How to Photograph at Shark Fin Cove

Written By Gus Vasquez

A Photographer’s Guide by Gus Vasquez Photography

Looking for a dreamy coastal location in the Santa Cruz or Davenport area? Shark Fin Cove is one of my all-time favorite beach spots to photograph — especially for couples, maternity sessions, and adventurous elopements. Tucked just off Highway 1 past the town of Davenport, this hidden gem features a dramatic sea stack (yes, it looks just like a shark fin!), golden hour light that feels straight out of a movie, and wild California coastline energy that never gets old.

Whether you’re a photographer scouting a new coastal gem or a client helping choose your dream location, here’s my go-to guide for capturing magic at Shark Fin Cove — the Gus Vasquez Photography way.

 
 

⚠️ A Quick Disclaimer

This guide is based on how I photograph at Shark Fin Cove — it's geared especially toward photographers who shoot in flat light conditions and want to maximize their editing potential, whether that's Light + Airy or Dark + Moody.

Also: this location is beautiful, but unpredictable. I’ve had sessions here with intense ocean mist or random seaweed outbursts covering the entire shoreline. And yet, the sessions still turned out beautifully — many of those clients even decorated their homes with the final photos. That’s part of the charm: wild, imperfect nature.

Location Address: 1 Cabrillo Hwy, Davenport, CA 95017

 
 
 

📍 Why Shark Fin Cove Stands Out

  • Iconic Sea Stack: The jagged rock shaped like a shark fin makes for a powerful natural centerpiece in wide shots.

  • Golden Hour Glow: The light here just before sunset is chef’s kiss — warm tones on the cliff walls, soft light on the sand.

  • Variety in One Location: From the bluff trails and cliff textures to the staircase descent and misty ocean views, there’s a ton of variety packed into this small beach.

  • Works for Both Editing Styles: Whether you're drawn to a bright + soft vibe or something moody and cinematic, Shark Fin Cove can deliver.

🎒 Before You Go

  • Parking: Small dirt pull-off along the west side of Highway 1. It’s free but limited, so arrive early, especially on weekends.
    Pro Tip: Remind your clients to hide valuables—the parking area is not visible from the beach.

  • Access: There’s a short, steep, rocky path to the sand. Not friendly for strollers or heels. I always let clients know to wear comfy shoes until we reach the bottom.
    Safety Note: Use caution with elderly guests or maternity sessions. I've photographed many maternity sessions here with no issues, but I always move slowly and carefully.

  • Beach Etiquette: Once you're on the beach, you can leave your gear in one spot — people are generally respectful and won’t touch it.

⏰ Best Time to Shoot

  • Golden Hour (1 hour before sunset) is pure magic — the light wraps around the cove and hits all the right angles.

  • Weekdays are best. Avoid Fridays, Saturdays, and summer holidays — it can get packed with tourists.

  • Meet-up Tip: I usually meet clients 15–20 minutes before session start time to allow time to walk down and settle in.

  • Morning Light can work too — especially if you're chasing foggy, romantic, or moody vibes.

  • Avoid High Noon: The shadows are harsh and the highlights get blown out fast.

📷 Photographer Tips & Tricks

1. Lens Recommendations

  • 28–70mm: My go-to for versatility.

  • 24mm or 35mm: Great for wide landscape shots with the full cove.

  • 50mm or 85mm: Beautiful for tighter portraits with dreamy background separation.

2. Watch the Tide

Check the tide chart before you go.

  • High tide: Can make the beach nearly inaccessible.

  • Low tide: More room to move, play, and shoot.

3. Composition Ideas

  • Shoot through bluff grass or rocks for layered, cinematic depth.

  • Capture reflections in wet sand during low tide.

  • Use the sea stack as a background for scale — then step back for that epic "wow" shot.

4. Embrace the Wind

Shark Fin Cove is often breezy. Use the motion to your advantage:

  • Flowing dresses

  • Wind-tossed hair

  • Fabric movement
    Bring clips and pins just in case things get too wild.

5. Extras to Bring

  • Hand warmers — especially for kids or expecting mamas.

  • Blanket or throw — for seated photos or to claim a spot while you explore other areas.

📍 My Top 5 Go-To Photo Spots at Shark Fin Cove

Over the years, I’ve developed a tried-and-true session flow that works in almost any lighting or crowd situation. Here are my top 5 locations — you'll see these featured in my Shark Fin Cove sessions and behind-the-scenes videos!

1. The Cliff Wall (Red Marker)

  • Provides flattering shade — great for warming up.

  • Usually free of tourists.

  • I use this spot to get to know my clients, guide them through basic posing and movement prompts.

  • Bonus: We wait here for the cliff shadow to shift, creating perfect light on the Shark Fin Rock later on.

2. Side of the Rock (Orange Marker)

  • Time to feature the iconic fin!

  • Great for playful movement — running, twirling, dipping, laughing.

  • Less foot traffic here compared to the tadpole tide pool.

3 & 4. The Shoreline + “The Spot” (Yellow + Green Markers)

  • Shoreline = candid fun, splashing waves, barefoot moments.

  • “The Spot” = soft sand dune with the sea stack standing tall in the background.

  • Want real magic? Get in the water with your couple — the joy is always worth it.

5. The Overlook (Blue Marker)

  • I save this one for the finale. Perfect for:

    • Champagne pops

    • Maternity ultrasound reveals

    • Walking shots at golden hour

  • Seasonal grass adds texture — lush green in spring or golden in summer.

  • Epic sky, wide views, and pure Central Coast vibes.

👥 For Clients: Is Shark Fin Cove Right for You?

Perfect For You If:

  • You love raw, cinematic nature vibes

  • You’re okay with a short, rocky hike

  • You want a photo session that feels adventurous, coastal, and one-of-a-kind

Maybe Not Ideal If:

  • You need easy access for elderly guests or small kids

  • You prefer manicured parks or paved paths

But don’t worry — I help guide every client on wardrobe, footwear, and what to expect so they can fully enjoy the experience!

💡 Nearby Spots to Add Variety

Want to pair Shark Fin Cove with a second nearby location for a multi-look session?

  • Panther Beach: More rock formations + golden cliffs

  • Davenport Bluffs: Dramatic coastal views with fewer crowds

  • Downtown Santa Cruz: For a colorful, surf-town twist

🖤 Final Thoughts from Gus

Shark Fin Cove is more than just a cool beach — it’s a place that holds magic. Whether it’s a glowing maternity session at sunset, an engagement shoot with windswept hair, or a quiet portrait session in the mist, this place always shows up.

If you're a photographer looking for your next coastal gem, or a couple dreaming up your perfect photo location — don’t sleep on this one.

Let’s make something beautiful there.
– Gus Vasquez Photography

Gus Vasquez
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