Your heart is racing, your palms are sweating…you reach in your pocket for the small, black box. Looking into your love’s eyes you kneel down, and with a shaky voice, you ask the most important question there is: “Will you ma…” BEEP BEEP Vrooooooooooom!! A speeding car steals your thunder. Ideal? I think not. When someone gathers the courage to ask another person to marry them, the moment should be intimate and romantic – two words that describe Kauai – the Garden Island – perfectly. Though many couples plan their wedding on Kauai, the island is also a perfect place to take that first step of proposal. As a Poipu Beach seal, I see my fair share of romantic, coastal locations and have scouted out a few for you. Who says seals can’t be romantic too?
Shipwreck Beach Cliffs
While the word “cliff” may sound intimidating, don’t be deterred – this look out point is easy to get to and very romantic. The view is beautiful any time of day, especially in the evening as the sun sets. What better place to contemplate your future together as a couple?! Shipwreck Beach is one of the most photographed locations in Kauai, but the cliffs are surprisingly less crowded providing an intimate setting. For an elevated experience, these cliffs are your best bet.
Logistics: Located on the southeast corner of Kauai, just on the outskirts of Poipu. Parking is free, but limited. You may also consider parking at the Grand Hyatt and walking down. The trail to the cliff is right at its base off the shore. It’s possible to see cliff divers braving the jump, but don’t worry, there is plenty of coastline to go around.
Hanalei Bay Pier
For those who find romance in history and a rustic vibe, Hanalei Pier is your best choice…especially if you’re a fan of South Pacific like me! Originally built in 1892, the pier was restored in 1912, 1922, and finally in 2013. As the pier jets out into the bay, you and your sweetheart will be surrounded by the ocean water and breeze. It makes me swoon! Many visitors take advantage of the water sports available around the pier. If this is your proposal spot of choice, you can later return over and over again with your fiance to enjoy this special location.
Logistics: Located on the North Shore in Princeville. The pier rests on the eastern part of Hanalei Bay. Due to its popularity, parking by the pier can be difficult on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly. More explicit driving and parking instructions can be found here.
Poipu Beach
As a Poipu Beach seal, I have my obvious preferences and Poipu Beach is unbeatable. Poipu Beach is known as a family-friendly beach and is one of the most beautiful on the island. So why would you want to ask this intimate question on such a popular beach (named “America’s Best Beach” by the Travel Channel)? Because there is more than meets the eye. If you take the time to look around, you’ll find a beautiful, secluded patch of beach that has been cut off from the shore by a shallow swath of sand where waves meet together from two directions. The picture speaks for itself. You’ll be surrounded by ocean and palm trees – just like Hanalei Pier – but this time, barefoot in the sand sensing and embracing all the Kauai is. I can promise you, the moment will be surreal.
Logistics: Poipu Beach is located on the south shore in Poipu, walking distance from the Villas at Poipu Kai. Easy parking by Brenneke’s (restaurant across the street). The beach is busier midday, so plan accordingly.
