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Did you know 37% of couples become engaged between November and February? With Valentine’s Day just a few weeks away, you might be considering popping the big question. Shopping for the perfect ring is probably first on your list but finding a unique proposal spot should be second. A place out of the ordinary will not only ensure a memorable event but think of the fantastic pictures you will capture. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be. Read on for nine unique proposal spots in and around San Diego.

A French-built sailing yacht cruising by the San Diego skyline with blue skies is one of many unique proposal spots.
Photo courtesy of Eco Boat Rentals.

1. Surprise Your Fiancé on a Private Sailboat Tour

If you want your proposal to be a surprise, a private, chartered sailboat tour from Eco Boat Rentals is a unique and romantic choice. Your soon-to-be fiancé will be none the wiser as you board a gorgeous French-built sailing yacht for an adventure. Keep it intimate with just the two of you or invite close family and friends to share in your joy as the sailboat can fit up to six people. Cruise along the magnificent San Diego skyline, learn about famous landmarks and when the time is right and the sky is aglow, ask the big question. Make sure those on board have their cameras ready. After you hear yes, pop the champagne and celebrate.

Spruce Street Suspension Bridge with green trees flanking each side
Photo courtesy of Visit San Diego Facebook page.

2. A Suspension Bridge Makes the List of Unique Proposal Spots

For the more courageous, the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge is high up on our list of unique proposal spots. Located in a residential neighborhood of Banker’s Hill on West Spruce Street, this pedestrian bridge sits 70 feet above Sessions Canyon. Flanked by trees, it gives off a secluded vibe. Not for those with a fear of heights, the bridge may sway back and forth when crossing. The views are incredible though. It is part of San Diego’s 7 Bridges Urban Hike, an easy 5-mile jaunt. So, if this bridge isn’t quite right for you, there are 6 others to choose from.

An inside photo of the 1895 Looff Carousel with wooden carved colorful horses to ride
Photo courtesy of Seaport Village Carousel Facebook Page.

Located in Seaport Village, the 1895 Looff Carousel is a piece of history. Built by Charles I. D. Looff, a master amusement park carver, it has traveled all over the country. First installed in Fair Park, Texas, it made stops in Santa Monica, California, Spanaway, Washington and Burbank, California before landing in San Diego in 2005. Mr. Looff built over 50 carousels in his lifetime, but only 4 remain today. For a proposal with a touch of whimsy, the 1895 Looff Carousel is the spot.

The Unconditional Surrender statue beside a navy ship in Tuna Harbor
Photo courtesy of Unconditional Surrender Facebook Page.

4. Recreate an Iconic Pose after Proposing at the Kissing Statue

Unconditional Surrender is a 25-foot tall, 6000 lb. statue downtown in Tuna Harbor Park. Created by J. Seaward Johnson, it is also known as the kissing statue or Embracing Peace. While this is a popular and crowded tourist attraction, picture getting down on one knee under the enormous figure with the crowd cheering you on. Afterwards, dip your love backwards and plant a smooch just like the famous 1945 picture the sculpture is based on. A proposal that will not soon be forgotten.

A couple snapping pictures on a glow boat from Eco Boat Rentals. The both is bathed in green, blue and magenta lights contrasted against a dark sky and sea.
Photo courtesy of Eco Boat Rentals.

5. How about a Glow Boat for a Nighttime Proposal Spot?

If your idea of the ideal proposal includes only the two of you, then you should consider a glow boat ride from Eco Boat Rentals. Each boat is bathed in 360 degrees of colorful lights and includes a mirrored disco ball and Bluetooth speaker to create the perfect ambiance. For more suggestions on how to turn a glow boat ride into the most romantic and unique experience, check out the blog post, Looking for a Romantic and Unique Gift Idea. Find recommendations on what to bring on board, a list of love songs and delicious restaurants for dinner to complete the evening.

Blue couches and a fire pit on the rooftop bar of Level 9 with skyscrapers in the background. Rooftops make for unique proposal spots.
Photo courtesy of Level 9 website.

6. Rooftops are Unique Proposal Spots with a View

Imagine yourself and your loved one atop one of many of San Diego’s rooftop bars. Spectacular views of the city rise around you. A gentle, ocean breeze ruffles your hair. After some tasty lite bites and a cocktail or two, you bend down on one knee and ask the biggest question of your life. Sound amazing? If so, check out the rooftop bars below.

The Spreckels Organ flanked by a elaborate archway with performers and a band on stage
Photo courtesy of the Spreckels Organ Pavilion Website.

7. Incorporate a Giant Organ into Your Marriage Proposal

Music lovers rejoice. There is a totally unique spot for your marriage proposal. Situated in a century old pavilion in Balboa Park is the Spreckels Organ. The largest outdoor pipe organ in the world, it can duplicate almost any sound a musical instrument can make. Performances take place on Sundays at 2:00pm for free. In addition, special events are planned in the evening throughout the year. With a dramatic archway surrounding the organ’s 5,000 pipes, it is a beautiful backdrop for your proposal pictures.

Two chimpanzees hanging in a tree at the San Diego Zoo
Photo courtesy of the San Diego Zoo website.

8. Propose in Front of Unique Spectators at the Zoo

Is your fiancé an animal lover? Then why not propose at the San Diego Zoo? Housing over 4000 animals, there is sure to be a species your partner will adore. This is another good spot for a surprise proposal. Play it as just an afternoon outing in San Diego and then delight your mate with the ring. You can even host a wild wedding at the zoo. The zoo is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

A gazebo flanked by flora and plants at the San Diego Botanic Garden. Their 29 gardens offers several unique proposal spots.
Photo courtesy of the San Diego Botanic Garden Facebook page.

9. Let Your Love Bloom at the San Diego Botanic Garden

Not just for weddings, the San Diego Botanic Garden is a 37-acre urban oasis with 29 uniquely themed gardens. It provides plenty of unique proposal spots to choose from. Leisurely walk their four miles of trails hand in hand. As the ocean comes into view, ask your future betrothed to marry you. While you are welcome to snap personal pictures of the occasion, professional photography requires prior approval, and a fee applies.

A Pink Party Boat Cruise at twilight with the San Diego skyline lit up behind.
Photo courtesy of Eco Boat Rentals.

10. A Pink Party Boat Cruise is a Fun Proposal Spot

For those who love a good time, a Pink Party Boat Cruise is a fun and lively place to propose. Invite your friends and family (make sure they wear pink!), pack a scrumptious picnic complete with a bottle or two of bubbly and set off on a beautiful tour of the San Diego Bay.  Play romantic songs over the Bluetooth speakers to set the mood. When the time feels right, ask your loved one to marry you. Then, it’s time to celebrate! Each Pink Party Boat can accommodate 6-8 guests and comes with a captain to pilot the vessel safely. A Pink Party Boat also makes an excellent location for a bachelorette party.

We hope these ideas inspire you to create a truly special and unique proposal. Share your proposal story in the comment section below.