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.
6. Channel Islands Harbor
Location: 1299 South Victoria Avenue, Oxnard
A more romantic sunset spot in Southern California is in Ventura County. For a memorable date, charm your better half with an Italian-style date and go on an authentic Venetian gondola cruise in the Channel Islands Harbor with Gondola Paradiso. Glide along the canals around Coral Island and enjoy the golden hues as you drift through the stunning harbor. (If it gets a little chilly, don’t hesitate to ask for blankets.) Perfect for any special occasion, this cruise allows you to experience the best sunset ever and create one-of-a-kind memories.
7. Sunset Cliffs Cave
Location: 800-898 Sunset Cliffs Boulevard, San Diego
Sunset Cliffs Cave is a hidden gem in San Diego. This sunset spot is an unbelievable place due to the incredible opening in its ceiling. The colossal sea cave is a secluded area, mostly because it’s impossible to access. Make sure to check the tide charts and go when it’s at low or negative tide. Walk to the end of Luscomb’s Point at Sunset Cliffs along the rocks. As you move forward towards the small cove, you’ll find the entrance, where a massive cave waits to be explored. The enormous, open-ceiling sea cave is not only a good place to watch the sunset, but also a wonderful spot to discover sea creatures.
8. Annie’s Canyon Trail
Location: Solana Hills Trail, Solana Beach
A claustrophobic’s nightmare but a hiker’s fantasy, Annie’s Canyon Trail boasts one of the best Southern California sunset spots. Don’t be fooled by the easy 1.4-mile hike—the canyon’s vertical, narrow areas could trigger claustrophobia. However, if you’re up for the challenge, the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the San Elijo Lagoon at the top are worthwhile.
Climb up ladder-style stairs and use your limbs to propel yourself up as naturally eroding sandstone walls engulf you. Once you reach your final destination, stop and immerse yourself in the breathtaking hues of golden hour that complement the natural erosion on the canyon’s walls. You’ll soon see why it’s a top spot to watch the sunset near San Diego.