The Best Photography Spots In Southern California In 2025 (With Map)

Looking for the best photography spots in Southern California? I’ve got you covered so you can choose your own adventure!

I’m listing options so whether you’re looking for photoshoot locations, nature landscape photography, Instagram shots or more, you’ll find it here!

Why listen to me? I traveled in Southern California in 2022 and planned most of the trip, rented a car in LA and took lots of photos! Beyond that, I’ve been a photographer for 15 years and have traveled my whole life, and between my own solo trips abroad and professional research, I know how to find all the best photo spots and info!

This post can double as an itinerary for a week-long trip (or more) to SoCal, too – it’s based off my own trip! Read onto the end for photo gear recommendations and more tips!

Use my helpful guide to visit my three favorite locations (plus 36 more):

• Joshua Tree National Park
• Ranchos Palos Verdes
• San Juan Capistrano

Map of the Best Photography Spots in Southern California

Best Photography Spots in Los Angeles

Obviously, no Southern California trip would be complete without a stop in LA! Some things may be underwhelming, but as the guy at the Trader Joe’s on Hollywood Blvd told us, don’t let that one or two underwhelming sights make any decisions for you about LA or CA. Just be prepared that some things will wow you more!

I rented a car in Los Angeles (and even switched mid-trip)! Read this guide for all my tips for renting a car in Los Angeles!

It’s still the quintessential Cali thing to go and get that picture of a Hollywood Star on the Walk of Fame… I know, because I did it, too!

1. Best Photography Spots In Southern California: Hollywood Sign

You can drive near the Hollywood Sign, but if you want to get a good picture, you’ll need to hike. The Griffith Observatory is a great place to start your hike and will give you an amazing view of the city. The Observatory is free to enter and has an amazing deck that overlooks all of Los Angeles. They even have a telescope you can look through (for free!) if the smog isn’t too bad.

2. Hollywood Boulevard & Walk of Fame

Hollywood Boulevard is where the Walk of Fame is located as well as TCL Chinese Theatre. Get that photo of the walk of fame star with your favorite actor or actress!

3. Best Photography Spots In Southern California: The Getty Center

If you love art, The Getty Center is an obvious stop on your trip! Take photos of the beautiful campus with gardens and sculptures. It’s free to enter (minus parking). Once you’re inside, there are a few different buildings with different exhibits, so you can spend as little or as much time here as you’d like!

4. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Check out the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) if you’re interested in art and/or history! They have a mix of contemporary and historical pieces, as well as a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden that’s great for photoshoots. Take photos of Urban Light while you’re there!

5. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is great for kids (and adults!) who love science and animals. They have tons of different exhibits, including a butterfly pavilion where you can walk among live butterflies and get some great shots!

6. The Hancock Park La Brea Tar Pits

The Hancock Park La Brea Tar Pits are pits of tar that have been around for thousands of years. They’re still active, which means that things get trapped in the tar and then preserved. You can see some of the things that have been found in the museum on site, and there’s an active archaeological excavation going on!

7. In-N-Out Burger

In-N-Out Burger is a CA staple, to the point where it’s a must to visit and get a photo for the Instagram feed! When you go here, just make sure to get the animal style fries and burger… I had both regular (on my first visit) and animal style (on my second) and trust me… it’s the best way to go.

Where to Stay in LA On Any Budget

Here are the top-rated hotels in LA for every budget – just click the links to learn more!

✅ Budget Option: Millennium Biltmore Hotel

😴 Check Prices at the Historic Millennium Biltmore Hotel Here

✅ Mid-Tier Option: Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

😴 Check Prices at The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel Here

✅ Luxury Option: Loews Hollywood Hotel

😴 Check Prices at the Loews Hollywood Hotel Here

Best Photography Spots in Southern California: Beaches

It’s fun to be able to compare and contrast all the many beautiful beaches in SoCal, and photograph the amazing views!

8. Venice Beach

Venice Beach is known for being a bit more… eclectic. There’s the boardwalk, which is full of things to see and do, like people watching, getting henna tattoos, or eating some delicious (and overpriced) food.

You can also find muscle beach nearby, which is where all the bodybuilders work out! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try out the workout equipment yourself.

9. Santa Monica Pier & Beach

The Santa Monica Pier is a great place to people watch, go on rides, and eat! There’s an old-fashioned carousel, a ferris wheel, and an arcade, among other things. And if you get hungry, there are plenty of food options around, and there’s a lot of shopping nearby, including some pedestrian areas with shops that are fun to explore with all the street art!

10. Best Photography Spots In Southern California: Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is known for being a great place to surf. If you’re not a surfer, don’t worry! You can still enjoy the beach by building sandcastles, swimming, practicing your surf photography skills, or just relaxing in the sun.

11. Doheny State Beach

Doheny State Beach is great because it has things that other beaches don’t have, like tide pools! Tide pools are pools of water that form when the tide goes out, and they’re a great place to look for things like crabs, urchins, and starfish.

12. Best Photography Spots In Southern California: Long Beach

There is a lot to do in Long Beach, besides the beach even! From The Queen Mary, to downtown, to the Aquarium of the Pacific, you can easily spend a day (or more) exploring this city.

13. Coronado Beach & Island

Coronado Beach & Island is a great place to relax and take in the scenery. It’s also a good place for things like swimming, boogie boarding, and building sandcastles. If you want to explore more of Coronado Island, you can check out the Hotel del Coronado or go shopping in the cute little shops downtown.

Best Photography Spots in Beverly Hills (that’s where I want to be…)

The Weezer song gets stuck in my head without fail every time I go here, so you’re welcome… but Beverly Hills is a really pretty place to walk around, do some shopping, and get photos of the palm tress and more.

Make sure you check these things off your list here:

14. Take a drive on Mulholland Drive for the views

Supposedly, Mulholland Drive is where you go to see the mansions of the stars… which maybe you can spot from across the gorge? I don’t know, but this drive is cool for the scenic aspect more than anything! There are lookouts where you can get amazing photos, and it’s just a fun drive in general.

15. Stroll on Rodeo Drive (& go inside the designer stores)

If you want to do some shopping, Rodeo Drive is the place for you! Even if you’re not looking to spend any money, it’s still fun to window shop and see all the expensive things – plus get photos like this one:

16. Best Photography Spots In Southern California: The Paley Center for Media

The Paley Center for Media is great if you’re into TV or movies (or both!) because you can watch old episodes of TV shows and see exhibits on things like how they make movies. They also have a lot of events, so it’s worth checking the website to see what’s going on before you go.

17. Stop at What Goes Around Comes Around

What Goes Around Comes Around is a Beverly Hills store with the coolest vintage designer clothing, so even if you’re not buying, it’s just fun to go in and look around!

18. Visit The Beverly Hills Hotel (and take a picture in front!)

The Beverly Hills Hotel is over 100 years old and great for quintessential, movie star-feel photoshoots!

19. Eat at The Nosh

I love The Nosh because they have great Jewish deli food (of course, NYC wins on this always, but it’s really good for being on the other side of the country), plus traditional Middle Eastern dishes like Shakshuka that remind me of Israel! They also have other traditional deli food, and the service is great, too.

20. Stop for coffee & dates at Cafe Sheera

Cafe Sheera has Turkish coffee and dates stuffed and topped with amazing treats! It’s also super Instagrammable.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Café Sheera • Beverly Hills (@cafesheera)

Where To Stay In Beverly Hills On Any Budget

Here are the top-rated hotels in Beverly Hills for every budget – just click the links to learn more!

✅ Budget Option: Maison 140 Beverly Hills

😴 Check Current Prices at Maison 140 Beverly Hills Here

✅ Mid-Tier Option: SIXTY Beverly Hills

😴 Check Current Prices at the SIXTY Beverly Hills Here

✅ Luxury Option: The Beverly Hills Hotel

😴 Check Current Prices at The Beverly Hills Hotel Here

Best Photography Spots along the Pacific Coast Highway in SoCal

Going to California for a week, without taking the time to do the entire coastal drive to San Francisco, doesn’t mean you can’t drive some of the famed Pacific Coastal Highway! That’s what I did when I decided I wanted more time for the San Francisco drive at some point in the future.

There are a lot of closer places you can drive to as you admire the beautiful scenery and feel straight out of a movie! Here are some of the places I recommend:

21. Best Photography Spots In Southern California: Malibu Beach

Driving to Malibu Beach from LA is pretty quick – about an hour (give or take, depending on traffic). But once you’re there it’s such a different world! The beaches are beautiful and the scenery is breathtaking, making for amazing photos.

There are a few things you definitely need to do when in Malibu:

• Visit El Matador State Beach
• Stop at Neptune’s Net for some seafood
• Get ice cream at Malibu Farm
• Check out the Getty Villa Museum & Restaurant
• Stop at Point Dume Beach & Natural Preserve Park

22. Harbor Cove Beach & Marina Park

This is a fun area in Ventura, California where you can hang out, at both Harbor Cove Beach and Marina, for however long you want – since there’s food, you’re good to go and hang out and take photos!

23. Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands is a group of eight islands off the coast of California, and is technically part of LA County. But it’s so different from everything else in LA!

There are 5 islands in Channel Islands National Park. You have to arrive early to go on a boat tour to see the islands and wildlife, so plan in advance if you want to get out and get some amazing photos of land and sea animals.

You can still explore the area and beach on the mainland, even if you don’t go in the morning to see the islands, too!

24. Best Photography Spots In Southern California: Santa Barbara

Just a few hours up the coast from LA is Santa Barbara– and it’s such a cute little town! It’s definitely worth spending at least a day here, if not more. Here are some things to do (and photograph) in Santa Barbara:

• Walk around State Street
• Visit the Santa Barbara Mission
• Check out Stearns Wharf
• Have lunch at the Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
• Take a wine tour

There’s also great shopping and restaurants, so you can definitely spend a day or two here without getting bored. And the drive up the coast is beautiful, so it’s worth it even if just for that!

Where To Stay In Santa Barbara On Any Budget

Here are the top-rated hotels in Santa Barbara for every budget – just click the links to learn more!

✅ Budget Option: Agave Inn Santa Barbara

😴 Check Current Prices at the Agave Inn Santa Barbara Here

✅ Mid-Tier Option: The Eagle Inn Santa Barbara

😴 Check Current Prices at The Eagle Inn Santa Barbara Here

✅ Luxury Option: The Hotel Californian Santa Barbara

😴 Check Current Prices at The Hotel Californian Santa Barbara Here

Best Photography Spots in Ranchos Palos Verdes

Ranchos Palos Verdes is beautiful and unique – it definitely feels like it’s in another country! The area is known for its cliffs, hiking trails, and wildflowers. Take photos of the landscape, which is defined by the red roof tiles on all the houses!

I went here twice – one day it was cloudy and reminded me of a scene from “A Series of Unfortunate Events” on Netflix… and the next time, it was sunny, which made for really amazing views and photos!

There are a ton of things to do here, but some of the highlights include:

25. Best Photography Spots In Southern California: Wayfarers Chapel

Wayfarers Chapel was designed by architect Lloyd Wright, and is built into a bluff overlooking the ocean. It’s a beautiful spot for a quick stop or to spend some time exploring.

26. Best Photography Spots In Southern California: Hiking Trails

There are tons of hiking trails in Rancho Palos Verdes with different levels of difficulty, so there’s something for everyone. And the views are incredible!

27. The Point Vicente Lighthouse

The Point Vicente Lighthouse is a beautiful spot to watch the sunset. The views are stunning, and it’s definitely worth a visit.

Where To Stay In Rancho Palos Verdes On Any Budget

Here are the top-rated hotels in Rancho Palos Verdes for every budget – just click the links to learn more!

✅ Budget Option: The Driftwood Motel

😴 Check Current Prices at the Driftwood Motel Here

✅ Mid-Tier Option: The Ximena Sayulita Hotel Boutique

😴 Check Current Prices at the Ximena Sayulita Hotel Boutique Here

✅ Luxury Option: The Portofino Hotel & Marina

😴 Check Current Prices at The Portofino Hotel & Marina Here

Best Photography Spots in San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano has the most beautiful coastline in Southern California, or so I’ve heard from Californians! And seeing it for myself – along with others on my week-long trip in Southern California – I believe them!

There are a few things you shouldn’t miss when in San Juan Capistrano:

28. The Mission San Juan Capistrano

The Mission San Juan Capistrano is the oldest building in California, and it’s stunning. The grounds are beautiful, and it’s definitely worth a visit!

29. The Los Rios Historic District

The Los Rios Historic District is the oldest neighborhood in California, and it’s so charming. There are tons of cute shops and restaurants, and it’s just a really fun place to walk around.

30. Laguna Beach & Treasure Island Beach

Go to Laguna Beach & Treasure Island Beach for the day to relax and enjoy the sun, go swimming, explore tide pools, do some shopping, have lunch or dinner by the water and to check out the art galleries!

31. Dana Point Beach & Wharf

Dana Point Beach & Wharf is a beautiful spot on the beach with amazing views, and the wharf is amazing for eating, shopping and hanging out!

Where To Stay In San Juan Capistrano On Any Budget

Here are the top-rated hotels in San Juan Capistrano for every budget – just click the links to learn more!

✅ Budget Option: The Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

😴 Check Current Prices at the Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo Here

✅ Mid-Tier Option: The Beachfront Inn & Suites at Dana Point or Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection

Two choices here, one beachfront and one at the historic Mission:

😴 Check Current Prices at The Beachfront Inn & Suites at Dana Point Here

😴 Check Current Prices at the Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection Here

✅ Luxury Option: Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa

😴 Check Current Prices at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa Here

Best Photography Spots in Southern California’s National Parks

Southern California has no lack of amazing outdoor National Parks to check out while on a week-long trip! Go hiking, rock climbing, or just enjoy taking photos of the unique landscape at any of these locations:

32. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is known for the trees, rock formations and desert feel. Make sure you catch a sunset here as you explore, and you can drive to various locations for hiking and to take photos!

33. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park

The trees at Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park are the biggest in the world, and it’s definitely worth a visit.

34. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the world’s largest rotating tramcar that takes visitors up to the summit of San Jacinto Peak for incredible views! It was amazing to see snow at the top and the desert below – make sure to bring a jacket, even in warm weather.

After you see the view, explore the ski-resort-like building at the top (which you won’t see until you reach the top) where you can get a meal or drinks at the bar!

Best Photography Spots in San Diego

There’s a lot to see and do in San Diego if you decide to stop by on your week in Southern California!

The best photography spots in San Diego include:

35. San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is world-renowned for good reason – it’s huge and has so many different animals from all over the world! If you’re short on time, I recommend getting the express pass so you can see and photograph as much as possible.

36. Balboa Park

Balboa Park is a really cute place to walk around, do some shopping, and eat ice cream. In addition to the zoo, Balboa Park is also home to a variety of museums, gardens and walking trails that make for great photoshoot spots. Take pictures of the architecture here, including the Casa De Balboa, California Tower, and Cabrillo Bridge!

37. Check out Seaport Village

Seaport Village is a great place to walk around, do some shopping, and get something to eat. There are a ton of little shops and restaurants, and it’s right on the water so you can enjoy the view, plus you can find events going on at times. Take photos of the sunset over the water!

San Diego is also home to a variety of beaches, so make sure to check out at least one (or more!) while you’re there.

Where To Stay In San Diego On Any Budget

Here are the top-rated hotels in San Diego for every budget – just click the links to learn more!

✅ Budget Option: The Surestay Hotel by Best Western

😴 Check Current Prices at the Surestay Hotel by Best Western Here

✅ Mid-Tier Option: The Intercontinental San Diego

😴 Check Current Prices at The Intercontinental San Diego Here

✅ Luxury Option: Paradise Point Resort & Spa

😴 Check Current Prices at Paradise Point Resort & Spa Here

More Best Photography Spots In Southern California

Here are a couple more favorite SoCal spots to visit and take photos, that didn’t fit in any of the above categories!

38. Disneyland

This one needs no explanation – if you’re a Disney fan and love theme parks, and especially if you’re on a family vacation, be sure to check Disneyland out!

39. Balboa Island

Even though it has a similar name to the beach, Balboa Island is located in Newport Beach, CA. It’s a small island, but you can find all kinds of things here including places to eat, shop, boat cruising, biking and a lot of photo opportunities!

Getting To & Around Southern California

Unless you’re bringing your own vehicle or borrowing one, renting a car is a must in California. Even LA is a sprawling city that you can’t explore without one – so if you’re wondering how people spend a week in Southern California, you’ll need a car to make sure you can actually get to the places!

Where to rent a car

👉 Get a rental from the airport, but it’s a good idea to book it beforehand. Then, you don’t have to wait. To rent a car in California, Discover Cars is a great tool to use.

Where to find cheap flights for California

👉 For flights, WayAway is a flight aggregator that helps you find the cheapest flights. Use the code MUKI-TRAVELS for 10% off WayAway Plus.

👉 Find more tips on things like travel insurance, what to pack, and more on my travel resources page.

📸 Photography Gear for Southern California Photoshoots

Here’s some of my favorite necessary gear for photography, for camera and/or phone:

✅ Camera

There are DSLRs, Mirrorless options and more that are all great to consider. Check out this post on surf cameras for a full list of beginner-expert level cameras of each type, and more gear for outdoor and water photography!

Canon 6D: This is the camera I currently own and use. It has wifi connectivity, is a full-frame professional camera:

📸 For more affordable DSLR options, check out this post on the 5 Best DSLR Cameras Under $300.

✅ Lens

Depending on your photography style, you might want a wide angle, telephoto (for close-up nature and wildlife photography), and standard zoom for an all-around lens.

I use this Canon EF 16-35mm Wide-Angle Zoom Lens, because I love wide-angle photos but don’t want to sacrifice zoom capability:

✅ GoPro Action Camera

A GoPro is a perfect addition to your main camera to capture water sports, hiking, snorkeling, diving, surfing, biking or anything that involves movement!

The GoPro HERO 11 Black is waterproof down to 10m (33ft) without housing. Just attach it to anything and film as you go!

For water adventures deeper than 10m (33ft), waterproof housing like this is needed:

📷 Get Waterproof Housing for GoPro HERO 11 Black

✅ Dome for dual under- and over-water photos

If you want half-under, half-over water photos, you’ll need a dome like this one that works with a GoPro:

✅ Drone

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is a great option for travel because it doesn’t weigh as much as others and it can fold to fit in a camera bag!

✅ 4-In-One Travel Tripod

I use this tripod because it’s the perfect versatile tool for travel photography! It works for both DSLRs/Mirrorless cameras and smartphones, doubles as a selfie stick, monopod and trekking poles! It’s also lightweight and folds up small enough to fit in your suitcase (and did I mention, it’s affordable?):

✅ Memory Card for DSLR/Mirrorless

SanDisk Extreme Pro memory cards are the best for cameras because they prevent issues with photography and video that happen with lower quality memory cards:

✅ Remote Shutter

A Remote Shutter, like this one for Canon, is excellent for low-light and long-exposure photography, including sunrise or night photos:

Here’s a remote shutter (2-pack) for smartphones:

✅ Circular Polarizer

A Circular Polarizer is perfect for capturing lake reflections and getting the bottom of bodies of water – just make sure to get the correct size for your lens:

✅ Waterproof Padded Camera Insert Case

I love this case and bring it with me everywhere, because it’s so easy to move it between bags on trips!

✅ For more photography guides, check out these posts:

📸 The Top 5 Best Camera Straps For Backpacking
📸 Mukikapup’s Ultimate Travel Photography Guide
📸 15 Ways To Capture The Best Landscape Travel Photography

🛂 National Parks Passport

Miami has a lot of National Parks, and getting a Parks Passport makes it that much more fun! America’s National Parks Store is where you can get National Park passports, clothing and more. They donate a portion of their proceeds to the National Parks System!

🥾 Get Your National Parks Passport Here

All In All: Best Places To Take Pictures In SoCal

There’s no lack of beautiful places to find inspiration and get amazing photos in Southern California (I mean, with all the movies made here, what else would you expect?).

And, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re looking for great spots for a photoshoot for a graduation, prom, quince, engagement or wedding, maternity or for the most Instagrammable spots, or for the best nature shots like landscape photos, this guide has you covered!

Read More Related Posts:

🚗 Renting A Car In Los Angeles: Everything You Need To Know
📸 Jaw-Dropping Joshua Tree: 10+ Must-See Photos That’ll Transport You!

For more California photography guides, check out:
📸 The Best Cameras For Surf Photography For Every Skill Level
📸 This Guide to San Jose photography spots
📸 Guide to the best Sacramento photography spots
📸 Guide to the best Lake Tahoe photography spots

For more Western US photography guides, check out:
📸 Guide to the best photo spots in Salt Lake City
📸 Guide to the best photo spots in Portland, OR
📸 Guide to the best photo spots in Phoenix, AZ