When Jason reached out to me in May about planning a sunset proposal in Acadia National Park, I knew it was going to be something special. Within a month, he wanted to create a romantic evening on the rocky coast of Maine. Intimate. Thoughtful. Just the two of them.

And honestly, there’s no better place for that kind of moment than Acadia.

After talking through locations, timing, and privacy, we chose Little Hunter’s Beach. A hidden pebble beach tucked along the coastline that feels secluded and personal. It was the perfect setting for a once in a lifetime question.

Planning a Surprise Proposal in Acadia National Park

Planning a proposal inside a national park takes intention. We had plenty of back and forth to make sure everything felt seamless. The biggest challenge was keeping it a secret from Sam, Jason and I had a secret email chain and I made sure to only respond to him as needed. He wanted to make sure to keep it a surprise so the moment would be heartfelt emotional and authentic.

Sam had no idea what I looked like, which actually worked in our favor. On any given evening, Acadia is filled with hikers and visitors. I could easily blend right in as a random hiker along the trail where Jason would propose.

I arrived about 30 minutes early to scout the area and settle into place. Jason and I agreed on a simple plan. I would leave my backpack along the trail so he’d know exactly where to stand. From the parking area it was a straight shot to the proposal spot.

Simple. Clean. Stress free.

Why Little Hunter’s Beach is Perfect for a Proposal

Little Hunter’s Beach is one of Acadia’s hidden gems. Unlike some of the more popular overlooks, it offers:

• A private, intimate atmosphere
• A stunning pebble shoreline
• Dramatic rocky coastline views
• Unreal golden hour light

It feels quiet and untouched. When you step onto that beach, it feels like the world slows down.

Which is exactly what you want when you’re about to change your life forever.

How We Pulled Off the Surprise

When I saw Jason arrive, I made my way into position. He led Sam down the trail casually, as if they were just exploring.

Once he reached my backpack, I casually walked up, grabbed it, said hello, and continued down the trail as if I were just another hiker photographing wildlife.

Sam had no idea.

From about 50 feet down the trail, I gave Jason a thumbs up. It was time.

A Sunset Proposal on the Rocky Coast of Acadia National Park

Jason began telling Sam why she was the person he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. His voice was steady, but you could feel the emotion behind every word.

Then he got down on one knee. He pulled out a stunning oval cut engagement ring, and for a moment everything felt still. Proposals happen in seconds, but for him, I’m sure it felt like slow motion.

Sam was completely shocked. Overwhelmed in the best way.

After she said yes and they had a few quiet moments to take it all in, I officially introduced myself. Watching her realize I was not just a random hiker made the entire plan even sweeter. We all had a good laugh about the undercover operation.

Golden Hour Engagement Photos in Acadia National Park

After the proposal, we made our way further down the trail where the coastline opens up into expansive ocean views. The horizon stretched endlessly. Waves gently rolled in. The light began to soften. Golden hour in Acadia is unreal.

The sun dipped toward the tree line, casting a warm glow over the rocky coast. Every photo felt dreamy and cinematic. Sam was glowing. You could see the joy radiating from her.

I made sure to capture every detail. The ring. The way they held each other. The laughter. The quiet in between moments.

It was intimate, Natural, and completely them.

Celebrating in Bar Harbor After the Proposal

After we wrapped up along the coast, they headed into Bar Harbor to celebrate with drinks and ice cream. Honestly, that’s such a perfect way to end an Acadia National Park proposal.

Adventurous. Relaxed. Joy filled.

Exactly how a proposal day should feel.

How to Plan Your Own Acadia National Park Proposal

If you’re thinking about proposing in Acadia, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Choose a Location with Intention

Whether it’s Little Hunter’s Beach, Otter Point, or Cadillac Mountain, pick a spot that reflects your relationship. Some locations offer privacy, others offer sweeping views.

Plan for Golden Hour

The hour before sunset gives you the most romantic lighting along the coast. It’s soft, warm, and incredibly flattering for photos.

Have a Clear Signal with Your Photographer

Simple cues like a backpack marker or subtle hand signal keep things stress free and natural.

Build a Celebration Into the Evening

Plan dinner in Bar Harbor. Grab ice cream. Toast with champagne. Make it a full experience, not just a quick moment.

Work with Someone Who Knows the Park

Acadia can get busy. Knowing where to stand, when to arrive, and how to stay discreet makes all the difference.