The setting sun paints
The sky and we are lost in
Worlds full of color
This was a stunning sunset photoshoot at Crystal Cove State Park. The tide was low -- you can always search this up online beforehand -- the water was pooling in and around the beautiful rock outcrops. My couple and I arrived about an hour before sunset -- we decided to meet a bit earlier than necessary because we went in early December and it was getting darker earlier so we didn't want to miss the sunset. It was a bit bright at the start, but as the sun sank lower in the sky, the horizon was full of riotous colors. We couldn't have asked for a better sunset and, with the chill in the air, my couple was huddling together for warmth which resulted in the coziest, most breathtaking photos.
Do you want to have your engagement shoot at Crystal Cove State Park? Awesome! Crystal Cove is absolutely stunning and a bit less crowded than Corona Del Mar and Laguna Beach in my opinion. I only try to go on weekdays as it is significantly less busy, so less people muddying up the background.
You will need a permit -- https://film.ca.gov/state-permits/permit-application/
Permits used to cost about $89 but the price has increased of late, so you will need to contact Film LA as Crystal Cove is under their jurisdiction. Handle the permit at least four business days prior, but I would deal with this at least a week before to allow for any delays. No dogs are allowed on the beach.
I recommend checking weather and what the tide is going to be like, if you choose high tide there is less beach and you won't get those beautiful tide pools. However, the cliffside and ocean is great on its own so it's not a deal breaker. We went in December and, while it was chilly, there were way less people than during summer months.
All in all, this is beautiful location that I highly recommend to my clients, with the only real negative is the permit process. Happy engaging!