Garrapata Big Sur Proposal

One of my favorite recent proposals took place at one of Big Sur’s most breathtaking and underrated gems—Garrapata State Park. Rhythm reached out to me a few weeks before his planned date, and luckily, I was available. What made this proposal extra special wasn't just the stunning views—it was the timing and the intention behind every decision he made.

Two people stand on a cliff overlooking the rugged Big Sur coastline with waves crashing against rocky shores below.

Rhythm chose to propose during the last week of April, which, in my opinion, might just be the best time to propose in Big Sur. Why? Because spring break is over, school is back in session, and the Big Sur Marathon—an event that draws thousands to the area—has just wrapped up. That means the usual crowds are gone, hotels are a little quieter, and the coastal trails feel like they're all yours. It’s this rare window where Big Sur exudes calm and privacy, and the light from springtime blooms to golden hour feels like a dream.

Two people stand on a coastal trail overlooking rugged cliffs and crashing waves along the Pacific coast on a foggy day.
Two people stand on a coastal path overlooking rocky Pacific Ocean shores on a misty afternoon.
Two people enjoying scenic views along the rugged Big Sur coastline with rocky cliffs and crashing waves.
Two people enjoy a scenic coastal viewpoint overlooking the rocky cliffs and waves along Big Sur's dramatic coastline.
A couple shares a romantic moment on a cliff overlooking the rugged Big Sur coastline in California.
A couple shares an intimate proposal moment on a cliff overlooking the rugged Big Sur coastline on a misty day.
Two people standing on a coastal cliff path overlooking rugged rocky shores and crashing waves along Big Sur.
A couple embraces while admiring the rugged coastline views along Big Sur in California during an overcast day.
Scenic coastal view at Big Sur with two people embracing on clifftop trail overlooking rocky shoreline and mountains.
Couple enjoying a romantic moment on a scenic overlook above the dramatic Big Sur coastline in California.
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A couple stands on a coastal cliff overlooking the rocky Pacific shoreline on a misty afternoon.

Even smarter, Rhythm picked a mid-week date, which gave us even more seclusion. When we arrived at the bluff trail in Garrapata, we were greeted by crashing waves, dramatic cliffs, and best of all—complete solitude. It felt like the entire coastline had paused for them.

A couple enjoys a romantic moment along the rugged California coastline with cliffs and ocean views on a misty day.
Romantic couple embraces on coastal cliffs overlooking dramatic Big Sur coastline at sunset.
A person in a flowing blue and white floral dress stands barefoot on a coastal cliff overlooking the ocean.

Garrapata is perfect for couples looking for that wild, Big Sur backdrop without the long hikes or complicated logistics. You can park just off Highway 1 and within minutes, you're standing at a world-class ocean view. I always offer pin drops and walkthroughs for my couples so they know exactly where to go—no guesswork, just great light and the most unforgettable scenery.

Close-up of couple holding hands and wearing rings, with blue floral dress and navy blazer visible against outdoor setting.
Couple dancing together on a coastal hiking trail overlooking Big Sur's dramatic cliffs and ocean views.

After she said yes (spoiler alert: she did!), we took a moment to soak it all in before heading down the coast for more portraits at Monastery Beach. The soft sand and coastal cliffs there were the perfect contrast to Garrapata’s rugged cliffs, giving them a gallery full of variety and romance.