1. GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY
Location: 2800 East Observatory Road, Los Angeles
Griffith Observatory has been the leader of public astronomy in Southern California since 1935. Featured in over 300 movies and TV shows, the famous landmark attracts visitors not only because it boasts a historical 12-inch Zeiss refracting telescope, but also because it’s one of the best sunset spots in SoCal. The hilltop view of the sun descending over Los Angeles is one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll ever witness. Recognized as one of California’s best places to watch the sunset, Griffith Observatory provides stunning vistas of downtown Los Angeles as well as its surrounding cities.
3. CRYSTAL COVE STATE PARK
Location: 8471 North Coast Highway, Laguna Beach
Featuring 3.2 miles of coastline; 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness; an enclave of 46 vintage cottages; and an offshore underwater area, Crystal Cove State Park is one of the best spots to watch the sunset. Check the Laguna Beach sun graph to ensure you catch the last rays of light at the right time. Take a break from hiking, swimming, and exploring the tidepools, and stop to appreciate the spectacular golden hour. Watch the sun set over the horizon as the orange, red, and violet colors conceal the once-blue sky.
5. LITTLE CORONA DEL MAR BEACH
Location: Ocean Boulevard and Poppy Avenue, Newport Beach
Located at the end of Buck Gully in the Newport Beach neighborhood, Little Corona del Mar Beach is one of Orange County’s lesser-known shores. A fun California beach to visit year-round, the beach attracts surfers, scuba divers, tide pool enthusiasts, and birdwatchers. Arguably one of California’s best places to watch the sunset, Little Corona del Mar Beach is a slice of heaven with beautiful rock formations. As the last bits of light gradually subdue, the golden hour colors complement Arch Rock in the distance. Wander along the coast at this SoCal sunset spot and take photos of the striking view.
9. IMPERIAL BEACH PIER
Location: 10 Evergreen Avenue, Imperial Beach
The southernmost pier in the San Diego area and the entire state of California, Imperial Beach Pier extends 1,491 feet out towards the horizon. Wide-open with plenty of room, it is a nice, serene place to take a long walk and is a wonderful spot to watch surfers. The wooden-planked pier wraps around a seafood restaurant at the end, where you can hang out until the beginning of golden hour. Look towards the north to see San Diego, south for Mexico, and west for the most awesome sunsets in SoCal. Feel the strong tides beat against this wooden pier and watch the colors of the sky gradually darken.
