This is the year—I finally popped the question to my partner, and the most difficult part was finding the perfect location to go down on one knee. While finding the right person is undoubtedly the most important part of the engagement process, choosing the perfect location to propose comes in as a close second.
After months of planning, I learned just how stressful it can be to decide on the ideal time and place to ask for my partner’s hand in marriage. Let me save you some headaches and sleepless nights with this list of the 10 best proposal spots across San Diego County.
Inside Sunset Cliff’s Hidden Cave
When it comes to proposing in San Diego, Sunset Cliffs is often at the top of the list (even my brother-in-law and one of my best friends proposed here). For a unique twist, venture off the beaten path and consider trekking down to the Sunset Cliffs cave. The hike from Luscombs Point can be challenging, so make sure to wear sturdy footwear and check the tide charts to ensure the cave is accessible (you can only reach it during low tide). Just remember to keep a firm grip on the ring as you navigate the rocks—you don’t want to accidentally offer it to the fishes.
Among the Gardens in Balboa Park
Balboa Park, with its 130-year history, is one of San Diego’s most enchanting spots for a first date—or an unforgettable proposal. Although the Balboa Park Botanical Garden is under construction until 2025, the Japanese Friendship Garden (JFG) offers a serene and beautiful alternative. Spanning 12 acres, JFG as a beautiful and serene spot for couples tying the knot. Located on 12 acres of winding gardens full of exotic plants native to San Diego and Japan, JFG is the perfect spot for nature-loving couples. Surrounded by hundreds of cherry trees, azaleas, and camellias, you can pop the question in a truly magical setting. The garden is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a $16 admission fee, but for a more private experience, reserve a VIP photoshoot from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., giving you the garden all to yourselves.
Overlooking the San Diego Bay
For something low-key yet special, book a table for two at Tom Ham’s Lighthouse on Harbor Island and reserve a suite at the Pendry for after the celebrations. Tom’s offers fresh seafood and outdoor dining with panoramic views of the San Diego Bay, all within a historic lighthouse that offers two levels of patio seating. Imagine enjoying a plate of freshly caught salmon, a glass of your favorite white wine, and a tray of oysters, and then watching your soulmate’s reaction as you propose at golden hour. Finish the evening with a Champagne toast at Fifth & Rose inside the Pendry Hotel.
Sailing the Seas
There’s nothing quite like being on the water, away from the noise and bustle of the city. If you’re confident enough to venture onto open waters with a ring in your pocket, consider popping the question aboard a private yacht or sailboat from Triton Charters. Just to be safe, take some Dramamine, skip the shots until afterward, and maybe do a few split-squats to steady your sea legs for the big moment. (Everyone thinks they’re steady until they’re making arguably the most nerve-wracking decision of their life. No pressure.) For a more relaxed experience, a dinner cruise with City Cruises starts at $113 per person.
Among the Sealife at the La Jolla Children’s Pool
The La Jolla Children’s Pool is another picturesque location for couples looking to propose. Located along the stunning coastline of La Jolla Cove, this spot offers stunning views of the local wildlife and a variety of nearby venues to celebrate. To access the Children’s Pool beach, park (or valet) in the La Jolla Village and take the stairs on Coast Boulevard to the crescent-shaped hideaway. Avoid weekends, as it tends to get crowded—with both tourists and seals. Walk down to the end of the seawall, which juts out into the ocean, and take a knee with the coastline and a golden sunset behind you. Afterward, enjoy a three-course meal at Eddie V’s followed by drinks at the historic La Valencia Hotel patio or the newly revamped Whaling Bar.
Among North County’s Vineyards
What better way to celebrate your engagement than with a day of wine tasting? Just 30 minutes from San Diego, Orfila Vineyards in San Pasqual offers award-winning wines, tasting experiences, and stunning scenery to enjoy with your partner. Just be careful not to indulge too much in the good stuff before you pop the question—don’t let a buzz get in the way of hours of rehearsal. Time your proposal for sunset and grab a bottle of wine on your way out to keep the celebration going. Afterward, consider adding Orfila’s Wine Lovers Club to your wedding registry for the gift that keeps on giving.
Gliding Above Black’s Beach
If you and your partner are adrenaline junkies, consider proposing while paragliding at Torrey Pines Gliderport. Also, it’s hard to say no to a proposal while soaring hundreds of feet above the ground, right? Jokes aside, for $200, couples can paraglide (or, for $225, hang glide) over Black’s Beach for an unforgettable experience. Afterward, set up a romantic picnic with candles, blankets, and a bottle of wine on the grassy hillside just north of the gliderport.
On Snapdragon Stadium’s Jumbotron
Sure, it’s been done before, but what better way to shout your love from the rooftops than on a giant screen for everyone to see? Sports enthusiasts can propose at Snapdragon Stadium during a Wave, Legion, Aztecs, Seals, or MLS match, sharing the most memorable moment of their life with thousands of other fans. (Be sure to casually check with your partner beforehand so you don’t strike out on the big screen.) For more information about game-day proposals, contact guest services at Snapdragon Stadium.
In a Hot Air Balloon
Inspired by Pixar’s Up, why not take a private hot air balloon ride with your loved one via Compass Balloons? High above the city, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Encinitas coastline, Del Mar cliffs, and rolling hills of Rancho Santa Fe. For $500, the proposal package includes professional photography, a drone video of the proposal, and a post-flight engagement shoot. Whether you choose a sunrise or sunset tour, you’ll toast with complimentary Champagne and create memories to last a lifetime. Pro tip: Tie the ring to a string and through a belt loop until it’s safely on your loved one’s finger—juuust in case there’s any turbulence.
Intimate Picnic on Coronado Beach
If you prefer a more private and intimate proposal, consider reserving a private picnic on Coronado Beach with the help of San Diego Picnics. Their picnic proposal packages start at $535 and include a charcuterie board, a pitcher of lemonade, and optional professional photography during and after the proposal. Celebrate afterward with dinner and drinks at Serẽa, followed by a stay at the iconic Hotel del Coronado.
