Big Sur Proposal Ideas & Packages

We offer fully-planned Big Sur proposal packages where every detail is handled, so you can simply be present for the moment that matters most.

the heart bandits cupid

Trending Proposal Packages

Curated proposal experiences designed for couples who want expert planning without starting from scratch.


Setup 01

Heart Arch Proposal

A romantic heart arch proposal along the Big Sur coast

Discover a beautiful floral heart arch with Marry Me marquee lights or a neon sign, then get down on one knee and pop the question.

What’s Included
  • Proposal duration 1 hour
  • Heart Arch with either ~10 inch MARRY ME marquee lights or “Will you marry me?” neon sign (depends on availability)
  • Carpet and rose petals included
  • Available in Monterey and Carmel as well
Starting at

$1,449

Setup 02

Cliffside Picnic Proposal

A romantic clifftop picnic proposal with ocean views

Walk hand in hand along a gorgeous cliff and stumble upon a romantic picnic with layered rugs, pillows, lanterns, and candlesticks overlooking the ocean.

What’s Included
  • Romantic picnic is setup at your choice of location in Big Sur. Recommendations are provided upon request.
  • Detailed map of romantic picnic location is sent to you in advance
  • Picnic includes layered rugs, pillows, lanterns, florals, and brass candlesticks.
  • Available in Monterey and Carmel as well
Starting at

$979

Setup 03

Musical Serenade Proposal

A musician-serenaded surprise proposal on a scenic cliff

At one of Big Sur’s most iconic cliffside locations, a musician surprises your partner with flowers and a serenade of her favorite love song before you propose.

What’s Included
  • Proposal duration is approximately 15 minutes
  • Musician approaches you and hands your partner a bouquet of flowers
  • Musician serenades your partner with her favorite love song
  • Available in Monterey and Carmel as well
Starting at

$725

Setup 04

Photo Tour Proposal

A hidden-camera walking tour proposal with stunning backdrops

Your partner thinks it’s just a photo tour, but when you reach the perfect scenic spot you drop to one knee and propose — all secretly caught on camera.

What’s Included
  • Proposal duration is 1 hour
  • Explore Big Sur on a Walking Tour of specific area
  • Photographer takes pictures of you and your partner throughout the tour
  • Available in Monterey and Carmel as well
Starting at

$779

Setup 05

Marry Me Marquee Lights Proposal

A marquee-lit hike proposal in the Big Sur hills

Walk hand in hand along a scenic Big Sur hike until your partner is stopped in their tracks by giant marquee lights spelling out “Marry Me.”

What’s Included
  • Proposal duration is approximately 1 hour
  • Letters are set up in a beautiful Big Sur area
  • Detailed map of letter location is sent to you in advance
  • Available in Monterey and Carmel as well
Starting at

$999

Setup 06

Florals by the Sea Proposal

An oceanside floral proposal overlooking Big Sur

Take your partner to a scenic Big Sur overlook where a beautiful floral cluster awaits, then drop to one knee as the ocean waves set the scene.

What’s Included
  • Proposal duration 1 hour
  • 7 flower arrangements (silk and fresh flower mix)
  • Aisle runner sprinkled with rose petals included
  • Available in Monterey and Carmel as well
Starting at

$1,049

Setup 07

Romantic Room Makeover Proposal

A candlelit room makeover proposal wherever you’re staying

Our event design crew transforms your home or hotel room with LED candles, rose petals, and framed photos, complete with champagne to celebrate after you propose.

What’s Included
  • Complete romantic makeover of a room at chosen location. Examples include home, hotel, or outdoor garden.
  • Decorations include 2,000 rose petals, LED candles, and framed pictures of you and your partner.
  • Sparkling wine and toasting flutes included
  • Available in Monterey and Carmel as well
Starting at

$799

Setup 08

Romantic Beach Picnic Proposal

A romantic beach picnic proposal on the Big Sur coastline

Walk hand in hand along a Big Sur coastline beach and stumble upon a romantic picnic with pillows, blankets, and a Marry Me sign surrounded by candles and florals.

What’s Included
  • Romantic picnic is setup at one of our stunning locations.
  • Detailed map of romantic picnic location is sent to you in advance
  • Picnic includes pillows, plates, utensils, blanket, and champagne
  • Includes Marry Me LED sign or Chalk board sign with candles and a fresh floral arrangement
Starting at

$749

The Process

How It Works

1

Choose Your Package

Browse our curated Big Sur proposal experiences and choose the one that fits your love story.

2

We Plan Everything

Our Big Sur planners handle location, decor, vendors, timing, and every last detail.

3

Show Up & Propose

You receive a step-by-step plan, arrive, get down on one knee, and be fully present.

Custom Proposal Planning

Don’t see the exact setup you’re picturing? We design fully custom proposals built around your relationship.

Client Testimonials

It’s not just about pretty setups, it’s about getting it right. Here’s the proof.


Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know about proposing in Big Sur

What does The Heart Bandits proposal planning experience include?

Every experience includes full planning and coordination, venue selection (or your preferred location), timeline + itinerary creation. Our Big Sur Proposal Planners make sure all of the elements included in your proposal package are all handled – you just show up and propose.

What sets you apart from other proposal planning companies?

We’re a family-owned and operated company, and we don’t outsource our proposals to assistants or “team members.” Every single proposal is personally planned by an owner with over 16 years of experience. We also pioneered the modern proposal planning industry – many companies today follow the model we created. Most importantly, we’re known for our exceptional customer service and for truly caring about every proposal as if it were our own.

Why should I hire an Big Sur proposal planner?

Because it makes everything stress-free. We handle the planning, decor, photographer, timing, and logistics so all you have to do is show up, enjoy the moment, and propose.

What should I bring on the day?

Just yourself (and your partner)! We handle setup, proposal elements, timing, and coordination. If you have special items (like a sentimental object, thin engagement ring box, or handwritten note), feel free to bring them as well.

Can I customize an Big Sur proposal package or combine elements from multiple proposal ideas?

Yes. All packages can be customized with enhancements like professional photography, videography, live musicians, florals, signage, and more.

Do you provide photography and/or video?

Yes – most couples add photography or videography to capture the moment. You’ll receive professional edited images and/or video deliverables depending on your package and add-ons.

Are guests allowed to attend my proposal?

Yes! You can include guests in your plan (up to venue capacity limits). Let us know how many people will attend and we’ll plan accordingly.

Do you work with local vendors in Big Sur/Monterrey area?

Yes – we partner with top photographers, musicians, florists, and venues across California. We only work with vendors experienced in proposal execution and timeline management so your experience is seamless.

What happens if the weather is bad?

You have options. Depending on the package, you can reschedule, but we also understand that many clients are visiting Big Sur and may not have that flexibility. If your proposal needs to happen as planned, we’ll explore all alternatives – including moving to a covered location, switching to one of our indoor venues (if available), or setting up at a venue you provide.

Your Big Sur Proposal Planned by the owners

Michele and Marvin personally plan every proposal — no rotating
team, no guesswork. Let’s build the moment you’ll actually want
to remember.

Where to Propose in Big Sur

If you are wondering “Where do I propose?” and you are looking for the best Big Sur proposal spots, we have you covered. With dramatic cliffside views, iconic coastline, and breathtaking natural beauty, Big Sur is a perfect place to propose. If you’re looking for the perfect proposal idea and to have a truly unforgettable proposal surrounded by stunning scenery, Big Sur is here for you. If you don’t see exactly what you are looking for, we create customized proposal packages for you and your partner.
mcway falls
1

McWay Falls

This location not only offers a beautiful waterfall, which is rare in California, but also has a gorgeous cove.  If proposing next to a stunning 80-foot waterfall sounds like a good idea, we agree. This phenomenally beautiful waterfall empties directly into the ocean, one of only a few on the west coast that does. Consider visiting at sunset when the sun’s ray’s hit the water, turning it into a fountain of liquid gold.  Check out a Google street view from the trail on top of the bridge HERE.  You really cannot go wrong with this location especially with the perfectly placed lookout locations.

 big sur bixby bridge
2

Bixby Creek Bridge

You’ve seen this bridge, even if you’re not aware that you have. That’s because it is one of the most photographed places in all of California and has been featured in countless commercials, movies and popular TV shows.  If you’re an HBO fan, then it’s the famous bridge that appears in the hit show “Big Little Lies”. The dramatic view afforded by this 714 foot long bridge is unbeatable, with a perfect vista of the Pacific Ocean beneath, and would be a perfect place to propose.  This bridge opened in 1932 so it definitely has a lot of history.   It brings a lot of the old historic charm of California that you really can’t find anywhere else.

The vista point may get a little crowded on weekends so be sure to time it right so that you avoid crowds for your engagement.  A good proposal idea would be to have a musician waiting here for you.  How shocked would your partner be when you arrive at this gorgeous location with historic bridge and having your song sung?

Pfeiffer Beach
3

Pfeiffer Beach

If an otherworldly experience is what you’re after with your proposal, consider popping the question at Pfeiffer Beach. This tiny beach is the jewel of California and one of the most unique that the gold coast has to offer, with its purple sand and famous rock arch.
This rock arch is officially known as the Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach.  Catch it at just the right time of year and you can even see the sunset rays coming directly through it.
The beach itself is gorgeous and if you approach the northern end of it, there is actually purple sand that is beautiful and unique to this area.

charleston proposal
4

Sierra Mar

This is actually a restaurant which you can see HERE.  It is located at Post Ranch Inn and this iconic restaurant has one of the most fabulous views in all of Big Sur. It has floor-to-ceiling glass windows that offer sweeping vistas of the Pacific ocean. Delicious food, fantastic wine pairings, and a romantic atmosphere make this the perfect location to propose in Big Sur.
An option would be to try to work with the staff of the restaurant to get the most romantic table in the place.  Or maybe come in to celebrate after getting engaged earlier in the day?

big sur proposal idea
5

Soberanes Point

This is a favorite spot of The Heart Bandits!  The location comes seemingly out of nowhere.  It is a striking location where the mountains roll down and cause a drastic border between land and sea.  There are many points on the trailhead that offer beautiful rocky views and also perfect for proposals.  Some good options would be to have one of our Cliffside Picnic proposals or Photo Tour packages here.

big sur lovers point
6

Lover’s Point

This is one of the most iconic and romantic spots in the Monterey/Big Sur area. With its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, it offers the perfect backdrop for a proposal, especially at sunset.  It is a quiet place for an intimate proposal and perfect for couples who love the ocean.

big sur 17 mile drive
7

17-Mile Drive

This scenic drive along the coast offers several picturesque spots to pop the question. One of the best locations is Cypress Point Lookout, where you can enjoy dramatic views of the ocean and coastline.  It’s best for couples who appreciate scenic drives and want to enjoy some privacy.

Scuba Diver Proposal Idea
8

Monterey Bay Aquarium

For an underwater-themed proposal, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a magical setting. You could propose in front of the stunning kelp forest or the colorful sea creatures.  It’s great for couples who love marine life or want a unique experience.

proposal on carmel beach
9

Carmel Beach

Carmel Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand with views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Cypress trees. The sunsets here are nothing short of breathtaking, making it a top choice for a romantic proposal. Couples who love the beach and want a scenic, this natural setting is perfect for their proposal. Sunset is especially beautiful here.

butterfly sanctuary
10

Pacific Grove Butterfly Sanctuary

This place is special because it is a serene and magical place that is home to thousands of monarch butterflies, making it feel like you’re in a fairy tale. The butterflies and the quiet natural surroundings create an intimate and peaceful atmosphere.  It’s perfec tfor those nature lovers seeking a whimsical, natural setting.

11

The Mission Ranch

Owned by Clint Eastwood, this historic ranch has been beautifully restored and is now a charming restaurant and inn. The grounds are beautifully landscaped, and you can enjoy a romantic proposal with a view of the Pacific Ocean in the background.  It’s great for a rustic yet elegant proposal with a touch of history.

malibu-beach-proposal-small
12

Carmel River State Beach

Known for its quieter and more relaxed vibe compared to Carmel Beach, Carmel River State Beach offers a peaceful spot for a proposal. It’s often less crowded, giving you more privacy and a serene atmosphere with views of the river and ocean.
Best for: Couples who prefer a more secluded beach proposal in a tranquil setting.

Ready to start planning your Big Sur proposal?