The Bay Area is one of the most iconic coasts in California. With private sandy beaches, cliffs, and stunning landmarks, it may be difficult to know where you should have your Bay Area engagement photo session. Lucky for you, I have compiled my favorite locations in the area for engagement and couples photos.

Lover’s Lane At The Presidio

Presidio is an old military-base-turned-park at the northern tip of San Francisco, and it’s well known for beautiful recreational areas. And among those areas is Lover’s Lane. Lover’s Lane is the oldest footpath inside Presidio. It’s only a half-mile walk, and apparently, its history dates back to the 1700s when soldiers would use it to reach their lovers in Mission Dolores.

I personally love it for the tall wood line along the path and the depth it gives to engagement photos. In addition, this location is dog friendly! Perfect if you are looking to incorporate your fur baby.

See more of Lover’s Lane here.

Muir Beach

About an hour and a half from downtown San Francisco in the Golden Gate Recreation Area is Muir Beach, and it’s well worth the drive. When you get there, walk the bridge to reach the lagoon, beach, and two other hiking trails. The beach has tons of different backdrops, from the ocean and hillside to the neighborhood in the neighboring cliffs.

The bridge is accessible and includes handrails, which I love for my couples who may need a more easy-going hike for an adventurous location. Some strong winds are coming off the ocean, so just make sure to bring good shoes and a jacket. 

See more of Muir Beach here.

Cypress Tree Tunnel At Point Reyes

Cypress Tree Tunnel is at Point Reyes National Seashore, which is about a little over an hour north of San Francisco. Point Reyes is full of incredible sights and scenery, including a lighthouse, a shipwreck, and a ton of great hikes. So if you choose this spot for your Bay Area engagement photo session, you will have plenty of other locations to visit in the area afterwards!

The tunnel is perfect in every season, as Cypress trees withstand all temperatures. As well, the branches of the trees overlap overhead, giving a doorway effect. The shade from those trees makes it such a comfortable location for summer shoots.

See more of Cypress Tree Tunnel here.

Ring Mountain

If you’re looking for a photo location that isn’t too far from home, consider Ring Mountain Preserve. A hidden gem right here in Marin County, this mountain is home to a 3 mile loop trail full of wildlife. I love this hike, as it isn’t rigorous but still gives you amazing views. In addition, these are a ton of great eateries near by, so you can make your Bay Area engagement photo session into a date afterwards!

Personally, I think this location would shine for spring and summer engagements. There are wildflowers in the fields, and the grass is really vibrant. But, no matter which season you pick, I’d recommend going at golden hour. The sunsets here are incredible and would really add a unique flair to your photos.

See more of Ring Mountain here.

These are just a few of my favorite locations for engagement photos. If you want my full list and to start planning your engagement session, reach out! I’d love to capture your story.