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The 10 Instagram Shots you Can't Miss in San Diego
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The 10 Instagram Shots you Can't Miss in San Diego

San Diego, CA, United States
As a local blogger, I’ve searched high & low for the places that will give your IG an eye-catching touch! Feel free to reach out to me at @katie_lavieri on Instagram with questions!
Katie
The shots that will uplevel your IG:
Fletcher Cove Beach Park
Other

Not only is this one of the most stunning beaches in Southern California, it's never crowded! Parking is a breeze, especially compared to busier areas like Mission Beach. There are stairs leading to the ocean that make for exceptional pictures (especially at sunset!!). I'd also recommend using this area for engagement photos, swim photos and picnic shots as you won't have to worry about people walking into the frame.

Hot tip: The city decorates the beach for Christmas and it's not to be missed! Come for sunset to see some serious holiday magic!

D Street Viewpoint Park
Parks & nature

Just North of Fletcher Cove is another ridiculously photogenic location with a completely different vibe. Park on D Street and walk West toward the ocean to find a hidden gem of San Diego County. You'll find a stunning view point from the sea cliff. The winding staircase down the beach makes for amazing shots.

Hot tip: This is an excellent location for surfing too!

Balboa Park
Other

There's so much to see here, but I'll narrow it down to three spots you'll want on your IG.

  1. The Rose Gardens look dreamy on camera. They are seasonal, so be sure to catch them in Spring & Summer.
  2. Any shot in front of the Spanish style buildings will look incredible. Just don't wear orange for these shots, trust me on this. It clashes with the coloring.
  3. Inside the bar of the Prado restaurant. Sit in a booth by the window and you'll have stunning 1920's in Argentina vibes.
Flower Hill Promenade
Shopping

This shopping center was created for Instagram. The staircases have gorgeous pink, floral designs that look SO good on camera. Every turn has a mural, art installation and flower walls just waiting to be photographed.

Hot tip: If you're a blogger, I'd recommend shooting a few looks here in the morning and stopping at Flower Child for lunch.

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
Accommodations
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This resort cannot be missed. You can purchase a pool pass and take adorable poolside pictures in the less crowded adult pool. It's stunning and your friends will ask you to take them back after they see your photos! The surrounding gardens are also jaw dropping and excellent for fashion shots, senior pictures and engagement shoots.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
Other

A beloved San Diego favorite. Visit with your camera just before sunset for an unforgettable experience. There's also a staircase leading to a cove that makes for incredible photos, but it does get crowded. Get there early to get in line for your shot!
In the Fall, San Diego is known for vivid, pink sunsets. Be sure to check out Sunset Cliffs in September-December to see the ocean turn purple & pink as the sun lowers.

Pigment
Shopping

Pigment is an adorable gift shop that has curated beautiful, camera ready set-ups in store. The cacti wall, swings and pink couch are all made for Instagram and I highly, highly recommend coming here!

Holy Matcha
Cafe

This has to be the cutest cafe in San Diego. You'll find retro glam in every corner. The items on the menu are also made for Instagram and you'll want to order one of everything!

It gets busy here so I'd recommend coming during off hours to get a table (i.e. 10 AM, 3 PM). Also, order the avocado toast - it's really pretty!

San Diego Skyline Viewpoint
Other

Coronado Island has so much to offer, but this has to be one of the most dazzling spots. The skyline is incredibly photogenic any time of day and this is the closest you will get unless you're on a boat.

Hot tip: Come hungry! There's a bunch of 4 & 5 star restaurants nearby with a view of the Skyline!

The Flower Fields
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This place is an absolute gem. You do have to pay an entrance fee, but the shots you'll get here are so worth it! It is seasonal, so come in Spring for a vivid sea of blooms your Instagram needs! :)

There aren't many shady areas here, so visit during opening hours & late afternoon to avoid over-exposed shots. The sun is bright!!

Created by Katie
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