Angela and Mike flew out from the East Coast to get married underneath the redwoods in Santa Cruz. But their first stop was Bean Hollow State Beach to do their engagement photos! 

Bean Hollow State Beach is my favorite beach for any kind of photoshoot. It’s just a little north from the popular Davenport beach and a little south from Pescadero State Beach. Here are the reasons I try to navigate clients to this beach instead of other popular spots:

1. It’s so quiet

There are very few instances of coming to this beach and thinking, “wow, it’s crowded.”. Seriously, because it’s in the middle of two popular destinations, it’s still a little unknown gem, making it perfect for photoshoots. Seriously, how much easier is it to get your photos taken without a crowd around you?

2. It’s easy to access

Look, I am all for a little hike – but not everyone is. I am all about beautiful, yet accessible locations for clients. That’s why I love this beach. Unlike Davenport beach up the road, clients aren’t hiking down in their nicest clothes. This beach has a small parking lot and just a few steps until you are in the water. 

3. It’s got gorgeous rock formations

Just on the shore are beautiful golden rock formations that you can walk across. I love that clients can walk and sit on these, and plus when the waves crash against them, it’s epic.

4. Cliffsides, do I need to say more?

Seriously, your photos will include gorgeous green cliffsides. 

5. It’s dog friendly

This is a big one for me! Not every beach is open to fur friends, but this one sure is. So for the folks who want to do family photos, then bring your pup! Because it’s so secluded, you won’t see too many other furry friends running along the shore either. 

Okay, I could definitely go on and on about how beautiful this beach is and how much I love it, but I think I’ll let the photos do the talking. 

Thanks Mike and Angela for working with me to capture these gorgeous photos just a few days before your wedding day! You guys rock. 

Enjoy the Gallery 

Looking for a Wedding or Engagement Photographer?

Hi, I’m Shannon and I love weddings. From the small to the big ones, I love seeing how people celebrate their marriage. I book sessions year round, reach out to me today to book!