The holiday season is the most popular time of year for proposals, with people taking advantage of the festive spirit and family time. However, that doesn’t mean you should get down on one knee in front of the Christmas tree! Here are four alternative destinations offering spectacular sunsets for an unforgettable proposal backdrop.
- Santorini, Greece
Largest of the Cyclades, Santorini is a favourite for romantic holidays. The bright-white buildings and turquoise ocean glitter in the daylight and turn pink, orange and gold on clear evenings, an enchanting sight at any time of year. In this rainbow glow, every facet of a solitaire round-brilliant diamond engagement ring will shine with a fiery intensity, echoing the strength of your feelings.
Based around a vast volcanic caldera, the sea views from Santorini are striking at every point but best viewed at Oia or Amoudi Bay. Visiting in winter means you escape the crowds of peak season, although you’re unlikely to have the island to yourself at any time of year. Make sure you plan ahead and get to your chosen location early to secure a good spot.
- Big Sur, California
Discover a different kind of ocean setting along the Big Sur coastline in California, USA. The dramatic scenery, featuring the slender McWay Falls and magnificent ‘Keyhole Arch’ at protected Pfeiffer Beach inspires equally dramatic proposals. This is the place if you want to go the whole hog with a speech, glamorous grand halo ring, videographer and even a helicopter!
On the way to your proposal spot, hike through ancient redwood woodland, sure to inspire feelings of wonder and joy. Remember to consider tide times because some of the most beautiful hidden coves aren’t always accessible!
- Maui, Hawaii
If you’re hankering after warmth and sunshine, Maui in Hawaii is a stunning choice. There are tropical beaches at every turn, so you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to places to pop the question, but none is more glorious than the Haleakalā Summit.
Haleakalā, known as the ‘House of the Sun’, is a national park with a strange, volcanic landscape in contrast to the island’s golden shoreline. The summit sits 3,055m above sea level and both sunrises and sunsets here are extraordinary. Whichever option you choose, ensure you’re properly prepared with supplies and warm clothing, and consider high-altitude hiking training prior to your trip.
- Positano, Italy
The entire Amalfi Coast is enchanting, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the Middle Ages, but the terraced cliffsides covered in clambering, colorful houses of Positano have to be the highlight. You can wander gentle ocean-facing trails along the clifftop or sail the coastline, admiring the iconic ‘vertical city’ aesthetic and romantic Renaissance buildings. Either setting is guaranteed to get a ’yes’ from your partner!
Is there anywhere better than Italy for a couple’s getaway? Consider extending your trip to the major cities like Florence or Rome which are filled with exquisite art and architecture, or into the Tuscan hills for a tranquil countryside conclusion.
Warren Driscoll writes about luxury travel. He has over seven years of experience. Since 2018, he has stayed in private villas in Ibiza and Saint-Tropez, and chalets in the French Alps. Warren’s stories have been shared by Indvidual Magazine. He writes honest reviews and gives helpful tips to help people plan great holidays. He also shares his own photos and real experiences to make his advice clear and useful.