Ocean Views minus the sand


Love the idea of ocean views, but not so into sandy toes and windblown hair? Totally get it. Thankfully, San Diego has no shortage of stunning oceanfront spots that don’t require you to actually step foot on the beach.


Whether you’re planning an engagement session, elopement, or just want dreamy coastal photos without the mess of sand, there are plenty of scenic locations with all the ocean magic—minus the beach. Think epic cliffside views, paved paths with panoramic backdrops, and rocky overlooks that still give you those romantic coastal vibes.

Bay Front Court House - Water

Just across from the San Diego Bayfront Courthouse, where so many couples choose to elope and tie the knot, is a stunning and often-overlooked photo location: the waterfront by the bay.

This spot gives you classic San Diego vibes without needing to hit the sand. Picture this—historic military ships in the background, a peek of Point Loma on the horizon, sparkling blue water, and (if you're lucky) that golden-hour light that makes everything look extra magical.


It’s super convenient for courthouse weddings—just a quick walk over for portraits right after your “I do’s.” But even if you're not eloping, it’s an awesome destination for an engagement session, especially if downtown San Diego holds a special place in your relationship story.

A couple stands together on a pier overlooking a serene harbor with boats and calm water on a sunny day.
A couple walking together on a waterfront pier during sunset with a ship silhouetted in the background.
A couple stands together overlooking calm blue ocean waters on a bright sunny day.
A couple shares an intimate moment at sunset along the waterfront with calm blue waters and distant boats in view.
Silhouetted figure stands on seaside dock with sailboat in background during golden hour at harbor.

Bay Front Court House - Outdoor

The outdoor area of the San Diego Bayfront Courthouse is honestly such a beautiful surprise. It’s not just about legal paperwork—this space is actually stunning. With its elegant architecture, tree-lined walkways, golden design elements, and peaceful fountains, it gives major elevated elopement vibes without needing a traditional venue.


I’m genuinely impressed with how well-designed and picturesque the city has made this spot. It’s no wonder so many couples choose to elope here—when you’ve got a backdrop this gorgeous, simple becomes chic. Whether you're saying your vows right there or just using it for portraits, this location definitely deserves more credit.

Couple enjoying a romantic moment in a tropical garden with palm trees and a white statue in the background.
A couple walks together in a sunny park at golden hour, with the pregnant woman wearing a pink dress and white cardigan.
A newlywed couple takes wedding photos under large trees on a sunny green lawn outside a light pink building.
A couple in wedding attire walks along a boardwalk with palm trees and boats visible in the harbor behind them.
Bride and groom share a romantic embrace in front of lush tropical palm fronds during wedding photo session.
A romantic couple embraces in front of a lush palm tree on a sunny day, with the bride wearing a flowing white dress.
A couple in wedding attire share a romantic dance on a waterfront promenade with palm trees in the background in black and white.

Pacific Portal

This is Pacific Portal, a unique and underrated location for an elopement or engagement session in San Diego. I had the chance to shoot an elopement here under a beautiful public art installation, with stunning views of sailboats drifting through the marina and the San Diego skyline serving as the perfect backdrop.


If you love public art, city views, and want something a little different from the typical beach or cliffside spots, this place might just be the one. Plus, if Point Loma holds special meaning in your relationship, this location offers a nod to that area—without needing to step on a boat. It’s a coastal, modern, artsy vibe with a little nautical flair, and perfect for couples wanting something personal and photogenic.

An engagement photoshoot at the harbor shows intimate moments of a couple posing along the waterfront.
Hands clasped together overlooking a marina with sailboats and city skyline in the background under cloudy skies.
Loving couple embraces on rocky coastal shore with boats and harbor visible in background on cloudy day.
Sailboats anchored in a calm harbor with city skyline visible in the misty background.
A group stands together by a marina with boats and water in the background on an overcast day.

Coronado Sea Port

Coronado Seaport is arguably one of the best spots in San Diego for jaw-dropping skyline views. If you want that iconic cityscape as your backdrop, this location delivers big time.


Bonus: it’s just a short stroll from Coronado Beach, so you can easily split your session between classic, sandy beach shots and sleek, urban skyline vibes. Whether you’re after romantic engagement photos or a unique elopement location, Coronado Seaport gives you the best of both worlds—coastal charm plus city sophistication.

A happy couple walks along the waterfront with a city skyline visible in the background on their wedding day.
A couple embraces on a rocky shoreline with the Coronado Bridge spanning across San Diego Bay in the background.
A couple in wedding attire stands on a rocky beach shore with the San Francisco Bay and bridge in the distance.
A group stands together on Coronado Island with the San Diego skyline and bay visible across the water on a cloudy day.

Area Around Kona Kai + Marina

The Kona Kai Resort & Spa area is absolutely stunning—no wonder so many couples choose it as their wedding venue. But here’s the best part: there are actually quite a few beautiful spots around the marina that are accessible to the public, so you can soak in that coastal charm without the wedding price tag.


Some of my favorite photo spots are right on the docks at the marina. Just a heads up—these spots usually require some kind of contact or permission to access. So if you have a friend with a boat there, consider yourself lucky—you’re basically golden! If not, no worries—we can definitely make some calls and figure out a way to get that exclusive dock vibe if that’s what you’re dreaming of for your shoot.

Couple takes a romantic stroll along a scenic oceanfront path with rocks and grass on a sunny day.
A couple dances joyfully on green grass near a large tree at sunset overlooking the ocean.
A happy couple shares a romantic dip pose on a sunny marina dock surrounded by boats and sail masts.
Panoramic collage of boats docked at a marina against a coastal hillside during sunset.

Thanks so much for reading and exploring these stunning San Diego spots with me! If any of these locations caught your eye and you’re ready to capture your love story in one of these gorgeous settings, I’d love to work with you. Don’t hesitate to reach out—let’s make your vision happen and create photos that feel so you.