There’s just something about the beach that screams romance and makes it the perfect place to pop the question. Whether on Bora Bora’s white sand or visiting a coastal US town, our beach proposal ideas will have you well on your way to making lasting memories of your own.

A Note About Beach Proposals

Before we get into locations—and before you experience despair—ensure that the wedding ring is safe. As with all outdoor proposal ideas, keeping valuables protected is essential. Store the jewelry in its box until you’re ready to ask.

Also, ensure that the ring will be safe if it accidentally falls. Proposing on a pier or by the waves may seem romantic, but it’s important to consider other areas that won’t pose a danger to a precious piece of jewelry.

When you start planning your proposal idea, make sure you consider all the logistics. Depending on your location, check the weather and tides at the time of day you’re planning on proposing. It’s best to be prepared for any circumstance when you’re trusting in nature. High tide and pop up storms can thwart proposal plans in a hurry.

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Where to Propose at the Beach

If you grew up going to the beach, you might envision crowds of people lying on blankets for miles. Of course, you can propose in such a location, but other places are a bit more private.

• On the dunes: Natural dunes are an attraction all their own. When you look out and only see water and mountains of sand, it emphasizes the two of you.
• In the amusement park: Areas that have rides make for adorable photos. They often have romantic alcoves for the perfect proposal.
• On the boardwalk: Boardwalk areas lend themselves to romantic walks, getting ice cream, and viewing the ocean. Consider popping the big question with beautiful beaches in the distance on both sides of you.
• Under a pier: While others are viewing the water from above, steal a moment below the stately pylons.
• Above the water: Helicopter rides can give a different vantage point to a proposal.
• While at a restaurant: Quaint eateries abound by the seashore. Have a romantic meal, then get down on one knee for your special moment.
• In a boat: Take a boat tour of the area. Find a private spot and ask, “Will you marry me?”
• On the sand: Your rental is behind you, and all that is in front of you is the ocean. No matter who else is around, asking on the sand is one of the most romantic marriage proposal ideas.

10 Unique Beach Proposal Ideas

Have a beach picnic proposal

Find a secluded area and set up a picnic. Have a caterer cook a meal and set the scene, or pack a large basket with wine and charcuterie. Eat, enjoy the ocean sounds, and then pop the question. Take a hand-in-hand walk on the beach after the beach picnic proposal to add to the romantic vibe.

Discover a message in a bottle that contains a proposal

Have a friend place and watch over a bottle containing a special message for your partner to find. Take a walk, and when your significant other happens to discover the container, get down on one knee. Ask the question while your watchkeeping friend takes a few photos.

Be an early bird and take a sunrise walk on the beach to propose

The world—well, the beach—is your oyster if you’re willing to get up early. To beat the crowds and have a bit of privacy, set an early alarm and head out on the beach. Wear your bathing suit, PJs, or loungewear if you must. Whatever it takes, grab a few private moments and start your partner’s day with an early surprise.

Write your proposal in the sand

Something as simple as writing, “Will you marry me?” in the sand can be a memorable way to ask. If you or a friend has time, you can also use driftwood or shells to spell it out. Either take a walk and happen upon the saying, or write it while they’re napping on their beach towel.

Find a ferris wheel and propose during a ride

You’re in luck if the beach has a ferris wheel. Quite often, the cars hold two people perfectly, so you can steal a few moments of privacy. Wait until you get to the top where the view is at its peak, then ask. The pods’ secluded nature also allows for a few post-proposal kisses to celebrate a “Yes!”

Hire a sand sculpture artist to design a masterpiece

Beautiful sand art captures attention, and sculptures are a favorite among beachgoers. Quite often, folks encounter several while they are walking on the beach. Take advantage of this, and hire an artist to design a piece that’s uniquely you. Have the art represent a memory you have together. Then, pop the question after you and your SO view the installation.

Schedule a beach photo session

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Beach photos for couples and families are standard. It’s no wonder, as the scenery makes the perfect backdrop for pictures. Hire a photographer to take images, and then pop the question when the time is right. Of course, your photographer will be ready to snap away as you ask and they say, “Yes!”

Go snorkeling and pop the question under the water

Remember the safety point made above? Keep that top of mind if you choose any underwater beach proposal ideas. Go snorkeling or scuba diving, and have someone capture your special moment with a water-safe camera. Not only will you have unforgettable memories, but you’ll also have a unique story to tell.

Make a sunset fire and propose under a colorful sky

Sunset proposal ideas are some of the most romantic. Get a secluded beach involved, and it’s doubly exciting. Check your local area to see if they allow fires—skip this idea if they don’t. Build a cozy fire before sunset, watch the sun go down, and ask when the sky is in full color. Night beach proposal ideas create such fond memories. Plus, this surprise marriage proposal will be a complete shock to your partner.

Head to a destination resort and propose

Get the all-inclusive resort you’re staying at involved in your proposal. Have your bartender slide the ring on the straw of your partner’s drink while they’re sunbathing, or ask the restaurant to arrange a romantic sunset meal for two on a secluded beach. There are many ways to ask during a memorable resort vacation.

If the time of year and your vacation plans hit correctly, asking along the coast can be an enjoyable experience. Just be sure to secure the ring and that “yes” answer by using one of our unique beach proposal ideas. They’re “shore” to love it if you do!