If you’ve forgotten the thrill of being somewhere new with your significant other, let’s face it … life has thrown us some pretty full-on distractions over the past few years. Most of us have missed out on holidays, events, dinners and countless things that are important for our mental health and wellbeing – not to mention our relationships. So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to shake off any remaining hibernation habits and book a romantic escape to make up for lost time. Here are some of our favourite ideas and activities for couples to help you reconnect and create incredible holiday memories together.
Get straight into the romantic spirit
Whatever the time of day or weather, run straight down to the sand hand-in-hand and get your toes into the ocean. Maybe you spend a few hours soaking up the sun and the waves, or enjoy a coffee and a stroll along the promenade. Perhaps you find somewhere cosy to chat and people-watch, throw a frisbee on the sand or wander along the shoreline looking for shells and seaglass. Whatever you do there’s nothing like being at the beach to help you both relax and set the mood for easy conversation.
Let the salt water work it’s magic
For couples wanting to tick off all the best swimming spots around Coogee, there’s so many options to choose from. On the north end there’s a natural rock pool that is accessible at low tide, and a man-made ocean pool on the south end. The ocean pools give you a lagoon-like swimming experience in the ocean without the waves – that is until the tide starts to come in! You could also take a romantic snorkelling adventure in Gordons Bay (just 9 minutes walk from Coogee Sands Hotel). Or why not stretch out and sun-bake together on the warm concrete after a swim at the serene Heritage listed Wylies Baths.
Create holiday memories on a coastal adventure
Once you’re ready to start exploring, the iconic Coogee to Bondi coastal walk will tick all your romantic holiday boxes. Get the blood pumping up as you wander up and down the winding trail, or take it slow and spend time exploring all the beaches along the way. It’s the perfect opportunity to take some couple selfies with the ocean as your backdrop. The views along the coastline are simply magnificent and the walk is easy and fun to follow. There are sections of boardwalks, cute little stairs cut into the cliffsides and places to sit to soak up the scenery. You could set off early and enjoy a lazy brunch at one of the cute little cafes by Bronte Beach, or leave in the afternoon to arrive at Bondi Beach for happy hour.
Indulge in some serious pampering
After all that walking, it’s time to focus on some wellness activities! They’re an essential ingredient of a romantic getaway. Book in for a cosy & quiet massage right here at the Coogee Sands Hotel with Massage By The Beach, or try an open air massage to the sounds of the ocean at Wylies. We also love Ella Bache on Coogee Bay road who offer a huge range of treatment packages including facials, massage, manicures & pedicures. There are also plenty of places to get your hair & nails done, do some yoga together or indulge in some retail therapy. Of course, there’s also nothing more pampering than simply just sleeping in or lying side by side on your beach towels with a good book.
Say ‘I love you’ with food
For those that know that a wonderful meal is the way to their partners hearts, Coogee offers the chance to share an intimate breakfast, lunch or dinner no matter your culinary style or budget. For dinner you can go top end and book a table at Mimis fine dining, or head to one of Coogee’s plentiful choice of excellent restaurants such as SugarCane, Barzura, Osteria or La Spiaggia. And of course, nothing beats the simplicity of grabbing some fish ‘n chips to enjoy by the ocean. As a guest at Coogee Sands, you’ll also have access to our exclusive rooftop sundeck with plenty of outdoor seating and BBQ facilities. Why not surprise your other half with a takeaway meal and bottle of wine on our rooftop? You can stay as long as you like and enjoy the sweeping birds-eye views of Coogee Beach.
Snuggle up for happy hour
When the day rolls around to wine-o’clock’ our local top picks include the wine bar at the cosy and seductively lit Café Rafael or Coogee Wine Room. They’ll provide the perfect atmosphere to chat over drinks and enjoy delicious contemporary fine dining. On those gorgeous warm evenings, you just can’t beat rooftop drinks overlooking the ocean. Check out the upstairs terrace at our neighbours the Pavilion where there is plenty of seating to suit your mood. The Coogee Legion Club also has a couple of balconies facing the beach and is a great for a relaxed vibe. And if a little dancing is the perfect way to end your evening, then Little Jack Horner is the place to be with a fun and friendly crowd rocking along to a live band pumping out time-tested tracks.
Stay close to the action
And of course, one of the best things you can do to maximise precious holiday time with your partner is to book your accommodation as close as possible to the places you want to visit. Our guests love the fact that everything they need for a romantic break is right on our doorstep. To make life even easier, the Coogee Sands Romantic Escape Package gives you the prefect head-start for a dreamy seaside getaway! You’ll be treated with a bottle wine and chocolates upon arrival and a $100 voucher to local favourite La Spiaggia Italian restaurant. The package also includes breakfast for two at a local café by the beach.
Inspired? What are you waiting for? Grab your calendar and call in a favour with the grandparents, lock in some annual leave, get your accommodation and flights booked … and enjoy having something wonderful to look forward to with your loved one!