With beaches, mountain ranges, deserts, cities, and pretty much everything in between—there are so many amazing locations across California. It’s a state with a climate for just about every lifestyle. Think warm beaches year round in San Diego and snowy winters in Tahoe. And being from California myself, I am so happy to share 10 of my top California destinations that make the perfect place for both proposing and taking engagement photos. From waterfalls, to ranches, amusement parks, and more, take a look at my list below to get a little inspiration for your upcoming engagement.

Burney Falls - Burney, CA

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(image credit: Hannahposey)

Burney Falls is a beautiful, 129-foot high landmark that is part of McArthur-Burney Falls State Park. Located in Burney—a small Northern California town between Redding and Shasta—this park includes 910 acres of forest, campgrounds, and a lake too. It's the perfect engagement location for the couple who loves camping and the great outdoors in general.

Balboa Park - San Diego, CA

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(image credit: Britjaye)

Balboa Park is a cultural park that is home to museums, gardens, theaters, an antique carousel, and amazing architectural buildings. The San Diego Zoo is even nestled in this park. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy the day before popping the question. And of course, it makes for some beautiful engagement photos, too.

Castello De Amorosa - Calistoga, CA

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image credit: Lynnchanglewis)

Castello De Amorosa is a medieval-inspired, Tuscan castle and winery located in Napa Valley. This castle is one of the most unique wineries around, providing not only amazing wines but sights and experiences, too. You won't be able to resist the beauty of the castle and surrounding winery. It's the perfect romantic atmosphere for both your proposal and engagement photographs.

City Hall - San Francisco, CA

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(image credit: Theweddingscoop)

San Francisco City Hall is a historic landmark that in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. With traits such as a grand staircase and ornate carvings from floor to ceiling, this location is a true example of historical elegance.

Disneyland - Anaheim, CA

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(image credit: Elizabethburgijournal)

Disneyland is known as "the most magical place on earth" and for good reason. With sights of castles, raceways, haunted mansions, pirates, and more, there are so many amazing spots in Disneyland to pop the question and take photos. You can even add an extra dose of magic by getting your favorite Disney characters in on the action or using the fireworks show as your backdrop.

Saddlerock Ranch, Malibu, CA

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(image credit: Jodeedebes)

You wouldn’t believe what’s at Saddlerock Ranch—a beautiful winery and experiences such as Malibu Wine Hikes and Malibu Wine Safaris. That’s right, safaris. On the property are exotic animals including zebras, camels, llamas, alpacas, buffalo, yak, a giraffe and more. This is an unforgettable place that not only makes for an amazing experience but an amazing proposal and photo location.

Griffith Observatory - Los Angeles, CA

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(image credit: Gideonphoto)

The Griffith Observatory is an art deco-inspired observatory with stunning views of Hollywood and Los Angeles. Overlooking the city as well as the Hollywood Hills (yes you can see the famous Hollywood sign) the observatory has amazing scenic surroundings. Plus, you'll probably recognize this iconic building from popular movies such as La La Land and Rebel Without a Cause. Whether indoors or outdoors, this location makes for beautiful photos and a special place to pop the question.

Briar Rose Winery - Temecula, CA

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(image credit: Pinterest)

Briar Rose Winery is a fairytale in itself. Originally designed by Beldon Fields who assisted in creating Disneyland back in the 1950s, this winery is complete with a life-size replica of Snow White’s cottage, paths of wine trails, and rolling hills. So you’ll feel just like you’ve stepped into a storybook.

Carmel-By-The-Sea - Carmel, CA

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(image credit: Stylemepretty)

Carmel-By-The-Sea is a small beach town located on the Monterey Peninsula. It's showered with fairytale-like homes, beautiful ocean views, and of course a white sandy beach. It's one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen. With confidence, I will say that you will fall in love with the area. Try spending the day on the beach, shopping, wine tasting and more. And get ready for an unforgettable proposal and/or engagement photoshoot.

Joshua Tree National Park - Palm Springs, CA

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(image credit: Thesoutherncaliforniabride)

Joshua Tree National Park is protected land in Southern California. It combines two desert ecosystems—the Mojave and Colorado. The land has been sculpted by strong winds and rain over time, and now showcases stunning rock formations. Plus, there are plenty of pretty and interesting plants and animals, too.

Whether capturing the very moment you pop the question, or your planned event to celebrate your engagement, capturing the happiness that comes along with your engagement is so important. It's a time and feeling you'll never want to forget, and I can't wait to take the engagement photos of your dreams.

For more inspiration on why I believe photography is so important be sure to check out my blog posts "The Number 1 Reason for a Photoshoot" and "Authentic Memories & Epic Moments". Sign up for one of my upcoming photoshoots, or feel free to contact me for a custom booking. I can’t wait to meet you and to capture the special moments in your life.

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