Posted: Tuesday, Aug 27th, 2024

By Visit Ventura

10 Romantic Proposal Spots in Ventura, CA

With rolling green hills, breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and less crowded beaches, it’s not hard to find romantic proposal spots in Ventura. We know the day you decide to pop the question can be nerve-wracking as it is, so we’ve pulled together the most picturesque, romantic proposal spots in Ventura to help you plan your special day. Whether you want an oceanfront proposal, a proposal surrounded by natural beauty, or a romantic proposal spot with scenic views, Ventura has it all.

Here are 10 romantic proposal spots in Ventura to help you plan!

1. Ventura Pier

Romantic Proposal Spots in Ventura: Ventura Pier

We don’t think it comes as a surprise that the historical Ventura Pier has made it toward the top of the list for the most romantic proposal spots in Ventura. As one of the oldest wooden piers in California, it offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, the Channel Islands National Park on bright and clear days, and the Ventura coastline. 

Imagine it: strolling hand in hand along the wooden planks while the salty breeze blows through your hair, and the sunshine warms your face. Then, pause at the end of the pier, where the sounds of the waves crashing are beneath you. Whether you choose a sunrise proposal with a quiet, intimate moment or a sunset proposal with the sky ablaze in oranges, pinks, and purples, the Ventura Pier offers a timeless, historical, and memorable setting. 

2. Serra Cross at Grant Park

serra cross sunset ventura grant park
Courtesy of Steve Cattanach

If you’re looking for a background with a true WOW factor, Serra Cross at Grant Park is a must-visit. Perched high above Ventura, this historic landmark offers a bird’s eye view with breathtaking views of the city, coastline, and the blue ocean beyond. 

The scenic overlook is especially romantic at dusk when the city lights begin to twinkle and the sun begins to set, painting the sky purple and pink. It’s an ideal spot for a sunset proposal and you certainly will have memories and photos that you’ll look back on fondly!

3. Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island

Romantic proposal spot at Inspiration Point Anacapa Island
By Doug Mangum

For a truly memorable proposal spot, consider proposing at Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island, one of the Channel Islands. Accessible by a scenic boat ride via Island Packers, Anacapa Island offers rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views. Inspiration Point, aptly named, provides one of the most awe-inspiring views in the national park, where you can gaze out over the island and the ocean. 

Just a 1.5-mile, round trip hike, drop down on one knee as graceful gulls and pelicans soar above the waves. Imagine dropping to one knee with the Pacific stretching out behind you—it’s truly a magical fairy-tale moment!

4. Potato Harbor Overlook on Santa Cruz Island

Potato Harbor Santa Cruz Island

Another picturesque proposal spot within the Channel Islands National Park is Potato Harbor Overlook on Santa Cruz Island. You’ve probably seen photos of it — the unreal blue waters and view of the west and the rest of Santa Cruz Island. Though this secluded spot requires a bit of hiking, the effort is well worth it. Surrounded by cliffs and offering sweeping views of the turquoise waters below, Potato Harbor is the perfect location for nature-loving couples who want a private, intimate proposal spot just for the two of you, far away from the crowds. 

5. Marina Park

Romantic Proposal spots Marina Park mermaid

A beautiful outlook on the beach, Marina Park’s Soter’s Point is the perfect picturesque romantic proposal spot in Ventura. With beautiful views of the coast, the gentle sound of waves washing onshore, and the iconic mermaid statute in the background, Marina Park would make an amazing proposal location. You can plan a surprise picnic and walk along the shore. Wait for sunset to pop the question! 

6. Mission Grotto

Ventura Mission/grotto

Looking for a romantic proposal spot in Ventura that many don’t know about? For a unique spot, consider the grotto/garden at Mission Basilica San Buenaventura. For the ultimate spot of peaceful tranquility, the grotto is a hidden gem. The Spanish tiled fountain in the middle of the grotto, the beautiful trees, flowers, and pathways, and the sounds of the mission bells combine together for the ideal proposal spot in Ventura. 

7. Ventura Botanical Gardens

Couple at Botanical Gardens
By Tana Hayes

Nature-loving couples will feel right at home at the Ventura Botanical Gardens. With over 100 acres of diverse landscapes and stunning views of the ocean and the city along every step of the pathways, there are a ton of picturesque romantic proposal spots to choose from! Choose the Mediterranean portion of the gardens where you’ll find a beautiful overlook of the ocean while dozens of plants surround you. The Ventura Botanical Gardens provides a peaceful and intimate setting, perfect for a romantic walk followed by a heartfelt proposal.

8. Harmon Canyon

Romantic Spot in Harmon Canyon

Hike to new heights and pop the question where you’ll feel on top of the world. For couples who enjoy the great outdoors, Harmon Canyon offers a scenic hiking experience that culminates in stunning vistas. The canyon’s rolling hills and oak groves provide a beautiful and secluded backdrop for a proposal. Reach one of the higher vantage points, and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Ventura and the Pacific Ocean. Talk about a picturesque romantic proposal spot in Ventura!

9. Surfers Point Dunes

Keep walking north beyond the iconic Surfers Point, and stumble upon Surfers Point Dunes. This spot is known for its sweeping dunes, a beautiful walkway out on the sand, and the Ventura waves breaking in the background. You can take a romantic walk along the dunes, watch the surfers, and find a secluded spot to pop the question. 

10. Emma Wood State Beach

Romantic Spots in Ventura: Couple on Emma Wood State Beach

Last but certainly not least, Emma Wood State Beach is another Ventura beach that makes for a picturesque romantic proposal spot. This less crowded beach offers a more intimate setting with stunning coastal views and a rugged, natural charm. 

Emma Wood is also known as the best spot for dolphin sightings! Imagine getting down on one knee as dolphins jump out of the water! Set up a cozy picnic, walk along the shoreline, or even wait until dusk for a beautiful sunset backdrop. With its sandy shores, dolphin sightings, and beautiful views, Emma Wood State Beach is the perfect oceanfront proposal location in Ventura to wrap up our list of picturesque romantic proposal spots in Ventura!

Plan a romantic beach vacation getaway in Ventura today!

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