San Francisco Location Spotlight: Pacific Coast Shoreline

If you're seeking the perfect coastal backdrop for your engagement, headshots, or family photos, look no further than the Pacific coast shoreline of San Francisco! I recently took some creative portraits of my beautiful friend, Esha, and we had a blast running around the dunes, waves, and forests of western San Francisco.

Why the Western Shore of San Francisco is Your Ideal Photoshoot Location

The shoreline has a multitude of different backdrops to play around with, all within 10 minutes of each other. The diversity of this location is absolutely unmatched, from sandy beaches to dramatic cliffs, to funky fun trees. The weather is just as wild, with beaches boasting warm sunlight and cliffs quickly getting engulfed in our good friend, Karl the Fog.

1. Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach in San Francisco offers a stunning backdrop, with a beautiful sandy shoreline. The one thing that truly makes this beach unique are the colorful ice plant succulents adding fun textures and colors. Their vibrant greens and oranges, with seasonal yellow blooms, are such a fun way to spice up a photo.

Portrait in Ocean Beach with waves, sand dunes, and succulents (Riya Sony Photography)

2. Lands End Lookout

Located at the northwestern corner of the city, Lands End has dramatic cliffs and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. My personal favorite of the Pacific coast locations, the trees amidst the swirling fog creates the most magical atmosphere!

Portrait in the foggy forest of Lands End (Riya Sony Photography)

2. Sutro Baths

The Sutro Baths are a historic site located on the rugged coastline of San Francisco. Originally built in the late 19th century, this large public bathhouse complex now serves as a perfect blend of history and nature, with tons of unique corners and ruins to add variety to your photos. Want a backdrop of ruins? Check. Want crashing waves? Check. Want to look like you're standing on the edge of an endless infinity pool? Check!

Sutro Baths portrait at sunset (Riya Sony Photography)

Ready for your turn in front of the waves?

With its spectacular beaches and stunning scenery, the west side of San Francisco is the perfect destination for your engagement, family, wedding photos, and more. Give this san francisco bay area photographer a shout to schedule your session!