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.
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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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Celebrate Father's Day in Temecula: Top 10 Brunch Spots & Photo-Worthy Moments
Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Father's Day in Temecula? From award-winning wineries to charming brunch cafés, we've rounded up the top 10 Father's Day brunch spots that offer not only amazing food but also stunning photo-worthy backdrops. Whether you're a local or traveling through Southern California wine country, this guide is your go-to for honoring Dad with delicious meals, live music, and scenic family moments. Discover where to sip, savor, and celebrate—then book a professional photoshoot to capture another unforgettable year of fatherhood. Enjoy 30% OFF when you book with code TY30.
Father's Day is more than just a meal—it's a moment to honor the incredible men in our lives. Whether you're a Temecula local or a traveler winding through Southern California's famed wine country, there's no better way to celebrate Dad than with a hearty brunch, meaningful memories, and family portraits to commemorate another year of love, strength, and fatherhood.
If you're looking to make this Father's Day unforgettable, we've curated 10 top brunch destinations in Temecula, each offering delicious food, beautiful backdrops, and perfect opportunities for family photography.
Whether you're planning a proposal, celebrating a birthday, growing your family, or just want beautiful photos with your favorite people—we’ve got a package for that. No stress, no pressure—just real moments captured in a way that feels like you.
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1. Toast Temecula
Address: 31093 Temecula Pkwy Ste D6, Temecula, CA 92592
A local favorite, Toast serves up creative twists on classic brunch dishes like Crème Brûlée French Toast and Churro Pancakes. Their scratch kitchen and modern decor make this a cozy and delicious way to kick off Father's Day. Grab a photo on their rustic patio with Dad sipping his favorite morning cocktail.
2. Wilson Creek Winery – Father's Day BBQ & Beer Buffet
Address: 35960 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591
A must-visit winery offering a Father's Day buffet with BBQ, sparkling wine, and draft beer. Surrounded by vineyards and gardens, this picturesque location is ideal for candid family photography with sweeping vineyard backdrops.
3. Lorimar Winery – Brunch, BBQ & Beer
Address: 39990 Anza Rd, Temecula, CA 92591
Lorimar delivers a vineyard brunch with live music, BBQ, and mimosas. With views stretching across rolling hills, it's the perfect place for heartfelt toasts and golden-hour portraits.
4. Europa Village – Spanish-Inspired BBQ Brunch
Address: 41150 Via Europa, Temecula, CA 92591
Celebrate at Bolero Restaurante, where you'll enjoy ribs, paella, and sangria in a Spanish-style courtyard. The European architecture and lush gardens offer unique, storybook-like backdrops for timeless family pictures.
5. Mount Palomar Winery – Father's Day BBQ Brunch
Address: 33820 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591
This Mediterranean-style estate provides a relaxing setting for Father's Day. Dine on BBQ delights, sip $10 draft beers, and enjoy live music while snapping family shots in front of the mountain views.
6. Cork | Fire Kitchen – Farm-to-Table Brunch
Address: 44501 Rainbow Canyon Rd, Temecula, CA 92592
Located at Temecula Creek Inn, Cork | Fire Kitchen serves locally-sourced brunch fare with golf course views. It's perfect for relaxed portraits of Dad and the kids surrounded by nature.
7. The Gambling Cowboy – Steakhouse Classic
Address: 42072 5th St, Temecula, CA 92590
This Old Town gem brings Western vibes and hearty meals together in a nostalgic setting. The wood-paneled walls and cowboy-themed decor are great for fun, character-rich portraits.
8. Baily's Old Town Temecula
Address: 28699 Old Town Front St, Temecula, CA 92590
Set in a historic building with live music and brunch favorites, Baily's offers a vibrant atmosphere. Capture fun, spontaneous shots with Dad on their upstairs balcony overlooking Old Town.
9. Pechanga Resort & Casino – Journey's End Brunch
Address: 45000 Pechanga Pkwy, Temecula, CA 92592
For an upscale option, Pechanga offers gourmet dishes in a resort setting. After brunch, take a stroll through the landscaped grounds for elegant family photos.
10. E.A.T. Marketplace
Address: 28410 Old Town Front St #102, Temecula, CA 92590
Ideal for health-conscious dads, E.A.T. Marketplace focuses on organic and locally-sourced dishes. The warm and vibrant interior makes it a great spot for lifestyle shots and candid moments.
Make It Last with a Family Photoshoot
Father's Day is a chance to slow down, be present, and celebrate the man who anchors your family. After brunch, consider booking a family photo session with us to capture the laughter, love, and legacy of this day. Whether you're visiting Temecula for the weekend or you're a local looking to do something different, we offer on-location photography across all the brunch spots listed above.
Book your Father's Day weekend shoot now and receive 30% OFF using code TY30.
Here's to another year of being an awesome father—let's celebrate it right, with food, family, and forever photos.
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Memorial Day: Honoring Our Heroes While Celebrating the Unofficial Start to Summer
Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend in Southern California—Top Beaches, Hidden Lakes & Photoshoot Ideas
Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and there’s no better way to honor our heroes than by creating lasting memories with loved ones. Explore the best beaches and serene lakes across San Diego, Orange County, and Los Angeles—perfect for family outings, couples shoots, and peaceful reflection. Discover photo-worthy locations, avoid the crowds, and book your last-minute Memorial Day photoshoot with 30% OFF using code TY30.
Photo Credit: Jeremy Ricketts
As the long weekend approaches, many Americans eagerly anticipate Memorial Day as the unofficial kickoff to summer. It's a time for sunshine, cookouts, beach trips, and reconnecting with loved ones. But at its heart, Memorial Day holds a much deeper significance. It’s a solemn reminder to honor and remember the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
At Last Minute Photoshoot, we believe in celebrating life while preserving the legacy of those who gave theirs. This Memorial Day, let’s embrace the balance: enjoy the beauty of Southern California while holding space for gratitude and remembrance. If you're planning to be out and about, here are some top beach and lake locations perfect for spending time, making memories, and capturing moments through photography.
Golden hour along the San Diego coast—book one of our photography packages today and capture your perfect moment.
Whether you're planning a proposal, celebrating a birthday, growing your family, or just want beautiful photos with your favorite people—we’ve got a package for that. No stress, no pressure—just real moments captured in a way that feels like you.
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Top 10 Beaches to Visit This Memorial Day Weekend
La Jolla Shores Beach, San Diego
Address: 8200 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037
Great for: Family photos, kayaking, and tide pools at low tide. The cliffs at nearby La Jolla Cove are also perfect for golden hour portraits.
Coronado Beach, San Diego
Address: 919 Ocean Blvd, Coronado, CA 92118
Great for: Wide sandy stretches and the backdrop of the historic Hotel Del Coronado.
Moonlight Beach, Encinitas
Address: 400 B St, Encinitas, CA 92024
Great for: Family gatherings, volleyball, and vibrant beach life.
Victoria Beach, Laguna Beach
Address: Victoria Dr & Sunset Terrace, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Great for: Romantic photos near the famous Pirate Tower. Best during low tide.
Crystal Cove State Park, Orange County
Address: 8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Great for: Hiking + beach combo, rustic beach cottages, and sunset photography.
Huntington City Beach, Huntington Beach
Address: 1 Main St, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Great for: Surf culture, lively boardwalk scenes, and pier views.
Point Dume State Beach, Malibu
Address: Cliffside Dr & Birdview Ave, Malibu, CA 90265
Great for: Secluded coastal views, cliffside hikes, and panoramic photo spots.
El Matador State Beach, Malibu
Address: 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Great for: Dramatic rock formations, caves, and engagement or elopement photography.
Dockweiler State Beach, Playa del Rey
Address: 12000 Vista Del Mar, Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Great for: Bonfires, casual portraits, and watching planes fly overhead from LAX.
Zuma Beach, Malibu
Address: 30000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Great for: Families, beach games, and large open spaces that don’t feel overcrowded.
A Few Less-Crowded Beaches & Lakes to Escape the Crowds
San Onofre State Beach (San Diego/Orange County border)
Peaceful vibes, great for sunrise shoots.
Lake Hemet, San Jacinto Mountains
Address: 56570 CA-74, Mountain Center, CA 92561
Great for: Mountain lake serenity, camping, and waterfront photos.
Lake Perris, Inland Empire
Address: 17801 Lake Perris Dr, Perris, CA 92571
Great for: Nature shots, group photos, and kayaking.
Silverwood Lake, San Bernardino Mountains
Address: 14651 Cedar Cir, Hesperia, CA 92345
Great for: Pine trees, peaceful water views, and drone shots.
A Time to Remember
Whether you're spending Memorial Day by the coast or lakeside, take a moment of silence to reflect on those who’ve served. Many towns across Southern California also host memorial services and flag ceremonies that you can attend before heading out to celebrate.
And as you create new memories this summer, we encourage you to preserve them. Let us help you document the day with candid beachside family sessions, couples portraits, or just fun snapshots of your pups in the sand. We offer last-minute availability across San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, and Riverside counties.
Book Your Memorial Day Weekend Photoshoot
Want to commemorate your Memorial Day weekend with timeless images? Whether you’re honoring a loved one, gathering with family, or simply enjoying the day, we’re here to help you remember it beautifully.
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