If you’re dreaming of an engagement session with ocean views, rocky cliffs, and a touch of Southern California magic, Laguna Beach is the perfect city for your session. Whether you’re looking for romantic sunset shots on the beach, dramatic rocky landscapes, or cute small city vibes, Laguna Beach has it all. Here are some of the best locations for engagement photos, plus tips to help you plan the perfect session.
Victoria Beach – A Fairytale Setting
Victoria Beach is one of Laguna’s most famous spots, thanks to its iconic “Pirate Tower.” This 60-foot tower, built in the 1920s, looks like something straight out of a fairytale.
Why we love Victoria Beach:
- Unique, castle-like backdrop that adds a storybook feel.
- Dramatic rocky cliffs and tide pools for adventurous, natural shots.
- A more secluded feel compared to some of Laguna’s busier beaches.
Pro Tip: The beach is only accessible at medium to low tide, so check the tide schedule before planning your session! Of course, as a Lin and Jirsa client, we’ll do all of the checking for you! Also, parking can be challenging, as only residential parking is available, so plan ahead!
Heisler Park and Rock Pile Beach
If you want a mix of lush greenery, ocean views, and easy accessibility, Heisler Park is a fantastic choice. This clifftop park features scenic walking paths, colorful flowers, and stunning overlooks that make for romantic and timeless engagement photos.
Right below Heisler park is Rock Pile Beach, which has some of the best rocky scenes for engagement photography. This spot is especially beautiful at sunset.
Why we love Heisler and Rock Pile Beach:
- Variety of backdrops, from gardens to dramatic cliffs.
- Ocean-view benches and gazebos that add a romantic touch.
- Easy access to the beach below for a mix of park and shoreline shots.
Pro Tip: This park is popular, so weekday sessions or early mornings are best for fewer crowds.
Top of the World Park – Panoramic Mountain & Ocean Views
For couples who want something different from the typical beach session, Top of the World Park offers jaw-dropping views of both the ocean and rolling hills. This location provides a sweeping, elevated perspective that makes for stunning sunset photos.
Why we love the Top of the World Park:
- 360-degree views of Laguna Beach, mountains, and coastline.
- Fewer crowds and easy parking
- A great option for couples who love hiking or a more natural setting.
- Golden-hour lighting is absolutely magical here.
Pro Tip: Bring comfortable shoes for walking the trails to different viewpoints!
Treasure Island Beach – A Luxury Coastal Look
Located near the Montage Resort, Treasure Island Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Laguna. With rocky outcrops, tide pools, and golden sand, it has a refined, elegant coastal feel.
Why we love it:
- A perfect blend of dramatic rocks and soft sand.
- The Montage Resort gardens above the beach add a lush, high-end feel.
- Sunsets here are absolutely breathtaking.
Pro Tip: The Montage property itself is private, but the beach is public. Stick to the designated trails and scenic overlooks for the best shots. Also, the beach is only accessible during medium to low tides, so plan ahead!
Downtown Laguna Beach – Charming and Artistic
If you’re looking for a mix of small city charm, boutique storefronts, and artistic vibes, Downtown Laguna Beach is a fantastic engagement photo location. This area is filled with quaint streets, colorful murals, and charming cafés, offering a completely different look from the beach while still capturing the essence of Laguna.
Pro Tip: You can start with a casual stroll through the Laguna Beach Greeter’s Corner, pose in front of one of the many art murals, or grab a coffee at a cozy café for a natural, candid feel. Plus, you’re just steps away from Main Beach, allowing you to capture a mix of both city and shoreline in one session.
Willow Canyon Hiking Trail – Nature Meets Adventure
For couples who love the outdoors and want an engagement session with breathtaking natural scenery, Willow Canyon Hiking Trail is a perfect choice. Located in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, this trail offers rolling hills and wild grassy fields. The rugged terrain and open landscapes provide a romantic, adventurous feel, perfect for couples the green, nature vibe.
Pro Tip: Combine this location with another beach location on this list for a diverse set of engagement photos. Also, keep in mind that this park closes early at 5pm!
Other Photo Location Options
If you want even more variety, here are a few additional engagement photo spots in Laguna Beach:
- Shaw’s Cove – A secluded beach with beautiful tide pools.
- Rockpile Beach – Next to Heisler Park, offering dramatic waves and rock formations.
- Thousand Steps Beach – A long staircase leads to an incredible, hidden stretch of coastline.
- Crystal Cove State Park – Just north of Laguna, this park features rolling hills, wildflowers, and a historic beach village.
Permitting Information
Laguna Beach requires photography permits for professional shoots at most locations, especially the beaches. Some key things to know:
- A permit from the City of Laguna Beach is needed for professional engagement sessions.
- The cost varies, but most permits range from $100-$150 depending on location.
- Certain areas, like Montage Resort grounds, require separate permissions from private property owners.
Your photographer should be familiar with the process, but it’s always good to check with the city in advance to avoid any surprises.
Best Time for Engagement Photography in Laguna Beach
Here are three tips to keep in mind when considering the best time for engagement photography in laguna beach.
☀️ Golden Hour (One Hour Before Sunset) – The most flattering light, creating soft, warm, and romantic images.
🌊 Low Tide – Ideal for exploring tide pools and capturing unique shots near the rocks.
🏖️ Weekdays Over Weekends – Laguna Beach can get crowded, especially on weekends. A weekday session ensures more privacy and better photo opportunities.