Beaches

Accessibility: Moderate

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

Best time of year: Year-round

Parking: Fee for main lot

Natural Bridges is one of our most popular locations. The beach features the iconic bridge, a beautiful sunset, and occasional tide pools for exploring. The surrounding grounds have beautiful views of eucalyptus and evergreens. 

Google Maps Link (Visitor's Center Lot)

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 morning or 1 hour before sunset

Best time of year: Year-round

Parking: fee for main lot

Seacliff features the famous cement ship and the shelter of the pier. Seacliff can occasionally be busy, especially in the summer months. 

Google Maps Link

Accessibility: Easy

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

Best time of year: Year-round

Parking: fee for street and lot parking

Capitola is a busy location, with the exception of early morning sessions. The waterway with creeping vines and picturesque bridges is a main draw, as well as the small wharf and colorful buildings. 

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: 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

Panther beach requires a bit of a challenging hike down and up, but even maternity clients have made the trek without issue. This may be the most unique beach in Santa Cruz county, with a natural bridge, striking red wind carved cliffs, and lots of interesting rock features at the sand line. 

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

Sharkfin Beach requires a somewhat challenging downhill hike but the reward is striking rock formations and unique sun flare. It's an excellent setting for dramatic sunset photos. 

Google Maps Link

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: Moderate

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

Best time of year: Year-round

Parking: free on side roads

It's Beach is quintessential Santa Cruz flavor. The famous lighthouse, soft spot, and cliffs make for incredible backdrops. The gate to the cliffs is occasionally locked and requires a hop over the fence. The field next to the lighthouse has gorgeous golden light at sunset, as well. 

Google Maps Link - Meeting Point

Accessibility: Easy

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

Best time of year: Year-round

Parking: free parking in residential area

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Google Maps Link - Meeting Point