Father’s Day by the Coast: 10 Scenic Orange County Beaches for Family Photos & Fun
Looking for the perfect way to spend Father’s Day in Southern California? This in-depth guide features 10 of the best beaches in Orange County for a memorable Father’s Day filled with sunshine, scenic views, and lasting family moments. From Huntington Beach to San Clemente, we spotlight family-friendly coastal locations ideal for beach outings, delicious oceanfront dining, and professional family photography sessions. Whether you're planning a surprise beach picnic, capturing candid moments with Dad at golden hour, or searching for the top photo-worthy beaches in Orange County, this blog shares everything you need to plan the perfect day. Discover top-rated restaurants, hidden coves, tide pool treasures, and real photography tips to help you make Father’s Day unforgettable. And if you're visiting from nearby cities like Riverside, Temecula, or Los Angeles, these locations are well worth the drive for anyone seeking candid, lifestyle, or professional family beach photography in Orange County.
Father’s Day is more than just a day to hand over a new set of golf balls or a BBQ apron. It’s an opportunity to make lasting memories with the ones you love—especially with Dad front and center. If you're looking for a meaningful, outdoorsy, and photo-worthy way to spend Father’s Day in Southern California, then a beach day in Orange County is the perfect choice.
Whether it’s catching the sunrise together, digging your toes into warm sand, sharing fresh fish tacos, or capturing candid moments with your family through the lens—Orange County beaches offer the ultimate Father's Day experience. And if you're searching for family photography in Orange County or want to book a last-minute session to document this Father’s Day with professional photos, these locations are ideal.
From iconic piers to hidden coves, here are 10 must-visit beaches across Orange County, complete with local food spots and photography tips to capture Dad at his best.
We specialize in last-minute photography with fast turnaround and beautiful results.
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1. Huntington City Beach
📍 1 Main St, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
This lively beach—known worldwide as Surf City USA—is a Father's Day classic. It offers everything from surf lessons and bonfire pits to volleyball courts and bike rentals. The historic Huntington Beach Pier is a great photo backdrop, especially at sunset.
Nearby Restaurants:
Duke’s Huntington Beach – Hawaiian-inspired, oceanfront dining
Sandy’s Beach Shack – casual coastal eats with a beachfront view
Photography Tips:
Head under the pier for creative framing, or use a telephoto lens to capture action shots of Dad playing with the kids on the sand.
2. Bolsa Chica State Beach
📍 17851 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92649
This wide, laid-back beach is perfect for Dads who enjoy surf fishing or biking along the coast. There’s plenty of space for kids to run free, and RV parking and picnic areas make it family-friendly.
Nearby Eats:
Pacific Kitchen – elevated beach bites nearby
Food trucks often line the parking lot on weekends
Photography Tips:
Use the sand dunes for soft background textures. Early morning or late afternoon light works best for capturing glowy, natural moments.
3. Balboa Peninsula / Pier – Newport Beach
📍 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92661
Balboa has it all: a ferry, arcade, and one of the most walkable beach piers in Orange County. Great for nostalgic, fun-loving Dads who want to grab a frozen banana or relive childhood beach memories with their own kids.
Nearby Restaurants:
Ruby’s Diner on the Pier – classic American eats at the very end of the pier
Cruisers Pizza Bar Grill – lively sports bar with pizza, wings & outdoor seating
Photography Tips:
Take portraits on the boardwalk with bikes and long shadows. Use the Ferris wheel as a pop of color in wide-angle shots.
4. Corona Del Mar State Beach
📍 3001 Ocean Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92625
Nicknamed "Big Corona," this beach sits in a calm cove perfect for tide pooling, light swimming, and climbing seaside rocks. Easy parking and walkable paths make it great for multigenerational families.
Nearby Restaurants:
The Bungalow Restaurant – upscale American steakhouse for a fancy Father's Day dinner
Rose Bakery Café – casual brunch & pastries
Photography Tips:
Use cliffs for depth or capture reflections in the tide pools. Golden hour brings rich tones to the rocky surroundings.
5. Crystal Cove State Park
📍 8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
This coastal gem offers over 3 miles of shoreline, hiking trails, and charming historic cottages. It’s one of the best places for landscape-style family photography in Orange County.
Nearby Eats:
Beachcomber Café – iconic beachfront brunch spot
Ruby’s Shake Shack – for a classic burger-and-shake combo overlooking the water
Photography Tips:
Include cliffs, surfboards, or seaside cottages for storytelling. Try elevated shots from the bluff trails.
6. Victoria Beach – Laguna Beach
📍 2713 Victoria Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
One of Laguna’s most scenic hidden coves, featuring the mysterious Pirate Tower and a manmade saltwater pool. It’s a short walk down, but well worth the effort for unique portraits.
Nearby Restaurants:
The Deck – beachfront dining and cocktails
Mozambique – South African-inspired steakhouse with rooftop views
Photography Tips:
Go at low tide to access the tower. Wide-angle shots of Dad and the kids by the pool make for dramatic compositions.
7. Salt Creek Beach – Dana Point
📍 33333 S Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA 92629
Set below The Ritz-Carlton, this beach features rolling lawns, dramatic cliffs, and great surf. There's a funicular for easy access, making it ideal for all ages.
Nearby Restaurants:
Young’s Beach Shack – quick bites with ocean views
180blu at The Ritz-Carlton – elevated sunset cocktails
Photography Tips:
The grassy hilltop is great for posed family portraits. Shoot down toward the ocean for epic depth and composition.
8. Doheny State Beach – Dana Point
📍 25300 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629
Flat, calm, and family-friendly. Doheny offers surf lessons, grassy BBQ areas, and a small aquarium for younger kids.
Nearby Restaurants:
Doho Café – casual beachfront café
Harpoon Henry’s – seafood with a harbor view
Photography Tips:
Great for lifestyle shots—capture Dad grilling, fishing, or hanging out near the harbor with the sailboats behind him.
9. San Clemente State Beach
📍 Avenida Calafia, San Clemente, CA 92672
This location is a local favorite for camping, surfing, and hiking the bluffs. It has an untamed, golden-hour magic that’s ideal for candid and creative shoots.
Nearby Eats:
Ellie’s Table – French bakery with killer breakfast
The Fisherman’s Restaurant – on the pier
Photography Tips:
Catch movement—windswept hair, kids running up the path. Incorporate cliffs in the background to add drama.
10. San Onofre State Beach
📍 Old Pacific Hwy, San Clemente, CA 92672
A rugged, surf-haven with rustic charm. Best for adventurous families or surf-loving Dads who enjoy fewer crowds and a throwback vibe.
Nearby Eats:
Pedro’s Tacos – legendary fish tacos
Bring a picnic—dining options are limited
Photography Tips:
Use long lenses to compress the coastline or frame Dad catching waves. Look for vintage surf trucks or signage.
📸 Photography Tips for Father’s Day Beach Shoots
Shoot during golden hour – Capture soft light, warm tones, and glowing skies at sunrise or sunset.
Use leading lines – Piers, boardwalks, trails, and fences naturally draw the viewer’s eye toward your subject (aka Dad!).
Capture candid motion – Get photos of Dad tossing a frisbee, chasing waves, carrying the kids, or building a sandcastle.
Incorporate natural props – Use surfboards, beach towels, umbrellas, or driftwood to add layers of storytelling to your images.
Look for reflections – Tide pools and wet sand can create dreamy mirror-like shots.
Shoot from different angles – Get low to the ground for playful perspectives or above for flat lay family moments on a picnic blanket.
Include the environment – Frame Dad with the ocean, cliffs, or sunset in the background to create lasting, scenic portraits.
Keep it relaxed – The best beach photos come from real connection. Focus on laughter, bear hugs, goofy grins, and messy moments.
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Make this summer unforgettable. Whether you're celebrating Father’s Day or just want updated family photos in Orange County’s iconic beach settings, we’d love to help capture the moment.
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A Last-Minute Family Photoshoot in Corona Del Mar: Capturing Sibling Moments Before They Grow Apart
Looking for natural, heartfelt family and sibling photography at the beach? This story captures a last-minute family photo session at Corona Del Mar in Newport Beach, one of Orange County’s most scenic coastal backdrops. Perfect for families traveling from Temecula, Riverside, San Diego, or Los Angeles, this post highlights the emotional importance of preserving sibling bonds before life changes—like kids heading off to college or growing up and moving out. Explore 10 stunning locations ideal for family photography in Orange County, including tips for posing siblings, where to shoot at golden hour, and how to plan a relaxed, last-minute beach session that feels both timeless and personal. Whether you're planning your first family photo shoot or booking annual portraits, this guide offers everything you need to know about capturing sibling connections with soft natural light, coordinated outfits, and the beautiful Southern California coastline as your backdrop.
There’s something truly timeless about a family photo taken at the beach—especially when it captures not just smiling faces, but real, meaningful moments between siblings. Whether it's a toddler holding their big sister's hand or adult siblings reconnecting before heading in different life directions, these moments matter. And for many families in Southern California, that perfect, golden-hour shot happens right here—along the sandy coastline of Corona Del Mar in Newport Beach, Orange County.
As professional photographers specializing in family and sibling photography sessions along the Orange County coastline, we’ve seen it time and time again: families traveling from Temecula, Murrieta, Riverside, Los Angeles, and even San Diego to escape inland heat and make the most of a few days together. Often, the decision to book a photoshoot happens on a whim—and that’s exactly how this one began.
Melissa originally planned her family’s photo session among the vineyards in Temecula. But at the last minute, something shifted. With her eldest son heading off to college and her daughters already living lives of their own, she wanted something different—something more emotional, more lasting. She called us that morning and said, “Can we change it up and do a beach shoot instead?” And within a few hours, we were standing together on the cliffs at Corona Del Mar, cameras ready, just as the sun began to dip over the Pacific.
These are the kinds of moments we live for. These are the reasons why last-minute sibling and family photography in Orange County has become one of our most requested services.
Melissa wanted one final set of family portraits before the house went quiet—and we were honored to be part of that. It was a gentle reminder that time moves fast. Sometimes we think what we have will last forever, but in a blink, everything changes. That’s why we believe in capturing it while you can. Whether it’s once a year or all year long like our family does, every photo counts.
We specialize in last-minute photography with fast turnaround and beautiful results.
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10 Picture-Perfect Locations for Family and Sibling Photography in Orange County
Whether you're a local or traveling from nearby cities like San Diego, Temecula, Riverside, or Los Angeles, the following beach locations are perfect for last-minute family photo sessions, sibling portraits, and milestone memories. Here are our favorite spots—with working links and tips included.
Corona Del Mar State Beach – Newport Beach, CA
Address: 3001 Ocean Blvd, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625
Known for its wide sandy beaches, rocky coves, and golden cliffside light, Corona Del Mar is ideal for capturing relaxed, emotional sibling portraits. Start up top for scenic views and then head down to the beach for playful, barefoot moments.
Crystal Cove State Park – Laguna Beach, CA
Address: 8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
This rugged and expansive coastline features tide pools, walking trails, and vintage beach cottages. It’s perfect for nature-loving families or those wanting more editorial-style sibling photography.
Little Corona Beach – Corona Del Mar, CA
Address: 3712 Ocean Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92625
A smaller, intimate beach great for families with toddlers or small children. Tide pools and soft rocks make it perfect for storytelling images and gentle moments between siblings.
Heisler Park – Laguna Beach, CA
Address: 375 Cliff Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
With manicured paths, public art, and sweeping ocean views, Heisler Park is ideal for families looking for both beauty and convenience. A favorite for visiting families from Riverside or San Diego.
Shaw’s Cove – Laguna Beach, CA
Address: 999 Cliff Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
A hidden gem perfect for adventurous sibling shoots. Its rock formations and moody tones are great for older siblings or families wanting something unique and natural.
Huntington Dog Beach – Huntington Beach, CA
Address: 100 Goldenwest St, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
This is a must-visit if your family includes furry siblings. The space, waves, and friendly atmosphere make for energetic and joy-filled portraits with kids and dogs alike.
San Clemente Pier & Beach – San Clemente, CA
Address: 611 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente, CA 92672
A classic beach location with a nostalgic coastal vibe. The pier adds symmetry and structure while the open sand is perfect for family walking shots and close sibling connections.
Victoria Beach – Laguna Beach, CA
Address: Victoria Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Famous for its castle-like Pirate Tower, this beach is both magical and dramatic. Best suited for teens or older kids who want a styled, editorial look.
Main Beach Park – Laguna Beach, CA
Address: Broadway St & Pacific Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
A vibrant beach with volleyball nets, lifeguard towers, and a lively boardwalk. Ideal for fun-loving families or large sibling groups with mixed ages.
Balboa Peninsula & Pier – Newport Beach, CA
Address: 1 Balboa Pier, Newport Beach, CA 92661
This area offers a blend of old-school charm and beachside fun. Perfect for post-session ice cream, boardwalk strolls, and sibling laughter near the pier.
Nearby Cities Families Travel From
We often serve families who travel from the following areas for their Orange County family photography sessions:
Temecula, CA – just 1.5 hours away, ideal for a beach day getaway
Murrieta, CA – 1.25 hours away
Riverside, CA – 1.5 hours away
Los Angeles, CA – about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic
San Diego, CA – 1.5 hours from the northern coastline
Whether you're staying locally or taking a spontaneous road trip, we make booking last-minute beach sessions simple and unforgettable.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait for “The Right Time”
Melissa’s session reminded us of something we often forget—how quickly life changes. The kids grow up, they move out, they chase their dreams. But in those in-between moments, we have a chance to pause and preserve what we love most.
If you're thinking about booking a sibling or family photography session in Orange County—or if you're visiting from Temecula, Riverside, or beyond—let this be your sign to capture it now. Not later. Not when things settle down. But now, just as it is.
Ready to book your family session by the coast?
Explore our seasonal packages or book your beach shoot directly here:
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Have questions or want to chat before booking? Reach out anytime. We’re always ready for a last-minute photoshoot.