Best beach photo locations near Columbus, Ohio

You Don’t Need the Ocean: Best Beach Photo Locations Near Columbus, Ohio

If you’ve been wishing for beach photos. but figured you’d have to leave Ohio to get them—good news: you don’t need the ocean to find the best beach photo locations near Columbus, Ohio.  Being a Columbus family photographer, I wanted to bring you a list of beaches close to home.  Right here in Central Ohio, we have beautiful sandy spots that feel like a little escape. These beaches are perfect for maternity sessions, motherhood portraits, and playful family photos filled with emotion and light. Let me take you through my favorite local beach locations that bring all the dreamy, relaxed vibes—without the long drive.

Alum Creek State Park Beach – Delaware, OH

Alum Creek is a go-to location for me. It has wide stretches of soft sand, beautiful views of the water, and open skies that light up perfectly at sunset. Whether you want to walk along the shoreline or let the kids splash in the shallows, there’s plenty of space to move and explore.

Best for: Maternity sessions, family storytelling, motherhood portraits
Vibe: Laid-back, open, glowing
Pro tip: Visit during a weekday evening for quieter scenes and the best golden hour light.

One of my favorite things about Alum Creek? It gives you multiple options. If the beach is busy, we can move toward the grassy dunes or nearby trees for a little variety. It always photographs beautifully—no matter the season.

Buckeye Lake Beach – Buckeye Lake, OH

Buckeye Lake has a totally different feel—less wide-open, but cozy and nostalgic. The beach area is smaller, but peaceful, and there’s something about the way the water curves around the land that makes it feel like a summer escape.

Best for: Couples, romantic maternity sessions, motherhood
Vibe: Calm, cozy, lake-town charm
Pro tip: Come early in the evening and bring soft, flowy outfits in earth tones or pastels.

This beach is perfect for emotional, quiet moments. It’s where I go when a client wants their session to feel simple and grounded—with room to breathe.

Prairie Oaks Metro Park – Darby Bend Lakes Beach Areas

You won’t find this on most beach lists, but that’s part of what makes it special. Prairie Oaks is one of those places where time slows down. The beachy spots here are small and tucked away, but paired with tall grasses, quiet trails, and the way the light hits the water—it’s stunning.

Best for: Families with young kids, maternity sessions with movement, motherhood
Vibe: Peaceful, wild, soft
Pro tip: Pack a lightweight blanket and let the little ones explore barefoot.

This is a great location if you want that natural, storytelling look. Prairie Oaks always feels like you’re stepping into a quiet summer day—and your photos will reflect that energy.

Delaware State Park Beach – Delaware, OH

Delaware State Park has a large, clean beach with calm water and wooded areas nearby. It’s one of my favorite places for sunset sessions because the sun dips low over the lake and lights everything up with warm, golden tones.

Best for: Sunset maternity sessions, family snuggles, storytelling moments
Vibe: Clean, peaceful, classic
Pro tip: Schedule your session an hour before sunset for the most dreamy light.

This beach gives you options. We can shoot on the sand, under the trees, or near the rocks by the water’s edge. It’s simple, beautiful, and easy to fall in love with.

Not Technically a Beach: Hoover Reservoir – Westerville, OH

Okay, so Hoover Reservoir doesn’t have sand. But it feels beachy, and for some clients, that’s exactly what they want. You’ll find soft grassy areas, big lakeside rocks, and gentle ripples that reflect the sky. Plus, it’s often less crowded than the true beaches.

Best for: Older kids, couples, laid-back maternity
Vibe: Minimalist, natural, peaceful
Pro tip: Try Red Bank Road for the best lake views and easy parking.

Hoover is perfect if you love the idea of water in the background but don’t want the mess of sand. It photographs clean and timeless—especially during fall.

What to Wear for a Beach Photo Session

Simple is best. Think:

• Barefoot

• Flowy dresses

• Neutrals, pastels, or soft earthy tones

• Linen, gauze, or cotton fabrics that catch the breeze

The beach is all about movement and emotion. Soft textures and natural colors help create that dreamy, effortless look.

And if you’re not sure what to wear? I’m here to help you style your whole session. I’ll send you ideas and guide you through every step.

When to Schedule a Beach Session in Columbus

Sunset is always the best time to shoot at the beach. The light is soft, warm, and flattering—plus, it’s when the crowds start to head out, giving us more space.

Spring, summer, and early fall are ideal for barefoot sessions. I especially love late August and early September when the light gets a little warmer and the beach feels calm again after summer rushes by.

Beach Sessions Are About Connection

At the end of the day, the beach isn’t just a pretty backdrop. It’s a place that invites people to slow down, connect, and just be with each other.

Whether you’re pregnant and soaking in the quiet before baby arrives, or you’re chasing your toddlers across the sand—these moments matter. They’re worth remembering. And I’d love to help you tell your story.

Let’s Plan Your Dreamy Beach Session

So if you’re dreaming of golden light, soft sand, and the kind of photos that feel like a warm summer memory, these spots are closer than you think. The best beach photo locations near Columbus, Ohio aren’t far—they’re right here in our backyard, and they’re perfect for creating natural, heartfelt images. Whether it’s a quiet maternity moment or a playful family session, I’ll help you find the perfect location and guide you every step of the way.

Ready to plan your session by the water?  Let’s Chat—let’s make something beautiful together.