If you’ve ever driven across the Golden Gate Bridge and felt like you entered a completely different world…you’re not wrong. The North Bay has a way of slowing everything down in the best possible way. Think rolling hills, coastal cliffs, quiet redwood groves, and those golden vineyard sunsets that somehow feel straight out of a movie.
From Marin to Sonoma to Napa, this part of the Bay Area is packed with some of the most beautiful and versatile photoshoot locations around.
But here’s the thing…a lot of the best spots aren’t the ones you’ll find with a quick Google search. That’s exactly why I created my North Bay Location Guide.
In this post, I’m sharing 2 of my favorite go-to spots to give you a feel for what’s possible up here. And if you want the full list (including exact locations, best times to shoot, parking tips, and how to choose the right spot for your vision), you can grab the complete guide here: North Bay Location Guide
Let’s get into a few favorites…
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Mount Tamalpais
Think I’m just going to give you a generic mountain location and leave it at that? Absolutely not! There are so many areas that make up Mount Tam, but I’m going to share my absolute favorite spot with you. It requires pulling off on the side of the road, wandering up a small path, and a little huffing and puffing until you reach the most gorgeous panoramic view!
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Where to Go
Head toward Rock Springs Trailhead. I like to park at the first pullout on W Ridgecrest Blvd just west of Rock Springs Trailhead. Take the trail right across the street from the pullout. It will lead you up a hill and to the right past a crop of trees. Keep going for changing views of SF and head to the end for more ocean scenes. There’s also a parking lot at the ocean end if you prefer those views (Mt Tam View Car Park on Google Maps).
When to Go
I prefer to go in the evening when the sun is lower in the sky for a golden glow. Beware that sometimes there can be a lot of fog at this location in summertime, though you might be above the fog!
What to Wear
If you go in the spring there will likely be green grass, and if you’re there in the fall it will likely be golden. I recommend wearing colors that will pop off of the grassy backdrop instead of blending in. You can see both the green grass and golden grass looks in the photos above.
What to Know
Make sure to wear shoes that you can hike in, or at least bring a second pair for this purpose! It will take a little bit of time to walk all the way to the end of the trail, but there’s always an option to start at the other end if you prefer (the second pullout on the other side of the road on W Ridgecrest Blvd).
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Duncan’s Point in Bodega Bay
I actually initially found this spot on Google Maps using satellite view. (Want all my tips for location scouting? Check out this blog post!) It turned out to be absolutely perfect for my couple who was exchanging vows and eloping. We had the space to ourselves all morning and the colors of the ice plants really showed off!
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Where to Go
You can put “Duncans Point” into Google Maps and it’ll take you to the spot, which is located between Bodega Bay and Jenner. There’s a parking lot and circle drive (Duncan’s Landing Lookout).
When to Go
Golden hour (close to sunset) is the best time for beautiful sunset light behind the ocean, but if it’s foggy or rainy (as it was in these photos), any time will do! Sunrise will be best to take photos in the direction of the rocks.
What to Wear
Solid colors that stand out from the backdrop will work best here due to the busy backdrop.
What to Know
The ice plants at this location may bloom in the springtime! Make sure to also check out Bodega Dunes Beach nearby.
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So, that’s 2 locations (mayyyybe 3 if you count my mention of Bodega Dunes Beach 😉). How about 22 more?
Grab my North Bay Location Guide for 22 more amazing photoshoot locations!
I’ll share everything you need to know about each location: area highlights, addresses and cross streets, the best time of day to shoot, example photos from my own sessions, what to wear, insider tips, and more! Grab it for just $24, and check out my other San Francisco Bay Area Location Guides and goodies while you’re at it! (It’s a business expense! 😉)
Or read these blog posts for free:
Best Photoshoot Locations in the South Bay
Best Colorful Photoshoot Locations in San Francisco
Best Photoshoot Locations in the East Bay
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