La Jolla Pier
Photo: La Jolla Shores Pier, San Diego
Photographer: John Todd
Exposure: 30 seconds at sunset
La Jolla Pier
Why Go
If you’re exploring San Diego photography locations, few spots rival the quiet perfection of La Jolla Shores Pier. The massive concrete supports lead your eye toward the horizon, creating one of the most recognizable photo compositions in Southern California. It’s a natural classroom in perspective, geometry, and light — all wrapped in the soothing rhythm of the Pacific Ocean.
While the pier glows with color at sunset, this image came alive in black and white. Stripping away the hues emphasized the structure’s pure geometry — the repeating pillars, the tonal contrast between concrete and sky, and the soft gradation of light at the horizon. The monochrome treatment turns the scene from a beach photo into a study in symmetry and timelessness.
When to Shoot
For photographers chasing that soft, cinematic light, sunset is the golden window. As the sun dips behind the water, warm tones spill through the pillars, transforming the pier into a glowing corridor. Arrive early to find your framing, then stay after dark to experiment with long-exposure seascapes. The 30-second shot here smooths the surf into a misty mirror and amplifies the pier’s symmetry.
Gear Notes
Bring a sturdy tripod — the sand is often wet, and the waves can nudge your setup during long exposures. A neutral density filter is your best friend for stretching shutter speeds past 20 seconds. A 24–50mm lens captures the full length of the structure without distortion, while keeping verticals straight. Don’t forget a microfiber cloth — the sea spray here is persistent.
Pro Tip
Perfect alignment is everything. Center yourself directly beneath the pier and watch the verticals in your frame; even a few inches off can break the illusion of balance. If the tide’s low, include the reflection of the columns in the wet sand— it doubles the visual depth and adds a painterly calm to your shot.
Getting There
You’ll find the La Jolla Shores Pier just north of the main beach, adjacent to the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Parking is available along La Jolla Shores Drive with a short walk down to the sand. It’s easily one of the most photogenic locations in La Jolla — accessible, peaceful, and endlessly rewarding for anyone with a camera.