The beach can be a relaxing getaway for couples, and it can also really set the mood for romance! If you’re thinking of taking your relationship to the next level at the beach, consider these 14 beach proposal ideas.
As always at the beach, be aware of tides and wildlife. Your proposal should be a magical moment, so stay safe while you make memories to last a lifetime!
1. Write it in the sand
Write out “Will you marry me?” in the sand, then take a walk nearby with your partner. (Make sure you write your message well away from the tide!)
2. A seaside meal
You can either dress up and prepare a picnic for the two of you (remember a blanket), or set up a table with candles and place settings for two. After dinner, get on one knee and ask the question! Extra points if you wait until sunset.
3. Dollar for your thoughts
Find a sand dollar, and tape or tie the engagement ring to it before you get to the beach. When you “find” it, show your partner and ask them to flip it over for a very romantic surprise. You can do the same with a seashell, if you want the added surprise of opening your homemade ring box.
4. Proposal with a view
If neither of you are afraid of heights, find a seaside cliff and propose after arriving at the top. You’ll always remember how the wind blows through their hair, and you’ll be treated to quite the view.
5. Sailing
Take your soon-to-be on a sailing trip, either by yourself or by hiring a pilot. The waves lapping the sides of the boat can bring a serenity almost unmatched by any other experience.
5. Beach Bonfire
Since before civilization began, people have been mesmerized by the dancing flames of a fire in the dark. Take your beloved to a nighttime bonfire, and let the elemental forces of the flames and the sea carry your words of love.
6. Fire, but smaller
If a fire isn’t feasible (or safe) where you will be proposing, consider candles or tea lights inside paper bags to set the mood. Easy to transport, and very simple to clean up afterward. Lanterns along a boardwalk can be a breathtaking sight.
7. Under the Boardwalk
While the tide is out, have an intimate moment with your sweetheart under the boardwalk or dock. Let them know how much they mean to you, then present them with the ring.
8. Buried Treasure
Bring your sweetheart on a treasure hunt! Follow clues to the beach, where you have already buried a container with your ring inside. Be sure to mark the spot so you can find it, and keep it above the waterline or it’ll be a soggy proposal! Another idea is to have a friend stay with the treasure, and bring a shovel to help dig it up.
9. In the Clouds
Spell out your question in huge letters on the beach, then take them parasailing. From up in the air, they’ll see the whole message, and you can present the ring as soon as they get back to the boat.
10. Seaside Restaurant
Dine out with your partner on a restaurant patio with a view of the ocean. You can arrange for a musician to play for you while you eat, then have them play your partner’s favorite love song for the proposal.
11. Early Morning
A sunrise can be just as romantic as a sunset, and it even serves as a metaphor for beginning this new part of your lives together. In addition, the early morning beach won’t be nearly as crowded as a popular evening spot, so with a little planning you can have the whole beach to yourselves!
12. Beneath the Waves
Go on a SCUBA or snorkel outing with your partner. Bring a waterproof whiteboard to write your proposal on, and show it to them underwater.
13. Fireworks
Hire a party planner to arrange a fireworks display. The lights and colors will play beautifully off the ring, and really set that night apart in your memories.
14. Message in a bottle
Hide a message in a bottle for your beloved to discover while out at the beach. This is an opportunity to put your feelings into words beforehand, so you can relax and focus on enjoying the moment together. Open the bottle and have your partner read what you prepared, then present the ring! (If you have a friend act as a chaperone to assure the bottle doesn’t get lost, you can even put the ring inside!)
However you choose to pop the question, you’ll be creating memories that you’ll come back to again and again as you start your journey together, as you plan for the big day, and beyond!
