12 Beautiful Places to Propose in Rhode Island

Pop the question in the Ocean State.
The Best Places to Propose in Rhode Island
Photo: Danoch | Shutterstock
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by
Shelby Wax
shelby wax headshot
Shelby Wax
The Knot Contributor
  • Shelby is a contributing writer for The Knot covering all things weddings.
  • Shelby is a freelance writer for publications including Vogue, Over the Moon and Allure. She previously served as Senior Editor at Brides and Editor at Lonny Magazine.
  • Shelby graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English from Scripps College.
Updated Apr 03, 2024

If you want to propose to your special someone in a beautiful location, then you should consider making your way to Rhode Island. Whether you're a visitor or a local, there are lots of beautiful places to propose in Rhode Island that can make that life-changing moment even more memorable with its stunning backdrops. If you want to have a romantic proposal, consider exploring the petite state for some big backdrops for your engagement.

Make the most of the exciting coastline with historic landmarks, sweeping cliffs and beautiful beaches where you can plan an exciting moment to get down on one knee. If you need help planning your Rhode Island proposal, read ahead for a breakdown of some of the best times to visit the state and lovely locations to celebrate that exciting step in your relationship.

In this article:

How to Decide Where to Propose in Rhode Island

While Rhode Island is the smallest state, there are plenty of beautiful locations to pop the question. Think about what kind of feel you want for your proposal then consider Rhode Island locations on the coastline, in larger cities or within the farmland of the state. You might want to check out The Knot Vendor Marketplace for beautiful venues that can serve as your engagement spot, planners who can help you put together the perfect proposal or photographers who can capture it all.

Best Time of Year to Propose in Rhode Island

The most beautiful times to visit Rhode Island are in the spring and summer when the beaches are warm and the foliage is blooming. Of course, fall can be lovely as the trees begin to change hues. All these seasons can be ideal times to plan an engagement in the state.

The Best Places to Propose in Rhode Island

Want to take a look at some of the most amazing spots to propose in Rhode Island? Read ahead for some local favorites.

Mackerel Cove

"I love Mackerel Cove because it's in the beautiful town of Jamestown and after hours has easy free parking," says engagement and wedding photographer Carly Yarbrow of Carly Michelle Photography. "The beach itself is small but beautiful and very clean." Make a stop at Bailey Island Library Hall for some extra photos just across from the cove.

Brenton Point State Park

"Brenton Point State Park is along Ocean Drive in Newport with free parking," shares Yarbrow. "It has access to cliff rocks and patches of sandy beach to create the ultimate Rhode Island engagement photos."

Cliff Walk

"What's not to love about the Cliff Walk? You have so many photo opportunities along the coastline with pockets of Cliff Rock access to create stunning coastal photos," says Yarbrow. "Some mansions line the Cliff Walk and you can purchase permits to shoot additional engagement photos there." Chanler at Cliff Walk is a favorite that can also serve as your wedding venue.

Easton Beach

Another beautiful spot for a proposal is along the beautiful sandy terrain of Easton Beach. "This is a long strip of beach in Newport with views of the Cliff Walk— perfect place for golden hour photos," recommends Yarbrow.

Fort Wetherill State Park

Yarbrow calls Fort Wetherill State Park a "hidden gem" in Rhode Island that's great for proposal shots. "It's more of a rocky beach but I love that there's tons of cliff rocks to overlook the ocean," she says.

RISD Museum

Want an artful proposal experience? Head to the RISD Museum and get down on one knee in front of your favorite piece. This is a great engagement option for any graduates of the art school who want to add a touch of nostalgia to their proposal.

Newport Harbor Island Resort

Enjoy a lovely retreat at the Newport Harbor Island Resort with your special someone before you find the perfect moment to pop the question. The beautiful views and ocean backdrop will make it a picturesque proposal.

Castle Hill Inn

Another great Newport hotel for your proposal is Castle Hill Inn. Book your own beach cottage to have a romantic and intimate vacation together after you get down on one knee.

Sweet Berry Farm

Does your special someone love a rustic aesthetic? Bring them to Sweet Berry Farm to take in 100 acres of farmland and orchards to ask that big question. Then, enjoy a picnic throughout the grounds as you celebrate.

Newport Vineyards

Pop some champagne and celebrate your new engagement at Newport Vineyards. Portraits among the vines will be gorgeous after the big moment and you can enjoy a tasting or two with your new fiancé.

Spring House Hotel

Head to Block Island for a beautiful proposal at a historic landmark. Spring House Hotel is a lovely Victorian property along the coastline that can serve as your celebration spot after a proposal on the beach.

Ocean House

Want a luxury proposal experience? Head to the five-star hotel Ocean House for your engagement and maybe even host a party after on the property.

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