Directions to the spot on Coastal Trail


Rodeo Beach Parking Lot (Google Maps)


PIN of the ideal spot (Google Maps)


Getting There

  • Parking is free but can fill up, especially on weekends/evenings. Arrive early!
  • There are restrooms in the parking lot


The Hike

  • It's about a 15 minute walk to the spot
  • Trail starts on a concrete road after the gate
  • Turn at the first left (Coastal Trailhead sign) to head uphill
  • Follow the path past the fencing until you reach a downhill fork on the left
  • Look for the round statue. The narrow trail just to the right of it leads to the ideal spot
  • Screenshots/map of the route below


Coastal Trail


Enter through the gate on the concrete road.


You will see a sign for Coastal Trail to the left before the trees.

What to Wear

  • Sturdy shoes with good grip (more on this below)
  • Dress in layers. It can get windy and cool near the coast even on warm days in the evening.
  • Avoid long flowy skirts/dresses that might catch wind or make the climb awkward


Shoes

The Coastal Trail at Rodeo Beach starts out paved and pretty easy, but gets steep and rocky toward the top and on the way down to our spot. Think narrow stair-like sections, loose gravel, and uneven ground, so you'll want shoes with solid grip rather than flats or open-toed sandals (it gets rocky and dusty!). Great options include trail runners for something lightweight and comfortable, low-top hiking shoes for a bit more stability, or even sturdy boots like Blundstones. Your feet will thank you!


What to Bring

  • Extra pair of sandals or flip flops if you want to walk on the beach after
  • Facial wipes or blotting sheets for a quick touch-up before the moment
  • A small bag or purse to stash the ring box (somewhere accessible but hidden!)
  • A jacket with hidden/deep pockets or pockets that you can zip up
  • Fully charged phone
  • Light jacket or wrap for both partners



Keep going all the way up past this fencing until you see a fork on your left going downhill. 

There's a cylindrical statue with a round shaped plate on top to the left of the marked route. Take the trail to the right of this round structure.

The narrow trail is just before this area. Feel free to keep going past this to explore more!

Day-of Tips

  • Set phone to Do Not Disturb
  • Share location with Anna if on iPhone
  • Don't overthink it. Once you're up there, it'll all feel natural!