The South Pacific islands are inherently romantic. From sun-bleached sand enveloping your feet and cool island air caressing your skin, to transcendental sunsets with interplays of colors slowly dipping beyond the horizon, it’s the perfect romance-filled destination to pop the question. Here are 10 perfect ways to do so!
1 | Cruise Around the Islands at Sunset
In the South Pacific, most large hotels across the main islands offer sunset cruises, a classic and romantic way for you to declare your feelings to the person you love. The picture-perfect backdrops, warm ocean breeze, and stunning kaleidoscope of oranges, reds and yellows will help you overcome any hints of nervousness. Try a catamaran sunset sail in Bora Bora, and toast to the beginning of the new chapter in your life.
2 | Fly Over a Heart-Shaped Island
Let the landscape be your new favourite wingman. Whisk your better half away in a romantic helicopter ride as you gaze upon the stunning Tavarua, and island found within the Fiji Islands, or Tupai, and island near Tahiti. These stunningly unique sights, comprised of gorgeous white sand beaches and crystalline blue waters, are home to aerial views you must see to believe.
3 | Enjoy a Romantic Island Picnic
Two people, one picnic, and a private island in the middle of the ocean. That’s something you’d only see in the movies, but you can also get a dose of your own fairy-tale romance on the gorgeous Yadua Island in the Mamanucas, a volcanic group of islands located within the Fiji Islands. For a low-key yet utterly romantic proposal, you can’t go wrong!
4 | Book a Private Island Getaway
Let’s take ‘enjoying a picnic on a private island,’ and raise it to a new level by staying at Marlon Brando’s group of private islands. This secluded hideaway, offers a carefree and luxurious experience for couples looking for a modern yet eco-friendly stay. This island paradise simply begs for a romantic declaration.
5 | Snorkel with Manta Rays and Humpback Whales
Who says sunsets and picnics are the only way to a person’s heart? The South Pacific islands offer something for thrill-seekers as well. Amidst the many cozy lagoons are opportunities to witness marine life in all its technicolor glory. Brightly colored coral reefs, schools of black and white manta rays, and even humpback whales – all are essential pieces to the most memorable proposal ever.
6 | Get Back to Nature
If you’re an adventure-seeking couple, there’s something to get your heart pounding, in more ways than one. If you want a truly Polynesian backdrop for your proposal, why not check out the Lavena Coastal Walk. This gorgeous trail leads from Taveuni’s southeastern coastline, taking you through its signature picturesque beaches and rock pools, and ends at a romantic waterfall. Who could say no to that!?
7 | Dive with Sharks
But if you really want to get your heart racing, it’s time to dive with one of nature’s deadliest predators! Encounter up to eight different species of sharks at Shark Reef Marine Reserve – Fiji’s first marine reserve. This exhilarating experience is unmatched by any other. So instead of going the traditional ‘dinner and champagne’ proposal route, why not pop the question underwater?
8 | Choose a Unique Adventure (and Pearl!)
For a truly unique proposal, try pearl diving. You’ll come across such facilities in Bora Bora, where they not only teach you about harvesting pearls, but they also take you diving for your own locally-cultivated pearl! Why not give the old engagement ring a personalized spin by going the extra mile to pick it out yourself? Trust us, it’s a story that will win you many points!
9 | Soak in a Mud Pool and Hot Springs
There’s nothing quite as relaxing as soaking in a hot spring. Luckily, Fiji has many to choose from, the most popular being Sabeto Hot Springs, located near Nadi on the mainland. These naturally occurring springs are filled with beneficial properties. So, once you’ve popped the question, round off the experience with a relaxing dip and couple’s massage, and take home a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
10 | Make the Proposal as Ideal as the Wedding
Relaxed, intimate and sophisticated is the ideal wedding. But why not apply the same principles to the proposal, too? In the South Pacific islands, you’re spoiled with choice. From the glistening azure waters, to the soft-sand beaches, to a cozy nook under the shelter of palm trees, any spot could be the perfect spot for you.
By Vrinda Gupta
