You want your proposal to be absolutely perfect, with the right level of romance and, ultimately, the all-important “yes!” at the end of it. If you’re dreaming of that perfect proposal in a tropical paradise, there are some fantastic options in places like the Caribbean and Mexico.
You can propose to that special someone on a tropical beach with turquoise waters and white sand. And, with numerous all-inclusive resorts to choose from, you can be sure your romantic vacation will fit you and your partner’s vision of the ideal engagement spot.
We’ve curated a list of the perfect destinations to propose to help you narrow down the list so you can choose the picture-perfect location for your big moment.
How to Choose the Perfect Place to Propose
As you start thinking about the best places to propose, you have to consider what you want and what your significant other may be expecting.
Do you want to go big on the romance, or would you prefer something more adventurous? What type of scenery sets the stage perfectly? What is your partner’s personality, and what activities do they prefer to do? Do they have a specific travel style you should accommodate?
The answers to these questions can help you narrow down your search for the perfect places to propose that will impress your significant other.
Planning a Proposal: Things to Keep in Mind
Once you have chosen the perfect location, you can start planning the other details of your proposal. While there’s no right or wrong way to do it, you will need to consider personal preferences and what will be the best option for you and your partner.
Some of the things you must think about when planning your proposal are the timing, the travel logistics, and keeping the ring safe until the moment presents itself. You may also want to contact your chosen resort to coordinate a photographer to capture the moment, a private dinner to pop the question or celebrate afterward, or an excursion to meet the adventure factor.
Focus on balancing the element of surprise with smart preparations that have a low risk of going wrong.
Best Time of the Year to Propose
In addition to finding the best places to propose, you must find the best time of year to propose. The ideal proposal time will vary depending on the destination. For instance, choosing the dry season in the Caribbean, which runs from December through April, is the right choice for this area. However, for Mexico, it’s better to choose the warm shoulder months.
If you’re not worried about timing and you want to save some money on your trip, many all-inclusive resorts offer special seasonal packages or events to help enhance your experience. After all, when proposing, it’s more important to follow your heart and do what feels right.
Best Time of Day to Propose
The time of year isn’t the only timing you need to think about as you plan. The time of the day can have a dramatic effect on the overall tone of your proposal. Sunrise or sunset proposals offer the most romantic lighting and comfortable temperatures in a tropical climate. It’s one of the most preferred proposal times for many couples, but it’s not the only choice for a romantic proposal.
The golden hour on the beach can be a beautiful time and provides fantastic pictures to commemorate the occasion. Having dinner by the water is a popular activity for couples visiting tropical destinations, making it a good time to pop the question when it may be least expected. Be sure to talk to the resort staff to ensure someone is available to capture the moment for a lifetime.
Location, Location, Location!
One of the most important factors in finding the best places to propose is the exact location within your destination. Don’t limit yourself to the beach alone, even though it is the most popular choice.
When booking your resort, look for locations that have something unique to offer for your proposal location, such as a private rooftop terrace, a secluded cove on the beach, or a lush tropical garden.
All-inclusive resorts in Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic often have beautiful proposal backdrops and private event spaces to ensure you can find the perfect location to propose to your significant other.
Proposal Photography
While every detail of your proposal will last a lifetime in your memories, it’s always a good idea to capture the moment for an eternity in pictures. Hire a professional photographer yourself or ask your resort about hiring one through their list of vendors.
Your photographer should choose a discreet location with a clear view of your chosen proposal spot. An experienced photographer will focus on capturing every element of the proposal, from getting down on one knee through to the reaction, capturing all the emotions of the big moment. Don’t forget to position yourself where the photographer can include the destination’s beauty as a backdrop to your proposal.
RELATED: Best Ways to Propose for Every Type of Couple
Top 15 Perfect Places to Propose
Are you ready to start exploring some of the most romantic places to propose? Mexico, the Caribbean, and other tropical destinations are filled with breathtaking proposal spots that will give you and your partner the ultimate proposal experience to start your journey together.
The following is a list of potential destinations for you to pop the question. As you read through the list, imagine you and your significant other in each place and what their reaction would be. Does your partner expect the ultimate romantic proposal with the sun setting over the ocean in the background? Would it be more fitting to propose during an adventure activity like snorkeling or paragliding? Which location best reflects who you are as a couple?
Tulum, Mexico
Tulum, Mexico, offers a cenote setting and Bohemian beaches that make beautiful backdrops for romantic proposals. The boutique resorts here offer plenty of amenities to ensure each couple has the experience of a lifetime. With sunrise beach walks and private jungle dinners, you can enjoy a tropical experience that will leave a lasting impression and start your new life as an engaged couple on the right foot.
Montego Bay, Jamaica
If you’re looking for a lively, yet luxurious vibe, Montego Bay, Jamaica, can be the perfect location for your proposal, with a blend of unmatched elegance and energy. Your resort can set up a serene beachfront proposal location, a sunset catamaran sailing excursion, or a private candlelit dinner beneath the stars, perfect for your proposal or a way to celebrate your new engagement together.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Riviera Maya, Mexico, offers the perfect blend of culture and natural beauty for couples who prefer to incorporate both elements into their vacations. If you’re looking for something a little more unique, this location is perfect for underwater proposals in a scenic cenote or an intimate proposal in a private beach cabana.
Aruba
Aruba is known for its endless sunshine, white-sand beaches, and easy travel access, making it the perfect place to propose to your significant other. Because it’s so easy to get to Aruba, it’s an ideal location for a more spontaneous proposal with less stress. Consider a heartwarming proposal on Eagle Beach or choose one of the other spots along the island’s stunning coastline.
Cancun, Mexico
Many people visit Cancun, Mexico, for glamorous vacations, but it’s also a great choice for a proposal. This part of Mexico is well-known for its luxurious resorts with rooftop terraces where couples can enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the turquoise waters or book a private yacht cruise to propose out on the water. No matter what location you ultimately choose, you’ll get a perfect backdrop for your proposal.
Maui, Hawaii
Adventure and serenity meet when you choose Maui, Hawaii. It’s often recognized as one of the most romantic destinations, commonly chosen for proposals and honeymoons. This location features fiery sunsets, impressive waterfalls, and beautiful white-sand beaches. It’s the perfect proposal spot for couples who are looking for a more adventurous location or simply love to experience nature.
Los Cabos, Mexico
If stunning scenery is at the top of your list for the best places to propose, Los Cabos, Mexico, is your perfect destination. You can choose to propose among dramatic cliffs or a scenic location where the golden desert meets the sea. You can book one of the various luxury resorts for your stay, or book a sunset cruise along the Arch, where you can propose to the love of your life with a memorable proposal.
Costa Rica
Travelers typically choose Costa Rica for its nature and adventure tourism. The country is home to lush rainforests and eco-resorts that help individuals and couples commune with nature and recharge. With adventurous excursions and trips available, you can impress your significant other with a proposal in the heart of the jungle or with a rushing waterfall as the backdrop.
Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Isla Mujeres, Mexico, is a tranquil island with unique charm and stunning ocean views that make it one of the most romantic places to propose. Couples who are looking for a more intimate proposal experience will find the private beaches on this island to be the perfect choice.
Miches, Dominican Republic
As a lesser-known proposal destination, Miches, Dominican Republic, features fantastic luxury resorts and secluded beaches that give you plenty of places to consider for a private, intimate proposal. It’s the perfect choice if you want a tropical location for your proposal. If you’re craving privacy and indulgence, this is your ideal destination for the perfect proposal.
St. Lucia
St. Lucia is a Caribbean island that offers a fantastic opportunity to propose in a tropical destination for a more cinematic, romantic approach. The island is home to the Piton mountains, an impressive backdrop for your proposal, along with infinity pools carved into the cliffs and rainforest hideaways, giving you plenty of options for a more unique proposal experience. Continue your epic love story on this island.
Negril, Jamaica
The main draw to Negril, Jamaica, is the popular Seven Mile Beach, where you can propose with a surreal sunset as your backdrop. This part of Jamaica also features cliffside resorts and a laid-back island vibe, making it the perfect place to relax before and after your romantic proposal.
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Are you looking for something with a mix of tropical charm, history, and a vibrant culture? Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, checks off all the boxes. It’s a scenic city along the beach, making it perfect to propose to your significant other in a beach setting while having access to everything the city has to offer for the rest of your stay. Choose from colorful locations in Old Santo Domingo or one of the many golden-sand beaches along the coast.
Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos is a popular romantic destination that attracts couples in all stages of their relationships. With ultra-luxurious resorts, beaches along pristine turquoise waters, and a seemingly endless horizon, you can propose to your partner in a picturesque location that feels like it’s straight out of a postcard. You’ll be the envy of your family and friends when they see the pictures.
U.S. Virgin Islands
While many of the other destinations require a passport, U.S. citizens can still get a tropical proposal experience in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The islands offer breathtaking beaches and romantic resorts that are ideal for all types of proposals. It’s a convenient, easy-to-access location for citizens to enjoy a romantic engagement experience.
They Said, “Yes?” Let’s Start Planning!
Congratulations on your decision to ask your significant other to spend the rest of your lives together! As you consider your options for romantic places to propose, you can find a destination that will reflect everything your relationship stands for and will give your partner the engagement experience they have always dreamed about.
If you’re ready to take the next step in booking your destination wedding, contact our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists by filling out our online wedding planning form.
We’re your number-one source for destination wedding planning needs. Whether you choose the same location for your proposal and wedding or prefer to book a different destination, we’re ready to help you with every step of the planning process.
After your partner says “yes” to your big question, fill out our online wedding planning form. We’re excited to start building the wedding of your dreams with you!
