Family Photos at Crystal Cove | A Beach Photoshoot in Orange County

There is something truly magical about family photos at Crystal Cove—the golden cliffs, the waves gently rolling in, and the peacefulness of this secluded stretch of beach. But what makes a photoshoot even more special is the family in front of the camera.

For this sunset session at Crystal Cove, I had the privilege of photographing a beautiful, fun-loving family who wanted to capture this season of life together. They wanted their photos to feel natural and full of genuine emotion—not overly posed, just them being together, playing, laughing, and making memories. And that’s exactly what we did.

From the moment we started, their little boy was all smiles, running barefoot through the sand, giggling as his parents spun him around, and holding onto their hands as they walked by the water. His energy was contagious, bringing so much joy and movement to every image.

We started with some classic family portraits with the ocean behind them, then quickly transitioned into candid moments—hugs, tickles, and running along the shoreline. One of my favorite moments from the session was when dad lifted their son into the air, his face completely lit up with excitement while mom laughed beside them.

These are the kinds of moments that make beach family photography in Orange County so special—not just capturing what your family looks like, but who you are in this moment.

Why Crystal Cove is the Perfect Location for Family Photos

As an Orange County family photographer, Crystal Cove is one of my favorite spots to shoot. It’s not just the natural beauty of the cliffs, tide pools, and open sand—it’s the feeling of peace and nostalgia this beach brings.

✔ Diverse Backdrops – Whether you want dramatic cliffs, soft dunes, or the ocean as your backdrop, Crystal Cove has it all.

✔ Golden Hour Glow – The sunset light here is soft, dreamy, and perfect for photos.

✔ Space for Kids to Be Themselves – This beach is never overly crowded, allowing children to explore and play freely without distractions.

✔ Timeless & Natural Setting – The rugged coastline and golden sands create a classic California beach vibe that will never go out of style.

What to Expect During a Family Photoshoot at Crystal Cove

📸 Relaxed & Fun Atmosphere – My approach to family photography in Orange County is all about keeping things natural and easygoing. We start with a few posed shots but quickly move into candid moments, letting kids explore and have fun.

💛 Interactive Moments – Expect a lot of movement! Running along the water, playing with the waves, cuddling up together—it’s all part of the process.

🌊 A Bit of Adventure – Crystal Cove requires a short walk to get to the sand, but that little journey makes for even more beautiful, storytelling moments.

Tips for Your Crystal Cove Family Photoshoot

1. Plan for Golden Hour

Sunset is the best time for soft, glowing light. The golden hues add warmth to every image and help create that dreamy, timeless feel.

2. Keep Outfits Simple & Comfortable

Neutral tones, soft pastels, and coastal colors work beautifully against the natural backdrop of the beach. Flowy dresses, linen shirts, and barefoot toes? Always a good idea!

3. Embrace the Candid Moments

The best photos come from simply being present with your family. Don’t stress about perfection—just play, explore, and enjoy the experience.

4. Arrive Early to Allow for the Walk

Crystal Cove has several access points, but most require a short walk to get to the sand. Arriving early helps keep everything stress-free and relaxed.

Parking & Permit Information for Crystal Cove

Since Crystal Cove is a state park, there is a $15 parking fee, which can be paid at any of the designated lots:

🚗 Los Trancos Lot (Main Entrance) – Best for general beach access; a shuttle ($2 per person) is available.
🚗 Pelican Point Lot – Quieter and offers scenic overlooks before heading down to the beach.
🚗 Reef Point Lot – Ideal for accessing tide pools and a more rugged coastline.

📸 Photography Permit: Crystal Cove strictly enforces a $100 photography permit for professional photoshoots. This ensures the park remains protected while allowing photographers to work in this stunning location legally.

For a full guide to Crystal Cove State Park, including parking, permit details, and the best photo spots, check out my Crystal Cove Guide

Book Your Crystal Cove Family Photoshoot

If you’re considering a family session at Crystal Cove, I’d love to help you plan the perfect shoot! Whether you envision a relaxed, barefoot sunset session or something more styled, we’ll create images that truly capture your family’s love and connection.

📅 Ready to book your session? Check out my family and maternity photography pages for details on pricing.