The Hermz View

Location guide

Adventure & Elopement Locations

A few of my favorite places to photograph adventures and elopements, with what each one feels like, what to know about permits, and when the light is best.

Explore the comparison first, then move through each setting to find the stretch of Southern California that fits your session best.

Compare at a glance

Explore the light

Choose a location
Choose a season for Sunset Cliffs & Point Loma
Sunset Cliffs & Point Loma · Winter

The sun sets furthest south, straight over the water. Clear, colorful skies.

Pacific cliffs and ocean viewed through a coastal arch
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Coast & cliffs

Coast & cliffs

Sunset Cliffs & Point Loma

Sandstone arches and tide pools right above the Pacific. Dramatic for couples and elopements, but the edges are unstable, so we stay well back.

Pacific cliffs and ocean viewed through a coastal arch

Seasonal light

  • Winter: The sun sets furthest south, straight over the water. Clear, colorful skies.
  • Summer: Coastal fog ("June Gloom") can clear right at sunset. Soft, moody light.
Good fit for
Couples and elopements
Best light
Golden hour, sunset and lingering afterglow
What to expect
Casual sessions usually need no permit. Larger setups or commercial shoots may need a City of San Diego permit.
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Coast & cliffs

La Jolla & Torrey Pines

Coves, sea caves and bluff-top trails above the ocean. Great for adventurous couples who want the coastline and a short hike.

Coastal stairway above the Pacific at dusk

Seasonal light

  • Spring: Wildflowers along the bluffs, and a golden glow in the evening.
  • Fall: Warm, clear evenings, often the best sunsets of the year.
Good fit for
Adventurous couples who want the coastline and a short hike
Best light
Golden hour and sunset
What to expect
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve requires a state park photography permit for professional sessions, so plan ahead.
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City & coast

City & coast

Ocean Beach

The pier, surfers and a relaxed beach-town feel. Easy access, and great for playful, candid sessions.

Ocean waves seen beneath the Ocean Beach pier

Seasonal light

  • Year-round: The pier silhouetted at sunset, with blue hour just after.
Good fit for
Playful, candid sessions
What to expect
Casual beach sessions are usually fine. Check the city's rules for props or large groups.
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Desert

Desert

Anza-Borrego Desert

Wide open badlands, slot canyons and dark night skies, about two hours from San Diego.

Seasonal light

  • Winter–Spring: Mild temperatures and the spring wildflower bloom.
  • Summer: Too hot midday, so we plan for sunrise only.
What to expect
California State Parks requires a film/photo permit for commercial or professional sessions.
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Plan your session

Ready to find your place?

Permit rules change, so I'll confirm the latest requirements for your date when we plan your session.

Plan an Adventure Session