The best places to propose in the Margaret River region

Asking your partner to marry you is truly one of life’s most extraordinary moments, and of course you’ll want everything to be just perfect.  If you’re considering making the South West your special spot, there are a range of unforgettable opportunities: a tranquil forest hike; a sunset picnic under a sky marbled with vibrant colours; indulging in a degustation at one of WA’s best winery restaurants and then proposing in the vineyards; or even throwing in a bit of thrill seeking. This is your engagement, your way.

The best places to propose in the Margaret River region

Meelup Beach

One of the most beloved and pretty beaches in the area. The aquamarine water is clear and protected from fierce winds, and the sand a Chantilly cream colour. This isn’t a one-dimensional beach, however, because there are lots of options open to you. Head over to the quiet sandy area in the south, or seek privacy near the mound of burnt orange and red rocks in the north. You could also choose to have a picnic or BBQ on the grass underneath the swaying peppermint trees, while another option is the walking trail with amazing lookout points.

Meelup Beach

Soaring high above the landscape

Unique, memorable, and it clearly shows care and planning: this is Proposals 101. We’re talking an extravagant marriage proposal in a helicopter. Depending on budget and other plans for the day, you could take a 15-minute joy flight over forests and fields or perhaps a 60-minute lighthouse flyover. For something even more luxurious, splash out and book a half-day of flying between wineries, capped off with a gourmet lunch. Visit Scenic Helicopters or The Flying Corkscrew for more information and advice.

Wilyabrup Cliffs

For the outdoorsy, take a bush hike that culminates in the most spectacular of views. Getting to Wilyabrup Cliffs involves a 1km walk from the carpark through various terrains, and it is particularly beautiful during wildflower season from September to November. The dramatic cliffs can be found 7kms north of Gracetown and once there you can simply sit and drink in the panorama side-by-side. What’s even better, if your love is into adventure you might like to surprise them with rock climbing (join a tour if you like) and your sweet proposal to cap off the experience.

Boranup Forest

Your first thought as you pull over will be “wow”. Boranup Forest is an atmospheric and otherworldly place, with skyscraper Karri trees stretching up into the sky, fairy wrens fluttering around you, and noises of the modern world shut out. Although the forest is thick on the ground, it’s airy and bright above knee height with dappled sunlight spilling through the canopy, creating the most romantic of settings. Pull into the small parking area on Caves Road and amble across the road hand-in-hand as you gaze up in awe, or drive the unsealed roads to Boranup Lookout.

Boranup Forest @hamishstubbs

Castle Rock Bay

Just around the corner from Meelup is this secluded bay. Hugged by stunning rock formations on either end with shallow water in front, this is an Instagram-worthy place to pop the question. It’s so picture-perfect, in fact, that it’s the location of the annual Gourmet Escape Beach BBQ. Why not plan an intimate picnic before popping the question over a glass of bubbly? Read more about professional picnic organisers who can set up everything before you arrive.

Canal Rocks

The wild waves thunder over the rocks below as you peer over the railing. The salty air twirls your hair with imaginary fingers, and you watch the waves retreat again. This is the best view in the house from your vantage point on the Canal Rocks boardwalk. The rusty red rocks juxtaposed against the indigo water and the foamy whitewash make for dramatic photos of your big moment as you hug each other close.

Between the vines

If your soon-to-be-betrothed is a food and wine enthusiast, we’d recommend a cellar door tour paired with a degustation lunch at one of the region’s finest wineries. Look into the lavish experiences at Wills Domain, Leeuwin Estate, Vasse Felix or Voyager Estate for that extra special occasion. Some packages also include walking through the famous vineyards, meeting winemakers, and learning about wine and viticulture.

Sugarloaf Rock

There’s a very good reason why wedding photos are frequently shot here. The enormous granite rock, separated from the mainland only by a narrow channel, rises from the ocean like it’s been pushed from below by mighty hands. Sunset views from the mainland elevation are an absolute treat, so if you’re picturing sinking down on one knee under a spectacular sky streaked with a kaleidoscope of colours, this could be ‘the one’ for you.

Sugarloaf Rock @lynton.wa

Shelley Cove

You’ll find this secret little beach just a short walk from Bunkers Beach House. You might like to have breakfast or lunch together on the café’s deck overlooking the dazzling white sand, and then stroll hand-in-hand on the trail to Shelley Cove. It’s not a strenuous walk by any stretch but it is through a bit of bushland. There are many other picturesque beaches in the area so if you’re planning a blissful coastal proposal, read this article.

For the cherry on top, hire one of the South West’s wedding / engagement photographers to take some candid shots or even an event planner to take care of the proposal details for you. And if you’re looking for dreamy accommodation to really set the scene, visit our portfolio of South West holiday homes.

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