Puerto Rico's laid-back tropical paradise is the perfect setting for romance. Imagine a midnight stroll on a beautiful secluded beach, listening to the gentle waves caressing the shore. Or swimming in the crystal clear waters, seeing brightly colored fish darting beneath you. Or just kicking back, soaking up the sun on a sparkling white beach. Spending your evening at an intimate 5-course meal and sipping champagne, swaying to the beat of a live band for dessert. And then retiring to your comfortable bedroom for some real alone time. All of these make for a romantic interlude anywhere, but in Puerto Rico, they become an art form.

Dining on the island is superb, ranging from sandwiches to top-shelf fine dining. Choose from a huge variety of cuisine - American, German, Argentine, Middle Eastern, Spanish, Italian, French, and Mexican. Being an island, the seafood is ultra-fresh and mouth watering. Be sure to try some of the authentic Puerto Rican foods, too, like arroz con pollo and mofongo. There are plenty of cozy little cafes and bistros that are perfect for those candlelight dinners for two.

During the day, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Horseback riding on the island is a great way to explore trails, forests, caves, and beaches. Both of Puerto Rico's stables use Paso Finos for the rides. This breed of horse has such a smooth gait, riding them is like sitting in a rocking chair, so you don't have to worry about saddle sores. Even beginners will be matched to a suitable mount and have a safe, enjoyable ride.

For golf enthusiasts, the island boasts 23 courses, both 9-hole and 18-hole. Most were designed by legends like Robert Trent Jones, Jack Nicklaus, Arthur Hills, and Puerto Rico's own Chi Chi Rodriguez. The courses are so beautifully landscaped, with such magnificent views, that even non-golfers will enjoy the links.

Scuba diving is popular in Puerto Rico because of the geological diversity and the 100ft.+ visibility. Just off the coast, the islands of Desacheo and Mona have been designated as Natural Reserve Parks, so their marine resources have been protected, thereby ensuring the best dives in the area. The two islands also offer excellent snorkeling, with the best fringed coral reefs in the Caribbean.

Several licensed boats can take you out for some deep-sea fishing. Battling a big wahoo, sailfish, blue or white marlin, or a blackfin tuna can really get your blood pumping. Even if one of you doesn't fish, the ride to and from the fishing grounds will be fun, and you can always catch a few rays while watching your significant other haul in a whale.

Puerto Rico knows how to party and has many sizzling night clubs. Dance to the hot rhythms of local bands, top 40, and hip-hop. Or if you prefer something a little more sedate, check out one of the jazz clubs with live performances. The island also has some nice theaters and live shows you won't want to miss.

Lodging includes hotels, bed and breakfast inns, apartments, condominiums, and luxury resorts. There are several all-inclusive resorts that totally pamper guests, and some are for couples only, so if you go to Puerto Rico for a romantic getaway from the kids, you don't have to worry about someone else's kids hampering your vacation.

If you're visiting on a budget, Puerto Rico has some great deals on rooms and suites. For example, you can stay a whole week at the Ashford Imperial, which has trendy boutiques, a Parisian-style cafe, and an attractive lounge, for about $500. The hotel is only a block away from the beach and is within walking distance of several restaurants. For reasonable rates on large spaces, check out the condos at ESJ Towers, located in the beautiful Isla Verde area, which is famous for its beaches, casinos, restaurants, and entertainment. Prices at ESJ Towers start around $100 per night.

For the ultimate in privacy, rent a private vacation home in the popular Ocean Park area. With a little searching, you can find a house rental in Puerto Rico for as low as $100 a night. Complete with full kitchens, couples who enjoy cooking romantic meals can shop for fresh local delicacies and prepare gourmet dinners themselves. This would not only be the perfect formula for a romantic evening in complete privacy, but it could also save the expense of having to dine out every meal.

Puerto Rico is an absolute paradise, perfect for honeymoons, second honeymoons, or just a couple's excuse to spend some quality time alone. There is as much or as little as you want to do, whether it be watersports, golfing, horseback riding, or just sitting on the gorgeous beach, watching the world go by.