
There’s something truly magical about a sunrise engagement session on the Oregon Coast. Scott and I decided to leave Salem at an unbelievably early hour to meet our couple at the parking lot of Pelican Bay Brewery in Pacific City. As we arrived, the beach was beautifully calm and quiet — except for the hum of fishing boats launching into the morning waters. It was a scene that felt straight out of a dream.
Why Choose a Sunrise Oregon Beach Engagement Session?
A sunrise Oregon beach engagement session offers an unmatched sense of tranquility. The soft light rising from the east, over the coastal mountains, creates a gentle and romantic glow. Unlike busy afternoons, mornings at Pacific City are peaceful, allowing couples to soak in the moment without distractions. Haystack Rock looked absolutely radiant that morning, making it the perfect backdrop for these intimate photos.


About This Pacific City Engagement Session
Our couple flew all the way from New Mexico to visit family, check out their wedding venue, and capture this beautiful engagement session on the Oregon beach. Despite the cold, they embraced the adventure and the breathtaking scenery. Watching the fishing boats head out for their day’s work while capturing sweet moments between them was unforgettable.
Tips for Your Own Oregon Beach Engagement Session
- Plan for an early start — sunrise light is worth it!
- Bring warm layers, mornings on the Oregon Coast can be chilly.
- Check tide charts and sunrise times for the best lighting.
- Choose a weekday to avoid weekend beach crowds.
Pelican Bay Brewery: The Perfect Starting Point
We met at the Pelican Bay Brewery parking lot, a convenient landmark in Pacific City with quick beach access. While Pelican Brewing is known for its incredible beer and beachfront patio, its location is also ideal for photo sessions with a view of Haystack Rock. If you’re planning an Oregon beach engagement session, consider starting here for easy parking and an iconic coastal backdrop.
Ready to Plan Your Oregon Beach Engagement Session?
There’s nothing quite like the peaceful, golden sunrise at Pacific City to set the tone for a joyful engagement session. Whether you’re local or traveling from afar like our couple, the Oregon Coast is full of scenic spots to make your session unforgettable. If you’d like help planning your engagement photos on the Oregon beach, I’d love to connect and help you bring your vision to life.
For more inspiration on planning your perfect engagement session, check out my engagement photography portfolio or contact me here to get started!

I’m Jennifer, aka Jenn, the heart behind Stunning Portrait Photography—an Oregon wedding photographer specializing in small weddings, intimate elopements, and soulful portraits. With a blend of editorial elegance and documentary honesty, I capture moments that feel personal, timeless, and deeply meaningful. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a coastal bluff, dancing in the city streets of Portland, or celebrating a quiet milestone, I’m here to help you feel fully seen and supported—so your photos reflect not just how it looked, but how it felt. Based in Salem and serving the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
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