30+ Best Wedding Photo Locations in California, CA

Griffith Park, located in Southern California, is a standout choice for wedding photos with its expansive 4,210 acres of varied landscapes. The park features a blend of natural chaparral terrain and well-maintained picnic areas, showcasing California native plants and trees. From oak woodlands and coastal sage scrub to lush riparian vegetation, the park’s diverse scenery adds a unique touch to wedding photos. Griffith Park, influenced by the vision of Griffith Jenkins Griffith, also offers trails, cultural attractions, and recreational spaces. This combination of natural beauty and historic charm makes it an ideal location for couples seeking a memorable and picturesque photo experience in Southern California.

Address: 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Located in Southern California, Santa Monica Beach offers an iconic spot for wedding photos with its blend of natural beauty and vibrant attractions. Stretching from the Santa Monica Pier to the Pacific Coast Highway, the beach features scenic views and convenient access via bridges and walkways. The pier itself is a well-known landmark, complete with an amusement park, Ferris wheel, and dining options. North of the pier, the accessible North Beach Playground provides inclusive features, while the south side showcases historic sites like the Original Muscle Beach and Carousel Park. Santa Monica Beach’s mix of coastal charm and urban energy creates a memorable photo location for any couple.

Address: Los Angeles, CA

Indulge in the beauty of Southern California’s Santa Barbara Beach, a stunning location for wedding photos that combines coastal elegance with vibrant local culture. This picturesque destination offers miles of pristine public beaches, perfect for capturing memorable moments. From the lively East and West Beach, connected by Cabrillo Boulevard, to the peaceful Butterfly Beach in Montecito, there’s a spot for every couple’s vision. The weekly Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show along the coastline adds a unique cultural touch, making Santa Barbara Beach an exceptional choice for wedding photography that reflects both natural beauty and community charm.

Address: Santa Barbara, CA

This Waterfront shopping complex is home to a wide variety of buildings in all different architectural styles, so there’s a little something for everyone. You can choose to have urban photos, waterfront photos or both. There are also plenty of places to get a snack – and matching ice cream cones make for a super cute wedding photography prop!

Style: Urban, Plaza

Address: 849 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA

Social: Facebook

Offering 1200 acres of sprawling urban gardens, Balboa Park is a fantastic place for wedding photography for nature-lovers alike, without having to travel outside of the city. There are almost 20 different gardens within the park, from a Japanese Garden to a hundred-year-old cactus garden, so the options are truly endless. An afternoon at Balboa park will certainly result in wedding photos that are full of variety and natural beauty.

Style: Natural, Garden, Architectural

Address: 1549 El Prado San Diego, CA 92101

Social: Facebook

Another iconic beach location, Coronado island is also home to Hotel Del Coronado, a stunning historic Victorian-era beachfront hotel. The hotel served as a filming location for a Marilyn Monroe movie, so you know that it’s got plenty of glamour to lend to your wedding photographs.

Style: Beach, Historic Hotel

Address: 1100 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA

Social: Instagram

An impressive estate with all of the luxury touches that a location with a rich history should have, this is the place that many famous movies have featured the gorgeous architecture and its stunning grounds. Ideal for wedding photos that have a stylishly regal look, the mansion features several gardens, courtyards, water features, and an impressive pool area for memorable portraits that will be cherished forever.

Social: Facebook

An iconic landmark that anyone can recognize, Union Station is a bustling hub that anyone can easily get lost in Perfect for romantic shots that feature the stylish architecture styles from the 1930s, the history and design elements both inside and out are perfect for beautiful photo backdrops. A great place for modern and vintage styles, the station has impressive visuals in grandeur and sheer size.

Social: Instagram

A gorgeous place any time of year, this is a beautiful location that features hundreds of different plant and flower varieties from all over the world. Filled with an array of bright colors and natural landscapes, this is a wonderful spot for nature photography in a peaceful setting. Ideal for romantic strolls and sweet moments under trees, the gardens have several impressive structures, water features, and native wildlife for a wonderful show of the natural world.

Social: Instagram

Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park, located in Orange County, offers an enchanting setting for wedding photos with its diverse natural beauty. As a wildlife sanctuary, the park is adorned with ancient groves of Western Sycamores and Coast Live Oaks, framed by two seasonally flowing creeks. The landscape features rolling hills and canyons covered in Coastal Sage Scrub and grasslands, creating a peaceful and picturesque environment. Couples can enjoy the park’s rich plant and animal life while capturing their special moments in a serene and natural setting. This park provides a unique and tranquil backdrop for those looking to celebrate their wedding in harmony with nature.

Address: 30952 Oso Pkwy, Coto De Caza, CA 92679

Situated in Orange County, Balboa Island is a charming location ideal for wedding photos. This picturesque island is renowned for its relaxing beaches and vibrant waterfront activities. Couples can capture their special moments against stunning coastal views or while enjoying the island’s unique atmosphere. From serene beach scenes to delightful boat rides, Balboa Island provides a variety of memorable settings. Its blend of historical charm and natural beauty makes it a wonderful choice for those looking to add a touch of seaside elegance to their wedding photos.

Address: Newport Beach, CA

Located in Orange County, Dana Point Harbor provides a stunning locale for wedding photos. This vibrant marina is celebrated for its picturesque views, from sunset horizons to lively waterfront activities. Couples can capture their special moments against the backdrop of serene harbor scenes and stunning ocean vistas. Known for whale watching and sailing, the harbor’s unique charm adds a touch of Southern California’s coastal elegance to wedding photos. Whether enjoying a romantic stroll by the water or a dynamic boat ride, Dana Point Harbor creates a memorable setting for capturing cherished memories.

Address: Dana Point, CA

Address: Anaheim, CA

Address: 7600 E La Palma Ave, Anaheim, CA 92807

Address: 6700 E Walnut Canyon Rd, Anaheim, CA 92807

Address: 1801 E Chestnut Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92701

Address: 1000 E Santa Ana Blvd, Santa Ana, CA 92701

Address: Santa Ana, CA

Shoreline Village is a thriving shopping destination with too many ocean view sites you could ask for during your visit. The entire village is on the velvety water. If you want a nautical theme, you can visit the Marina or the Lions Lighthouse. On the other hand, you can hire a four-wheeler or a bike to cover rough terrains for some unique shots for an adventurous rugged look. Walk around the region with your camera crew, and you can easily find surroundings that you would appreciate as a perfect wedding photography theme.

Style: Waterfront

Address: 429 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach, CA 90802

Social: Facebook

Lions Lighthouse is a ten-story tall lighthouse built to end blindness in the world. It is a faux lighthouse and is also an important tourist destination. The lighthouse and the park around it are among the top places to capture a nautical themed photoshoot. If you prefer more lighthouses, you can also try the Parker’s Lighthouse, located across the water from Lions Lighthouse, and The Robot Light on the port of Long Beach.

Style: Lighthouse

Address: Long Beach, CA

This aquarium, the largest in the world, is one of the stunning spots of Long Beach. Found closer to Shoreline Village, this attraction offers multiple sites for unique underwater-themed pictures. Apart from watching hundreds of underwater species, you can also take up boat adventures to watch whales, dolphins, seals, and more. What could be more original and magical than a whale photobombing your wedding picture? You could also choose one of the exhibits for a more lively touch, like the shark lagoon, penguin habitat, the Harbor Terrace, and more.

Style: Aquarium

Address: 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA

Social: Facebook

Address: 2601 Fairmount Blvd, Riverside, CA 92501

Address: 1 Botanic Gardens Dr, Riverside, CA 92507

Address: 4706 Mount Rubidoux Dr, Riverside, CA 92501

Address: Hart Park, Bakersfield, CA 93308

Address: 11298 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93311

Address: 901 Panorama Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93305

Address: 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Address: Cliffside Dr &, Birdview Ave, Malibu, CA 90265

Address: Malibu, CA

Address: 7755 Folsom Auburn Rd, Folsom, CA 95630

Address: South Lake Tahoe, CA

Address: Sacramento, CA

Address: Golden Gate Brg, San Francisco, CA

Address: 1 Bear Valley Rd, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

Address: Sausalito, CA 94965

The Golden Gate Bridge is a picture-perfect wedding photo location in San Francisco, blending iconic elegance and natural splendor. Its vivid vermilion arches, contrasted against the azure waters of San Francisco Bay, provide a stunning backdrop, symbolizing love’s enduring strength. Towering pillars reach for the heavens, mirroring the aspirations of the newlyweds. The scenic surroundings, from Marin Headlands to the city skyline, offer diverse settings for timeless shots. As the sun dips below the horizon, it bathes the bridge in a warm, golden hue, crafting an ethereal atmosphere for capturing unforgettable moments. In the embrace of this architectural marvel, love is immortalized against a mesmerizing canvas, creating wedding memories to treasure forever.

Style: Bridge

Address: Toll Plaza Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco, CA 94129

Social: Facebook

Travel to a coastal gem nestled in the heart of San Francisco, renowned for its natural beauty and serene ambiance. With its pristine shoreline stretching beneath the rugged cliffs of the Presidio, Baker’s Beach offers a captivating backdrop for wedding photos. The golden sands invite visitors to stroll along the shore while the iconic Golden Gate Bridge looms majestically in the background, making it a photographer’s paradise. The beach’s tranquil atmosphere fosters a sense of escape from the bustling city, providing a peaceful oasis for couples in love. Baker’s Beach is a cherished destination where nature’s charm and urban allure harmoniously coexist, making it perfect for wedding photos.

Style: Beach

Address: San Francisco, CA 94129

Social: Facebook

Capture your love at a dreamy wedding photo location in San Francisco. Palace of Fine Arts radiates timeless elegance and architectural splendor. Its Greco-Roman-inspired rotunda and tranquil lagoon create a romantic atmosphere perfect for seizing cherished moments. The grandeur of its Corinthian columns and intricate details adds a touch of sophistication to any wedding album. Surrounded by lush gardens and swaying cypress trees, this wedding photo location exudes serenity and charm, making it a haven for couples seeking enchanting backdrops. As the sun sets, the Palace of Fine Arts is bathed in a warm, golden glow, lending an ethereal quality to every shot. This iconic site ensures that love’s beauty is forever etched in photographs.

Style: Monument, Art Gallery

Address: San Francisco, CA 92672

Social: Facebook

The Municipal Rose Garden serves as an idyllic setting for weddings, enchanting couples with its natural beauty. Vibrant and meticulously maintained, the garden provides an exquisite backdrop for timeless photographs. Its diverse array of roses in various hues and sizes adds a touch of romance and elegance to every shot. Meandering pathways, charming pergolas, and serene fountains offer endless photo opportunities, ensuring every moment is captured in its most picturesque form. Throughout the seasons, the garden’s ever-changing scenery provides a versatile and stunning canvas, from the vibrant blooms of spring to the rich, warm autumn tones. Love and nature come together in this enchanting garden, creating unforgettable memories for newlyweds.

Style: Outdoor

Address: Dana Avenue & Naglee Avenue, San Jose, CA 95126

Social: Facebook

Nestled in the heart of the city, this historic square offers a captivating blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. The lush, manicured gardens at Plaza de César Chávez provide a lush backdrop, while the iconic rotunda adds architectural grandeur to the photos. The play of light and shadows among the towering trees and fountains creates a romantic atmosphere. The plaza’s cultural significance and its proximity to renowned landmarks add depth to the wedding album. Whether capturing intimate moments or grand celebrations, Plaza de César Chávez elevates wedding photography to an art form, celebrating love against a backdrop of history and elegance.

Style: Plaza, Park

Address: 1 Paseo De San Antonio, San Jose, CA

Social: Facebook

Capture splendor among verdant landscapes, tranquil riverbanks, and colorful blooms at Guadalupe River Park and Gardens. This San Jose wedding photo location provides a stunning backdrop that encapsulates the essence of romance. Its winding pathways, picturesque bridges, and charming gazebos offer an array of captivating settings for capturing cherished moments of love and joy. The soothing murmur of the Guadalupe River adds an extra layer of serenity to the scenes. In every season, Guadalupe River Park and Gardens beckon couples to create lasting memories against a backdrop of captivating beauty. Nestled in the beating heart of the city, make sure you visit Guadalupe River Park and Gardens for the best photo ops. 

Style: Park

Address: 438 Coleman Avenue, San Jose, CA 95110

Social: Facebook

If you prefer to add sunset shots to your album, nothing can do more justice than Lake Merritt. The region has three miles of shoreline with urban spaces sprouting in random spots. The lagoons of the area would add more richness to your photos. If you have time, take a Gondola ride for some Italian touch to the pictures. You can visit the Children’s Fairyland amusement park for some rides and photos for kindling your inner child. Apart from these, there are Lake Merritt Wildlife Refuge, Garden Center, Lakeside Park, Bonsai Garden, Rotary Natural Center, and more.

Style: Lake

Address: Lake Merritt District neighborhood, Oakland CA

Social: Facebook

The coast redwood trees of this region would add a pristine look to your pictures. There are horseback rides and several trails for jogging and hiking in this region. You can also choose a secluded region for some romantic images. Some prefer to stay back in the camping areas to capture some sunset and sunrise pictures. The best site for some colorful photographs is the Canyon Meadow. If you are lucky, your photos will be photobombed by one of the famous animals that call this park home!

Style: Park

Address: 2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, CA 94605

Social: Facebook

Downtown Oakland is the business district of the region and is mostly a residential area. However, the cultural beauty of this land makes it the perfect tapestry for your pictures. If you wish to capture the land’s culture, visit any or all of the Joyce Gordon Gallery, Parade Home, Rotunda Building, and the African American Museum and Library. The buildings might not allow photography inside the premises, but the exterior architecture would add an excellent backdrop to your pictures. If you are looking for a retro look, visit the City Center to capture some photographs in front of concert halls, clubs, café regions, and more. Preservation Park is the right place to get a Victorian look amidst the historic buildings.

Style: Culture

Address: Downtown Oakland, CA

Social: Facebook