Say ‘Yes’: 20 top Spots to Propose in Sydney

Planning to propose in Sydney? From iconic harbourside locations to hidden romantic spots, this insider’s guide will help you plan the perfect Sydney proposal. We’ve covered everything from budget-friendly beautiful moments to grand gestures, with practical tips to avoid common proposal pitfalls. For each location, you’ll find detailed planning information, and insider advice to ensure your special moment goes smoothly.

Whether you’re a local or visiting, this guide will help you:

• Choose the perfect location for your style and budget
• Navigate practical details like timing and weather backup plans
• Keep the surprise while making necessary arrangements
• Create a memorable moment unique to Sydney

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1. On a Sydney Harbour Bridge climb

Want to make your proposal literally the highest point of your relationship? The Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb offers one of the city’s most dramatic settings, with over 5000 successful proposals to date.

I love recommending this option for couples who want an iconic Sydney moment – there’s nothing quite like popping the big question 134 meters above the sparkling harbour.

Planning Details:

• Book 2-3 months in advance if you’d like to visit during sunset hours.
• Costs: Climb rates $308-388 per person. Optional proposal package
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours – 10-15 minute stop at the summit

Pro Tips:

• Choose dawn or twilight climbs for optimal lighting and smaller groups.
• Have a backup date in case of bad weather (free rescheduling available)
• Consider your partner’s comfort with heights and physical fitness

With professional photos included and celebration packages available, this is one proposal story you’ll continue to share. Find out more details about how proposals on the Sydney Harbour Bridge work.

If you want to dial up the romance, you can’t go past
an overnight yacht stay on Sydney Harbour

2. Bondi Beach at sunrise

Looking for that perfect mix of iconic Sydney and intimate privacy? There’s something magical about Bondi Beach at dawn, when the first rays of sun paint the sky and you have this world-famous beach almost to yourself.

Best Spots:

• North Bondi rocks for privacy and dramatic views
• Icebergs Pool edge for that perfect Instagram moment
• Ben Buckler Point for complete seclusion

Timing & Tips:

• Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise for the best light
• Summer sunrise is between 5:30-6:30 AM, winter 6:30-7:00 AM
• Weekday mornings are quietest
• Book Icebergs Dining Room breakfast after it opens at 7:30 AM.

Weather Backup:

• Check forecast 48 hours ahead
• Alternative indoor viewing spots at Icebergs Club

Whether you choose the dramatic rocks or serene shoreline, a Bondi sunrise proposal offers that rare combination of privacy and panorama that makes for an unforgettable moment.

I especially love suggesting this option to early risers who appreciate natural beauty. Check this link for Bondi sunrise times and start planning .

3. Mrs Macquarie’s Point at sunset

This historic sandstone bench offers Sydney’s most photographed view of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House in one frame. It’s a popular but spacious location that’s perfect for a sunset proposal.

Best Proposal Spots:

• The famous Mrs Macquarie’s Chair itself (arrive early to secure a spot)
• The rocky outcrops along the waterfront (more secluded)
• The grassy slope above the point (better for picnic setups)

Timing & Logistics:

• Peak sunset times: Summer 7:30-8:30 PM, Winter 4:45-5:30 PM
• Parking available but expensive ($12/hour)
• Consider arriving by water taxi for added romance.
• Area is open 24/7, unlike adjacent Botanic Gardens

Pro Tips:

• Weekday evenings are less crowded than weekends
• Best photos 30 minutes before actual sunset
• Bring a picnic blanket – the sandstone can be uncomfortable
• Consider hiring a discrete photographer to capture the moment

Nearby Celebration Spots:

• Botanic Gardens Restaurant (5-minute walk)
• Opera Bar (15-minute scenic walk)
• Woolloomooloo wharf restaurants (10-minute walk)

With its perfect blend of history and harbour views, Mrs Macquarie’s Point offers a proposal setting that’s uniquely Sydney. You can check sunrise and sunset times right here.

4. Dining with a view

Sydney’s high-end restaurants offer proposal packages that combine spectacular views with impeccable service.

Here are your best options, ranked by romantic appeal and proposal success rate:

Top Choices & Details:

Quay Restaurant

• Booking window: 3 months ahead minimum
• Private dining rooms available
• Staff will coordinate ring presentation
• Unmatched Opera House views

Infinity at Sydney Tower

• Rotating views of the entire city
• More affordable ($95-150/person)
• Height: 305 meters
• Best for sunset sessions

Alititude – Level 36, Shangri-La

• Private window tables available
• Proposal packages include champagne
• Backup weather dates guaranteed

Planning Tips:

• Book first seating for better lighting
• Request window seating when booking
• Inform staff of dietary requirements

Whether you choose harbourside elegance or sky-high sophistication, these venues offer the perfect backdrop for your perfect moment.

The view of the harbour with the bridge and Opera House sparkling below is likely to help secure a yes!

Want more romantic dining venues? Check this list of Valentine’s options – they are suitable year round.

5. Kayak on Sydney Harbour

Love the idea of getting out on the water? As someone who’s done a few of these kayak tours myself, I can tell you there’s something magical about paddling past the Opera House at sunrise or finding a secluded harbour beach for a unique experience.

Location Options:

Manly Kayak Tour

• Best for harbour views and secluded beaches
• Shark Beach and Milk Beach accessible
• From $95 per person for 2.5 hours
• Includes professional guide

Sydney Harbour Sunset Kayak

• Paddle alongside Sydney’s most famous landmarks
• Get up-close views of the Opera House
• Unique photo angles of the Harbour Bridge
• From $139 per person for 2 hours

Important Tips:

• Ring security options available
• Book early morning (7-9am) for calmest waters
• Check weather 48 hours ahead
• Bring change of clothes
• Consider partner’s swimming ability

From secluded beaches to iconic landmarks, a harbour kayak proposal combines adventure with intimacy in a way that’s uniquely Sydney.

6. On the Spit Bridge to Manly walk

If you and your partner love bushwalking, I’ve got a special spot for you! The Spit to Manly walk is one of my favourite coastal trails in Sydney.

What I love about this walk is that you can take your time, enjoy the stunning views, and choose the perfect moment that suits you.

Best Proposal Points

Clontarf Reserve (2km mark)

• Sheltered beach with harbour views
• Cafe nearby for celebration

Grotto Point Lighthouse (5km mark)

• Elevated ocean views
• Usually quiet mid-week
• Historic setting

Dobroyd Head (7km mark)

• Panoramic harbour views
• Multiple secluded lookouts
• Perfect sunset spot

Planning Tips:

• Allow 3-4 hours for full walk
• Start early morning for best light and check tide times for beach sections
• Be prepared download offline map and pack drinks and snacks

Logistics:

• Start: Spit Bridge (Bus 178 or 180 from city)
• End: Manly (Ferry back to city)
• Best times: Weekdays 8am-2pm
• Multiple exit points if needed

With stunning coastal views and multiple ideal spots to choose from, this walk offers the perfect blend of nature and romance for active couples.

7. At Observatory Hill

Observatory Hill is one of my favourite sunset spots in Sydney, and I love recommending it to couples looking for something more intimate than the usual tourist spots.

The rotunda up here is particularly special – I’ve seen quite a few proposals happen right at sunset!

Perfect Timing:

• Arrive 45 minutes before sunset
• Weekday evenings are wonderfully quiet
• The city lights starting to twinkle make for amazing photos

My Local Tips:

• Bring a small picnic blanket (the grass can be dewy)
• Pack some battery-operated candles for ambiance
• The best viewing spot is just east of the rotunda
• There’s usually street parking after 6pm

After the Big Moment:

Head down to The Rocks for celebration drinks – stop for a drink to celebrate in a Rocks pubs on the way home. Perhaps with the view from the Glenmore rooftop or for a classy cocktail Maybe Sammy. Both are just a short minute walk away.

8. In Wendy’s Secret Garden at Lavender Bay

This beautiful waterfront garden is one of Sydney’s most touching love stories. Created by Wendy Whiteley after the passing of her artist husband Brett, she transformed an overgrown railway yard into a stunning garden as a labour of love and healing.

Best Times to Visit:

• Early morning for harbour views
• Mid-week for more privacy
• Spring when the jacarandas bloom
• Late afternoon when the light is golden

Favourite Proposal Spots:

• The curved wooden bench overlooking the harbour
• Under the giant fig tree
• Along the winding pathways between the flowers
• The peaceful meditation corner

Local Tips:

• Bring a picnic blanket and champagne
• Enter from Lavender Street for the prettiest approach
• The garden is free and open daily

In this garden that grew from one of Sydney’s greatest love stories, your proposal becomes part of its living history.

9. On a Sydney Harbour water taxi

Want something really special? Here’s an insider tip: Sydney’s water taxis aren’t just for getting from A to B – they can create the most magical proposal moments! I love recommending this option because it’s more intimate than a regular harbour cruise but gives you all the glamour of being out on the water.

How It Works:

• Book a private water taxi (around $150-200 for 30 minutes)
• Tell the skipper your plans when booking
• They’ll help coordinate timing and location
• Choose sunset or night time for city lights

My Favourite Routes:

• Circular Quay to Lavender Bay (passes under the Bridge)
• Rose Bay to Fort Denison (best Opera House views)
• Mosman to Darling Harbour (complete harbour experience)

Pro Tips:

• Book ‘photography runs’ for better photo opportunities
• Consider adding champagne service
• Request a vintage wooden taxi for extra charm
• Have a backup indoor venue in case of rain

While tourist boats crowd the harbour, your private water taxi glides to secret corners of Sydney’s waterways that most locals are unaware of.

10. At the very beautiful Palm Beach (aka Summer Bay)

For over 30 years, Palm Beach, has played Summer Bay in the hit TV show Home and Away, and fans from around the world come to see this iconic location. But even if you’ve never watched an episode, this stunning beach at Sydney’s northernmost tip offers one of the most breathtaking proposal settings you could imagine.

For Home & Away Fans:

• The Boathouse café features in many episodes
• The Surf Club is actually the Palm Beach SLSC
• The beach scenes are filmed at the southern end
• You might catch filming on weekdays (but keep your distance)

For Everyone:

• Barrenjoey Lighthouse track (my top pick – stunning views)
• The quiet north end of the beach
• The rock pool at low tide
• The secluded Governor Phillip Park

Timing Your Visit:

• Early morning for lighthouse proposals (45-min walk up)
• Late afternoon for golden light on the beach
• Weekdays are wonderfully quiet
• Check surf conditions if planning a beach proposal

Local Tips:

• Park at Governor Phillip Park ($10/day)
• The Boathouse café is perfect for celebration drinks
• Book a table (or a room) at Jonah’s if you want fine dining after
• Consider a seaplane arrival for extra wow factor

Regardless, it is an absolutely gorgeous spot at the end of Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and if you head up on a weekday, you will easily find a patch of sand to yourself. Travelling on public transport might kill the romance, so consider booking a private tour if you don’t have a car.

11. On the Ferris wheel at Luna Park

Looking for something playful and fun? The Ferris wheel at Luna Park is pure magic at sunset, and I love how you can see the whole city light up as you reach the top.

It’s perfect for couples who want their proposal to be full of joy and maybe a touch of nostalgia.

Making It Special:

• Book a private cabin (from $50)
• Time it for sunset or after dark
• Staff can help coordinate your moment
• Photos available

After:

• The Botanist in Kirribilli – a short walk away
• Walk back across the Harbour Bridge and soak in the views.
• Jump on a ferry to Barangaroo for celebratory drinks

12. In the air over Sydney Harbour!

Want to make a truly grand gesture? A proposal from above Sydney is absolutely unforgettable – just be sure your partner enjoys flying in small aircraft first! Here are your two best options:

Seaplane Experience:

• 15-minute scenic flight from Rose Bay ($290 per person)
• Longer flights with restaurant landings available
• Best photo opportunities when banking over the harbour
• Can combine with lunch at Cottage Point Inn
• More gentle experience than helicopter

Helicopter Options:

• 20-minute scenic flight ($220 per person)
• Private flights available ($750)
• Doors-on or doors-off experiences
• Multiple departure points (Airport or Mascot)
• Can include Northern Beaches route

Planning Tips:

• Book first flight of the day for calmest conditions
• Request pilot assistance when booking
• Consider a combination with ground dining
• Have backup date options for weather
• Ring security provided by crew

13. Chinese Garden of Friendship

The Chinese Garden in Darling Harbour offers several secluded, romantic spots perfect for proposals. The traditional pavilions and bridges create beautiful photo backgrounds, and it’s usually quieter than other city locations.

Best Spots:

• The Blue Point Pavilion overlooking the lake
• The Water Pavilion of Lotus Fragrance
• The hidden stone garden
• Beside the Dragon Wall

Tips:

• Visit during weekdays for smaller crowds
• Book afternoon tea in the neighbouring restaurant to celebrate
• Professional photography permitted (with fee) if you fancy having someone record the moment for you.

Hidden behind Darling Harbour’s busy streets, these gardens offer pockets of serenity that feel worlds away from modern Sydney.

Check out our guide to Dining in Darling Harbour for where to celebrate after you get a yes!

14 Royal National Park

For nature-loving couples, the Royal National Park offers some of Sydney’s most dramatic coastal proposal spots. Just an hour from the city, you’ll find pristine beaches, coastal cliffs, and hidden waterfalls.

Best Proposal Locations:

Wedding Cake Rock

• Iconic white rock formation viewed from platform (rock itself fenced)
• Best at sunrise or sunset
• 1-hour return walk from Bundeena

Little Marley Beach

• Usually private, especially mid-week
• 2.5km walk from Bundeena
• Beautiful coastal views
• Perfect for picnic proposals

Wattamolla Beach and Lagoon

• Drive-up access (simpler option)
• Waterfall backdrop
• Protected lagoon swimming
• Large picnic areas

Planning Tips:

• Park entry fee $12 per vehicle
• Download offline maps (unreliable reception)
• Check tide times and weather forecasts
• Book accommodation in Bundeena for overnight stays
• Take the charming Tom Thumb ferry from Cronulla

Where ancient sandstone cliffs meet the endless Pacific, you’ll find proposal spots that have witnessed countless sunrises but perhaps never a moment quite like yours.

15. Cremorne Point Walk

Cremorne Point combines harbour views with beautiful heritage gardens and far fewer tourists than other waterfront locations. This peaceful peninsula walk is especially magical at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle across the water.

Perfect Proposal Spots:

• Robertsons Point Lighthouse (locals call it ‘the cupola’)
• Sophie’s Lookout for Opera House views
• Historic Maccallum Pool at sunset

Best Times to Visit:

• Late afternoon for golden light
• Weekday mornings for a quiet walk
• Spring for flowering gardens
• Summer evenings for twilight picnics

Getting There:

• Ferry from Circular Quay (12 minutes)
• Street parking available if driving
• Short walk from Military Road buses
• Water taxi drop-off possible

Local Tip: Find the secret bench in the Lex and Ruby Graham Gardens

Looking for a romantic restaurant to round out the day? Check out this list of Valentine’s dining – the venues are good options year round.

16. Auburn Botanic Gardens

Want something truly special away from the tourist crowds? Auburn Botanic Gardens is Western Sydney’s hidden gem, where manicured Japanese gardens meet native Australian wilderness.

While it’s spectacular during the cherry blossom festival in August, I love recommending this peaceful oasis year-round for its mix of cultural beauty and natural tranquility. The gardens offer multiple picture-perfect proposal spots that rival anything in the eastern suburbs, but with fewer people.

Best Spots:

• Japanese Garden bridge (especially during cherry blossom season)
• The Sunken Rose Garden
• Reflection Pool
• Native Australian Garden woodland walk

Tips:

• Free entry for Cumberland residents, small fee for others
• Book professional photography permit if bringing a photographer
• Weekday visits recommended (weekends are often crowded)
• Beautiful morning and afternoon light
• Consider timing with their Spring Festival

17. Parramatta Park

Looking for a proposal spot that combines romance with rich history? As one of Australia’s oldest public parks and a World Heritage site, Parramatta Park offers an enchanting mix of colonial architecture, riverside scenery, and carefully tended gardens.

Perfect Spots:

• The Dairy Cottage garden (historic setting)
• Bath House ruins at sunset
• Rose Garden near Old Government House
• By the river under century-old trees

Planning Details:

• Free entry and extensive parking available
• Beautiful at dawn and dusk
• Combine with high tea at Lachlan’s
• Gateway to Parramatta’s excellent restaurants for celebration dinner

Local Tips:

• Morning light is ideal for photography.
• Weekday evenings quietest
• Consider riverside picnic setup
• Book a stay at Skye Suites and celebrate with rooftop drinks.

I especially love suggesting this location to couples who want their proposal to have that extra layer of historical significance – you’re popping the question in the same gardens where governors once walked and Sydney’s earliest love stories unfolded.

18. Cronulla Beach and Esplanade

Want something special in Sydney’s south? The Cronulla coastal walk offers some of the most romantic sunset spots in Sydney, with far fewer tourists than the eastern beaches. I love recommending this area because you get that perfect mix of dramatic ocean views and intimate spaces, plus some fantastic celebration options afterward.

Best Proposal Spots:

• Cronulla Rock Pool at sunset
• The hidden Bass & Flinders Point lookout
• Salmon Haul Bay (usually secluded)
• Oak Park’s heritage pavilion

Timing & Tips:

• Late afternoon for golden light on the cliffs
• Weekday evenings are peaceful
• Check surf conditions if planning beach spots
• Book photographer in advance (popular location)

Local Celebration Options:

• Next Door restaurant for fine dining
• Sea Level for waterfront views
• The Pines Bar for cocktails
• Zimzala for casual celebration

Planning Details:

• Free parking after 6pm
• Train access from city
• Multiple weather contingency plans
• Professional photography permitted

Pro Tips:

• Book sunset timing in advance
• Consider weekday for privacy
• Local florists can assist with setup.
• Several hidden nooks along the walk

19. Overnight at Taronga Zoo

Ever dreamed of proposing with Sydney Harbour as your backdrop and wildlife as your witnesses? Taronga Zoo’s Wildlife Retreat and glamping experiences offer one of the most unique proposal settings in Sydney.

I love suggesting this option because it combines luxury accommodation with unforgettable animal encounters – imagine popping the question at sunset while giraffes graze nearby!

Accommodation Options:

• Wildlife Retreat rooms (luxury hotel-style)
• Roar & Snore glamping tents
• Both include exclusive after-hours zoo access
• Premium harbour views available

Best Proposal Spots:

• Private balcony at sunset
• Meerekai Lookout (harbour views)
• The Sanctuary viewing deck
• Glamping deck after dark

Package Inclusions:

• Exclusive animal encounters
• Behind-the-scenes tours
• Gourmet dining options
• Breakfast with the animals
• Complimentary zoo access next day

Celebration Options:

• Private dining available
• Sunrise breakfast with koalas
• Champagne on your private deck
• Special dietary requirements accommodated

20. Angel Place Bird Cage Installation

Looking for something uniquely artistic? Angel Place’s “Forgotten Songs” installation creates one of Sydney’s most magical hidden spaces. Dozens of empty birdcages hang overhead in this atmospheric laneway, accompanied by recordings of bird songs that once filled Sydney’s skies.

At night, the gentle lighting transforms this urban space into an ethereal setting perfect for an intimate proposal.

Best Times:

• After sunset for optimal lighting (cages are lit until late)
• Weekday evenings for fewer diners
• Between lunch and dinner service for privacy
• Winter evenings tend to be quietest

Planning Details:

• Location: Angel Place, between George St and Pitt St
• Always accessible (public laneway) and no booking required
• Professional photography permitted
• Bird songs play 24/7

Pro Tips:

• Have friends set up battery-operated candles
• Consider timing with live music performance at City Recital Hall
• Local restaurants along the laneway can help coordinate
• The acoustics make live musicians sound amazing

Celebration Spots Nearby:

• Felix for French romance
• Ash St Cellar for intimate wine and cheese

Photography Notes:

• Best shots looking up through the cages
• Night photography particularly striking
• Natural reverb great for proposal videos

This hidden gem combines urban art, history, and romance in a way that’s distinctly Sydney but off the usual tourist trail. The mix of twinkling lights, gentle bird songs, and central location makes it perfect for couples who appreciate art and want something different from the usual harbour views.

So where will you propose?

Whichever location you choose, remember that the most important thing is creating a moment that reflects your relationship. Here are some final tips to help your Sydney proposal go smoothly:

General Planning Tips:

• Consider your partner’s style – would they prefer privacy or a public celebration?
• Have a weather backup plan, especially for outdoor locations
• Book photographers and vendors well in advance
• Consider timing with sunset or sunrise for the best lighting
• Research local permits needed for setup or photography

On the Day:

• Arrive early to check the location
• Have a friend scope out the spot if needed
• Keep rings secure and accessible
• Consider having celebration plans ready

Capture the Moment:

• Arrange for professional photos if desired
• Consider having friends or family nearby
• Check photography permissions for your chosen spot
• Think about lighting for photos

Whether you choose an iconic harbour backdrop or a quiet garden corner, Sydney offers countless beautiful settings to begin your engagement story. The perfect proposal combines thoughtful planning with that spark of spontaneity that makes every love story unique.

Need more help planning your Sydney proposal? Our Facebook Group community is always happy to share local advice and recommendations.

Remember to check individual venue websites for current pricing and booking requirements. All information was current at time of publication.