The Oregon Coast is no stranger to beauty, but some corners still feel like best-kept secrets. Manzanita, tucked quietly between the ocean cliffs and forested hills, is one of those places. For couples looking for a romantic, dramatic, and less-trafficked location for their engagement session, Manzanita is pure gold.
As an Oregon-based wedding and elopement photographer, I’ve explored a lot of this coast. But this session at the Manzanita cliffs? It had that wild, cinematic magic you just can’t replicate. We started somewhere epic, and then chased the last bit of sun down on the waterline along the beach.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the story behind this stunning shoot, share planning tips if you’re dreaming of your own session here, and offer helpful insights for crafting an Oregon Coast experience that feels like you.
A Hidden Gem Along the Oregon Coast
Unlike the busier towns of Cannon Beach or Newport, Manzanita offers a slower pace and quieter beauty. The cliffs north of town create an incredible backdrop—think dramatic drop-offs, tall pines, sea spray, and golden-hour glow. For this shoot, we timed our session to begin just before sunset, hiking up a short bluff trail for that sweeping view over the Pacific.
The wind? Yep. It was definitely a character in this shoot. But honestly, it added to the emotion and energy. Windswept hair, cozy embraces, laughter wrapped in blankets—it gave us all the mood.
Planning a Manzanita Engagement Session
If you’re considering Manzanita for your photos, here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Timing is everything
Sunset light hits these cliffs beautifully. Aim to start your session about 90 minutes before golden hour so we can capture both sun-drenched and post-sunset images.
2. Pack for coastal chaos
Even in the summer, the Oregon Coast can bring surprises. Pack layers (sweaters, jackets, etc.), and bring extra shoes if we explore both the cliffs and the beach.
3. Avoid the crowds
Manzanita is already quieter than most towns, but weekdays are best if you want an even more intimate experience. Sunrise is also an option if you're open to an early wake-up call for that soft morning light.
4. Respect the land
Some of the most beautiful spots around Manzanita are accessed via short trails or pullouts. Please always stay on trail, leave no trace, and treat the land with care so others can enjoy it too.
What to Wear for Coastal Cliffside Photos
Here’s what worked really well for this couple:
Flowy dresses that moved beautifully in the wind
Neutrals and earth tones that complemented the rugged coast
Layers—think cardigans, scarves, or a wool coat for snuggly moments
Barefoot vibes when we headed down to the sand (it’s optional, but fun!)
I always offer outfit guidance and ideas ahead of time, so don’t stress—just come as yourselves, and we’ll create something beautiful together.
Why I Love Manzanita for Engagement Sessions
There’s a quiet intimacy here. It feels untouched and real—like a place where you can just be. For couples who want more than the expected, this stretch of coastline delivers something both grounding and cinematic. The cliffs. The waves. The ever-changing skies. It’s a place that invites real connection.
Want Your Own Oregon Coast Adventure?
If you're dreaming of a laid-back, nature-filled engagement session that feels true to you—I'm your person. Whether it’s Manzanita, Cape Kiwanda, Hug Point, or some off-the-map nook, I’d love to help you plan something meaningful and memorable.
Let’s make magic on the coast.
Inquire about your Oregon Coast engagement session →
