Since moving to San Luis Obispo in 2017, I’ve spent countless hours exploring the best locations for family photos. As a mom of a young kid, I naturally gravitate towards spots that are both easy to access and kid-friendly. I want to share with you some of the most popular locations in San Luis Obispo that I’ve discovered and visited multiple times.
Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach is a fantastic location for family photos, offering a variety of scenic spots and activities. The beach has a classic beach setting with ample space and scenic beauty.
Morro Bay
Morro Bay is another excellent location for family photos, offering a variety of stunning natural settings and unique landmarks. The iconic Morro Rock provides a dramatic and recognizable backdrop.
Monarch Butterfly Grove
The Pismo Monarch Butterfly Grove is one of the most versatile locations for photographing families in San Luis Obispo County. It is located on the southern end of Pismo Beach near Oceano Dunes and the North Beach Campground. Every year, between October and February, thousands of black and orange monarch butterflies make their way to the eucalyptus trees at the Grove. This location is kid-friendly and one of the most picturesque places in SLO.
Avila Beach
Avila Beach is a small coastal beach town located just off Highway 1 on California’s central coast. Temperatures in Avila Beach vary somewhat. Fall daily highs average about 70°, which is very comfortable for evening photo sessions. The picturesque wooden Avila Pier serves as a beautiful backdrop for family photo sessions.
Los Osos Oaks State Reserve
For a more natural and serene setting, this reserve features ancient oak trees and scenic trails that create a magical environment for family photos. Los Osos State Natural Reserve has the most charm in a forest-like area.
Bishops Peak
Bishop Peak is one of the Nine Sisters, a series of volcanic peaks in San Luis Obispo County, and is a beloved landmark for locals. It’s an excellent location for family photos, especially for families who enjoy outdoor activities and stunning vistas.
Madonna Inn
The Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo is a fantastic location for family photos, offering a unique blend of charm, variety, and convenience. Its whimsical and colorful design provides a vibrant and playful backdrop, while the rolling green hills, white fences, and vintage-inspired architecture create a range of scenic options to suit any style. The atmosphere is perfect for families, as kids can feel at ease and have fun exploring the quirky spaces. Whether posing by the iconic pink sign, enjoying the poolside views, or capturing candid moments along the picturesque pathways, every corner of the Madonna Inn adds character and timeless appeal to your photos. Easily accessible and full of amenities, this local favorite ensures a memorable and stress-free experience for creating beautiful family portraits.
I hope you love these Top Locations for Family Photos in San Luis Obispo as much as I do!
Booking a family session isn’t just about photos—it’s about celebrating family in a stunning coastal setting. With its beautiful scenery and relaxed vibe, San Luis Obispo offers the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories. Whether for a reunion, special occasion, or capturing everyday joy, a photo session in San Luis Obispo ensures those moments are preserved for years. Gather your loved ones and let San Luis Obispo’s magic shine through in every photo.
Rosa Clark is an award-winning San Luis Obispo Photographer specializing in family, maternity, and senior portraits. She has been recognized by the National Association of Portrait and Child Photographers (NAPCP) as a Master Photographer in the category of Lifestyle Family Photography. Her work has appeared in local publications like New Times San Luis Obispo and SLO Life Magazine. Rosa is a volunteer photographer for The Gold Hope Project, a childhood cancer non-profit organization.
In addition to photography, Rosa has been a practicing attorney for nearly 20 years. She brings that same level of professionalism, care, and attention to detail to every photo session. Rosa takes on a limited number of clients each month to provide a personalized, relaxed experience—and her calm, natural style has earned her over 50 five-star reviews on Google.
If you’re looking to thoughtfully document this chapter of life, I’d be honored to work with you. Get in touch to reserve your session and begin planning a personalized experience your family will value for years to come.
Sessions are limited each month to ensure a personalized experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
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