The Best Venues to Pop the Question

Proposing to that special someone is nerve-wracking enough; let us take a load off your shoulders and help you choose the best location to pop that important question. When it comes down to it, the perfect venue is a place that holds some sort of special importance to you and your partner, but everyone likes to be romanced and these five settings will be sure to leave your beloved in awe. 

Sunset Cliffs

If your darling is a fan of water, a beach setting is probably the best way to go. San Diego is known for its spectacular beaches, especially during the sunset with the fuchsia-colored sky in the background, but one of the ultimate beach spots has to be Sunset Cliffs. Located right between Adair St and Osprey St, this location is ideal for a picnic along the coastal cliffs that overlook the crashing waves of the Pacific. Try packing wine or champagne, flowers, and some light snacks like fruit or cheeses to truly enhance the romance. It’s advised to bring a blanket or jacket as the ocean makes the weather a bit chilly––but the weather also adds the perfect atmosphere to cuddle up with the one you love. To take it up a notch, try scattering rose petals and laying down candles by themselves or in glass lanterns. Bring some pillows to add comfort and spruce up the ambiance. 

Bertrand at Mister A's

For a more extravagant proposal, a reservation at Bertrand at Mister A’s is an absolute must. Known for its elegant but delectable food combined with its breathtaking views, this restaurant has maintained a reputation for being the go-to fine dining destination in San Diego. This restaurant captures stunning views of San Diego Bay, Downtown San Diego, Balboa Park, Coronado, Point Loma, and even the world famous San Diego Zoo. Chef Stephane Voitzwinkler is the lead chef at this venue and specializes in fresh, local produce. His simpler, more straightforward preparations are distinctly Californian and combined with lighter, more health-conscious dishes which balance out the more indulgent French and German-inspired cuisine. A scrumptious meal will certainly leave your mate fully mesmerized. After all, the way to your loved one’s heart is through their stomach!

Hornblower Cruises and Events

For a unique, literally on-the-water proposal experience, try the Hornblower Cruises and Events. Their San Diego Sunset Dinner Cruise includes a 3-hour cruise aboard a yacht on the San Diego Bay, a private dinning table, a glass of chilled champagne (or sparkling cider for those who don’t drink), a 3-course dinner which is prepared fresh onboard the ship, a DJ for music and dancing, and dazzling views. The San Diego Dinner Cruise departs every night of the year from docks located conveniently downtown and is just minutes from San Diego's Lindbergh Field. With seven impressive boats, there is a wide variety of cruise experiences available sure to leave your significant other speechless. 

Manchester Grand Hyatt

For tourists looking to pop the question in the beautiful city of San Diego, we suggest staying at the Manchester Grand Hyatt and proposing at their decadent sky lounge called Top of the Hyatt. This hotel is well known for its exceptional service and divine contemporary modern aesthetics, but its lounge has equally astounding reviews. Located 40 stories above the San Diego Bay, the Top of the Hyatt offers floor to ceiling windows with dramatic panoramic views of the city and ocean below. They serve crafty cocktails, as well as an assortment of wines, desserts, or hors d’oeuvres to help create the perfect setting to celebrate you and your loved one’s relationship. This high-rise sky lounge, which is open daily, provides a wide array of beverages and foods from local breweries, distilleries, and farms such as Coronado Brewing Co, Ballast Point Brewing Co, Stone Brewing Co, Suzie’s Farms, California Cheese, O’Brian Bakery, and much more. Start off with their meat and cheese board paired with some light wine, then finishing with their chocolate fondue and a rich merlot; it’ll be hard to say ‘no’ after a meal like that! 

The Gondola Company

Yet another venue that’ll be sure to have your partner saying ‘yes’ is an enchanting gondola ride in Coronado by The Gondola Company. This delightful gondola ride recreates a picturesque scene of Venice, Italy with a casual cruise through the canals of the Coronado Cays. Each cruise is approximately 50 minutes and can accommodate up to six passengers, if you desire some family members to witness the special occasion. The sunset views are truly remarkable, which is often accompanied by a sunset breeze. Soft, cozy blankets are provided, as well as ice buckets, glassware, and wine openers. You'll have to buy some bubbly for the actual ride, and perhaps procure some chocolate-covered strawberries or roses if you want to add a little extra charm. The gondoliers will serenade you and your hunny with their exceptional voices, yet are respectful when it comes to giving you private time. When they’re not singing, the gondoliers will be sure to point out noteworthy areas.

Whatever the location, these five spots will be sure to blow your partner away and leave them amazed. I recommend hiring an amazing photographer to secretly capture the entire proposal so you can forever cherish that specific moment. Congratulations on making this big decision, and we wish you the best of luck!