Couples on Vacation: Photography Tips and Romantic San Diego Spots to Capture the Magic
When Steph and I travel, there’s a rhythm we naturally fall into. A beautiful routine that’s anything but routine. We wake up early for a hike, chase golden hour, try a new restaurant we can’t pronounce, and usually befriend a local barista who gives us the scoop on the neighborhood’s hidden gems. That’s our recipe for a perfect vacation.
Sometimes we throw in a last-minute concert, wander around vintage shops, or split a sandwich on a random bench by the beach. But no matter what we’re doing, we’re always documenting it—capturing the in-between moments and real feelings. For us, photography is how we hold onto the joy. And as full-time photographers and adventurers at heart, we’ve learned a few tricks to help other couples on vacation do the same.
Most recently, we took a few days off and traveled to Ocean Beach in San Diego with our three dogs, who are a big part of our little world. It was the perfect mix of play and peace—especially when we stumbled across Dog Beach, where our pups ran wild with the waves. The area was packed with dog-friendly restaurants, chill breweries, and the kind of locals that make you want to stay a little longer. We left recharged, reconnected, and with our hearts full. That's what couples travel is all about: making memories you’ll want to relive again and again.
If you’re planning a trip to San Diego or just looking for couples travel photography tips, this guide features ten of our favorite spots to explore, shoot, and connect—all while making memories that feel effortless and personal.
Whether it’s a last-minute event, a planned celebration, or something totally spontaneous—we’re here to capture your moments with care, creativity, and quick turnaround.
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1. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
Website: https://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/parks/regional/sunsetcliffs
Address: Sunset Cliffs Blvd, San Diego, CA 92107
Vibe: Dramatic ocean views and glowing golden hour light
Best Time: About 45 minutes before sunset
Tip: Use a wide lens, bring a tripod, and wear flowy clothing for motion in the breeze
2. Balboa Park
Website: https://balboapark.org/
Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Vibe: Romantic gardens and Spanish architecture
Best Time: Weekday mornings or cloudy days
Tip: Visit the Botanical Building, Alcazar Garden, and reflecting pool for variety
3. La Jolla Cove
Address: 1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Vibe: Coastal charm with sea lions and soft pastel skies
Best Time: Sunrise or an hour before sunset
Tip: Wander the rocks, shoot from low angles, and use a zoom lens respectfully
4. North Park
Website: https://explorenorthpark.com/
Address: 30th Street & University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
Vibe: Urban and creative with murals, shops, and local coffee
Best Time: Early afternoon for mural lighting
Tip: Stop at Communal Coffee and explore nearby alleys for backdrops
5. Cabrillo National Monument
Website: https://www.nps.gov/cabr/index.htm
Address: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
Vibe: Historic and expansive coastal views
Best Time: Late afternoon or during low tide
Tip: Bring sturdy shoes and a zoom lens to capture the lighthouse and tidepools
6. Mission Trails Regional Park
Website: https://mtrp.org/
Address: 1 Father Junipero Serra Trail, San Diego, CA 92119
Vibe: Nature-focused, rugged trails with golden light
Best Time: Early sunrise hikes
Tip: Pack light, stay hydrated, and document in-between moments on the trail
7. Ocean Beach Dog Beach
Address: 5156 W Point Loma Blvd, San Diego, CA 92107
Vibe: Playful, leash-free beach for couples with dogs
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Tip: Capture action shots with a wide-angle lens and bring towels for the pups
8. Liberty Station Public Market
Website: https://libertystation.com/directory/liberty-public-market
Address: 2820 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
Vibe: Foodie, local market energy with artistic touches
Best Time: Late afternoon
Tip: Grab a snack, sit on the patio, and shoot while shopping or people-watching
9. Windansea Beach
Address: 6800 Neptune Pl, La Jolla, CA 92037
Vibe: Intimate, surf-famous spot with rocky texture
Best Time: Sunset
Tip: Dress for wind, use foreground rocks creatively, and wait for the sun to dip
10. Presidio Park
Website: https://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/parks/regional/presidio
Address: 2811 Jackson St, San Diego, CA 92110
Vibe: Peaceful, wooded paths with garden-like charm
Best Time: Early morning with light fog
Tip: Shoot along the hillsides and quiet trails for intimate, moody frames
Final Thoughts
The truth is, the best couples travel photography happens when you’re not trying too hard. It’s the laughter in between bites, the stillness before a sunset, or that look you give each other when you realize—this moment is everything.
If you’re headed to San Diego for a weekend getaway, an anniversary, or just because, make time to capture your journey. Whether you book a photographer or go DIY, trust your instinct, have fun, and focus on connection. That’s where the magic lives.
Ready to Capture Your Vacation Love Story?
We offer couples photography sessions in San Diego that are tailored to your vibe—whether that’s romantic and adventurous or spontaneous and silly. From La Jolla sunsets to hidden gems around North Park, we’d love to help you tell your story.
Want to chat before booking? Reach out at https://lastminutephotoshoot.com/bookings or browse our available sessions at lastminutephotoshoot.com/store
Let’s make some memories.
We totally get it—sometimes you just want to talk it out first. If you have questions, want to go over the details together, or even want to tell us what you'd love to see more of on our blog—we’d love to connect.
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