warm enough to enjoy an ocean front walk with your sweetheart.  Or you can stay indoors and snuggle.

Romantic Tip: Pack your favorite mugs and gourmet hot chocolate or your favorite adult beverage. Bundle up and get cozy while you sip on a toasty drink together.

Romantic Dinners

For your overnight stay or even just a night out, there are a few romantic dinner locations to visit within the area.

According to local Yelp reviews here are top-rated dinner locations in Jacksonville, NC :

  • Duck’s Grille and Bar
    Featuring traditional American and seafood selections along with a sports bar type environment, this restaurant may be ideal for a low-key romantic couple.
  • Inlet 790
    Located inside the Villa Capriani, Inlet 790’s menu is full of North Carolina’s best seafood dishes. Indoor and outdoor dining options with views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Ocean’s Edge Restaurant and Event Center
    Year-round dinner service with panoramic ocean views. Four event spaces are available with a menu offering something for everyone. Special event planning is also available here.
  • White Oak River Bistro
    Located in Swansboro on the waterfront, this 144-seat restaurant t specializes in Italian cuisine.

For a romantic lunch date, try:

  • Barley Wine Café
    Featuring fresh dishes prepared and served with passion and care.  They’re open 8am-2pm M-F and for brunch on Sundays from 9am-2pm.

Things to Do Together

Not enough time for a weekend away, but you are seeking something outside of a romantic dinner date? Here are some creative suggestions for you.

  • Couple’s Massage
    There is very little else that says I love you like a relaxing hour spent getting massages together. Massages help you release past and future concerns. It connects you with the present moment. This allows you both to be in the present moment. Massages help release many feel-good hormones that build feelings of intimacy and affection for you and your significant other.
  • Visit Historic Sites
    Romance can be spending quality time with someone you care about and sharing an interest. Surrounded by rich military and cultural history, there are several historical sites and museums in this area to explore and learn. For example, Swansboro offers a Civil War History walking tour or walk through Lejeune Memorial Gardens.

In the end, romance is simply sharing the love you have for each other and spending quality time together.

Here’s an article about personalizing your romantic evening that can help you add a special touch to your plans.