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There's something about the quaint charm of Cape Cod's islands that beckons lovers. Both Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket are popular destinations for honeymooners, couples seeking a romantic getaway, and quixotic paramours such as Tim, who is looking for the ideal setting to pop the big question and emailed me for suggestions. Ah, young love. Tim writes:

Can you give me a few of the most romantic places in Martha's Vineyard? I'm looking for something very special as a possible engagement point. Thanks so much.
-Tim

Thanks for writing Tim. Martha's Vineyard offers a storybook setting that will provide a memorable backdrop when you ask for your beloved's hand in marriage. "The most romantic places" are in the eye (the heart?) of the beholder, so I'll offer a few varied suggestions.

Martha's Vineyard has a number of intimate, captivating inns that could help set the tone for your mission. Two of the island's best inns also boast highly regarded restaurants. Perhaps you could make arrangements with the host to prepare a special meal and follow it with champagne for the big moment. The Beach Plum Inn overlooks the ocean in Menemsha, a tiny town tucked into a quiet corner of the Vineyard. Among its amenities are a private beach for guests, horseback riding trails, sailing, and to-die-for sunsets (plan your meal and big question time accordingly). Lambert's Cove Inn, located in Tisbury, is an equally charming and romantic spot. Dating back to 1790, the historic estate also offers a private beach as well as a heated whirlpool.

Maybe you want to find a quiet spot right on the beach to engage in your engagement query. There are no shortage of beautiful beaches on Martha's Vineyard, of course. One of the best is Moshup Beach. Located at the base of Gay Head's multi-colored cliffs, the small beach is gorgeous. As a bonus, Moshup Beach has a section that is (unofficially) clothing-optional. That might make for a memorable spot to launch into your spiel. (Then again, where would you hide the ring?)

If you're looking for someplace more whimsical, how about the Flying Horses Carousel at Oak Bluffs? Built in 1876 (it was moved to the Vineyard in 1884), it is the nation's oldest operating platform carousel, and is among a few that still entice riders to catch the brass ring. The twenty hand-carved horses include real horsehair. Here are my thoughts: Contact the attraction's operator and pre-arrange an after-hours visit. Instead of the band organ music, make plans to have them play your favorite song. See if you can somehow substitute your engagement ring in the carousel's ring dispenser, and have your betrothed sit on an outside horse to grab the ring.

Tim, I wish the best of luck to you. Kindly email me back and let us know about your island adventure. And remember that although your lives together will have its ups and downs, you'll always be able to look back at your idyllic Martha's Vineyard getaway for inspiration to grab the brass ring.

-Arthur
Arthur Levine
Explore New England
Massachusetts Blogger
Having a wicked good time in Massachusetts!

Photo: The Beach Plum Inn Web site