All that surfing and burrito eating has to come to an end at some point, and there’s no better way to end a perfect day than enjoying a San Diego Sunset! As photographers, we’re a tad picky when it comes to sunset spots – so enjoy our list of these scenic San Diego Sunset locations!

Best San Diego Sunset Spots | Bree + Stephen Photography

1) Sunset Cliffs

When you type “San Diego Sunset” into Google, the autocorrect says “Did you mean Sunset Cliffs San Diego?!” Because sunset cliffs is the number 1 popular spot to catch sunset!

Pro tip: go during the lowest tide to get access to hidden coves and tide pools!

2) Del Mar Dog Beach

Dawg…San Diego is dog friendly AF! Del Mar Dog beach, also known as north beach, is a fun place to let your dog run wild and meet other fur friends! Just don’t focus too hard on sunset or you’ll get taken out at the knee by dogs running and chasing each other!

3) La Jolla

La Jolla is located less than 5 miles north of Downtown San Diego and is known for epic views, fine dining, and an up-close look at seals/sea lions/ tide pool life on La Jolla Shores! While you’re there, grab a coffee or a snack at Caroline’s Seaside Cafe!

You can even climb the cliffs at La Jolla cove for a view into the caves or to see the San Diego coastline all the way up to Dana Point!

4) Torrey Pines Gliderport

Our favorite hike in San Diego starts from Torrey Pines Gliderport and takes you down to Black’s Beach! It’s a gorgeous spot to watch Paragliders take off or picnic atop 100ft+ seaside cliffs!

5) The Strand in Oceanside

Often overlooked is the noble town of oceanside which hosts many marines at the Camp Pendleton base. Oceanside is the northernmost town in San Diego which means it’s less crowded on the beaches! You can ride a bike or walk along the strand and enjoy coastal views!

After you get off your bike, take your shoes off and walk up to the water on Oceanside Beach! You can even grab an acai bowl on the beach at Tin Fish!

5) Carlsbad

Carlsbad is popularly known for the Carlsbad Flower Fields and has so many gorgeous locations to catch sunset including the Carlsbad Cliffs at Terra Mar Point!

Please remember to LEAVE NO TRACE while enjoying sunset. If you can’t pack it out, don’t pack it in! Don’t leave trash on the beach!

Make sure to stay moderately back from the cliffs because the sandstone is NOT stable! Especially if you have kids or dogs, do NOT let them get too close to the edge! Safety first!😆

6) Julian and Mount Laguna

Sometimes you want to get away from the busy Southern California vibe and drive to the peaceful mountains – Julian is a cute little town near Mount Laguna which is known for their Julian Apple Pies!

7) Windansea Beach

Windansea beach is located just south of La Jolla Cove and is the local’s favorite hotspot for surf and sunset! It’s a popular spot so go for sunrise if you want to have the beach all to yourself for photos!

Thank You for Enjoying our San Diego Sunset Location List!

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Bree + Stephen are adventurous entrepreneurs based in Salt Lake City, Utah! They’re pioneers of the NO BS Podcast and hosts of their YouTube channel where they share travel videos, business tutorials, and lifestyle content! They live with their German Shepherd, Sequoia and are usually chugging coffee while on their way to a hike! Please contact for business inquiries or questions about this article!