The 17 Best Sunset Spots in San Diego
I truly believe that there is nothing in the world quite like a California sunset. Having grown up on the East Coast for most of my life I was always jealous of the incredible colors and full view over the ocean that those on the West Coast have.
If you’re looking for a list of the best sunset spots in San Diego, look no further. San Diego is one of my all-time favorite places in California and it also happens to be an incredible spot to catch a stellar sunset.
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List of the Best Sunset Spots in San Diego
Of course there are several places where you might be able to catch a sunset view. Whether you’re interested in watching the sunset over the ocean, at a restaurant over a nice dinner or drink, out in nature, or even from the air – there are so many ways to enjoy such a beautiful picture perfect view.
Here’s a list of our absolute favorite spots to see the sunset in San Diego that are quite popular and some not as well known spots as well. I have this feeling you’ll really enjoy these!
1. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
One of the most memorable sunset spots in San Diego for me is Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. While this area isn’t necessarily a park in the general sense of the word, it’s a walkway filled with cliffs, caves and incredible ocean views.
Sunset Cliffs stretches almost 70 acres right along the edge of Point Loma and the Pacific Ocean. There are several shorter trails to walk along, and parking is free. Of course, anywhere that parking is free means you need to make sure you get there early enough to find a spot.
It’s a popular place, so try and get there about an hour before the sunset. Explore around the cliffs or hike down to the beach. Walking along here can be a bit tricky so just make sure you’re careful and (hopefully) wearing the right type of shoes.
Popular spots include Sunset Cliffs Cave, Luscomb’s Point, and Sunset Cliffs Beach. Visit the cave another time at low tide for an incredible experience with a coastal arch. It’ll be a tough descent but totally worth it.
Location: 1253 Sunset Cliffs Blvd. San Diego, CA 92107
Parking: There’s a parking lot near the cliffs but if you find space you can park along the road
2. Ocean Beach Pier
Another popular sunset spot in San Diego is Ocean Beach Pier located in the Ocean Beach area of the city. At 1,971 feet this pier is pretty long, and that’s one thing that makes it truly unique. As the 2nd longest pier in California, its length makes for a great vantage point. You can not only catch a glimpse of the sunset over the water but also can experience a sunset with a view of the San Diego shore.
This pier was originally created for fishing (and is a great spot for that) but has so much more to offer. There are several restaurants around the area and a lot of places to visit nearby including Newport Avenue which is a main street that offers cafes, surf shops, bars and more.
Grab fish tacos at South Beach Bar & Grill or reserve a seat at the Ocean Beach Pier Cafe for some great food and views all in one.
I once sat out on the Ocean Beach Pier for an entire sunset, and it was incredible! There’s so much going on and there’s lots of people fishing nearby which makes it a fun and lively spot.
Location: 1850 Ocean Front St. San Diego, CA 92107
Parking: There are two free parking lots that are available nearby. One on Newport and Abbot and the other right near the lifeguard tower. There are also several paid lots in the area if you can’t find any free spots available.
3. Windansea Beach
Windansea Beach is a hidden gem in San Diego and it’s also one of the best spots to watch the sunset. Known by many as a popular surfing beach, it’s also secluded and much quieter compared to many of the other beaches in the area.
The beach itself is beautiful and is located near Neptune Place in La Jolla. It’s the perfect place for sunbathing or watching surfers ride waves all day long. Take in the iconic Surf Shack located on the beach, which is one of the oldest beach landmarks in San Diego. This surf shack was built back in 1946 and became a bit spot for luaus and surfers.
Note that the swimming at this beach is more for advanced swimmers so if you’re wanting to take a dip, be prepared for some more challenging waters.
Location: 6800 Neptune Pl, La Jolla, CA 92037
Parking: Parking is pretty easy in the area. You can either grab a spot on the street (plenty of street parking) or there’s a free parking lot nearby with a handful of spots and convenient stair access down to the beach.
4. Coronado Island
Coronado Island is located south of the Downtown area of San Diego, and is known for its elegant Victorian style homes and pristine beaches. Not to mention, it’s where the legendary Hotel del Coronado resides. It’s one of the most popular places to catch a sunset in all of San Diego.
If you’re a guest at Hotel Del Coronado, you can enjoy the sunset from your balcony or from the beach nearby. The hotel also has restaurants on site like the Hotel Beach & Taco shack, which is perfect for grabbing a quick bite while enjoying the sunset. Not to mention, you can get a front row seat to the sunset from various local restaurants and bars.
Another popular spot to watch the sunset on Coronado Island is Ocean Boulevard which is the beautiful street near Coronado Beach that offers stunning views of the water and the skyline. The street also is lined with several large homes – making it a great place to enjoy fancy real estate.
Location: Hotel Del Coronado is located at 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118.
Coronado Beach is located around 555 Ocean Boulevard, Coronado, CA 92118
Parking: Parking can be a bit challenging on Coronado Island, but there are a few options for parking near Hotel del Coronado. There is limited street parking available, as well as a few paid parking lots.
5. Point Loma
Point Loma is a neighborhood in San Diego that offers stunning views of the city, the harbor, and the nearby beaches. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a popular spot to watch the sunset (and a spot I already covered above in this post for prime sunset watching).
For a more private and 360 degree views, head to Cabrillo National Monument for an epic sunset experience. The monument offers sweeping views of the harbor and the city, as well as a unique perspective of the sunset. Visitors can also learn about the history of San Diego at the monument, so kind of a two-for-one here.
There’s a $20 (at the time of writing this) entrance fee for the monument, so just something to note. The National Park Pass is honored here, so if you plan on visiting often or if you are visiting and already have the pass, this is a great option.
Note that the Monument is only open through sunset on the weekends during its summer hours. Summer hours last through Labor Day Weekend.
Location: Cabrillo National Monument is located at 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
Parking: There’s usually plenty of parking in the lot near the Visitor Center at Cabrillo National Monument.
6. La Jolla Cove
One of the coolest spots to visit in La Jolla San Diego is La Jolla Cove. This spot is a small coastal inlet famous for the sea lions that happen to lay out along the shore. If you’re an animal lover, there’s nothing quite like watching more sea lions than you can count line up and hang out close enough to snap a picture. This cove is free of charge and is an ecologically protected area.
Pair sea lion-watching (let’s make that a verb) with watching the beautiful colors of the San Diego skyline. All with the Pacific Ocean in the background. There’s a park nearby called the Ellen Browning Scripps Park that you can hang out in, throw down a picnic spread, or just enjoy the views while you walk.
You can even grab a bite to eat with a view of the cove at Cody’s La Jolla restaurant nearby. The downtown La Jolla Village area is quaint and fun to stroll around.
Location: 1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Parking: Limited street parking, paid parking at La Jolla Financial Building or La Jolla Valet at George’s at the Cove restaurant
7. Mission Bay
If you want to watch the sunset over the water, there’s no better place in San Diego than Mission Bay. With nearly 27 miles of coastline, Mission Bay offers plenty of options for where to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Fiesta Island is a popular spot for watching the sunset, an island with fire pits, dog parks, and more! Anywhere along the bay will give you a front-row seat to one of nature’s most beautiful shows.
You can head out on kayaks, paddleboards, or a boat for the sunset. You can take it in from the shore if none of those are available or it’s not your thing. Mission Bay is a fantastic place for boating, swimming, biking (check out Bike Tours in San Diego) and all kinds of activities outside. It’s also close to Mission Beach Boardwalk, which is even more fun (and another place I recommend for the sunset on this list).
Location: South of the Pacific Beach community of San Diego, California, close to Mission Beach Boardwalk
Parking: Lots of free parking in the area
8. Balboa Park
Balboa Park is a massive urban park located in the heart of San Diego. The park is home to museums, gardens, the San Diego Zoo, and much more. It’s also one of the best places in the city to watch the sunset.
Several spots throughout Balboa Park offer great views of the sunset, but one of the most popular spots is near the California Tower. The tower is located near a beautiful water fountain and there are lots of iconic palm trees in the area. The Spanish architecture of the park buildings makes for a stunning backdrop to an already incredible sunset in San Diego.
There’s often a lot going on at Balboa Park, and lots of cozy string lights come on when the sun goes down, so it’s a great place to watch the sunset and stay for dinner or drinks afterward. A popular spot is Panama 66, which is perfect for drinks and live music.
Location: Balboa Park is located at 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Parking: There are several free parking lots throughout Balboa Park, as well as street parking available.
Related: Things to do in North Park San Diego
9. Mount Soledad
Mount Soledad is a mountaintop area and memorial in the San Diego area with stunning 360-degree views. The summit of Mt. Soledad is accessible by car, and there is a small parking lot at the top. From here, visitors can enjoy incredible views of the city, the harbor, and even Mexico on a clear day.
Mount Soledad is a memorial that honors Veterans of the US armed forces, and there is a large American flag at the top of the mountain. There is also a large cross at the summit, which makes for a beautiful silhouette against the setting sun.
Sunset is a particularly beautiful time to visit Mount Soledad, as the colors of the sky and city are stunning – lots of pinks, red and orange. Visitors can also enjoy a cool breeze at the top of the mountain, which is a nice respite from the often warmer temperatures in San Diego.
Location: Mount Soledad is located at 6905 La Jolla Scenic Dr S, La Jolla, CA 92037
Parking: There is a small parking lot at the top of Mount Soledad. There is also street parking available near the base of the area
10. Mission Beach Boardwalk
Mission Beach is a popular spot in San Diego, and the boardwalk is one of the best places to watch the sunset. The boardwalk runs along the beach for about two miles, and there are plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the view.
Right around the roller coaster at Belmont Park is a great spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Of course, anywhere along the boardwalk or just plopping down in the sand on the beach can offer great views of the sunset.
Don’t forget to grab food or drinks at one of the many restaurants and bars along the boardwalk as well. I will never not recommend fish tacos in this area!
Location: The Mission Beach boardwalk is located along Mission Boulevard in San Diego.
Parking: There is street parking available along Mission Boulevard and some of the side streets near the boardwalk. There are also several paid parking lots in the area.
11. Crystal Pier
Crystal Pier is a historic wooden pier located in the Pacific Beach neighborhood of San Diego. The pier is home to a number of shops and restaurants, as well as a hotel. It’s also one of the best places in the city to watch the sunset.
There are several spots along Crystal Pier that offer great views of the sunset. Visitors can enjoy the view from the pier itself, or they can walk out to the end of the pier for an even better view. Another option is to hang out on the sand of Pacific Beach with the striking sunset view that includes the historic pier. This is a cherished memory for me – grabbing fish tacos on the boardwalk and sitting on the sand watching the sunset near the pier.
The atmosphere at Crystal Pier is very relaxed and laid-back, making it a great place to watch the sunset and then enjoy a drink or bite to eat afterward. There are several restaurants and bars located on the pier, as well as a few cafes. It’s a generally younger crowd around this beach and the boardwalk is pretty lively with bars, shops and more!
Location: Crystal Pier is located at 4500 Ocean Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Parking: There is street parking available along Ocean Boulevard and some of the side streets near the pier. There are also several paid parking lots in the area.
12. Torrey Pines
Full disclosure- I might have a lot of favorite sunset spots in San Diego, but this is pretty much right up there at the top!
The Torrey Pines Gliderport is located right above Black’s Beach. Black’s Beach is one of the more popular beaches in San Diego, and it’s also one of the best places to watch the sunset. The beach is located at the base of a cliff, and there are several lookout points that offer stunning views of the sun setting over the water.
One of the best spots to watch the sunset is the Gliderport. The Gliderport is a hang gliding and paragliding facility. Not only do you have a beautiful sunset view but you can watch the gliders too!
Many locals like to grab a bite of food (aka In-N-Out burgers) and then head to this spot for the sunset. It makes for the best kind of evening.
Location: The Gliderport is located at 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
Parking: There is a large parking lot located at the Gliderport. Parking is also available along Torrey Pines Scenic Drive.
The Best Sunset Restaurant Views in San Diego
Another of the best sunset spots in San Diego to consider is grabbing a bite for dinner or a drink on a rooftop to enjoy the view! One of my all time favorite activities for seeing a new city or town is to find all of the best rooftop bars in the area or restaurants with a view.
Here are some memorable restaurants or rooftops to see the sunset in San Diego.
13. Altitude Sky Lounge
One of the most popular places to watch the sunset in San Diego is from the Altitude Sky Lounge. The lounge is located on the 22nd floor of the San Diego Marriott Gaslamp Quarter Hotel. The lounge offers stunning 360-degree views of the city, making it a great place to watch the sunset.
Location: The Altitude Sky Lounge is located in the Marriott Gaslamp Quarter Hotel at 660 K St, San Diego, CA 92101
14. Wonderland Ocean Pub
If you’re looking for a relaxed bar vibe in a location with tons of windows and the perfect view of Ocean Beach, then Wonderland Ocean Pub is definitely somewhere you should go. This bar is perfect for sunset lovers, with great cocktails and food and friendly staff.
They even do a sunset toast here, so where better to go then somewhere where others appreciate the sunset too?
Location: 5083 Santa Monica Ave Suite 2B, San Diego, CA 92107
15. El Prez
San Diego is known for its Mexican food, so it’s no surprise that one of the best places to watch the sunset is at a restaurant with a view of the ocean and Mexican-inspired cuisine. El Prez is located in the Pacific Beach neighborhood and features a rooftop patio with amazing views.
The food is fresh (grab some tacos or tortas!) and the drinks are strong, making it a perfect place to end your day.
Location: El Prez is located at 4190 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
The Best Unique Sunset Spots in San Diego
There are, of course, the usual places to watch the sunset in San Diego – really anywhere will be incredible. However, if you’re looking for something to switch it up a bit, here’s a couple unique sunset spots in San Diego to try out for a different experience.
16. Go Sailing at Sunset in San Diego
Another unique and wonderful way to experience the sunset in San Diego is by sailing! This is a great activity to do with friends or family, and you can BYOB to make it even better. There are many different companies that offer sunset sails, but one of our favorites is Sailing San Diego.
They offer 3-hour sails that take place every day around sunset. You’ll be able to see the skyline, Coronado Bridge, and even some dolphins if you’re lucky! This is a truly unique experience and one that you won’t want to miss.
⛵️ Click here to check availability on a Sunset Sail (sells out fast!)
17. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunset
If you’re looking for a truly memorable way to see some of the best sunsets in San Diego, you should consider taking a ride on a hot air balloon! This is such a unique and magical experience, and you’ll be able to see the sunset from a whole new perspective.
You can book a ride with Compass Balloons for a great experience. The guides are extremely knowledgeable, and friendly and might even give you some champagne to sip on while you’re soaring in the sky watching the best sunset. You can see a lot from above, including Torrey Pines or even Mt. Soledad!
When is the Best Time to Watch the Sunset in San Diego?
The best time to watch the sunset in San Diego is typically around 15-20 minutes before the sun actually sets. Note that the sunset time will change throughout the year and those in California love watching sunsets. It’s usually best to get to your sunset spot early to snag a spot and parking!
- Before daylight savings sunsets can be around 6pm
- During the summer months the sun typically sets between 7:30 and 8pm
Where to Stay in San Diego
While you probably can’t go too wrong with where to stay in San Diego, I recommend staying either in the La Jolla area or the downtown area due to its location. Of course, it’ll depend on what you want to spend your time doing while in San Diego, but these two areas are great places to stay for any visitors!
The Wrap-Up: Best Sunset Spots in San Diego
So if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable way to see the sunset in San Diego, be sure to check out one of these spots! Whether you decide to go on a hot air balloon ride, sail around the harbor, or watch from a park, you’re sure to have an amazing experience.
And don’t forget – the best time to catch a San Diego sunset is typically 15-20 minutes before the sun actually sets. So get there early and snag yourself a spot. The best sunset spots in San Diego are calling your name!
What’s your favorite place to watch sunsets in San Diego?
