Getting Married on the Beach in San Diego? A Photographer’s Guide to Making It Happen
Recently, someone asked us if we offered photography for a beach ceremony and reception. And we paused.
I'd like to think—we shoot anything and everything if a client asks us to. We always find a way. But for some reason, that question made us stop and really think: Do we? Don’t we? I think it's because, over the past few years, we've been focused so heavily on photographing families, couples, and milestone moments. Transitioning into full-scale weddings (ceremonies and receptions) felt like a big shift—and honestly, a little intimidating.
That said, we recently photographed a civil-style ceremony—not on the sand, but at the historic courthouse in Santa Ana. It had that same intimate, no-frills energy that so many beach weddings aim for. Simple, beautiful, and filled with meaning. And it helped us push past that hesitation. It reminded us what we love most: capturing real connection in real time.
So to that client—thank you. You inspired us to sit down, do some research, and put together this blog. Hopefully, it helps someone else the way it helped us.
If you’re planning a beach wedding in San Diego, here’s everything you need to know—from the best ceremony spots to permits, budgeting, a simple step-by-step guide, and how to bring your vision to life. And if this sounds like the kind of celebration you’re planning, we’re offering a discounted rate for beach ceremonies and receptions as we expand our wedding coverage. Let’s bring it to life.
Image Courtesy of LaJolla.CA
Tucked away on the cliffs of La Jolla, the Wedding Bowl at Cuvier Park is one of San Diego’s most iconic spots to say "I do." Thinking about a beach ceremony? We’ll help you scout, plan the best lighting, and capture every moment. Now booking with discounted rates for 2025 weddings—let’s bring your vision to life.
San Diego’s coast is stunning—but between permits, lighting, and tide timing, it helps to have a photographer who’s been there before. While we’re not planners, we’re happy to share what we’ve learned and help point you in the right direction.
👉 Let’s Talk Beach Weddings
Best Beaches for Weddings in San Diego
The most requested ceremony spot?
Cuvier Park’s “Wedding Bowl” in La Jolla. This small bluff-side park was made for weddings—panoramic ocean views, room for ~40 guests, and only one wedding allowed per day by the city. It’s stunning, intimate, and ideal for photos.
Other great options:
Coronado Beach – Wide, open sand with epic sunset views and Hotel del Coronado in the background.
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park – Romantic cliffs, golden hour light, and perfect for elopements or smaller groups.
Mission Beach – Casual, fun vibe for larger parties with easy boardwalk access.
Windansea Beach – Known for its rocky shore and dreamy light, perfect for portraits and micro weddings.
Want Something More Private?
While most San Diego beaches get foot traffic, some spots offer a little more seclusion:
Sunset Cliffs (Point Loma): Bluff overlooks offer beautiful views with fewer crowds—especially on weekdays or early mornings.
Black’s Beach: A hike-in beach with incredible seclusion. Best for adventurous elopements with a minimal setup.
Torrey Pines State Beach: Feels a little more removed, especially near the reserve trails above.
Step-by-Step: How to Plan Your Beach Wedding in San Diego
Step 1: Choose Your Beach & Ceremony Size
Under 40 guests? Look into La Jolla’s Wedding Bowl or Sunset Cliffs.
Larger group? Coronado or Mission Beach may be more flexible.
Consider ease of access, restrooms, parking, and photo potential.
Step 2: Apply for a Beach Wedding Permit
Use San Diego’s Park & Rec SDRecConnect system to request your spot.
Permits usually range $150–$500, and only one ceremony is allowed per site per day (for some locations).
You’ll also need liability insurance (~$100), and a separate permit if using amplified sound or tents.
Step 3: Check the Tide & Timing
Use a tide chart—especially for narrow beaches.
Golden hour (1–2 hours before sunset) offers the best light for photos.
Avoid midday if possible—harsh lighting + beach crowds.
Step 4: Lock in Your Vendors
You’ll need: Photographer, Officiant, and optionally a Planner, Florist, or Rental Company.
Some locations require listing vendors on your permit—double check in advance.
Keep your setup portable. No staking into the ground, no large arches, no big sound systems.
Step 5: Plan Your Setup & Guest Experience
Think about chairs (or blankets), a small arch, floral accents, or a musician.
Communicate clearly with guests about where to meet, what to wear (sand-friendly), and parking tips.
Have a backup plan in case of fog, strong winds, or rare coastal rain.
Step 6: Make It Official
Don’t forget your marriage license! San Diego County makes it easy, but it must be valid on your wedding day.
Many officiants can help file paperwork for you.
Estimated Beach Wedding Budget
Low-End Estimate:
$150–$300 for beach permit
$100 for insurance
$1,000–$2,000 for photography, officiant, and simple setup
$500–$1,000 for food (picnic, charcuterie, or casual bites)
High-End Estimate:
$500 for beach permit
$150 for insurance
$3,000–$5,000+ for premium photography, videography, florals, and vendor coordination
$5,000–$10,000+ for elevated rentals, catering, music, and full decor
Note: If you're just doing a simple elopement with no guests, minimal decor, and photo coverage, you can keep your budget closer to $2,000–$3,500 total.
Ready to Bring Your Beach Wedding to Life?
Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a seaside celebration with your favorite people, we’d love to help you capture it. We know the light, the locations, the permit quirks—and how to make even last-minute ceremonies look intentional and effortless.
We’re currently offering a discounted rate for beach ceremony and reception photography while we grow our wedding portfolio, so if you’re considering it—now’s the time to reach out.
📩 Click here to inquire or DM us on Instagram.
Let’s create something beautiful by the sea.
