The Best Top 5 Laguna Beach Engagement Photo Locations

So, you’re thinking about Laguna Beach for your engagement photos? I can already feel the excitement! Laguna is seriously the place to get engaged, and the beauty here doesn’t just show up in the landscape—it’s in the vibes, the views, and the overall energy of the city. From the iconic beaches to the rolling hills, Laguna Beach is an engagement photographer’s playground, and I can’t wait to show you my top spots.

Recently, I had the pleasure of working with Emily and Jonah, who chose two of my absolute favorite Laguna Beach engagement spots: Shaw’s Cove and Top of the World. These locations really capture the essence of Laguna: the stunning coastline and that laid-back SoCal charm. Their session was amazing, and the sunset at Top of the World was honestly one of the most magical moments I’ve ever captured. Film sunset shots, you guys! It was just radiant. Seriously. So, let's dive into these spots and why they’re a must for any couple who wants to get those dream engagement photos in Laguna.

A romantic moment between an engaged couple at a stunning Laguna Beach engagement photo location, capturing their smiles and love.

Couple sharing a kiss at sunset on the rocks of Laguna Beach, capturing a gorgeous shot in one of the best Laguna Beach engagement photo locations.

Couple walking along the shoreline, laughing and holding hands in one of Laguna Beach’s most beautiful engagement photo locations

The couple enjoys a playful, carefree moment at one of the best engagement photo locations in Laguna Beach, with the ocean softly in the background.

Shaw’s Cove: Laguna’s Hidden Gem

Shaw’s Cove is one of those locations that just feels like you’re stepping into a hidden gem. Nestled between some larger, more well-known beaches, Shaw’s Cove offers that intimate, romantic feel that’s perfect for engagement photos. With its smooth sand, rocky outcroppings, and clear water, Shaw’s Cove really brings out that beachy romance. It’s one of my go-to locations for couples looking for something a little quieter but still full of those Laguna Beach vibes!

When Emily and Jonah and I hit up Shaw’s Cove, the energy was so fun and relaxed. It’s one of those places that helps you forget that you’re in front of the camera. The natural beauty of the place really brings out genuine moments between couples. And the golden sunset light here? It was Perfection! If you're looking for that dreamy beach backdrop with a touch of privacy, Shaw’s Cove has your name on it.

It’s also a great spot for a mix of photos. You’ve got the rocks that make for some dramatic and adventurous shots, but also wide open sand that gives you that soft, timeless beach feel. Oh, and did I mention how stunning the light is at sunset? Every time I shoot here, the light just dances, and it’s always a showstopper.

The couple twirls with joy in the soft, golden light at Shaw’s Cove, one of the best Laguna Beach engagement photo locations to capture such moments.

Couple walking barefoot on the beach at Shaw's Cove, capturing an intimate moment at one of the top Laguna Beach engagement photo locations

Close-up shot of the couple's hands intertwined on the beach with the sparkling waves in the background at a Laguna Beach engagement photo location.

A couple sharing a tender moment with their foreheads touching on the rocky beach, with the ocean in the background and palm trees framing the scene at a Laguna Beach Engagement Photo Location.

See more Shaws Cove sessions on my blogs below!

Laguna Beach Couple Maternity Photoshoot at Shaw's Cove

Embracing Cloudy Engagement Photos at Laguna Beach

Taelor & Ben's Idyllic Laguna Beach Engagement Photo Session

Lagunas Top of the World

Now, let’s talk about Top of the World. This spot is for couples who want variety, and a killer sunset!! Top of the World has a totally different vibe compared to Shaw’s Cove. While Shaw’s gives you that beachy, soft sand feel, Top of the World has wide-open space, rolling hills, and views for days. You can see the entire city and the coastline stretched out below you, and the best part? You’re not dealing with beachgoers or crowds. It’s all about the two of you, your love, and the beauty of Laguna surrounding you.

A couple sharing a joyful moment in each other's arms during their engagement shoot, surrounded by rolling hills at a Laguna Beach Engagement Photo Location.

A couple in love, walking through the golden light at Top of the World, Laguna Beach, making it one of the best engagement photo locations.

Couple walking holding hands at The Top of the World in Laguna

During Emily and Jonah’s session at Top of the World, we shot some of my favorite moments of the day. The sunset here was one for the books, especially on film. Watching the sun dip below the hills, creating the most magical golden hour glow, I could feel how present Emily and Jonah were. The soft hues of pink and orange in the sky, the way the light perfectly captured their connection… it’s like time slowed down. I could tell they were totally captivated by each other, and I was captivated by the light. It doesn’t get better than that!

A beautiful moment of affection between a couple in the scenic hills, an ideal spot for capturing intimate engagement photos at Laguna Beach Engagement Photo Locations.

A couple kissing on the beach, their love captured against the sun, at a romantic Laguna Beach Engagement Photo Location with a stunning sunset backdrop.

A couple sharing a tender kiss at a stunning sunset on a hiking trail, perfect for Laguna Beach Engagement Photo Locations with a warm glow surrounding them.

A romantic silhouette of a couple kissing at sunset, with the colors of the sky contrasting against the couple’s embrace at a Laguna Beach Engagement Photo Location.

And the cool thing about Top of the World is that it gives you a variety of looks. You’ve got the grass and wildflowers that make for a more earthy vibe, and then you’ve got those jaw-dropping ocean views that are the perfect backdrop for some truly epic shots.

A couple sharing a tender moment, their foreheads touching, captured at a scenic spot, possibly at one of the beautiful Laguna Beach Engagement Photo Locations.

A candid moment during the couple’s walk along the beach at Shaw’s Cove, making this a perfect Laguna Beach engagement photo location.

Laguna Beach Engagement Photo Locations You’ll Love

I know, I know, you’re probably thinking, “Emily and Jonah’s shoot sounds amazing, but what about the other spots in Laguna Beach?” Well, buckle up, because I’m about to drop some Laguna Beach gems that you’ll want to add to your engagement photo list!

Fisherman’s Cove

If you want something a little more low-key but still oh-so-beautiful, Fisherman’s Cove is perfect! It’s tucked away and feels like a hidden oasis in the middle of Laguna Beach. This spot is known for its crystal-clear waters and rocks that frame your photos perfectly. It’s ideal for a more intimate, romantic feel—plus, it’s a lot less crowded than some of the other beaches!

A couple embraces on a beach at sunset, sharing a tender moment in Laguna Beach.

A couple laughs and holds each other on the beach, their smiles highlighting their connection near the water.

A couple shares a joyful embrace on the beach, their smiles radiating happiness.

A couple shares an intimate moment by the water, as the sun sets behind them, in Laguna Beach Engagement Photo Locations.

A couple walks along the shore, hand in hand, as the sun sets and the ocean waves splash in the background.

Victoria Beach

For a truly iconic engagement photo location, Victoria Beach and its famous Pirate Tower are a must. I mean, who doesn’t want to capture a bit of Laguna history in their engagement photos? The tower is totally unique and gives your photos that fairytale vibe. The beach around it is rocky and dramatic, creating a really memorable setting for some creative shots.

A couple stands together, facing the ocean, with a lighthouse in the background, capturing the essence of a Laguna Beach engagement.

A couple embraces on the beach, smiling at each other during a sunset session in Laguna Beach.

A couple hugs by the water, sharing a candid and loving moment at a scenic beach location.

A couple sharing a romantic moment on the beach, with the sun setting behind them at a Laguna Beach engagement photo location.

A couple laughing and embracing in the ocean at sunset, creating a joyful moment captured at a beautiful Laguna Beach engagement photo location.

Downtown Laguna Beach

Now, if you want to mix it up with a little bit of urban charm, downtown Laguna Beach has just what you need. From colorful buildings to quaint little side streets, this area offers a variety of backdrops that blend Laguna’s coastal beauty with a hint of city life. If you're not feeling the beach all day, this is the perfect contrast to the coastal landscapes.

Why Shaw’s Cove and Top of the World?

Here’s the thing: Not every couple wants a full-on beach day for their engagement photos. Some couples, like Emily and Jonah, are looking for variety. They want the beach vibes, but they also want something that feels a little more expansive and adventurous. That’s why Shaw’s Cove and Top of the World are always my go-to spots! These two locations really showcase the different looks Laguna has to offer: beach, ocean, hills, and everything in between.

Top of the World is perfect if you want something that feels a bit more epic, while Shaw’s Cove gives you the intimate beach moment you can’t help but fall in love with. And if you’re looking for even more variety? We’ve got plenty of other Laguna Beach spots to make your engagement session as unique as you are.

The couple enjoys a close moment with a picturesque view of the ocean behind them at one of the best Laguna Beach engagement photo locations.

Couple holding hands as they have their laguna beach engagement

Couple smiling laughing with eachother on the beach

Book Your Laguna Beach Engagement Photographer!

If you're interested in booking your engagement photos at one of these stunning Laguna Beach spots (or any other location you’ve got in mind), reach out to me! I would love to be your third wheel and capture your love! I’ll help guide you through the process, from location ideas to wardrobe choices, and make sure your session is one you’ll never forget.

Book me for your Laguna Beach engagement! I can’t wait to be part of your day!

See more of my work on Pinterest and more wedding venue ideas below!

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