Santa Barbara is a dream setting for couples' photos—where golden sunsets, ocean breezes, and historic charm create the perfect backdrop for capturing your love. Whether you’re looking for something romantic & timeless, adventurous & dramatic, or coastal & relaxed, this list has the best spots to make your couples session unforgettable.

1. Santa Barbara Courthouse – Classic & Romantic


If you’re drawn to classic architecture, lush gardens, and a hint of European charm, the Santa Barbara Courthouse is an unbeatable choice. With its iconic Spanish Revival architecture, arched walkways, and stunning clock tower, this location provides endless opportunities for elegant and timeless couples' photos.


📍 Best time to shoot: Late afternoon for golden light in the gardens and courtyard shots.

Santa Barbara Courthouse features spanish colonial architecture and decorative stonework for engagement photo session
Romantic couple embraces in tender moment outdoors with eucalyptus trees and lush garden at Santa Barbara Courthouse with photographer
A couple embraces on stone steps outside SB Courthouse Spanish-style with pink walls and blooming red flowers with professional photographer

2. Old Santa Barbara Mission – Timeless & Historic


The Old Santa Barbara Mission is perfect if you want a mix of history, nature, and classic California charm. The mission’s stone facade, blooming rose gardens, and mountain views make it a dreamy setting for couples who love a touch of romance and tradition in their photos.


📍 Best time to shoot: Late afternoon for softer light and fewer visitors.

3. Miramar Beach or Butterfly Beach – Coastal & Romantic


Nothing says Santa Barbara romance like a couples session at the beach. Both Miramar Beach and Butterfly Beach offer breathtaking ocean views, soft sand, and gorgeous sunsets. Miramar Beach has a laid-back, intimate feel with iconic beach bungalows, swaying palm trees, and gentle waves creating a dreamy backdrop.


📍 Best time to shoot: Golden hour, when the sky turns warm and golden.

A couple shares a romantic moment while embracing on Miramar Beach with coastal homes in the background.
A happy couple walking together on the beach at sunset getting engagement photos taken with photographer at Butterfly Beach
A couple walks along a beach at sunset with coastal houses visible in the background at Miramar Beach during engagement photos

4. Casa del Herrero – Hidden Gem with Spanish Charm


If you’re looking for a location steeped in history and beauty, Casa del Herrero is a hidden gem. This Spanish Colonial Revival estate has stunning courtyards, lush gardens, and intricate tilework, making it an intimate and artistic setting for couples' photos.


📍 Best time to shoot: Late afternoon for soft, flattering light.

A romantic couple shares an intimate moment in a garden setting with a stone fountain at Casa del Herrero with pro photographer
A couple holding hands walks beneath elegant Spanish-style archways in a romantic garden having engagement photos taken in Santa Barbara
A couple shares a romantic moment together in front of Casa del Herrero decorated with golden lights for engagement photos

5. Lizards Mouth – Adventurous & Breathtaking Views


For the adventurous couple, Lizards Mouth in the Santa Ynez Mountains offers jaw-dropping panoramic views and rugged rock formations that create a bold and cinematic backdrop. It’s a stunning option if you love hiking, dramatic landscapes, and a bit of adventure in your couples session.


📍 Best time to shoot: Golden hour or sunset for the most dramatic lighting.

Coupe in casual attire holding hands while standing at Lizards Mouth in Santa Barbara
A couple embraces while sharing a tender moment together outdoors against a soft misty background at sunset with pro photographer
Family perched on a dramatic rocky outcrop overlooking rolling hills during sunset at Lizards Mouth in Santa Barbara

6. On a Sailboat – Unique & Effortlessly Romantic


Want something completely unique? A sailing couples session out of the Santa Barbara Harbor is intimate, stylish, and incredibly romantic. Whether it’s just the two of you soaking in ocean views or toasting champagne with the wind in your hair, a session on the water is pure magic.


📍 Best time to shoot: Sunset, when the water reflects the golden hues of the sky.

Family enjoying a sunny day sailing together on a wooden sailboat with mountains visible in background.
Sailboat deck view of figures enjoying sunset on calm waters with blue sails billowing overhead in Santa Barbara
A romantic couple shares an intimate moment while sailing on a boat at sunset in Santa Barbara

7. Stearns Wharf – Iconic & Playful


For a fun and quintessential Santa Barbara couples session, Stearns Wharf is a great choice. From oceanfront boardwalk shots to playful moments by the colorful boats and pier, this location gives a relaxed yet vibrant feel to your session.


📍 Best time to shoot: Golden hour for dreamy pier shots.

8. Ellwood Preserve – Golden Fields & Coastal Views


For a mix of wild, natural beauty and coastal charm, Ellwood Preserve offers open fields, eucalyptus groves, and stunning ocean views. It’s perfect for couples who love a laid-back, nature-filled session with warm golden light.


📍 Best time to shoot: Golden hour, when the fields glow beautifully.

A couple in sweaters embrace tenderly in a sunlit autumn forest with golden foliage in the background at Ellwood Preserve
A couple stands together on a dirt path while a young child in patterned pants plays nearby in a wooded setting.
Someone holds hands and spins joyfully outdoors during golden hour with trees in the background.

Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together


Choosing the right location for your couples session is about finding a place that feels like you—whether that’s coastal and relaxed, adventurous and wild, or historic and romantic. No matter which spot you choose, my goal is to capture your love story in a way that feels authentic, effortless, and timeless.

Let’s plan your couples session! 📩 Click the button below to get started.

A couple in white summer outfits holds hands while standing on a sunny beach with cliffs and palm trees in the background.
Two people in white attire share an intimate moment on a sunny beach with coastal homes visible in the background in Santa Barbara
A couple embraces while dancing at the water's edge on a sunny beach with palm trees and coastal homes in background at Miramar Beach
A romantic couple in white embraces while smiling and enjoying a sunny day at a scenic beach.
Close-up shot of a couple holding hands tenderly on a sunny beach.
Couple shares romantic moment together on sandy beach with waves and blue sky on summer day.
Close up of couple holding hands on sandy beach in white clothing showing wedding rings.
A couple walks hand in hand along a sunny California beach with palm trees and cliffs in the background.
Romantic couple holding hands while walking along sunny beach in white summer clothing.
Couple walking together along a stunning beach with palm trees and coastal homes at Miramar Beach, California.
A couple embraces and kisses on a sunny beach with oceanfront homes and palm trees in the background in Santa Barbara
A happy couple dressed in white embraces and laughs together on a sunny beach by the ocean.
A romantic couple shares a passionate kiss on a sunny beach with professional photographer taking engagement photos
A romantic couple walking and playing on a palm-lined beach in casual summer outfits with engagement photos being taken
Two people in white outfits walk hand in hand along a sunny beach with beachfront homes visible in the background.