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Updated Mar 06, 20258 Breathtaking Spots to Take Big Sur Engagement Photos
You can't go wrong with this iconic California spot.
If you're planning on taking Big Sur engagement photos, you've made an excellent choice. This coastal California location has been a popular photography spot for years because of its wild natural beauty and awe-inspiring ocean views. With countless hiking trails, beaches and forests, it's no wonder this magical spot is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're a California native or are planning a destination engagement photo shoot, you can't go wrong with taking engagement photos in Big Sur.
If you're not sure where to start, The Knot Vendor Marketplace is a great resource to research local engagement photographers and read reviews from real couples. Your engagement photographer can also help you plan engagement photo poses, find locations and decide what to wear for an engagement photo shoot.
1. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Known as the crown jewel of the California State Park System, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve has inspired artists and photographers for generations with its breathtaking ocean views and natural beauty. One popular photo spot in the state park that would look amazing for your engagement photos is China Cove, known for its sandy white beach and striking emerald green waters.
2. Bixby Bridge
Bixby Bridge is one of the most memorable sights along the drive down Highway 1 to get to Big Sur. This iconic bridge along the coastline is the perfect backdrop for your Big Sur engagement photos. Please note that there are designated parking locations for you to get out, so please be mindful to plan ahead.
3. San Martin Rock
This popular lookout spot is ideal for those who want to capture the rocky coastline of Big Sur in their engagement photos. There is a small parking lot area where you can pull off the road and set up for your photos. Afterward, enjoy a romantic picnic at nearby Willow Creek Picnic Ground. Be sure to monitor the weather leading up to your photos, as this spot is best enjoyed on a clear and sunny day.
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4. McWay Falls
Located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, McWay Falls is a popular tourist spot when visiting Big Sur—and for good reason! Tucked along the Pacific Coast Highway, this stunning waterfall flows down to the beach at McWay Cove. The waterfall, beach and surrounding redwoods are a dreamy backdrop for your engagement photos.
5. Glen Oaks
Glen Oaks is a rustic boutique hotel that offers motor lodge rooms as well as individual charming cabins. This spot is a favorite among Big Sur engagement photographers for amazing shots of the redwood forest, though you do have to be a guest to take photos on-site. This is a great spot to stay for the weekend as you explore Big Sur and take your engagement photos. You can also book this spot as a wedding reception venue, so consider your photo session the trial run to see if you'd like to have your wedding here.
6. Garrapata State Park
Located just north of Big Sur Village, Garrapata State Park lures in visitors with its outstanding trails and coastal views. One of its hidden gems is Calla Lily Valley, which is—as the name suggests—a portion of the valley that's covered in wild calla lilies. The flowers are in bloom from late January to mid-April, so this spot is perfect for a spring photo session. Pro tip: Be sure to look up directions to the Big Sur engagement photo location in advance, as visitors say it can be difficult to find.
7. Pfeiffer Beach
Tucked into the Santa Lucia Mountains, Pfeiffer Beach is home to the winding Big Sur River as well as a forest of redwoods, maples, sycamores and more. This popular beach is best known for the Keyhole Arch, which has been the subject of many photographers' lenses over the years. From late November through January, the setting sun shines right through this natural archway, making this spot ideal for winter engagement photos.
8. Alila Ventana Big Sur
Alila Ventana Big Sur is a luxury resort that's guaranteed to look amazing in your engagement photos. In addition to the abundant natural beauty of the resort, the hotel is thoughtfully designed to look and feel like a serene sanctuary. For those traveling from out of town, we recommend spending a night at Alila Ventana Big Sur for an unforgettable experience and even more unforgettable engagement photos. With careful attention to detail, the attentive staff will ensure your stay here is beyond your wildest dreams.
