Big Sur Elopement and Wedding Photographer | Lynn Lewis Photography
  • Home
  • Work
  • Guides
    • How to Plan a Big Sur Elopement
    • Top 10 Big Sur Wedding Venues
    • Carmel and Monterey Wedding Venues
    • How to Plan a Big Sur Proposal
  • Blog
  • About
  • Pricing
  • Contact
How to Plan a Big Sur Elopement
Top 10 Big Sur Wedding Venues
How to Plan a Big Sur Proposal

How to Plan a Big Sur Proposal (Updated for 2025)

5/28/2025

2 Comments

 
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur has long been a perfect location for romance - with its towering redwood forests and rugged coastline, it's no wonder that so many couples choose to propose here! Its remote location and otherworldliness makes it an ideal location for proposals. If you're thinking of getting engaged in Big Sur, check out the guide below for tips on how to choose a location for your proposal and important things to consider when travelling to this area!
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
"​I am a photographer myself and majored in it,
​and the time came when I was proposing to my now fiancé! We were traveling through Carmel, CA and I found Lynn’s work - everything was great, her compositions, framing, editing, selects, locations. She provided me locations, how to get there, and made a very very special moment for us absolutely amazing and stress free!!! It was an incredible experience and the captured moment is forever perfect. We are printing these out for our home and will cherish them forever! Thank you Lynn!!!!!" - J + J
Picture

125+

proposals photographed here in Big Sur

430+

total Big Sur weddings and sessions photographed

8+

years of experience photographing couples

​Whether you're visiting Big Sur for the first time as a bucket list destination, or returning back to explore California coastline, I got you. I'm here to be your Big Sur expert. All proposal packages include:
  • Hidden gem locations to choose from with photo examples, descriptions of trail difficulty, and current trail conditions depending on season and weather
  • Detailed instructions such as GPS coordinates, maps with drawn out trails, and even video walkthroughs of difficult to find locations
  • Photography permits included at recommended locations for no additional fees
  • Timing and day of week recommendations based on what you're looking for, whether that's to chase specific colors and lighting, or to fit in a dinner reservation
  • Sneak peeks delivered within 24 hours so you can announce your engagement
  • Vendor recommendations if you're looking to have a picnic or floral set up
  • Outfit recommendations if you're not sure what to wear
  • Big Sur travel guide and map to help you plan your trip, including hotel recommendations, things to eat, and places to go
Let's do it!
Picture
Picture
Picture
If there's one thing to know about Big Sur, it's that there are countless viewpoints all along Highway 1! From the rocky coastline of Garrapata State Park, to the redwood trails at Pfeiffer Big Sur, to the giant rock formations at Pfeiffer Beach, to the waterfalls of Julia Pfeiffer Big Sur, you certainly have many options when it comes to choosing a spot to propose. Dotted along Highway 1 are also hotels and cabins ranging from the luxury resort of Alila Ventana Big Sur to modern cabins of Glen Oaks to quaint stays like Deetjen's. If you're not hiring a photographer, you can choose any one of these locations!

But there is truly something so special about having your proposal documented - it's a moment of such genuine joy, tears, and happiness. If you are hiring a photographer, you'll want to plan ahead. Choosing a location with your photographer can make a huge difference in the experience and in the photos that are captured, especially because not all locations work. For example, McWay Falls is a gorgeous waterfall over the ocean but is much too crowded for a proposal, doesn't allow professional photography, and has no good viewing points to capture both a couple and the waterfall all in the same photo. Pfeiffer Beach is another popular spot, but is often closed due to flooding or wildfires, and known to be extremely windy. Most locations within Big Sur require obtaining a professional photography permit as well. So it's super helpful to have a photographer who knows the area well and can recommend the best locations!
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
"Where to begin.
Lynn is just incredible! We flew across the country for our proposal and Lynn captured the moment so well. She was so helpful organizing all the logistics before the big day and was always quick to respond to any questions I had which made planning so easy. If you want a photographer that will blow your mind, pick Lynn." - J + A
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer

Where to Propose in Big Sur

​What are the best spots for proposals then? Here's the truth: the best locations are the ones that you find simply by exploring! But if you aren't familiar with the area or don't have the time to scout it beforehand, don't worry. As an expert in planning and photographing Big Sur proposals, I've scouted out all the different trails to help you choose the best location for what you're looking for. Most of these locations can't be found labelled anywhere on Google Maps, which means that most of time you'll be the only ones there! This makes for a much more private proposal away from the crowds. When narrowing down a location, I typically recommend considering a few factors.
​
PERMITS: If you plan on having a photographer, you'll need to know that all state parks in the Carmel and Big Sur area require a photography permit through the California Film Commission. This can be obtained as an individual permit for one specific session, or an annual permit. Some parks, such as Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, don't issue permits. For the parks that do issue permits, each park (Garrapata State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer State Park, etc.) requires its own permit, so the redwoods state park permit is a separate application and fee from the coastal state park permit. If you plan on taking photos in the redwoods and coast, you'll need both permits. The redwoods state parks also have an additional restriction that sessions can only take place on Monday through Thursday dates.

To apply for and obtain a session permit, the photographer will need to submit an application that includes a certificate of insurance and a description of which trail they will be going on. That's why it's important to hire a photographer who knows where to go, as they will need to include this information on the permit application. (But don't worry - I obtain annual photography permits for both the redwoods and coastal state parks in the Big Sur area, so you don't have to worry about a thing!)

Picture
Picture
Picture
CURRENT ROAD AND TRAIL CONDITIONS: Big Sur is a rugged destination, so that means that trail and road conditions can often change! It's important to keep up to date on current conditions so that you can plan accordingly. For example, since the March 2023 Highway 1 closure, you can visit most of the major viewpoints Big Sur is known for, but you can't drive the scenic route on Highway 1 from San Francisco straight to Los Angeles - instead, you can take the 101. This road closure isn't expected to reopen until 2025. Use Google Maps, Big Sur Kate, and Caltrans to check current road conditions. However, luckily this doesn't affect being able to explore most of Big Sur so don't worry!

Trail conditions can often change as well. For example, the Pfeiffer Falls trail closed in March 2023 from the same storms that closed Highway 1, but you can reach the same waterfall through the Valley View Trail. Some trails in Big Sur can also get overgrown with poison oak, so it's best to visit those in the winter months. It's always good to be flexible when exploring Big Sur - you never know what hidden gems you'll find along the way! The great thing about this area is that even if one trail is closed, there are countless more locations that are just as beautiful. And as a local Big Sur photographer, I'm often visiting these locations multiple times a week and keeping up to date on all highway conditions, so I can always provide the most up-to-date information to make sure you have a smooth and easy experience navigating the trails.
Picture
Picture
Picture
​TIME OF DAY: If you're proposing on the coast, nothing beats sunsets over the cliffs! But sometimes there are other factors to consider. Are you proposing in a spot that's more popular? If so, sunrise might be the best option. Are you proposing in the redwoods? If so, then every redwoods spot is different. Some are best in the morning, others in the afternoon. You may also want to have dinner plans, so if you want to have a dinner with a view, you may want to plan your proposal to be earlier in the day.

​Below is an afternoon proposal which started out as a cloudy day, which was perfect to highlight the vibrant greens and blues of Big Sur. You can see that the sun peeked out later on when we went to the beach after!
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
​ATTIRE: Will your partner want to be dressed up for the proposal? You know your partner best - would they want to be dressed up for the proposal? Or would it ruin the surprise if you asked her to dress up? It can sometimes be suspicious to ask your partner to dress up for a hike, so you may want to have dinner plans as an excuse to dress up.

Below is a proposal that took place on a relatively flat trail, which made it easy to get to the location without having to climb up and down the cliffs.

Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
SHOES: The more dramatic the cliffside, the more steep the trail likely is. I always recommend couples wear comfortable, flat shoes. If you know your partner may prefer to wear dressier shoes, then you may want to choose an easier trail or bring shoes to change into.

Below is a proposal that takes place on a steep cliff, so I always recommend making sure your partner feels comfortable and wears appropriate shoes!
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Picture
COMFORT LEVEL: Are you two comfortable with standing on the cliffs, or do either of you have a fear of heights? Though most locations don't require much hiking - 5-15 minutes at most - some overlooks can be pretty steep (especially the dramatic ones!)
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
GUESTS: Most trails in Big Sur are narrow, making it very difficult to plan a proposal with guests without your partner seeing them along the trail. If it is important to include guests in your proposal, you'll want to either choose a location that's accessible, or plan a celebration after the proposal.
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
DECOR: If you're wanting decor for your proposal, you'll want to choose a location that's flat and easy to set up decor in. Most cliffside locations are not suited for this, but beach locations can be a great alternative! You can even surprise your partner with a picnic on the beach after the proposal. There are companies that can set up picnics for you so that you don't have to worry about bringing anything!
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
Big Sur Proposal Photographer
COORDINATION: There's no cell service in Big Sur, so it's very important that you coordinate with your photographer ahead of time. It can be very easy to get lost as many turnouts look the same. When coordinating a proposal, I always provide detailed instructions, GPS coordinates to the parking location, Google Streetview to identify the trailhead, a map of the trail, and identifiable markers to make sure that you're on the right path. To ensure that we find each other on the day of, I'll also ask for what car you'll be driving, what you'll be wearing, and a photo of you two. This helps me to identify you so I can head out to the trail and be ready in place for the proposal.

​No matter where you propose though, you truly can't go wrong in Big Sur!
​

Where to Stay in Big Sur

If you want to be surrounded by nature, staying in Big Sur will truly feel like you're in another world. For a cabin-in-the-woods experience, check out Glen Oaks Big Sur for modern cabins, Deetjen's for rustic cabins (and friendly cats!), or maybe even glamping at Ventana Big Sur. For a more luxury resort stay, Ventana Big Sur and Post Ranch Inn can't be beat. If you're wanting to be right by the coast, check out Hyatt Carmel Highlands and Tickle Pink Inn. For more budget-friendly stays in Big Sur, check out Big Sur Lodge, Big Sur River Inn, or Big Sur Campgrounds.

Alternatively, you can also find plenty of accommodations outside of Big Sur including Airbnbs and Vrbos, and just make Big Sur a day trip! Staying in the Monterey Peninsula will allow you to be closer to more restaurants, activities, and hotels.
  • Carmel-by-the-Sea, such as the newly renovated La Playa Hotel, charming Le Petit Pali, or walking distance to the ocean Villa Mara, if you love the European vibe
  • Carmel Valley, such as the resorts Carmel Valley Ranch and Bernardus Lodge, if you love warmer weather and want to try all the wineries
  • Monterey, such as the oceanfront Monterey Hotel & Plaza or InterContinental the Clement, if you want to be near the hustle and bustle of Cannery Row and near the Monterey Bay Aquarium
  • Pebble Beach, such as the Inn at Spanish Bay, if you love golf and want to be take in the 17-mile drive
  • Pacific Grove, such as the Victorian Seven Gables Inn, if you love the small town vibe and walking along Lover's Point, Asilomar, and Monterey Bay Coastal Trail looking for otters and seals
​

Planning Your Big Sur Itinerary

Besides hiking through the coast and redwoods, here are things to do in Big Sur:
  • Start your morning with coffee and pastries from The Village (or book a brunch or dinner reservation)
  • Photograph the iconic Big Sur spots of Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach Keyhole, and McWay Falls
  • Browse books at the Henry Miller Library
  • Sit by the river in Adirondack chairs at Big Sur River Inn
  • Plan a romantic dinner at Nepenthe, Sierra Mar, or The Sur House at sunset overlooking the coast

​Planning on making it a road trip? Here's an itinerary for things to do when driving from Big Sur to Monterey to Santa Cruz to San Francisco.
​
Monterey / Carmel / Pacific Grove
  • Grab a cup of coffee from local roaster Captain + Stoker
  • Start the morning with fresh baked pastries and bread from Ad Astra Bread Co.
  • Walk along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail and Lover's Point Park to see if you can spot otters, seals, whales, or dolphins
  • Head to Monterey and watch sea otters play at the Monterey Bay Aquarium
  • Grab burritos from El Charrito for a lunch picnic
  • Try the famous Bee's Knees ice cream at Revival Ice Cream or New Zealand style ice cream at Nico's
  • Make your own charcuterie board with free cheese tastings at the Cheese Shop
  • Do a wine tasting and listen to live music at Folktale Winery
  • For fresh seafood, have dinner at Wild Fish in Pacific Grove
  • For a fancy night out, have dinner at Chez Noir, a Michelin star restaurant in Carmel
  • Have some friendly competition at Lynn's Arcade (Pinball), Tipsy Putt (Mini Golf), or High Scores Arcade
  • Ride horses on the beach with Monterey Bay Equestrian Center
  • Go whale watching with Blue Ocean Whale Watch or Sanctuary Cruises out of Moss Landing for a shorter boat ride right to the whales, or Monterey Bay Whale Watch out of Monterey
  • Kayak through Elkhorn Slough to see all the otters with Monterey Bay Kayaks
  • Pick up tri-tip sandwiches from La Sala's BiRite Market on Thursday's or Saturday's for a picnic
Santa Cruz
  • Head to Watsonville and pick strawberries, berries, or apples depending on the season at Gizdich Ranch
  • Head to Santa Cruz and start the morning with a mocha from Verve Coffee
  • Grab a pesto chicken sandwich at Zoccoli's Delicatessen for a picnic on the beach
  • Try seasonal ice cream flavors topped with roasted marshmallow fluff at The Penny Ice Creamery
  • ​Ride rollercoasters and indulge in nostalgia at Santa Cruz Boardwalk
​San Francisco
  • Head to San Francisco and eat shrimp and grits and beignets at Brenda's French Soul Food
  • Settle the coffee or tea debate and try milk tea at Boba Guys and coffee from Ritual Coffee
  • Hike Land's End from Sutro Baths or the Presidio for views of the Golden Gate Bridge
  • Climb steps for a view of the city at Bernal Heights Park
  • Row a boat from Stow Lake Boathouse in Golden Gate Park
  • Learn how to make chocolate or try the chocolate flight at Dandelion Chocolate
  • Cross the Golden Gate Bridge to the see the coast at the Marin Headlands
​
"I cannot say enough great things about Lynn. ​
I recently proposed to my girlfriend in Big Sur and reached out to Lynn to photograph the occasion. I am not local to the area, so she was super helpful with providing suggested proposal locations, times, and pro tips! She was communicative, professional, and made the entire experience enjoyable and memorable for the right reasons. We received sneak peak photos that same night, which my fiancee was incredibly happy about. I would highly recommend Lynn to anyone looking for stunning pictures for their special occasion!" - J + A
​

Let's plan your proposal!
2 Comments
Daniel pinch
7/6/2024 09:31:39 am

We are voming to Big Sur on July 28-30 and I’m wanting to plan a proposal on Monday July 29th. I have never been there before but my girlfriend is from California. So I’m trying to pick the right spot to go. Would definitely like beach cliff views. I’m gonna do dinner and then catch the sunset that evening. Any suggestions and I’m wondering your cost for photo shoot.

Reply
Lynn Lewis
7/8/2024 08:37:25 am

You can send an inquiry through the contact form: lynnchanglewis.com/contact.html. Starting prices are listed on the pricing page!

Reply

Your comment will be posted after it is approved.


Leave a Reply.

    All
    Couples
    Couples / Elopements
    Couples / Guides
    Couples / Proposals + Engagement + Anniversary
    Couples / Self Portraits
    Couples / Wedding
    DIY / Florals
    DIY / Home
    DIY / Photo Displays
    Portraits
    Portraits / Family
    Portraits / Maternity
    Portraits / Seniors
    Travel
    Travel / Bay Area

  • Home
  • Work
  • Guides
    • How to Plan a Big Sur Elopement
    • Top 10 Big Sur Wedding Venues
    • Carmel and Monterey Wedding Venues
    • How to Plan a Big Sur Proposal
  • Blog
  • About
  • Pricing
  • Contact

Picture

Big Sur Wedding and Elopement Photographer serving BIG SUR | Carmel-by-the-sea | CARMEL Valley | MONTEREY | SANTA CRUZ