Field note

Sunset Cliffs & Point Loma

Sunset Cliffs, California

At a glance

Region: Coast
Photographs: 5
Best light: Golden hour, sunset and lingering afterglow
Map: Open in Google Maps

High-angle view of layered coastal sandstone cliffs meeting turquoise ocean water near a natural rock arch and rocky cove.

A tall steel lattice tower silhouetted against a deep orange sunset sky over the ocean coastline.

Bright orange sunset over ocean waves reflecting onto wet sandy shoreline with scattered pebbles and rugged cliffs on the right.

Docked boats and sailboats in a calm marina under a vivid magenta and purple sunset sky, with patio umbrellas visible on the right.

Vibrant pink and orange sunset sky over a calm ocean view framed by silhouetted palm trees and coastal bluffs.

Overlook at the Pacific Arch · Sunset Cliffs, California

Coast1 / 5

Along San Diego’s Point Loma Peninsula, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park stretches across 68 acres of sandstone cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Words & photographs by Hermz Shamoun · 1 min read

Waves continually shape the soft sandstone, carving arches, caves, and sea stacks along the coast. These sea-carved forms and broad ocean views give the setting its visual character. At sunset, the park offers one of San Diego’s most striking views toward the Pacific horizon.

Reviewed sources

Sunset Cliffs: San Diego’s Must-See Natural Park
www.visitcalifornia.com
Sunset Cliffs, San Diego — Wikipedia
en.wikipedia.org
Carved by the Sea: The Geology and History of Sunset Cliffs
www.sunsetcliffs.info

Visit tips

Before you go

Best time of day: Golden hour, sunset and lingering afterglow
Getting there & parking: To reach Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, take Interstate 8 west until it ends, then follow Sunset Cliffs Boulevard south through Ocean Beach. The main park entrance is located at Ladera Street. Free street parking is available along the boulevard, and there are two small public lots: one at the corner of Ladera Street and Cornish Drive, and another off Lomaland Drive on the Point Loma Nazarene University campus. Because spots fill up quickly, it is highly recommended to arrive at least an hour before sunset. For your safety, always remain on established paths and stay well back from the unstable, eroding cliff edges.
What to bring: When preparing for your visit to Sunset Cliffs, bringing the right gear is essential for both photography and safety. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the expansive, dramatic coastline, along with a microfiber cloth to wipe away the inevitable salt spray from your glass. The terrain can be uneven and rocky, so wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip. Since the coastal breeze can get quite chilly, especially after the sun goes down, be sure to pack a warm layer. Finally, bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, along with sunscreen and a hat for sun protection during the day.

Sources: wanderingcalifornia.com · www.nomadotravel.app · www.besttime2travel.com · whereismybeach.com · sandispots.com

Conditions change — check official sources before visiting.

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