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Where we shoot, on a map
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From the photographer
by Chris Schmauch, owner of GoodEye Photography
Wide flat beach at the south end of Pajaro Dunes in Watsonville, where the Pajaro River meets the ocean.
Wide flat beach at the south end of Pajaro Dunes in Watsonville, where the Pajaro River meets the ocean. Long horizons, few people, dramatic west-facing sunsets. The state-beach side of the same coast as Pajaro Dunes.
What to expect
The lay of the land
Footwear
Sand-friendly shoes or barefoot work best. Heels sink; long bridal trains pick up sand. Flats are great for the walk down and back.
Best Time of Day
Golden hour, about 45 minutes before sunset. That low, warm light is what flatters skin and water alike. Midday and overcast sessions still work — softer light, less depth.
Best Season
Year-round. Winter and spring produce the cleanest light; summer marine layer adds atmosphere rather than killing sessions.
Weather
Coastal fog can linger from June through August but softens midday light rather than ruining it. Light rain, mist, and wind don't stop us.
Privacy
Public access — expect other people around. Long open stretches let us settle apart from foot traffic; weekday or off-peak sessions are noticeably quieter.
Drive times
Getting here
Downtown Santa Cruz10 min
Capitola15 min
Aptos20 min
San Jose45 min
San Francisco1 hr 30 min
Approximate, off-peak driving.
Worth knowing
A few things about Palm Beach
Paid or free lot adjacent to the sand; can fill up on weekends.
Dog-friendly in most areas; leash rules vary by season.
West-facing — start when the sun drops low and keep working through blue hour, especially clear winter evenings.
Also known as
Palm Beach also appears as Palm State Beach, or Sunset State Beach.