Sneak Off to Sea: A Romantic Getaway to Atlantic City

margaritaville

Sometimes the same old love song signals comfort and contentment. Sometimes it suggests you’re in a rut. A romantic getaway to Atlantic City is an ideal way to change your tune. Though it’s generally known for partying, the city by the sea has a lot more to offer than boozin’ and blackjack. Any number of couple’s spa treatments being only the beginning.

Imagine getting cozy by a roof-top fire pit, turning up the heat in a cooking class, or even sailing off into the sunset. Here, our picks to help you write your own Atlantic City love song.

1. Surfin’ Safari

Can’t you just picture it? Frothy waves. Warm sun. Cool breeze. An adrenaline rush topped by loads of laughter as you run and fall and then finally (hopefully) catch that wave. Whether you’re beginners or hardcore surfers (or one of each), the pros at AC Surf School can teach you a thing or two. Go for the big kahuna with a full week camp ($500 per person), or have a little weekend fun, with two full days of surfing, plus a Saturday evening luau ($60 pp). acsurfschool.com

2. Empire State of Mind

Go for broke (without actually going broke). The “Escape to the Empire” package (from $126) at Caesars Atlantic City includes VIP treatment from check-in to a four-course dinner for two and admission to both the Qua Baths & Spa and DUSK Night Club. Plus, late check out means a little extra time to, um… sleep in. caesarsac.com

romantic activity ideas in AC3. Up on the Roof

Whether you lounge poolside all day or just cozy up by the evening fire, the Golden Nugget’s rooftop H2O Pool + Bar lends a little swank to your romantic weekend. With just 12 daybeds (from $20 rentals) there is an air of exclusivity here. Or, spring for a cushy cabana (from $100). Note: The Golden Nugget “Love is in the Air” package (from $289) dressed things up even more, with a couples massage, private time in the Couples Suite jacuzzi, plus champagne, chocolates, and two complimentary bathrobes. goldennugget.com

4. Summer Breeze…

Sail off into the sunset (literally) with Summer Breeze Sailing Charters. The 34’ Catalina is oh-so-yar, and you can charter her for a half-day (three hours, $275), full-day (five hours, $500), or sunset ($360) sail with Captain Ken Westcoat, a sailing veteran who’ll share history, fun facts, and sailing tips while you watch for dolphins, turtles and more. summerbreezesailingcharters.com

5. Makin’ Whoopee (pies)

Turn up the heat by heading into the kitchen. Harrah’s Viking Cooking School, offers myriad cooking course options, from “Asian Invasion” to “Macarons and Whoopie Pies” (from $89 per person). You can learn to fry, flambe, and sizzle, and then you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor. There are even “date night” classes, especially for couples (check the calendar for complete offerings). harrahsresort.com

6. Two to Tango

Get into the groove at Tango’s Lounge. The newly updated hotspot at the Tropicana is equal parts sophisticated and high-energy, featuring bespoke cocktails, live entertainment, and a rockin’ dance floor. tropicana.net

7. And All That Jazz

The Knife and Fork Inn may have started as a men’s club (women had to wait in the “ladies’ lounge”), but it’s all genders equal now at this romantic, historic spot that hearkens back to its Jazz-Age glory, with lush decor, restored original details, ocean views, and a decadent menu of surf (from $28), turf (from $30), and everything in between. Try the special Knife and Fork Dinner, which includes corn and crab chowder, Jersey tomato and buffalo mozzarella salad, plus lobster thermidor and a 6-oz. filet mignon ($58). knifeandforkinn.com

How to get there: Consult oM’s transit guide to AC.

For more ideas on fun things to do in Atlantic City, visit atlanticcitynj.com. Check out Atlantic City Getaways for up-the-minute deals and announcements about what’s new in town, like Margaritaville.

Photosrowanb73, BOMBTWINZ, Harrah’s, Golden Nugget, Knife and Fork Inn