Your Ultimate Guide to Victoria Beach Engagement Photos

Thinking about having your engagement photos at Victoria Beach in Laguna Beach? You’re in for a real treat! With its iconic Pirate Tower and those jaw-dropping ocean views, this spot is pure magic. Before we dive into the good stuff, though, let me walk you through a few things you’ll want to know for your session—because a little planning goes a long way when you’re heading to this amazing location.

Couple embracing in sunlight on the beach at Victoria Beach, enjoying their intimate moment captured during their engagement session.

Couple sharing a quiet embrace on the rocks at Victoria Beach, with the ocean and sunset in the background, making this Victoria Beach engagement photo unforgettable.

Couple laughing together on the beach during their Victoria Beach engagement photos, showcasing their genuine connection and fun personalities.

1. How to Get to Victoria Beach

Alright, so getting to Victoria Beach isn’t the easiest thing in the world. But don’t let that scare you, it’s actually kind of fun! You'll need to park on Pacific Coast Highway and then take a little walk down a steep hill (or a series of steps) to get to the beach. It’s not a bad walk, but make sure you wear comfy shoes! You don’t want to be hiking in heels or flip-flops.

Once you get to the beach, you’ll be greeted by the famous Pirate Tower, surrounded by a sandy beach, crashing waves, and the ocean breeze. It’s totally worth the little bit of walking! Just make sure you know that navigating Laguna Beach can be tricky for first-timers—parking can be tough, and the streets might be a bit confusing, but stick with it, and you’ll get there.

Couple sharing a tender moment in front of the iconic Victoria Beach Pirate Tower, highlighting their love during their Laguna Beach engagement photos.

Engaged couple twirling on the sandy beach in Laguna Beach, a beautiful moment captured during their engagement session.

Couple sharing a romantic kiss with the crashing waves behind them, making this a picture-perfect moment from their Victoria Beach engagement session.

Couple laughing and dancing on the beach during their Laguna Beach engagement photos, creating memories against the stunning backdrop of the ocean and sky.

2. Don’t Forget to Get a Permit for Victoria Beach Engagement Photos

I know permits aren’t exactly the fun part of planning, but they’re necessary! Victoria Beach is a public area, and you’ll need a permit to shoot engagement photos there. Don’t worry, though, it’s easy to get! You’ll need to reach out to the City of Laguna Beach and apply for a permit ahead of time.

The good news? I’ll guide you through the process so it’s a breeze! Having this permit ensures that everything goes smoothly and that we won’t have any interruptions during your shoot. Trust me, you’ll be so glad you took care of this step early!

Couple enjoying their moment, embracing and laughing during their Victoria Beach engagement photoshoot with the golden sunset in the background

3. Expect a Few Spectators at the Pirate Tower

One thing to keep in mind about Victoria Beach is that it’s not a completely private spot. Pirate Tower is one of the most popular locations in Laguna Beach for photos, so there will be other people around—maybe even some random folks taking their own pictures. So, yes, it can get a little busy, but honestly, it just adds to the fun!

You’re in one of the most beautiful places in Southern California, and people are going to want to capture that magic, too! Don’t be shy about it, embrace it! I always tell my couples to lean into those moments and let them become part of the experience. It’s all about celebrating your love, not worrying about anyone else. Besides, you’ve got an amazing backdrop, so let’s make it a moment that’s all about you!

Couple sharing a romantic kiss during their Victoria Beach engagement photos, with the warm glow of sunset illuminating the scene.

Footprints in the sand at Victoria Beach, captured during an engagement shoot at sunset.

Couple enjoying their playful moment on the beach, embracing each other and laughing during their Victoria Beach engagement photos.

4. Timing is Everything for Laguna Beach Engagement Photos

If there’s one thing you absolutely cannot miss, it’s the sunset!! Victoria Beach is a prime location for golden hour shots, and if you want that perfect, soft, romantic light, you’ve got to time it just right. For Shelby and Ray’s session, we started about an hour before sunset, and oh. my. goodness. The light was PERFECT!! It’s like the sun decided to give us its best performance of the day. The glow, the warmth, and the way it highlighted their faces just made everything come to life.

Couple standing hand in hand by the rocks of Victoria Beach during their engagement session, with the stunning sunset light in the background.

Once the sun starts dipping lower, the sky turns into this beautiful palette of pink, orange, and purple. It’s like a dream, and you get this extra bonus of about 10-15 minutes of that sweet blue hour light right after the sun goes down. If you’re into soft, dreamy photos, this is definitely the time to shoot. But make sure to keep an eye on the tide! We got a little splash of water during the session, and while it made for some fun photos, it’s a good idea to be aware of where the waves are at. The ocean’s got a mind of its own!

Couple twirling and laughing on the sand at Victoria Beach during their engagement session with the ocean and sunset in the background

5. Let the Waves Rush Over You

Now here’s where it gets fun! With the ocean right at your feet, there’s always the chance for the waves to rush in unexpectedly. And if you’re down for a bit of adventure (I know I am!), let them come! Shelby and Ray were total troopers when the waves came in strong, and it made for some of the most memorable photos of the session. The laughter, the playful shoves, the surprise soaking—it all adds up to pure magic.

So, yes, get in the water. Let the waves hit you. The best moments come from just being real and letting the environment around you shape the photos. You’ll remember these moments forever, and it’ll make for some epic shots you won’t find anywhere else.

Couple spinning and laughing on the beach with the sun behind them during their Victoria Beach engagement photos session.

Engaged couple walking along the beach near Victoria Beach Pirate Tower, enjoying the beautiful sunset and capturing moments in their Victoria Beach engagement photos.

Couple running along the beach at Victoria Beach, with the warm glow of sunset and waves crashing, captured during their Victoria Beach engagement photos.

6. How to Make the Most of Your Victoria Beach Engagement Photos

Alright, you’re all set with the logistics, and now it’s time for the fun stuff! Here’s how to make the most of your engagement session at Victoria Beach:

Be prepared for adventure: You’re walking to the location, possibly getting wet, and dealing with a few curious onlookers. But that’s all part of the fun! Embrace it, and enjoy the experience!
Relax and have fun with each other: I can guide you through the poses, but what really makes your photos shine is the connection between you two. Don’t worry about perfect poses, focus on enjoying the moment. Dance, twirl, laugh, kiss, and just be yourselves! These are the photos that turn out THE best. I love to sit back and be your third wheel, capturing your little date as you enjoy each other’s company. Whether you’re laughing over something silly or stealing a quiet moment, those documentary-style, candid shots are what truly tell your love story.
Wear comfy shoes: The walk to Victoria Beach is a little tricky, so comfy shoes are a must! If you’re planning on wearing fancy shoes, bring them along for some photos, but make sure to wear something you can walk in to get there.
Trust the light: We’re shooting during golden hour, so the light will be perfect. Don’t stress about how it’s going to look. I’ve got it covered, and you just get to enjoy the moment!

Engaged couple embracing on the beach during their Victoria Beach engagement photos session with the sun setting in the background.

Book Your SoCal Engagement Photographer!

If you’re looking for a stunning, adventure-filled, and totally you engagement session, Victoria Beach is the place to be. From the gorgeous sunset to the crashing waves, it’s the perfect spot for capturing your love story.

And if you want someone to help bring all of these amazing moments to life? I’m your girl! I’m all about capturing real, candid moments that reflect your love and the season you’re in. So, if you’re ready to make some unforgettable memories and get some killer photos, let’s chat! Book me and let’s start planning your perfect engagement shoot!

See more of Shelby and Ray’s engagement below on film and more of work on my Pinterest and my latest blog on a Venice Beach Engagement for more beach engagement ideas!