Dog-Friendly Locations
 

Accessibility: Easy

Best time of day: Early morning or 1 hour before sunset

Best time of year: Year-round

Parking: Free

Seabright Beach is a great location for wheel chairs and those who prefer solid footing to sand. The walk to the lighthouse is completely paved and most of the session can take place there. The sandy beach north of the lighthouse is an easy hop down for those who would like to stroll in the surf.

Google Maps Link - Meeting Point

Accessibility: Easy

Best time of day: Early morning or 90 minutes before sunset

Best time of year: Year-round, wildflowers in spring

Parking: Free

Davenport Landing is like the calmer little brother to Davenport Main Beach. It has a similar feel, but is easier to access. This is our most popular Davenport location, and is popular for families. 

Google Maps Link

Accessibility: Moderate/Difficult

Best time of day: Early morning or 1 hour before sunset

Best time of year: Year-round

Parking: Free

Davenport has a remote, adventurous feel, and is rarely busy. The beaches near davenport are less sheltered than Santa Cruz beaches, so the waves can be stronger and the wind a bit more chilly. During the warmer months, this results in breathtaking portraits - especially for engagements and maternity. The cooler months are no different, but do require a sense of adventure. 

Google Maps Link​

Accessibility: Moderate

Best time of day: Early morning or 1 hour before sunset

Best time of year: Year-round

Parking: Free but lot occasionally fills up

Hidden beach is rarely crowded, and sunsets are always golden or soft pastels. The waves are typically gentle and the water is mysteriously more warm than other beaches in Santa Cruz County. It does require a 1/4 mile walk from the parking lot. 

Google Maps Link

Accessibility: Easy

Best time of day: Early-mid morning or 90 minutes before sunset

Best time of year: Year-round

Parking: fee for main lot

Henry Cowell is one of our most popular locations. The field is always bathed in golden light, and the redwoods are accessible and beautiful. 

Note: Dogs are *not* allowed on the Redwood loop, but are allowed everywhere else that we shoot in the park.

Google Maps Link

Accessibility: easy/moderate due to 1/4 mile loop trail

Best time of day: Early-mid morning or 2 hours before sunset

Best time of year: spring through fall, muddy in winter

Parking: free

Schwan lake is an excellent location for families - with a huge climbing tree half way around the loop trail and a field full of golden grass in fall.  

Google Maps Link