Thornton State Beach
Thornton State Beach sits below dramatic eroding bluffs just south of San Francisco, offering a rugged stretch of coastline that feels surprisingly wild given its proximity to the city. The tall, layered cliffs make for a strong vertical element you can use to frame the beach and surf, and the relatively uncrowded shoreline gives you room to work without distraction. Shoot from the base of the bluffs looking north or south along the waterline to capture leading lines in the wet sand and incoming waves. Golden hour and overcast days both work well here, with marine fog often adding atmosphere in the mornings. Plan your visit around low tide, as high tide can swallow the beach entirely. The trail down from the parking area is steep and can be slippery; wear solid footwear. A wide angle lens suits the sweeping bluff and surf compositions well. (Daly City, California, United States)
