If you want to plan a romantic proposal in a beautiful, beachy location but don't have the budget or time to jet off to Hawaii or St. Thomas, Baja California is a closer and more affordable option. The Baja California Peninsula extends from Mexicali in the north to Cabo San Lucas in the south and offers a diverse landscape of rustic fishing villages, colonial towns, vineyards, touristy resorts and nightclubs and gorgeous beaches for surfing and swimming.

You can hop a direct flight from many US cities and arrive in the Cabo San Lucas Airport within a few hours. Wondering where to propose? Skip the party town of Cabo San Lucas and head for its more mellow, artsy twin, San José del Cabo, or go an hour north to stay at peaceful hacienda in the lovely village of Todos Santos.

If your girlfriend is a nature or animal lover, plan a unique and romantic proposal that also benefits the planet. From August to November, in San José Del Cabo offers a wildlife conservation excursion to help preserve endangered sea turtles. Together, you can adopt a baby sea turtle, release it into the ocean and watch as it begins its journey. Pop the question by writing, "Will you marry me?" in the sand, and celebrate with some fresh seafood and a few cold cervezas.

Rent a private room at Pescadero Surf Camp in Todos Santos, and spend your days falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves, getting private surf instruction and relaxing by the pool during your downtime. The beach is good for any level -- beginner, intermediate and advanced -- and you can rent all the equipment you need to get started. Plan your proposal for a time of day when the beach is tranquil and you are relaxed after a day of sunning and surfing -- first thing in the morning or as the sun is setting.

Nothing spells romance like a home-cooked meal. Sign up for a private cooking class at Huerta Los Tamarindos Cooking School in San José Del Cabo, and you will visit the Los Tamarindos organic farm to gather ingredients, learn about each recipe, then prepare a multi-course lunch with the chef. Fill your bellies with delicious food you have selected and cooked, then make the dessert course extra special by proposing with a solitaire engagement ring.

What do you think are the best places to propose in Baja California? Share your ideas in the comments.