Your Guide to Stunning Sunsets in San Diego

There’s a reason the spectacular sunsets in San Diego typically sit at the top of “best of” lists and Instagram feeds. Our legendarily stunning, incandescent dusk hours are a nightly occurrence, casting a spell over the city and setting the stage for dramatic moments, perfect backgrounds, and simple moments of reflection. Find your ideal vantage point at one of our favorite locations where you can experience the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean. Don’t forget your camera!

Bird Rock (1.4 miles from the hotel)

The famous Bird Rock — both the neighborhood and the formation from which it takes its name — sits just north of us at Pacific Terrace. It’s an offbeat area featuring cozy restaurants, eclectic shops, and absolutely breathtaking sunsets.

5435 Calumet Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037

 

Windansea Beach (3 miles away)

A long-treasured La Jolla surfing spot for San Diego’s boarders, Windansea Beach is home to several unique rock formations, a spectacular beach, and — naturally — plenty of available vistas from which to watch the sun dip beneath the horizon. Bring a blanket and drink in the splendor. 

6800 Neptune Place, La Jolla, CA 92039

 

Sunset Point Park (3.1 miles away)

With a name like “Sunset Point,” you KNOW the evenings here are gorgeous. Sunset Point is located in Mission Bay, adjacent to one of our sister hotels, The Dana on Mission Bay. The beach here is next to a grassy park and is dotted with firepits. It’s also just down the street from Mission Beach Boardwalk.

1400 Dana Landing Rd, San Diego, CA 92109

 

Mount Soledad (3.4 miles away)

Standing tall above La Jolla is Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial. Gaze across miles of coastline, San Diego landmarks, and the Pacific Ocean as far as the eye can see. Sunsets seem to last longer up here, with a panoramic view of the entire city.

6905 La Jolla Scenic Dr S, La Jolla, CA 92037

 

Ocean Beach Pier (5.9 miles away)

Ocean Beach Pier is located on the south end of the OB stretch of coast. Cast a fishing line from the end of the pier or simply sit and enjoy the bursts of color in the sky.

1850 Ocean Front St, San Diego, CA 92107

 

Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier (6 miles away)

Scripps Pier offers serene tranquility and more than a few chances to spot many of San Diego’s native wildlife species. Enjoy some bird-watching in the time leading up to sundown, and, if you get there early enough, check out the Birch Aquarium at the Scripps Institute of Oceanography.

8650 Kennel Way, La Jolla, CA 92037

 

Sunset Cliffs (6.8 miles away)

Sunset Cliffs is located just south of Ocean Beach. Head here in early evening, and you’ll soon discover how Sunset Cliffs Boulevard got its name. Bring a blanket or pack a picnic to fully take part in the evening sunset celebration.

1024 Cordova St, San Diego, CA 92107

 

Shelter Island Marina Walkway (7.5 miles away) 

Grab a bench facing the water on the marina walkway outside of our sister hotel Best Western Plus Island Palms and enjoy the view while the sun dips beneath the horizon. Shelter Island is the ideal spot for watching the sun set over the boats in the postcard-perfect harbor.

2303 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106

 

Waterfront Park, Embarcadero (10.3 miles away)

San Diego’s Embarcadero sits adjacent to San Diego Bay and is a popular spot for residents and visitors alike. Nearby Waterfront Park is the perfect spot for a picnic. Several fascinating maritime museums can be found here, as well as top-notch seafood restaurants. Enjoy the area as you take in the view. 

1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101

 

Coronado Ferry Landing (10.5 miles away)

A pilgrimage point for visitors all over the world, this resplendent promenade is as good as it gets when it comes to angles: No matter where you are, your view of the sky will be incredible. Afterward, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants while flipping through your photos, and start planning your next adventure. 

1201 1st St, Coronado, CA 92118

 

Pacific Terrace Hotel 

Locals and visitors alike enjoy gathering along the Pacific Beach boardwalk adjacent to the Pacific Terrace Hotel each evening. It’s easily one of the best places to watch the spectacular views of the sun setting over the ocean. Unwind with a cocktail on the poolside patio or at the oceanfront pool while you watch the sun slip below the shimmering horizon. Would you rather take it in from your private ocean-view balcony? Take a look at our Specials & Packages Page, choose the offer that’s right for you, then kick back and experience it all. 

610 Diamond St, San Diego, CA 92109