Best Places to Propose in California

Photo by Tae Fuller from Pexels​

California is consistently named one of the most beautiful states, so the possibilities are endless when it comes to finding a romantic place to pop the question. Even if you don’t have your engagement ring yet, it’s never too early to start planning an unforgettable proposal. Here are 8 of the best places to propose in California. 

Big Sur

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Even if you and your significant other aren’t obsessed with the outdoors, you’ll both be completely captivated by the beauty of Big Sur. Big Sur is a coastline that runs from San Francisco to Los Angeles. The 90-mile drive is full of lookout points where you can get down on one knee. The drive can take anywhere from 3.5 to 4 hours or more, so make sure to pack snacks! Check out the most scenic Big Sur locations here. 

​Hermosa Beach Pier ​

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Hermosa Beach Pier offers a quiet yet scenic place to pop the question. The over 1,000-foot-long pier provides views of Santa Monica Bay and the Los Angeles area. There are plenty of great restaurants near the beach. Go at sunset to ramp up the romance. The soft sunlight will reflect beautifully off your diamond. 

Griffith Observatory

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Reach for the stars and take your relationship to new heights by proposing at the Griffith Observatory. The observatory’s rooftop has gorgeous views of Los Angeles and will make for a memorable place to present your future spouse with an engagement ring. Or pop the question in their stunning planetarium. Luckily, the observatory is free to visit! 

Wine Country

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Are you and your partner wine enthusiasts? Make it a romantic weekend and tour California’s best vineyards. Fall is generally considered the best time of year to visit the vineyards since it’s harvest season. Some vineyards like Cline Cellars even have sheep and goats roaming the property to clear the weeds, which is especially exciting to see for animal lovers – but they’re not there year-round, so call in advance if you are interested in seeing them.  

Baker Beach

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This iconic San Francisco beach will make the perfect backdrop for your proposal. The 1-mile beach has a fantastic view of the Golden Gate Bridge and South Bay. Note that parking nearby can be hard to find, especially on weekends. 

Related: Romantic Places to Propose in San Francisco  

Balboa Park

Photo by Leslie Cross on Unsplash 

This 1,200-acre historic park in San Diego has over 16 museums, lush gardens, and multiple attractions including the California Tower and the San Diego Zoo. Spreckels Organ Pavilion is a beautiful and popular place to pop the question, as well as in front of the picturesque Botanical Building and Casa del Prado. 

Nobu Malibu  

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Nobu is a world-renowned restaurant that attracts celebrities from far and wide. At Nobu, you’ll enjoy the best sushi and stunning beachfront views. Make the visit even more memorable by asking your sweetheart for their hand in marriage.  

Yosemite National Park 

Photo by Rakshith Hatwar on Unsplash 

The endless splendor of Yosemite National Park will ensure an extraordinary proposal. The top attractions in the massive national park include Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, El Capitan, and Tunnel View. Check out more of the best sights to see here. 

Getting Your Engagement Ring 

Buying an engagement ring online can help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Ritani gives you the unique opportunity to design your engagement ring online to get the best prices, then pick it up or preview it for free at a jeweler or WeWork in California near you. You can also pick up or preview a loose diamond for free. When you preview an item, there’s never any obligation to make a purchase. If you don’t love it, leave it. You can learn more about Free In-Store Preview here. 

​Up Next: Engagement Ring Styles​