California

San Diego

This pier has it all: a boardwalk, cottages, nearby fish tacos — and incredible sunsets!

As the turquoise stratosphere irradiates the colors of the Californian Coastline, watch as the undulating waves wash against the beaches, creating a perfect balance of serenity. Take to the sky for an aerial perspective over one of San Diego's most prominent surf spots.

(follow local drone regulations and permit requirements if flying a drone)

Resembling craters on the moon 🌕, come photograph this beach’s surreal and breathtaking beauty. If you’re lucky the pockets of sand will be filled with water reflecting the clouds.

(cue Jaws theme song) duunnn dunnn… duuuunnnn duun… duuunnnnnnnn dun dun dun dun dun dun dun dun dun dun dunnnnnnnnnnn dunnnn.

Take in the fresh coastal views within the waters of La Jolla for a chance to swim with Leopard sharks! Keep in mind; As vicious as they may sound, Leopard sharks are pretty friendly and even fun to be around!

(follow local drone regulations and permit requirements if flying a drone)

A centered angle will give you a whole other view of this popular surf spot—a diminishing perspective, symmetry, and playful waves. Time to get your toes wet and walk underneath Scripps Pier.

Atop one of La Jolla's boundless coastal cliffs features an iconic view of the Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier. While you're there, take in the fresh coastal breeze and watch as surfers ride the waves off in the distance.

This college library, named after Theodor Geisel (better known as Dr. Seuss), is an iconic part of the UCSD campus. The distinctive Brutalist style of architecture makes this location an unexpected place to experiment with symmetry and shapes that pop against the clear blue sky.

For a glistening golden beach and sweeping ocean views, head over to this perfect sunset viewpoint along the La Jolla Trail. You'll have memorable views of the city and ocean—and keep your eye out for surfers amidst the setting sun.

Intricately designed by Louis I. Kahn in the 1960s, the Salk Institute remains an architectural marvel, as its central, symmetrical courtyard is unique to the eye. Hidden in plain sight on the San Diego coast, the modernist beacon-styled building features a beautifully laid out mini-canal leading down towards the horizon, followed by its stunning concrete-made buildings on both sides.

Feel the coastal breeze up high above the La Jolla bluffs. Watch how the clouds move and how the sky changes color. Recharge yourself amidst the beautiful view. A popular spot for surfers and hang-gliders, Torrey Pines Gliderport offers one of the best views of the Black Beach coastline, especially during sunset.

From up above, this location offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and one of the most beautiful stretches of coastal highway in the state of California. This is a spot that I recommend for anyone looking to enjoy an evening watching the sun set across the ocean — especially if you're shooting with a drone!

(before flying a drone, check and follow local drone regulations and permit requirements)

Del Mar North Beach in San Diego is the perfect spot to witness the picturesque combination of stunning sunsets, towering palm trees, and modern architecture. This dog-friendly beach is also a popular surf spot, where you can catch some waves or simply relax on the pristine sandy shores.

Palm tree-lined streets, a picturesque sunset — this classic California spot is the perfect place to capture the vibe of SoCal summer living.

When Spring has officially sprung! It's the season of renewal and change; a transition from the dark and dreary to the light and vibrant. Out with the old, in with the new! A stunning amount of blooms that just so happen to overlook the Pacific Ocean.

At 1,942 feet, this is one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast. That said, the pier is not the only photo-worthy thing in the area—look out for the pastel sunrise colors in the sky, crashing waves, and surfers enjoying the sea during the first hours of the day.

Lined up one after the other, these pastel cottages are just steps away from Oceanside Strand Beach. The cerulean sky perfectly complements the creamsicle-colored rental homes and creates a cheerful, symmetrically-pleasing Southern California scene. 

Best photo locations in San Diego