If you’re considering ditching the beach and opting for Balboa Park engagement photos, my answer is DO IT!!!
Balboa Park is one of my favorite places to shoot around San Diego. It’s a little different than your standard beach session, but it makes it even more fun! (And it isn’t any less “San Diego” than the beach!)
I was so excited when Jessica asked me to switch their session location to Balboa park. They were really drawn to the architecture at Balboa and were eager to take their engagement photos here!
Alcazar Garden
The Alcazar Garden is a such a beautiful spot in Balboa! It’s historic garden designed to resemble the gardens of the Alcazar Castle in Seville, Spain.
We took photos near the central fountain, the geometric beds of flowers and plants, and ornamental tiles and benches.
The garden is located just south of the San Diego Museum of Art, and it’s free and open to the public. We came in March for this engagement session and there were tons of flowers blooming!
It is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, and to take some great photos.
California Tower
One of my favorite shots to get is of my couples running across the street in front of the California Tower!
It’s one of the most iconic and recognizable spots in Balboa Park.
The tower was designed by architect Bertram Goodhue, and represents a blend of Spanish Colonial Revival and Baroque styles.
It features ornate decorations, including sculptures, tiles, and carvings, as well as a clock and chimes that can be heard throughout Balboa Park.
The California Tower was closed for awhile due to safety concerns, but it underwent a major renovation and was reopened in 2015 in time for the centennial of the Panama-California Exposition.
You can climb to the top of the tower for views of the entire park!
It also houses the San Diego Museum of Man’s exhibit, “California Tower: The Museum at the Top”. The museum tells the story of the tower and its significance to the history and culture of San Diego.
Lily Pond
The Lily Pond is a beautiful water feature located in Balboa Park. It is to the right of the Plaza De Panama in the heart of the park and is surrounded by lush greenery, flowers, and trees.
The Lily Pond was originally built for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition.
It’s filled by a natural spring and is surrounded by a walking path and several benches where you can sit and relax, or enjoy a coffee and snack.
Recently, the Lily Pond has undergone a major renovation and restoration project to improve the water quality and enhance its natural beauty.
Covered Walkways
Stairways + Secluded Areas
Organ Pavilion
The Organ Pavilion is a popular outdoor venue. It’s located in the heart of the park and is home to one of the world’s largest outdoor pipe organs.
The pavilion features a large stage, seating for over 2,500 people, and a magnificent pipe organ with 4,518 pipes.
Throughout the year, the Organ Pavilion hosts a variety of concerts and events, including the annual International Summer Organ Festival. You can also watch the San Diego Civic Organist perform free concerts every Sunday at 2 pm!
The Organ Pavilion is also a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy Balboa Park. It’s right next to a large grassy area, which is perfect for picnics, and it is surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains.
