San Francisco is a beautiful place to propose. There are so many picturesque locations there that make for a perfect proposal backdrop. If you are looking for San Francisco Proposal ideas, you are in the right place. We have compiled the top 22 places to propose in San Francisco. Let’s get started.
1. Palace of the Fine Arts
This architectural wonder is filled with different places to propose. You can propose inside the majestical rotunda or with it in the background. You can also propose in front of the water with weeping willows behind you. Or you can propose in front of one of the unique colored doors you can find throughout. Do keep in mind that if you plan on any decor, you are supposed to get a permit.
2. Pier 7
We love Pier 7 because it is far less known than other piers in the Embarcadero which means it is far less crowded. That said, it is very charming and features the downtown buildings and the Bay Bridge which make it picture perfect for a proposal. Consider one of our San Francisco Proposal Packages which would be great here.
3. Alamo Square
Can you say Full House anybody! Alamo Square is set right in front of the famous Painted Lady houses that you see on the 90’s show Full House. The colorful victorian homes possess all the charm San Francisco has to offer and for that reason, is a great place to propose in San Francisco. Do keep in mind that this park can get a bit busy.
4. Sutro Baths
The ruins of Sutro Baths are reminiscent of a cliff in another country. This location made our list because it is unique and beautiful and features both an ocean view and views of the cliffs. If you are looking for a place to propose in San Francisco that has history and dramatic views, consider Sutro Baths.
5. Golden Gate Bridge
Proposing with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background is a no-brainer if you are proposing in San Francisco. This bridge is iconic and one of the most recognizable bridges in the whole world. That’s why it makes for the perfect proposal backdrop.
6. Twin Peaks
Twin Peaks is one of the highest peaks in the city so as you can imagine, it is a wonderful option if you are thinking about where to propose in San Francisco. Up there, you will have spectacular views of the Bay Area. Just be aware that it can get busy up there!
7. Battery Spencer
While this location can get busy, we still have to mention it on our list of places to propose in San Francisco. It has an absolutely jaw-dropping view of the Golden Gate Bridge and of the coastline. Consider an early sunrise proposal to try to beat the crowds.
8. Conservatory of Flowers
Historically you have been able to propose in the Conservatory of Flowers with a photographer and no permit. It is a lovely greenhouse with exotic flowers and the building is stunning. If you are looking for a San Francisco vibe that doesn’t feature the famous bridge or ocean view, this is a great choice.
9. Fort Point
For a history buff, Fort Point could be the perfect proposal location in SF. Fort Point was built for the Civil War even though it saw no action during this time. They have some really cool tours here, including a candlelight option. But the most likely reason you might propose here is because of the great view of the Golden Gate Bridge.
10. Baker Beach
Baker Beach is probably our favorite place to propose in San Francisco. It is a mile long public beach located below the rugged cliffs on the Presidio’s western shoreline. It has an amazing view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands which makes it the perfect spot to propose in SF if you are looking for a stellar view. Parking is relatively easy as well. Consider one of our San Francisco Proposal Ideas and packages here.
11. Japanese Tea Garden
Japanese Tea Garden is located in Golden Gate Bridge park and has quite a few picturesque locations that would be great for your proposal photographs. Keep in mind that there is an admission fee if you are not an SF resident or a veteran. You won’t be able to setup any elaborate proposal decorations but if you just want a pretty background for your San Francisco marriage proposal, it may be a good choice.
12. Lands End Labyrinth
If you are looking for a lovely backdrop for your San Francisco proposal, the Lands End Labyrinth is super cool. But sadly, the actual rock labyrinth created by Eduardo Aguilera has been removed. So this location should be used for someone looking for a view of the Golden Gate Bridge and not someone looking for the cool labyrinth.
13. Lover’s Lane
Lover’s Lane Trail is the oldest footpath in San Francisco and was named due to soliders using this path to meet their sweethearts. It is the perfect proposal location in SF for a couple that loves nature. If you choose to propose here, you will be surrounded by eucalyptus, cypress, and pine trees.
14. Presidio
This park is a former U.S. Army post located on the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula. It is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and like so many of our suggestions, boasts fabulous views of the Golden Gate Bridge. This is the perfect SF proposal location if you want views and architecture as your backdrop.
15. Stow Lake
Stow Lake is located in Golden Gate Park and is the parks largest body of water. It is a great proposal location in San Francisco if you are looking for a waterfall and quaint little picnic location. Keep in mind, the waterfall sometimes is turned off so you may want to call the park and see if it will be on when you propose. They also have cute little pedal boats that would be adorable for post proposal photos.
16. Crissy Field
Crissy Field is a popular proposal location in San Francisco. If you are looking for a grassy area that also has views of the ocean AND the Golden Gate Bridge, look no further. It is also right across from Palace of the Fine Arts so you can easily walk over to Crissy Field after a day of exploring where your marriage proposal will be waiting. We are half way through our 22 Places to Propose in San Francisco…
17. Kirby Cove
If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind view of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay, and you are willing to trek down a steep 1 mile hike, then Kirby Cove is for you. Once you do get to the cove, you are treated with panoramic views of the city. There is even a cute little wooden swing there. Do keep in mind that this is a challenging trail and not good for those with disabilities.
18. Lands End
We kind of touched on this above but Lands End has some epic trails that wind their way around rocky cliffs above the ocean. The trail moves through shady trees to reveal spectacular views of the shore, Marin Headlands, and the Golden Gate Bride. You won’t be disappointed if you choose this as your proposal location.
19. San Francisco Botanical Garden
Don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on flowers for your marriage proposal? San Francisco Botanical Garden is always a great proposal location due to the wide array of florals. With 55 acres of landscaped gardens, there are many areas that make for the perfect proposal location.
20. Berkeley Rose Garden
While not technically in San Francisco, Berkeley is SF’s neighbor and the rose garden is a great proposal option. There are of course many locations throughout the garden that would be the perfect proposal location. But they also have a ceremony area that you can rent!
21. Marin Headland
The Marin Headland is a place filled with rich history. You will also get sweeping views of the coastline. If you are looking for dramatic views of the cliffs and the ocean, this is one of the best proposal locations in San Francisco.
22. Rooftop
One more way to get epic views of San Francisco for your marriage proposal is by booking a San Francisco rooftop. Don’t forget to add a photographer and decorations to really enhance the space.
There you have it! We hope you enjoyed reading our top 22 places to propose in San Francisco. If you want to start planning a dream proposal that will truly resonate with your partner, contact a Proposal Planner from The Heart Bandits today.