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A Surprise Beach Proposal in Half Moon Bay

  • Aug 27
  • 2 min read

Hunter had a simple plan for proposing to Maddie: drinks at the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, with a walk on the beach first. They wandered down toward the water hand in hand, talking as they walked. I was already on the beach waiting for them, far enough away that Maddie had no reason to wonder why someone with a camera happened to be nearby.


When they reached a spot that felt right to him, away from other people, Hunter stopped. Whatever he said next was clearly worth taking some time over, as they stood facing each other for several moments before he finally reached for the ring and dropped to one knee.


  • couple walking on beach in half moon bay
  • proposal on beah below ritz carlton
  • groom on one knee and surprised bride on beach in half moon bay
  • bride sees her new ring
  • laughing at the surprise proposal
  • couple call their parents to tell them the news
  • smiling bride showing her ring

Maddie's reaction was wonderful. She was completely surprised, and almost seemed to dance with excitement before there were hugs, laughter and a very happy "yes!".


We stayed on the beach afterward for a few photographs while they took in what had just happened. One of my favorite things about photographing proposals are these moments after. The nervous planning is over, nobody needs to keep a secret anymore, and you get to watch two people realize that they are engaged.


  • smiling couple
  • the walk after the proposal on the coast in half moon bay
  • enjoying a few quiet moments together as a couple

Before long, they were calling family to share the news. Then Hunter and Maddie walked back up the beach together to finish their evening with drinks and dinner to start their new lives together in Half Moon Bay.






Planning a Half Moon Bay or Beach Proposal?

The coast around Half Moon Bay offers some spectacular places to propose, from beaches and cliffs to quieter coastal spots. The weather, tides, access and crowds can all make a difference, so I help with the logistics beforehand as well as photographing the moment itself.




About Jody Holman

Jody is a San Francisco Bay Area photographer with more than twenty years of experience photographing proposals, intimate weddings and people. Her approach is natural and unobtrusive, with an emphasis on real moments, beautiful light and minimal posing.


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