Are you a family, couple, senior, or a fellow photographer looking for the perfect backdrop to capture those memorable photos? Here’s my top 3 photoshoot locations in Encinitas. North County San Diego is full of breathtaking ocean views and unique bluffs and landscapes that provide the perfect setting for photoshoots.
I’ve compiled a list of my top 3 favorite photoshoot locations in North County San Diego to help you get the perfect snap.
From serene beaches to lush green forests, each of our top five photoshoot locations in North County San Diego offers something unique. Whether you’re looking for a dramatic sunset shot or a tranquil ocean view, one of these amazing spots is sure to provide the perfect setting for your photoshoot. With its stunning views and inspiring landscapes, North County San Diego is the perfect destination to capture those timeless shots that will surely stand out from the rest. Let’s explore these five photoshoot locations and see what each has to offer!
North County San Diego is home to a variety of scenic and picturesque locations perfect for photoshoots. Whether you’re a pro photographer or a novice, these five top spots in North County San Diego will provide the perfect setting for your next photoshoot.
Before reading!
Always check the tide before you head out – especially for the smaller surf beaches like Grandview. I use Surfline to ensure that the water won’t be up to our knees (and dangerous to be at).
1. Moonlight State Beach
Moonlight State Beach in downtown Encinitas is an excellent choice for a fun and effortless photo session with a photographer. Conveniently located right off the 101, this beach offers a large parking lot, making it easily accessible for families and photographers alike. The beach itself boasts long stretches of sandy shoreline, dotted with picturesque bluffs on either side. These bluffs not only provide a stunning backdrop for photos but also serve as natural vantage points, offering unique perspectives for capturing memorable shots.
Directions: Moonlight State Beach, Encinitas, CA
This is in the heart of Encinitas, right in Downtown between Cardiff and Leucadia (small communities near Encinitas).
Moonlight is free to park at! During the summers, it’s quite hectic (especially between 11am-5pm). There’s a nice drop off location which is used heavily for families and people with a lot of beach gear. Otherwise, you can park in the lot for free all times of the year and walk down together.
2. Cardiff State Beach
Cardiff State Beach, nestled in the scenic North County of San Diego, is a breathtaking location for photo sessions. With its sandy, smooth shores (not a ton of rocks like other beaches, ie: Ponto…iykyk) this beach offers a picturesque backdrop that will enhance your family, couples, or senior photo session.
The golden hues of the sand, the sparkling blue waters, and the sun rays reflecting off the water create a visually striking environment for capturing beautiful and timeless photographs.
Whether it’s a sunrise blue hour shoot or a golden hour sunset shoot, Cardiff State Beach provides a magical ambiance that adds natural beauty to every shot.
Directions: Cardiff State Beach, Cardiff, CA
It’s easy to access right off the 101 (south of Encinitas) and when school is in session the street is easily accessible and free! During the summertime when the tourists are visiting it can take 5-10 minutes to get a parking spot on the street. Or, you can buy either a day, a week, or the California Explorer Pass (a pricey investment of $195 but can pay for itself in a handful of visits) to access the parking lots. So plan accordingly!
3. Grandview Surf Beach
With its accessibility and spacious parking area, Moonlight State Beach ensures a stress-free experience, allowing families and photographers to focus on enjoying the session and creating beautiful memories against the backdrop of the sparkling ocean and the scenic bluffs.
This surf beach is very similar to Moonlight and a bit rockier (not as smooth of sand), but you aren’t going to get the crowds that Moonlight has (less editing people out of your photos!).
Directions: Grandview Surf Beach, Encinitas, CA
It’s free to park on the street or in the very small parking lot at the end of the road. You take a long, wooden staircase down to access the beach. Don’t forget to check the surf before heading out!
Now that you know of my favorite photography locations in North County San Diego, it’s time to start planning your next photoshoot! Reach out to get a personalized family, couple, or portrait photoshoot guide from…me!* Share your favorite North County San Diego photoshoot spots in the comments below!
Images and Multimedia: Ideas for images and multimedia for this post include images of the five photoshoot spots, behind-the-scenes photography tips, and an infographic of the five photoshoot spots. These images and multimedia will add visual interest to the post and help break up the text.
*Photoshoot guide sent upon booking
