Best places for engagement photos in Monterey
Planning engagement photos in Monterey? These are the spots worth shortlisting, chosen for the light, the backdrop, and how easily a session comes together.
12 places to shoot engagement photos & videos in Monterey
Lovers Point Park
A rocky coastal point with turquoise coves, dramatic granite outcrops and a small sandy beach. Vivid water and rugged rocks make it a top spot for engagement and couple sessions.
For engagement photos: a romantic backdrop for candid, wandering couple shots.
Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail
A scenic paved trail hugging the bay past beaches, dunes, cypress and old cannery structures. Its varied coastal backdrops suit family, maternity and engagement portraits.
For engagement photos: space to relax into natural, in-between moments together.
Asilomar State Beach
A rugged shoreline of tide pools, rocky coves and sand dunes with a wooden dune boardwalk. Wild coastal beauty and soft evening light suit engagement, maternity and family shoots.
For engagement photos: a striking setting worth a save-the-date.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
The crown jewel of the state park system, with dramatic cliffs, cypress groves and crystalline coves. Spectacular coastal scenery suits adventurous engagement and couple sessions.
For engagement photos: a romantic backdrop for candid, wandering couple shots.
Old Fisherman's Wharf
A working wharf of colorful shops, bobbing boats and harbor views ringed by sea lions. The lively maritime backdrop suits family, engagement and lifestyle sessions.
For engagement photos: space to relax into natural, in-between moments together.
Cannery Row
The historic waterfront street of Steinbeck fame with weathered cannery facades, murals and bay views. Its rustic industrial character suits senior, couple and lifestyle sessions.
For engagement photos: a striking setting worth a save-the-date.
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17-Mile Drive (Lone Cypress)
A famed private coastal drive past the Lone Cypress, wind-sculpted trees, white beaches and rocky points. Iconic seascapes suit engagement and formal couple sessions.
For engagement photos: a romantic backdrop for candid, wandering couple shots.
Monterey State Historic Park (Custom House Plaza)
A historic adobe district around the old Custom House plaza with early-California architecture and courtyards. The heritage setting suits family, engagement and portrait sessions.
For engagement photos: space to relax into natural, in-between moments together.
Carmel Beach
A wide crescent of white sand framed by wind-bent cypress and turquoise surf below charming Carmel. Soft sand and dramatic sunsets suit engagement, maternity and family shoots.
For engagement photos: a striking setting worth a save-the-date.
Del Monte Beach
A quieter city beach with dune boardwalks, tall grass and open bay views. Its uncrowded sand and dunes suit family, maternity and engagement sessions.
For engagement photos: a romantic backdrop for candid, wandering couple shots.
Jacks Peak County Park
The highest point on the peninsula, with fragrant pine forest trails and ridge-top views of the bay and valley. Elevated vistas and shady groves suit engagement and family portraits.
For engagement photos: space to relax into natural, in-between moments together.
Carmel Mission Basilica
The 1797 mission is one of the most beautiful landmarks on the coast, with a honey-colored stone facade, arched courtyards and a lush walled garden. Bougainvillea, fountains and old adobe walls give graduation and engagement photos a timeless, formal feel. It stays a working parish, so plan around services and keep sessions respectful.
For engagement photos: a striking setting worth a save-the-date.
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Shooting engagement photos in Monterey
It depends on the spot. Public streets and sidewalks usually don't, while many parks, gardens, and landmarks require a permit for professional sessions. Each location above notes what we found on permits — confirm the current rules and any fee with the venue or city before you book.
Golden hour — the hour after sunrise or before sunset — flatters almost every location, and each spot above lists the light that works best there. Early morning also means thinner crowds at the popular ones.
Snappr pricing is flat and set before you book, with no travel or editing surprises. Most sessions run one to two hours; you can see current rates and what each tier includes on the pricing page.
Pick your date and shoot type and we match you with a vetted local photographer who shoots in Monterey. Booking takes a couple of minutes, and you can reschedule for free if plans change.
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