Australian-born, California-raised, pro surfer Rob Machado has spent most of his life atop a surfboard. Still one of surfing’s most iconic and beloved figures, he never strays too far from his favorite San Diego swells.

Hikers in spring are often astonished to encounter lush growths of grass carpeting the hillsides while new growth erupts in profusion in seemingly every corner.

As a professional photographer, my travel plans always include finding the best places to shoot pictures. And San Diego has a bounty of great spots. Beautiful beaches, lush gardens, interesting architecture, public art and Southern California’s outdoor lifestyle all provide the perfect background for travel pictures. Here's a list of my favorite places to shoot in San Diego.

Visitors can find courses with traditional, time-honored layouts, as well as many offering more modern architectural elements.