Nestled next to the ocean somewhere between Ventura and Santa Barbara is a beautiful quiet oasis hidden from the PCH is a small boutique hotel that is a private paradise that overlooks a beautiful slice of the coast. When our photographer suggested shooting at Cliff House Inn, I trusted her instincts and eye for special locations.
Looking back, I'm still amazed at how perfectly everything came together—from the timing and weather to the surprisingly warm water and playful waves. Even the normally rocky ocean bottom was covered in a layer of soft sand. If you know this break, you know that's a rare treat.
As we planned our summer campaign, it was important to capture the joy and carefree spirit that comes with the height of summer.
Growing up in a family that revolved around the water, there were two kinds of summer days:
Pool days.
Beach days.
I loved them both. It was simply about being in the sun and water for as long as possible.
Nothing says summer quite like a poolside barbecue with popsicles, watermelon, music, and friends. Add a few pool floats, and you've got the perfect summer afternoon.
In California, though, the start of summer looks a little different. While much of the country is heating up, we're often wrapped in a thick marine layer that keeps the coast cool and gray. Timing a summer photoshoot around sunny weather can be surprisingly challenging.
Amber, our incredible local photographer, suggested we check out a boutique hotel located at one of my favorite surf breaks. After scouting the property and chatting with the hotel manager, we knew we had found the perfect location.
The weather forecast leading up to the shoot was touch-and-go, but on the day itself we were blessed with warm sunshine, clear skies, fun spring waves, and an almost empty lineup.
There aren't many places where you can relax by a heated pool overlooking a point break and be less than a mile from one of California's most iconic surf spots. Cliff House Inn gave us the perfect backdrop for capturing the easy, joyful feeling of summer by the sea.
What We Love About Cliff House Inn
- Heated pool overlooking the ocean
- Cozy, beach-inspired rooms
- Complimentary breakfast
- Lush landscaping around the pool area
- Front-row views of the surf
- Easy walk to a local surf break
- Incredible sunsets
- A relaxed, classic California coastal vibe
A little more about the Cliff House Inn
