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> The Best Proposal Spots & Real Proposals
>How to Plan a Catalina Island Proposal: 5 Tips From a Proposal Photographer
>Proposal Ideas to Make It Feel Like You
I’ve been photographing couples all across Southern California since 2018, and after capturing countless love stories over the years, Catalina Island proposals still never get old. There’s just something about taking the ferry over, slowing down for the day, and being surrounded by harbor views, scenic overlooks, and all of Avalon’s charm that makes getting engaged here feel extra special!
As a Catalina Island proposal photographer, I’ve helped couples plan everything from where to pop the question to the best timing, transportation, and little details that keep the surprise intact. If you’re looking for Catalina Island proposal spots or ideas, I’m sharing some of my favorite locations, real proposal photos, and the tips I’ve learned from photographing these moments myself, so keep reading!
*Last updated September 2026. Admission, transportation, and ferry information can change. I recommend checking current details before your proposal date.
The Best Catalina Island Proposal Spots Near Avalon & Real Proposals
If you’re trying to narrow down the best Catalina Island proposal spots, three of my favorites near Avalon are Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden, Lee’s Scenic Overlook, and Buena Vista Scenic Overlook. Each one gives you a completely different backdrop, from beautiful architecture and greenery to wide-open views over Avalon and the water.
I added my favorite locations to the map below, along with a few helpful stops around Avalon. You can see where each proposal spot sits in relation to the ferry terminal, golf cart rental, and a few places I love to visit while I’m on the island!
Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden Proposals
Wrigley Memorial Location Details
Location: 1400 Avalon Canyon Road, Avalon, CA 90704
Hours: Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Adult admission: $13.58 per person
Distance from the Avalon ferry terminal: About 1.7 miles
Getting there: Golf cart, taxi, bike, walking, or the Conservancy shuttle when available.
Best for: Architecture, native gardens, canyon views, and plenty of variety for just-engaged portraits.
Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden is one of my favorite Catalina Island proposal spots! If you want a mix of beautiful architecture, greenery, and those wide-open island views, it’s perfect for that. The 38-acre garden sits at the top of Avalon Canyon, so it feels removed from the busier waterfront while still being close enough to make it part of a day exploring Avalon.
Meaghan & Cornelius’ Catalina Island Proposal at Wrigley Memorial
I recently photographed Meaghan and Cornelius’ Catalina Island proposal here after they traveled all the way from Canada! When it came to choosing their photographer, I was one of a few options they considered. They ultimately chose me because having natural, true-to-color skin tones in their photos was important to them, which was seriously such a compliment.
We rented a golf cart in Avalon and made our way up to Wrigley Memorial for the proposal. Afterward, we explored more of the gardens for their just-engaged portraits. That’s one of the reasons I love this location so much. You’re not limited to one beautiful view, and we can create so much variety here.
If you’re considering Wrigley Memorial for your own Catalina Island proposal, I can also help you figure out the timing, transportation, where to propose, and exactly how we’ll make everything happen without ruining the surprise.
Love From Cornelius: “Thank you so much!! These turned out so good, Meaghan teared up again just watching them”
Lee’s Scenic Overlook Proposals
Lee’s Scenic Overlook Location Details
Location: Chimes Tower Road, Avalon, CA 90704
Cost: Free
Getting there: I typically recommend taking a cab
Best for: Harbor views, coastal scenery, and couples who want a more intimate proposal setting.
Good to know: The overlook is small, so planning the timing and setup ahead of time is important.
Lee’s Scenic Overlook is one of my favorite hidden gems for a Catalina Island proposal. It sits above Avalon and gives you such a beautiful view of the harbor, hills, and water below. The location itself is simple, which lets the scenery really stand out.
This is such a great option if you want those classic Catalina Island views without choosing a larger attraction. You’re also still close to Avalon, which makes it easy to continue celebrating afterward.
When my couples book with me, I can help with the logistics too. I’ll walk you through timing, transportation, where to stand, and how to keep everything a surprise.
XinXin & Kevin’s Catalina Island Proposal at Lee’s Scenic Overlook
The Proposal Team:
Planning: The Yes Girls
Photography: Nicole & Photo
XinXin and Kevin’s proposal at Lee’s Scenic Overlook was such a beautiful example of why I love this location. The weather could not have been better, and the views over Avalon were absolutely gorgeous. You could see the harbor, boats, coastline, and surrounding hills all from one spot.
The Yes Girls planned the proposal and created the sweetest setup overlooking the water. They added soft florals, candles, and petals without taking away from the view. Once Kevin got down on one knee, the whole moment felt so intimate despite having all of Avalon behind them.
Afterward, we spent some time taking just-engaged portraits around the overlook and nearby areas. I loved getting a mix of those wide harbor views and more tucked-away portraits along the hillside. It gave them so much variety while still keeping that epic Catalina Island feel throughout their gallery.
Buena Vista Point Scenic Overlook Proposal
Buena Vista Point Details
Location: Wrigley Road, Avalon, CA 90704
Cost: Free
Getting there: Golf cart, cab, or by walking uphill from Avalon
Best for: Panoramic harbor views, Catalina Casino views, and scenic proposal setups.
Good to know: The overlook is outdoors and open to the public, so I recommend planning your timing carefully.
Buena Vista Point is another gorgeous Catalina Island proposal spot with sweeping views over Avalon Bay. It sits high above the harbor near Mt. Ada, with the town, coastline, and Catalina Casino below. If you want your proposal photos to immediately feel like Catalina, this is such a beautiful choice.
One of my favorite things about Buena Vista Point is how much of Avalon you can see from here. The harbor stretches out below you, while the Casino and surrounding hills add even more to the backdrop. Love Catalina also recommends Buena Vista Point as one of the best places to propose on Catalina Island.
It’s also a great spot if you’re planning florals or another surprise setup. Since this is a public overlook, having someone arrive early can make the whole experience much easier. This is where working with a proposal planner can be helpful.
Jaimee & Erwynn’s Catalina Island Proposal at Buena Vista Point
The Proposal Team:
Planning: The Yes Girls
Photography: Nicole & Photo
Florals: Faux Ever Collection
Videography: Hernandez Production
Live Music: Elin Wolf
Jaimee and Erwynn’s proposal at Buena Vista Point was such an incredible one to photograph. Erwynn had a full team helping him plan the surprise, which made every detail feel so thoughtful.
The setup included a flower-covered arch, candles, a cozy picnic, champagne, and a charcuterie spread overlooking Avalon. They even had live violin music waiting for them when they arrived. With the harbor, Catalina Casino, and surrounding hills in the background, the whole proposal felt so special.
I photographed everything from Jaimee’s reaction to their celebration afterward. Having a full team behind the scenes meant they could simply show up, take it all in, and enjoy the moment together!
Jessica & Jakob’s Catalina Island Proposal at Buena Vista Point
The Proposal Team:
Planning: The Yes Girls
Photography: Nicole & Photo
Jessica and Jakob’s Catalina Island proposal had the prettiest setup overlooking the water. The Yes Girls planned everything with soft white florals, scattered petals, candles, and champagne waiting nearby. It felt romantic without covering up that incredible Buena Vista Point view.
Jakob led Jessica into the setup, and her reaction was so sweet to photograph. Behind them, you could see the harbor, boats, and Catalina Casino stretching across the water. It’s exactly why I love this spot for proposals.
After they celebrated, we explored the surrounding area for just-engaged portraits. We used the ocean views, greenery, stone pathways, and other little spots nearby. It gave their gallery so much variety without needing to travel somewhere else.
How to Plan a Catalina Island Proposal: 5 Tips From a Proposal Photographer
As a Catalina Island proposal photographer whose captured quite a bit of proposals here, I’ve learned that a little planning goes a long way. These are my top five tips for making the day feel smooth, fun, and still completely surprising.
1. Book Your Ferry Early
Book your ferry through Catalina Express as early as you can. Ferries can sell out, especially on popular dates and weekends.
If your destination is Avalon, I highly recommend leaving from Long Beach. The boat ride is about one hour, compared to around 1.5 hours from Dana Point.
If you tend to get seasick, plan for that too! Pack some crackers and bring motion sickness medicine if you know you’ll need it. You definitely don’t want to arrive on the island feeling miserable before such a big moment.
2. Consider Working With a Proposal Planning Team
If you want help pulling everything together, consider hiring a proposal planner. I’ve loved working with The Yes Girls and Moonlight Events on Catalina Island proposals.
A planning team can handle the timeline, logistics, and setup before you arrive. They can also make sure every little detail is ready for the big moment.
This is so helpful because many popular Catalina Island proposal spots are first come, first served. Your planner can arrive early and help secure the location before you get there.
3. Check Tickets & Transportation Before Your Proposal Day
Always research whether your location requires admission before making your final plan. Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden, for example, requires a ticket to enter.
Transportation is another detail you’ll want to think through ahead of time. We took a golf cart to Wrigley Memorial for one of my recent proposals there. It was such a fun way to get around the island!
If you want to rent one, Catalina Island Golf Carts is located at 625 Crescent Avenue in Avalon. Depending on your proposal spot, a taxi or other transportation may make more sense.
I’m happy to help you figure out the best option once we know exactly where you’re proposing!
4. Make a Full Day Out of Your Catalina Island Proposal
One of my favorite things about Catalina is that the proposal doesn’t have to be the only part of the experience. Give yourself some time to explore Avalon before or after you pop the question!
While you’re there, go inside the Avalon Theatre at the Catalina Casino. It’s such a beautiful piece of Catalina history and also serves as an event venue. Fun fact: it was even featured in The Last of Us!
I also love stopping at Avalon Grille when I’m on the island. It’s one of my favorite places to grab a bite before or after a proposal. You can find it at 423 Crescent Avenue in Avalon.
5. Have a Clear Plan for Timing, Transportation, & the Exact Spot
Besides Wrigley Memorial, two of my favorite Catalina Island proposal spots are Buena Vista Point and Lee’s Scenic Overlook. Lee’s especially feels like such a hidden gem!
The location is only one piece of the plan, though. Timing, transportation, and knowing exactly where to stand can make such a difference.
When you book your Catalina Island proposal with me, I help you work through all of that. I can recommend the best timing and help you figure out how to get there. I’ll also send a map and step-by-step instructions so you know exactly what to do.
That way, you aren’t trying to figure everything out while also keeping the proposal a secret!
I love seeing couples turn their proposal into an entire day on Catalina Island. It feels like such an escape from the busyness of LA and Orange County. You get to slow down, enjoy the harbor views, and celebrate somewhere that genuinely feels like a getaway.
Catalina Island Proposal Ideas to Make It Feel Like You
There’s no one right way to plan a Catalina Island proposal. Some of my couples keep things simple and let the ocean views do all the work. Others bring in florals, candles, champagne, live music, or an entire planning team to create something more elaborate.
I’ve photographed everything from a quiet proposal overlooking Avalon to full setups with flower arches, picnics, and a violinist waiting nearby. The best idea is the one that actually feels like the two of you.
If your partner would love something intimate, you don’t need a huge setup just because you’re proposing somewhere beautiful. If they love a big romantic gesture, Catalina gives you plenty of room to go all out. I can also help you think through what will photograph beautifully while still keeping the surprise at the center of everything.
And if Catalina completely steals your heart, I have to say it: a micro wedding here would be stunning, too! Between the harbor views, beautiful venues, and the feeling of getting away from LA and Orange County, I can already picture such a beautiful little wedding weekend on the island.
How Much Does a Catalina Island Proposal Cost?
The cost of a Catalina Island proposal really depends on how elaborate you want to make it. Before photography or any special setup, I recommend budgeting for the ferry, parking, and transportation around the island.
Here are a few costs to keep in mind:
- Ferry tickets: Plan on spending about $99–$106 per adult round trip, depending on which port you leave from.
- Ferry parking: Plan on about $23–$27 per day for parking at the ferry terminal, depending on your departure port. Long Beach is currently $26.95, San Pedro is $23, and Dana Point is $24 per day.
- Island transportation: Budget for a cab or golf cart depending on your Catalina Island proposal spot.
- Location fees: Some locations are free, while Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden requires admission.
- Photography: As a Catalina Island proposal photographer, I’d love to capture your proposal here! Send me an inquiry through my contact page, and I’ll get back to you with availability, coverage options, and a custom quote.
- Proposal planning: If you hire a planner, your cost will depend on the setup and level of support.
- Extras: Florals, videography, live music, champagne, picnics, and other details can all add to your investment.
For two adults, ferry tickets and one day of mainland parking alone average about $227 before you add island transportation, photography, planning, food, or decor.
Your proposal can still be as simple or as elaborate as you want. I’ve photographed beautiful Catalina proposals with minimal setups and others with full planning teams, florals, and live music.
*Prices were last checked in September 2026 and can change. I recommend confirming current rates before booking.
Catalina Island Proposal FAQ
My favorites near Avalon are Wrigley Memorial, Lee’s Scenic Overlook, and Buena Vista Point. Wrigley offers gardens and architecture, while Lee’s and Buena Vista have beautiful harbor views.
Most couples take the Catalina Express into Avalon. I recommend booking early, since popular dates can sell out. Once you arrive, I can help you decide whether a golf cart or cab makes the most sense.
Some do. Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden requires admission, while scenic overlooks may not. Always check current rules before your proposal day!
Not necessarily, but a planner can make things much easier if you want florals, candles, champagne, live music, or another setup. I’ve worked with teams like The Yes Girls and The Moonlight Co. on Catalina proposals.
As early as you can, especially if you have a specific date in mind. Ferry tickets, photographers, planners, and other vendors can all have limited availability.
Absolutely! I help with timing, transportation, location logistics, maps, and step-by-step instructions. My goal is to make the plan feel clear while keeping the surprise intact.
Catalina Express recommends arriving one hour before departure, with boarding beginning about 30 minutes before departure. For a proposal day, I’d personally give yourself even more time. Parking, traffic, and getting checked in can all take longer than expected. Missing your ferry could throw off your entire proposal plan, so this is one day I would much rather arrive early than cut it close!
If you have flexibility, I recommend a weekday for your Catalina Island proposal. Wednesdays and Thursdays are typically the least crowded summer days. Weekends tend to be busier, while cruise ships commonly visit on Mondays and Tuesdays.
As of September 2026, an adult round-trip Catalina Express ticket from Long Beach or San Pedro to Avalon is $99 total. From Dana Point, the adult round-trip total is $106. Fares can change, so I always recommend checking Catalina Express before booking.
Meet Nicole, Your Catalina Island Proposal Photographer
Hi, I’m Nicole! When I’m not photographing couples around Southern California, you can usually find me with a coffee in hand, curating a playlist, grabbing sushi, or spending time with the people I love. I hope this Catalina Island proposal guide has helped you feel a little more excited and a lot more prepared for such a big moment!
My photography style is natural, true-to-color, and focused on the candid moments that make the day feel like yours. If you love my work and think I might be the right Catalina Island proposal photographer for you, I’d love to hear what you’re planning. You can head over to my contact page to inquire, and we can start putting your Catalina Island proposal together!
Want to keep in touch? Come say hi and follow along with me on Instagram!
