When it comes to a beach engagement shoot, there are many options to choose from. This is because San Diego is a beach lover’s paradise, with miles and miles of gorgeous coastline. Each beach has its own special charm, so it’s hard to choose a favorite!

When selecting a beach location for you photo shoot, it is important to consider the surrounding areas.  For example, if a fun commercial area or pier is nearby, then a nice variety of photos can be captured within the same shoot. It’s also good to time your shoot near sunset, when the light conditions are amazing. Here is a quick overview of some of our most recommended beach locations:

La Jolla Shores

This beach is famous among locals and tourists alike, and a surfer’s paradise. At La Jolla Shores, there are magnificent views of the golden coast of La Jolla, and the iconic Scripps Pier. If your shoot is during low tide, the awesome cliffs at the north side of the beach can be reached. There are also plenty of off-beach locations within walking distance, like Scripps Seaside Forum, the Scripps Institute of Oceanography and the Pedestrian Bridge on La Jolla Shores Drive.

Windansea Beach

This beautiful stretch of coastline in La Jolla has many rocky cliffs, and a nice sandy beach at low tide.  Throughout Windansea Beach, there are many long staircases, which make for great photo opportunities. There are also views of the ocean from the street level, and the surrounding neighborhood provides a good balance to the beach!

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Coronado South Beach

Voted as the #1 beach in America, this beach is the crown jewel of Coronado Island. South Beach has soft white sand, and unforgettable views of Point Loma and the Gulf of Santa Catalina. The beach itself has a picturesque jetty, and jaw-dropping sand dunes. Fun fact – the dunes actually spell out the word ‘Coronado’ when viewed from above! Nearby, you’ll find the world-renowned Hotel del Coronado, and Glorietta Bay, both of which provide many fabulous photo opportunities.

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Mission Beach

Where else can you find two miles of glorious beach, an iconic California boardwalk, and a nostalgic theme park? All of these attributes make Mission Beach a great choice for a fun and colorful photoshoot. If you walk across the street, you also have access to Mission Bay, which has spectacular views and nautical backdrops.

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Solana Beach

The Solana Beach Area has much to offer in terms of a photoshoot. The pristine beach at Fletcher’s Cove has amazing rock faces, and breathtaking views of the coastline. A few feet away is the eclectic ‘Design District’ which has tons of cool backdrops all along Cedros Avenue. Also nearby is the Solana Beach Coaster Station, which has unique and appealing photo spots.

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Pacific Beach

Make your California dreams come true! Also known as PB (no, not Peanut Butter..lol), Pacific Beach is home to the iconic Crystal Pier, and many great beachfront establishments. The beach itself stretches into the cliffs of La Jolla, and is a popular spot among surfers and sun-seekers. The community comes alive in the evening hours, where the neighborhood haunts become fun and boisterous hangouts.

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Torrey Pines State Beach

If you are looking for the California golden coast, look no further! Torrey Pines State Beach is located at the base of 300-foot cliffs, which stretch for miles and miles. The beach itself is a combination of sand and beautiful water-polished stones. Just off the beach is the Torrey Pines Natural Reserve, which boasts great hiking trails and phenomenal ocean views. Be prepared to walk a little :)

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La Jolla Cove

The Cove is a scenic locale in La Jolla with intimate beaches and picturesque cliffs. Because the area is rich in marine life, you may even get photobombed by a sea lion ;) Near the ocean is a nice green park, and downtown La Jolla, which has many cool spots.

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Sunset Cliffs/Ocean Beach

Sunset Cliffs… the name says it all! This is one of the best places to witness a sunset, bar none. With its winding roads and sheer cliffs, there are many unforgettable views within a small area. If you venture to the south end of Sunset Cliffs, there is a nature preserve, with trees and and hiking trails. Nearby, down a long winding staircase, you will find welcoming tide pools. There is even secluded beach access during low tide….if you are willing to do some off-roading :) To the North of Sunset Cliffs is the free-spirited Ocean Beach community, which features the longest concrete pier in the US, and other beachy urban backgrounds.

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