9 Best Places to Propose in San Diego

The bright skyline lights and sunny weather make San Diego a romantic setting for any couple embarking on a life together. So, choosing a place to pop the question should be easy, right? Think again. Unlike other cities, the problem might be narrowing down your proposal location choices. The natural beauty of the California coastline creates an abundance of romantic locations throughout the San Diego area that would be perfect for a proposal any time of year. With this in mind, here are our nine favorite places to propose in San Diego:​

Balboa Park and The Prado

With numerous museums, theaters, gardens, sports facilities and a zoo, century-old Balboa Park is easily the most popular attraction in the city. Here you will find that numerous gardens offer intimate spots for a proposal. However, the most well-liked spaces, especially the Lily Pond and Lagoon adjacent to the Botanical Building, are often congested with weekend tourists. If you want to pop the question in one of these crowded spots, be patient, go early or late in the day, or pick weekdays. Keep other overlooked gardens on your short list of backup plans, too. The Zoro butterfly garden and the English-style Marston House garden rarely see huge crowds.

Post-proposal, you can stick to your casual California theme by making reservations at The Prado inside the park. Savor spicy, inspired dishes on the outdoor terrace above the reflection pool while you discuss your future plans.

Torrey Pines State Park Proposal

Photo by Live Your Life Photography

Torrey Pines State Reserve has one of the most beautiful landscapes along the Southern California coast with miles of pristine beaches and about eight miles of hiking trails. The coastal scenery provides an unparalleled backdrop for your outdoor proposal and the staggered California coastline allows for a photographer to capture the moment forever without your bride-to-be knowing.

Taco Proposal

Photo by San Diego Blog

If you’re not into setting up a grand proposal in public, how about indulging in some of San Diego’s most well-known culinary treat—tacos! San Diego LOVES their tacos—they even have a taco festival in May. We love the idea of picking up tacos and having a picnic by the water. Keep it low-key with to-go tacos, then get down on knee, and cheers with bottles of Coca-Cola.

Gondola Proposal at the Coronado Cays

While Coronado Landing at sunset is often crowded, an evening gondola ride provides the best seats in the south bay for a proposal. The Gondola Company offers private 50-minute sunset cruises for couples with an option to add a professional mandolin or violin player. Guests are encouraged to bring their own food and beverages, but the company furnishes glasses, ice buckets and bottle openers.

The La Jolla Coast Walk Trail

This grassy La Jolla park is a favorite summer sunset spot among beachcombers and tidal pool explorers. It is also one of the most visually striking places to propose in San Diego and the surrounding area, which is saying quite a bit. The crowds often stick to the paths. So, if you’re seeking extra elbowroom for an intimate proposal, stay on the grassy spaces. Budget your time to arrive long before the sun hits the horizon. If want to pair your scenic shoreline engagement with a memorable meal, consider making reservations nearby at the award-winning George’s at the Cove. You can enjoy the full So-Cal dining experience on the main floor or keep it elegant and uncomplicated upstairs at the Ocean Terrace bistro.

Embarcadero Marina Parks

The Embarcadero Marina Parks has magical spaces around sunset with spectacular views of San Diego Bay. Whether you pack a picnic, recite a poem, or simply get down on a knee along the shoreline, your significant other will always remember this moment.

Bertrand at Mr. A’s

While San Diego is home to dozens of fine dining establishments with breathtaking ocean views, the rooftop terrace at Bertrand at Mr. A’s serves up exceptional French-influenced American cuisine with a perspective overlooking the entire city. Generously spaced tables encourage private conversations over award-winning wines and dishes.

When calling for reservations, specifically request a table with a view, and be open about your proposal intentions so the staff can assist you in creating the most memorable moment possible. Alerting the staff to these extra details can make a positive and lasting impression that you both will cherish and remember along with the magic of your proposal.

Sunset Proposal at Sunset Cliffs

Sunset Cliffs are the locals’ favorite sunset spot, but you can climb down to the beach if you want to get away from the crowds. This stunning locale features 1.5 miles along the quintessential palm-lined rugged coastline complete with panoramic views–perfect for taking in the ocean breeze and warm sunshine. We love the idea of going for a stroll around sunset and popping the questions right as the sun dips below the horizon.

San Diego Wine Country Proposal

With most vineyards only an hour away from downtown San Diego, there has never been a better time to explore San Diego wine country. Plan a day of wine tasting and propose over a glass of vino overlooking vineyards. There are a number of popular wineries in the San Diego area, with Bernardo Winery and Orfila Vineyards and Winery topping the lists. Plus, a proposal at a winery will give the location meaning in your heart and relationship—making it the perfect place for your wedding or to celebrate future anniversaries.

Are you still seeking the perfect ring for your San Diego proposal? In San Diego, engagement rings with a solitaire setting have been the most on-trend recently. Solitaire engagement rings are beloved for how versatile they are; depending on the styling, they can be classic or modern. A solitaire ring is also an excellent choice for someone with an active lifestyle.

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