TL;DR: the Caribbean is turquoise water, soft sand and warm evenings, and Barbados, St Lucia and the Bahamas each offer something different. Barbados has calm west coast beaches and sunset catamarans, St Lucia has the Pitons and secluded bays, and the Bahamas have pink sand beaches and clear shallows. The dry season is roughly December to April, hurricane season runs roughly June to November, and a wet hand can lose a ring, so propose on dry land. Pieces start from £600.
Why the Caribbean
The sea is warm, the beaches are easy and many resorts and villas are used to arranging proposals. It suits couples who want a relaxed, sunny setting with help on hand.
Barbados
Calm west coast beaches, sunset catamarans and clifftop terraces. Check operators and resort policies.
St Lucia
The Pitons, jungle waterfalls and secluded bays. A view of the Pitons at sunset is hard to beat, and many resorts have terraces with a view.
The Bahamas
Pink sand beaches, sandbanks and clear shallows. Check access, because some of the loveliest places are reached by boat.
Choosing between them
- For calm, easy beaches and good service, choose Barbados.
- For dramatic scenery, choose St Lucia.
- For clear water and a sense of escape, choose the Bahamas.
Seasons
The dry season, roughly December to April, is most popular. Hurricane season runs roughly from June to November, so check forecasts, and consider travel insurance. Shoulder months can be quieter.
A sample evening
Spend the day at ease, with a swim, a long lunch and a rest in the shade. Dress for the evening and walk to your chosen spot about an hour before sunset, when the sky turns gold. Propose on dry sand or a terrace, then carry on to a private dinner, perhaps a table on the beach with lanterns. Tell the resort in advance and they can often arrange the details, such as flowers or a quiet corner, so you can focus on the moment.
Planning the moment
- Choose a spot and a backup, and ask your resort what they can arrange.
- Check boat and flight timetables, and weather for your dates.
- Time the moment for golden light.
- Arrange a photographer through the resort or a local.
- Plan a private dinner afterwards.
A ring for hot climates
If you will wear the ring in warm weather, comfort matters. Fingers swell in the heat, so a slightly more generous fit can help, and a smooth, low setting is less likely to catch on swimwear and towels. Sun lotion and salt water can build up under a stone, so a quick rinse and a soft brush at the end of the day keep it clear. Tell us where you live or travel, and we will suggest details that suit the climate.
Warm water and the ring
Wet hands and warm water mean the ring can slip off, so propose on dry land. Rinse the ring after salt and suncream. When flying, keep the ring in hand luggage, and check airline and customs rules. See beach holiday ring care and travel storage for rings.
Ordering from the UK
We work by video consultation and message, send sketches and CAD renders, and make nothing until you approve the design in writing. Standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with your location and how busy we are. Delivery is insured and tracked with FedEx, and the customer pays import duty and tax, which differ by country. See ten questions international customers ask.
Frequently asked questions
Is a private beach dinner easy?
Many resorts offer it.
Which island is quietest?
Smaller islands and shoulder seasons.
Is hurricane season a problem?
It can be. Check forecasts and consider insurance.
How far ahead should I order the ring?
Allow at least 8 weeks, more for overseas delivery.