Terranea Resort Proposal | Rancho Palos Verdes Engagement

Palos Verdes • California

Stephanie Ip Photography

Posted on September 21, 2025

There’s something magical about a proposal by the ocean, and Matthew chose one of the most breathtaking spots in Southern California—Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes, right by the historic Marineland cliffs. With golden light pouring over the rocky shoreline and waves crashing below, he surprised Catherine with a heartfelt proposal that took her completely off guard.

The Proposal Moment

Matthew planned the perfect setup along Terranea’s rocky point, a unique location that feels both private and dramatic with sweeping ocean views. Catherine thought she was simply attending a work retreat at the resort, but Matthew had other plans. As they walked down the path, he got down on one knee with the ocean behind them.

Her reaction was everything—first shock, then laughter, then tears of joy as she said yes. It was the kind of raw, unscripted emotion that makes photographing proposals so meaningful.

Playful & Candid Portraits After “Yes”

After the proposal, we spent time exploring the rocky cliffs and shoreline for portraits. With the waves crashing below, we captured a mix of elegant poses and carefree moments that showed off Matthew and Catherine’s personalities.

They twirled, hugged, and even played with airplane-style poses, all while laughing and soaking in the moment. We also worked in quieter, more intimate portraits—holding hands, resting together, and sharing quiet smiles with the ocean in the background.

This balance of candid emotion and gentle direction created a gallery that feels both natural and timeless.

Why Terranea Resort is Perfect for Proposals

Terranea Resort is one of our favorite places for a proposal in Southern California. Its dramatic cliffs, hidden trails, and sweeping Pacific views make every corner photogenic. Unlike a flat sandy beach, the rocky point adds texture and depth to the photos while still offering golden light at sunset.

It’s also practical—Terranea offers dining, spa experiences, and luxurious stays, so couples can easily transition from the proposal to a romantic evening together. In fact, after our shoot, Matthew and Catherine headed to Nelson’s restaurant to continue the celebration.

Final Thoughts

Matthew and Catherine’s proposal at Terranea Resort was the perfect blend of heartfelt surprise and playful celebration. From the moment Catherine said “yes” to the laughter-filled portraits along the cliffs, the day felt like pure joy.

If you’re considering proposing at Terranea Resort—or anywhere along the beautiful Palos Verdes coast—having a photographer to capture both the surprise and the moments afterward makes the memory last forever.