Best Photography Spots for Group Photos on the Emerald Coast
The Emerald Coast is filled with stunning backdrops, making it the perfect place to capture group photos that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re gathering with family, friends, or celebrating a special occasion, the natural beauty of Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, and 30A offers a variety of picturesque locations for your next group photo. From beach sunsets to scenic state parks, here are the best spots along the Emerald Coast for capturing beautiful memories with your group. 1. Henderson Beach State Park – Destin With its wide expanse of sugar-white sand and sparkling turquoise water, Henderson Beach State Park in Destin is an ideal spot for large group photos. The park’s natural dunes and scenic shoreline offer a gorgeous backdrop for both casual and formal group shots. The sunsets here are particularly stunning, with the sun sinking into the Gulf of Mexico, casting a golden glow across the beach. Website: Henderson Beach State Park Estimated Time: 1-2 hours Cost: $6 per vehicle Group Tip: For the best lighting, plan your photo session during the golden hour (one hour before sunset). Whether you’re staying at one of Legacy Beach Homes’ large vacation rentals in Destin, this park is an excellent nearby location to gather your group for a memorable photo shoot. 2. Grayton Beach State Park – Santa Rosa Beach & 30A Grayton Beach State Park along 30A is known for its pristine beauty, offering an ideal mix of coastal and forested areas for photos. The park’s unique coastal dune lakes, tall grass, and calm shoreline make it perfect for a variety of group shots, from playful beach scenes to more scenic, nature-focused photos. The expansive beach allows for plenty of room, making it great for large family gatherings or multi-generation photo sessions. Website: Grayton Beach State Park Estimated Time: 1-2 hours Cost: $5 per vehicle Group Tip: The coastal dune lakes offer a peaceful setting for more intimate group shots, away from the beach crowds. If you’re staying in Santa Rosa Beach or along 30A, Grayton Beach is a must-visit for your group photography session. Its natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for any occasion. 3. Seaside – 30A The charming town of Seaside along 30A is a favorite spot for group photos, thanks to its iconic pastel-colored cottages, quaint shops, and picturesque beaches. The Seaside Pavilion and amphitheater area provide great settings for group photos with an architectural flair, while the beach offers the quintessential coastal backdrop. Website: Seaside 30A Estimated Time: 1-2 hours Cost: Free access (parking can be limited during peak hours) Group Tip: Head to the Seaside Beach Pavilion for a beautiful shot of your group framed by the iconic Seaside architecture. For groups staying in 30A large vacation homes, Seaside offers a combination of charming townscapes and beach beauty, ensuring a diverse range of photo opportunities. 4. Norriego Point – Destin Harbor Located at the tip of Destin Harbor, Norriego Point is a lesser-known gem that offers panoramic views of the water, boats, and sandy shores. This quiet, scenic spot provides a serene and beautiful backdrop for group photos, especially during the evening when the harbor lights up. It’s a fantastic location for sunset shots with the Destin Harbor and Gulf waters creating a unique backdrop. Estimated Time: 1-2 hours Cost: Free access Group Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot for sunset photos, as the light reflecting off the water is breathtaking. Norriego Point is especially convenient for groups staying in Destin large beach rentals by Legacy Beach Homes, offering a peaceful and picturesque spot to capture beautiful group photos. 5. Alys Beach – 30A For those seeking a more refined and elegant backdrop, Alys Beach on 30A is the perfect spot. Known for its whitewashed architecture and Mediterranean-inspired design, Alys Beach provides a sophisticated setting for group photos. The palm-lined streets, stunning courtyards, and striking white buildings make it ideal for more formal or artistic group photos. Website: Alys Beach Estimated Time: 1-2 hours Cost: Free access Group Tip: Take advantage of the clean, minimalist aesthetic by coordinating outfits in neutral tones for a stunning group shot. Groups staying in 30A will love the elegance of Alys Beach for capturing unique and memorable photos during their stay. 6. The Village of Baytowne Wharf – Miramar Beach For a fun and lively atmosphere, The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Miramar Beach offers a colorful and vibrant setting for group photos. With its waterfront views, whimsical architecture, and festive vibe, Baytowne Wharf is ideal for capturing candid moments of your group enjoying their time together. The marina area is perfect for sunset shots, while the village itself offers a range of backdrops, from charming streets to fountains and lively shops. Website: Baytowne Wharf Estimated Time: 1-2 hours Cost: Free access (additional costs for dining or activities) Group Tip: Take your group to the waterfront for the best sunset shots, and explore the village for more playful and casual photo settings. This is a convenient and fun spot for groups staying at a Miramar Beach large vacation rental, offering plenty of photo opportunities in one location. Plan Your Group Stay with Legacy Beach Homes At Legacy Beach Homes, we understand how important it is to create lasting memories with family and friends. Our large vacation homes in Destin, Miramar Beach, and 30A provide the perfect accommodations for your group getaway, offering spacious homes designed specifically for multi-family vacations and multi-generation gatherings. Our 8-bedroom beach homes can sleep 20+ guests, and our side-by-side homes allow even larger groups to stay together. With private pools, easy beach access, and amenities like golf carts and free paddleboards, our homes offer everything you need to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Once you’ve captured the perfect group photos, you can retreat to your Legacy Beach Home and enjoy a relaxing evening together. Visit Legacy Beach Homes today to book your large group vacation rental and start planning your picture-perfect getaway on the Emerald