Despite San Francisco’s compact dimensions of 7 miles by 7 miles, there are still quite a variety of choices for locations for engagement sessions (family photos and portraits included). One of my favorite areas to photograph couples is the Presidio of San Francisco, which is a national park site that offers a stunning mix of coastal views, historic architecture, and lush greenery that offers a little bit of everything in one place.
Why Choose the Presidio for Your Engagement Session?
This park offers a variety of landscapes offered within walking or a short driving distance. The view of the ocean and various trails makes it feel secluded and peaceful, while still being in the city. This area works beautifully for those who want to incorporate both nature and city vibes. It’s also really ideal for folks who don’t want to change locations multiple times, while still being able to cover a wide range of backdrops.
Best Engagement Photo Spots in the Presidio
Andy Goldsworthy’s Wood Line
Adjacent to Lover’s Lane, Andy Goldsworthy’s Wood Line is a beautiful 1200-foot sculpture made of Eucalyptus branches that winds through a Eucalyptus forest.
Address – Lover’s Ln, San Francisco, CA 94129
How to access – There is a very small trailhead parking on W Pacific Ave, but you can find lots of street parking along Pacific Ave. The walk down to the Wood Line is only a few minutes.
Baker Beach
There’s a reason why this spot is so popular. The iconic Golden Gate Bridge views, dramatic cliffs and ocean backdrops. Truly perfect for sunset sessions and windswept, cinematic photos. But in true San Francisco fashion, the weather can be a little unpredictable. For example, the photos above were taken in early August, just two weeks after the images below were taken.
Address – 1770 Gibson Rd, San Francisco, CA 94129
How to access – Once you drive down Gibson Rd, you’ll see a small parking lot, but I would continue driving to your right, down Battery Chamberlin Rd and until you hit the bigger lot, which also has a bathroom.
Batteries to Bluffs Trail
The Batteries to Bluffs trail is a short 0.7 mile hike, with views of a rugged coastline with softer, natural textures. It’s a fairly quiet trails that feel intimate and relaxed. Great for candid, documentary-style moments.
Address – 1770 Gibson Rd, San Francisco, CA 94129 (for starting at the southern part of the trail, park at Baker Beach) & Langdon Ct, San Francisco, CA 94129 (for starting the trailhead further north, park at the Golden Gate Overlook)
How to access – This trail can be entered at either the California Coastal Trail trailhead north of the Sand Ladder at Baker Beach on Lincoln Boulevard or further north near Golden Gate Overlook. Both lots are free. Continue reading for more information on the Golden Gate Overlook.
Crissy Field
Crissy Field has open fields with bay views, and a classic view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Casual, playful energy, as this is a popular spot for both visitors and residents.
Address – 983 Marine Dr, San Francisco, CA 94129
How to access – Access directions to the Warming Hut Park Store, which is the address listed above, and it will lead you to the closest parking lot in that area.
Fort Point National Historic Site
Tucked directly beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Point National Historic Site offers dramatic brick architecture, sweeping bay views, and a bold, cinematic backdrop that feels both historic and undeniably San Francisco.
Address – 201 Marine Dr, San Francisco, CA 94129
How to access – Located just North of Crissy Field, you’ll is a parking area adjacent to the building. Fall through Spring the fort is generally open Friday through Sunday. During the summer season the fort is open 5 days a week most years. The timing of the shift in days is not consistent from year to year but generally occurs in October and May. Hours are 10 am to 5 pm. Visit the web site for current open days.
Golden Gate Overlook / Battery Godfrey
Golden Gate Overlook offers a really unique view of the Golden Gate Bridge, and is located right next to Battery Godfrey,
Address – Langdon Ct, San Francisco, CA 94129
How to access – There are a couple of nearby parking lots, but if you follow the address above, it will lead you to the closest one, which is along Lincoln Blvd. If that one happens to be closed, there is another hourly parking lot across the opposite side of Lincoln Blvd.
Palace of Fine Arts (Presidio-adjacent option)
The Palace of Fine Arts offers romantic architecture and symmetry for a classic San Francisco Feel. This is a great spot for editorial-style portraits.
Address – 3301 Lyon St, San Francisco, CA 94123
How to access – There is street parking along Baker St and the side-streets in the neighborhood, as well as a paid lot located on 3399 Lyon St.
Presidio Tunnel Tops
A free national park space with paved walkways, picnic areas, with gorgeous views of the water and within walking distance to Crissy Field. You can read more about the park here.
Address – 210 Lincoln Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94129
How to access – If arriving by car, you can use the paid parking across from the Presidio Visitor Center at 210 Lincoln Boulevard. Parking at Presidio Tunnel Tops fills up quickly on the weekends, so it’s make sure to arrive early if you want to get a spot. ADA parking is available near each of the site entrances as well. Remember to check the regulations wherever you choose to park, as Presidio lots are monitored seven days a week.
Ready to Plan Your Engagement Session in The Presidio?
I hope this guide to engagement session locations throughout the Presidio was helpful as you start envisioning your own photos. San Francisco is iconic for a reason, as there’s always another hidden corner, another view, another little bit of magic waiting to be discovered.
And… if you’re still looking for a San Francisco wedding photographer with a documentary style approach and an editorial eye who values inclusivity and authenticity, then let’s connect! Your love story is a one-of-a-kind celebration of authenticity and connection that deserves to be captured on camera.
You can learn more about my wedding services here or get in touch with me here.
Read these next:
Best Spots in Golden Gate Park for Engagement Photos
Engagement Photography San Francisco: North Beach Session Guide
