Best Spots for Engagement Photos in Southern California

Meeks
Apr 3
3 min read

Southern California is such a magical place...and I'm not just saying that because I was born and raised there! ;) It truly is a place where a sunset on the beach feels like it was made as a backdrop just for you, where the quiet of a lagoon holds your most intimate moments, and where our mountains provide the perfect stage for any adventure. If you’re looking for a place that mirrors your unique connection, these spots are where the magic happens.

A couple kissing on the beach on Coronado Island at the Hotel Del.

Southern California Beaches

The beaches of Southern California (specifically San Diego County) are stunning. Is Malibu your jam? Or are you more of a classic Coronado Island couple? Two very different vibes. Two uniquely magical experiences.

California beaches provide a romantic, natural setting for your engagement photos, and in my opinion, offer a ton of freedom and flexibility. This setting is perfect for so many personality styles. The intimate romantic couple who want to walk, talk, and get cozy, the silly and carefree couple wanting to run around and tackle each other in the waves, and the couples who's a little bit of both.

Best Beaches for Engagement Photos:

La Jolla Cove: The soft rocky edges meet the crashing waves, perfect for an intimate feel. We can walk around town, and maybe even spot a Sea Lion! https://www.sandiego.gov/lifeguards/beaches/cove
Coronado Beach: Endless golden sand and the iconic Hotel del Coronado, ideal for romantic, airy shots. Beach meets nostalgic village with the San Diego Skyline as a backdrop? 100% YES! https://coronadovisitorcenter.com/
Point Dume: A hidden gem with rugged cliffs and secret beaches, perfect for dramatic shots. https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=623

A couple kneels on a sandy beach, embracing in front of gentle waves. Overcast sky and rocks in the background create a serene mood.

Batiquitos Lagoon

If you’re looking for a location that offers a sense of seclusion without having to hike up cliffs, Batiquitos Lagoon is the spot for you. This local secret in Carlsbad is filled with lush greenery, meandering trails, and some AMAZING sunsets. It’s a place that feels timeless, where authentic moments can unfold without distraction. The natural beauty here makes it perfect for couples who want to feel connected to the earth while capturing their love in the most raw, genuine way. https://www.carlsbadca.gov/residents/about-carlsbad/lagoons/batiquitos

Man and woman holding hands, walking uphill in a forest. She wears a red polka dot dress; greenery and trees surround them. Romantic mood.

A couple kisses in a field by a lake. The woman wears a floral dress, raising her arms joyfully. The scene is serene with soft evening light.

The Mountains

This is one of my favorites! The mountains of Southern California are perfect for couples who see themselves as stars in a Bon Iver music video. Big Bear Lake holds a very special place in my heart because it offers a warm sense of nostalgia for me. There’s something about being in the mountains that brings out a sense of freedom and wildness in people, haha. The landscapes become a co-star in your story, and I promise you wont regret running around some mountain fields with your love.

Best Mountain Spots for Engagement Photos:

Big Bear Lake: A perfect mix of mountain landscapes and lake views. Ideal for a calm yet adventurous vibe. https://www.bigbear.com/
San Bernardino Mountains: Dense forests and breathtaking vistas for couples who love nature’s grandeur. https://www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf
Cuyamaca Rancho State Park: Rolling hills, woodland paths, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels like home. https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=667

Couple lying on a blanket in a field of daffodils by a tree, laughing together. Sunlit, relaxed atmosphere with trees in the background.

Man holds laughing woman upside down in a grassy area with trees in the background. She's smiling broadly, creating a joyful mood.

Hidden Gems: For Those Who Love Quiet Places

Don't want tourists crowding your engagement photos? I totally get it! Southern California has some hidden gems that are perfect for couples who want a setting that feels personal, intimate, and uniquely theirs. Elfin Forest in the San Elijo Hills, vineyards of Temecula, or even Live Oak Park in Fallbrook offer so many stunning spots to make your engagement photos feel like a private love story.

Other Hidden Gems for Engagement Photos:

Elfin Forest: Tucked away with quiet trails and wildflowers—perfect for nature-loving couples. https://elfinforest.olivenhain.com/
Temecula Valley Vineyards: A serene backdrop of rolling hills, vineyards, and golden hour light. https://www.visittemeculavalley.com/wine/wineries/
Malibu’s Point Dume: Rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and dreamy light—perfect for a quieter, more dramatic vibe.

Blurred image of two people dancing in a wooded outdoor setting, one in a light dress, the other in dark clothing. Motion creates a dreamy effect.

How to Choose the Perfect Spot for Your Engagement Photos

Picking an engagement location is a lot like choosing a partner, it needs to feel right. So maybe it's not the mountains, beach, or a lagoon. Maybe your perfect spot is The San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park or a record store on. the coast. Maybe it's in your home make pancakes on a Saturday morning. Think about what makes you feel alive; what speaks to your hearts and the story you want to tell? The best photos come from moments that feel real, authentic, and true to who you are as a couple.

Ready to Book?

When you reach out you can expect a response from me in 24-48 hours! I love meeting my couples and I'll help plan a one-of-a-kind experience that you'll be able to cherish for years to come :)

xxMeeks