From Santorini’s caldera views to Rajasthan’s royal hilltop forts and the sugar-soft sands of the Caribbean, iconic destinations often come with one unavoidable drawback: crowds. For couples planning a proposal, that can mean sacrificing intimacy for scenery.
Below is a curated selection of hidden-in-plain-sight properties around the world that offer all the romance and drama of famed locales—without the onlookers. These are the secret spots designed for once-in-a-lifetime moments, where privacy, sense of place, and unforgettable views come together to create proposals as meaningful as the “yes” itself.
Santorini, Greece – Santo Collection
Santorini is famously romantic, but proposing in Oia often means sharing the moment with thousands of onlookers. A short walk—but a whole world—away, lies Santo Collection, a portfolio of three boutique, eco-conscious properties offering a private, intimate alternative to Oia’s bustle. The exclusive “360° Spot”—a panoramic viewpoint available to book even to non-guests—provides uninterrupted views of the caldera, Aegean Sea, and iconic sunsets, perfect for proposals. Couples can extend the moment with spa treatments, curated romance packages, and elevated dining, making Santo Collection more than a backdrop—it’s part of the love story.
Jaipur, India – Naila Fort, An Oberoi Luxury Residence
For a proposal steeped in royal romance, Naila Fort – An Oberoi Luxury Residence offers a setting that feels lifted from Rajasthan’s regal past. Built in 1849 and exquisitely restored by Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, the fort crowns a gentle hilltop overlooking Jaipur and the Aravalli Hills, an intimate, castle-like retreat reserved entirely for you. The fort offers a rare sense of seclusion and quietude, while remaining within easy reach of the city’s cultural and historical heart. Picture a private, candlelit dinner on the fort’s rooftop terrace as the sun sets in gold while enjoying celebratory menus inspired by royal Rajasthani and Mughal kitchens—dishes once enjoyed by maharajas.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands – The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa
Situated along the breathtaking Seven Mile Beach, recognized as one of the best beaches in the world, The Westin Grand Cayman provides an effortlessly intimate setting for a secluded proposal. Quiet corners of shoreline, golden-hour sunsets, and the gentle rhythm of the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea create a moment that feels luxurious and personal. While on property, couples can enjoy delectable dining experiences, luxury spa treatments for two at Hibiscus Spa, water sports like kayaking and surfing, and more. For a truly special proposal like no other, couples can book the Toes in the Sand by Beach House, featuring a curated menu by the resort’s executive chef, sweeping ocean views, and the opportunity to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience with your toes in the sand.
Yasawa Islands, Fiji – Turtle Island
Privacy has become one of the most coveted luxuries in travel, and the private island eco-resort Turtle Island Fiji delivers it in the most romantic way possible. With 12 private white-sand beaches and just 14 couples on the entire island at any one time, guests are guaranteed their own secluded beach every other day—complete with a dedicated concierge (Bure Mama or Papa) orchestrating everything from champagne picnics to sunset dinners. This rare kind of intimacy means couples can experience sunrise beach horseback riding and island village visits to nightly kava ceremonies and dancing, nightly rotating dinner parties take place on mountaintops, gardens, or torch-lit beaches across the island, private beachside picnics, candlelit pontoon dinners in the Blue Lagoon (yes, the film was shot on the island), and traditional lovo feasts, indigenous spa treatments, and an intentionally WiFi-free staLuxury Travel Magaziney. Fun fact – we’ve had many guests, including a journalist, get engaged on property!
Los Cabos, Mexico – Montage Los Cabos
The azure waters of Los Cabos’ Santa Maria Bay provide a pristine backdrop for a beachfront proposal at Montage Los Cabos. The ultimate "secret spot" here is a private beachfront cabana at sunset. After a quiet dinner, guests pop the question with "Will you marry me?" projected onto the massive, cinematic rocks that surround the beach. With exceptional service, expert planning, and luxurious accommodations, a Los Cabos proposal will be as extraordinary as the oceanfront destination itself. Other romantic touchpoints for couples include retreating to private pool suites, indulging in Michelin-recommended meals at signature restaurant Mezcal, or unwinding at the 40,000-square-foot Spa Montage.