Los Angeles is one of the best cities in the world to watch the sunset, where every evening feels like a cinematic scene. As the sun dips over the Pacific, the sky glows in shades of pink, gold, and orange, lighting up palm trees, city skylines, and ocean waves. From hilltop lookouts to coastal cliffs, the city offers countless spots to catch its famous golden hour.
TL;DR
- Top sunset vistas span Malibu beaches, Palos Verdes bluffs, Griffith/Mulholland lookouts, and DTLA rooftops.
- Arrive 30–45 min early for golden hour; stay 10–20 min after for vivid twilight “afterglow.”
- Winter = crisper, dramatic skies; summer = softer, longer fades; light clouds amplify color.
- For beaches/coves, check tides; for hikes, bring a headlamp for the descent.
- Parking fills near coast and overlooks. Have backups or use rideshare/transit.
- Photo tips: silhouettes, reflections, bracketing/HDR, and polarizers for water glare.
Related Reads:
- The Traveler’s Ultimate Guide to Los Angeles
- Most Photogenic Streets and Walking Routes in Los Angeles
- Unusual and Quirky Attractions in Los Angeles
Overview
Los Angeles is famous for its sunsets, and it’s easy to see why. The city’s location between the Pacific Ocean and the desert gives it some of the most colorful skies in the world. With nothing blocking the western horizon, the sun has a perfect stage to set in brilliant shades of orange, pink, and gold. A mix of ocean air, light haze, and warm weather often enhances the colors, turning ordinary evenings into breathtaking displays.
Every part of the city offers a different way to experience sunset. You can watch the sun dip into the ocean from a beach in Malibu, see it reflect off the skyline from a downtown rooftop, or take in panoramic views from Griffith Park or the Hollywood Hills. Each season brings its own kind of beauty, winter sunsets are clear and dramatic, while summer skies glow softly and linger longer. Even clouds and fog add to the show, scattering the light into new colors each night.
This guide to the best sunset spots in Los Angeles will help you find where and when to see them at their most spectacular.
El Matador State Beach
Dramatic cliffs and golden reflections. Tucked along Malibu’s rugged coastline, El Matador is a small pocket beach famed for its sea caves, towering rock spires, and romantic coves. At sunset, this wild shore becomes pure magic. The rocky cliffs glow fiery orange and the water shifts to purples and pinks, turning the beach into a California postcard moment. As the day’s final light dances on the ocean’s surface, those massive sea stacks turn into dark silhouettes of splendor – perfect for stunning photographs.
It’s a bit of a trek down: a steep dirt path and wooden stairs lead from the bluff-top parking lot to the sand below. But that descent is worth it. Standing barefoot on the wet sand, you can wander through wave-carved arches and hidden caves (especially at low tide) as the sky explodes in color around you.
Plan to get here at least 45 minutes before sundown – not just for parking (the small lot fills quickly), but to see the golden hour light make the cliffs glow and the ocean shimmer like glass. Bring a picnic or a camera and settle in for nature’s show. Keep in mind parking is limited and fills up by late afternoon, so off-peak days are ideal. As dusk deepens, linger a while; you might have the rhythmic crash of waves and the fading pink horizon almost all to yourself.
Palos Verdes Peninsula Bluffs
Ocean-edge serenity and lighthouse glow. On the southwestern edge of L.A., the Palos Verdes Peninsula offers a tranquil coastal panorama that feels a world away from the city bustle. Here, grassy bluffs drop off to the Pacific, and come sunset, it’s pure serenity.
You can stroll cliffside trails with waves far below, the salty scent of the ocean on the breeze, and watch the sun melt into the water with only the cry of seabirds for company. The sky often unfurls in pastel shades – peach, lavender, and rose – reflecting off the calm ocean.
What makes this spot special is its sense of space: a wide-open 180° view of sea and sky, sometimes with Catalina Island visible on the horizon about 22 miles offshore. As daylight fades, keep an eye to the south: the Point Vicente Lighthouse stands on a nearby bluff, and at dusk its beacon might begin to sweep across the water, adding a bit of historic charm to the scene.
There are several vantage points along Palos Verdes Drive West and South. Pelican Cove Park and Terranea Bluff Top Park are two favorites – each with parking and trails along the bluffs. Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to wander and find a comfy perch (a bench or even a picnic spot on the grass).
Parking is typically free at small lots or roadside pull-offs, but can be limited on weekends. The area is fairly accessible – minimal walking needed if you park near a viewpoint – though some paths are uneven. It’s quieter here than touristy beaches; you might share the sunset only with a few locals, pelicans gliding by, and the sound of distant surf.
Point Vicente Park & Lighthouse
Calm views and migrating whales at dusk. Just up the road on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Point Vicente offers one of Los Angeles’s most expansive ocean vistas – complete with a picturesque white lighthouse. Sunsets here feel especially peaceful. The sun slips toward the horizon, turning the sky tangerine and the Pacific a brilliant coppery blue.
The historic Point Vicente Lighthouse stands at attention on the bluff, its light usually inactive until later in the evening, but its stark outline against a glowing sky makes for an iconic sight. The adjacent park and Interpretive Center have grassy lawns and benches perfectly positioned for watching day turn to night.
From December through April, this coastline is prime for spotting Pacific gray whales migrating just offshore. Locals and volunteers often gather at Point Vicente with binoculars, hoping to catch a spout or a tail fluke in the golden twilight. Even without whale sightings, you’ll likely see pelicans soaring and maybe dolphins playing in the distance.
Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to explore the paved walking path along the bluff’s edge. There’s a parking lot at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center (free and typically open until dusk). The center’s exhibits close by late afternoon, but the grounds remain open for sunset seekers. Restrooms and water fountains are available.
It’s an easy, family-friendly spot – no hiking required, and there are picnic tables if you want to bring an early dinner. As the sun sinks, the panorama is breathtaking: the open ocean to the west, the coastline stretching north towards Malibu, and the lighthouse tower quietly presiding over it all. Point Vicente epitomizes the calm, reflective mood of an L.A. sunset by the sea.
Pacific Park Ferris Wheel
For a classic L.A. experience, watch the sunset from the Santa Monica Pier – or better yet, from atop its famous Ferris wheel. The Pacific Park Ferris Wheel (the Pacific Wheel) lifts you 130 feet above the ocean, offering a 360° view of coastline and city. At sunset, the entire scene is electric: the sky to the west becomes a fire of orange and pink, while behind you the lights of Santa Monica start to twinkle.
Each gentle rotation of the wheel gives a new perspective – one moment you’re looking north at the palm-lined beaches turning gold, the next you’re gazing down at the pier itself, where the crowd below pauses to applaud the sinking sun. The mix of natural beauty and playful atmosphere is pure Los Angeles: surfers catch the last waves below, the roller coaster rattles by, and a saxophonist on the pier might be serenading the sunset.
As twilight deepens, the Pacific Wheel itself comes alive with thousands of LED lights, adding a rainbow glow against the darkening sky. Get to the pier at least an hour before sunset to soak up the fun. You might grab a quick bite (funnel cake, anyone?) and then hop in line for the Ferris wheel. Sunset is a popular time, so expect a short wait for a gondola – but it’s worth it.
If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, the pier and adjacent Santa Monica State Beach offer plenty of viewing spots. Parking is available in pier-area lots, but they fill up; consider the nearby civic center garage or ride-share to avoid the hassle.
The pier is fully accessible (including the Ferris wheel which has accessible gondolas). Once the sun has set, stick around as the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel lights up for the night – a true “city meets sea” spectacle of neon against nature.
Vista Del Mar (Playa Del Rey)
Peaceful shoreline drive and open horizons. Sometimes the best sunset spot is one you discover on a drive. Vista Del Mar is a scenic coastal road running along Playa Del Rey and Dockweiler Beach, offering an uninterrupted horizon over the Pacific. As the sun lowers here, you can either pull off and sit on the sand or simply roll down your windows and cruise slowly while the sky changes color.
The atmosphere is tranquil and surprisingly uncrowded – a hidden gem known mostly to locals. On one side of you: gentle waves and a sky turning citrus orange, then cotton-candy pink. On the other side: dunes and wetlands, and occasionally a plane rising silently from LAX in the distance, catching the sunlight like a metallic bird.
A small green space, Vista del Mar Park, sits by the road and is an ideal picnic spot if you want to stop. It’s particularly enchanting at sunset, when the sky transforms into a palette of vibrant hues and the city feels far away. Here, there are no tall buildings to block your view, no dense crowds – just the wide-open Pacific and the day’s last light.
Vista Del Mar has street parking along parts of the road (limited and fills up near dinner time). The park itself (at the corner of Vista Del Mar and Culver Blvd) has a grassy lawn and a few benches; it officially closes around sunset (7 p.m.) , but you can still enjoy the view from the beach just steps away.
The area is easy to access – essentially at sea level – but note that Dockweiler Beach (just south) allows bonfires, so you might catch the aroma of beach fires on the breeze. If you drive further south on Vista Del Mar, it turns into Westward Beach Road toward Manhattan Beach – a lovely route if you want to chase the afterglow. Vista Del Mar at dusk feels like your own private coastline, painted in pastels and gold.
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
Elevated skyline and ocean silhouettes. For a panoramic sunset view of LA’s skyline and coastline, it’s hard to beat the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. This 500-foot-high park in Culver City is known for its steep wooden staircase – 282 steps that challenge your legs – and the incredible reward at the top.
As you climb (or drive up the winding road) and finally reach the summit, the whole city opens up below you. At sunset, you can see the skyscrapers of downtown begin to glow in the east, while the ocean to the west reflects the sun’s brilliance.
On a clear day, the viewpoint offers a 360° sweep: the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica to one side, downtown Los Angeles and even the Hollywood Hills to the other. As the sun drops, watch for the silhouettes – the shape of Catalina Island on the water, the outline of the Santa Monica Mountains, even planes coming in to LAX like tiny glowing embers in the distance.
The sky here often streaks orange and pink, and as darkness falls, the city lights blink on, transforming the view into a twinkling urban tapestry. Visiting info: The park is open until sunset (rangers will start herding people out shortly after). There’s a paid parking lot at the top (off Hetzler Road) with limited spaces, and street parking at the bottom on Jefferson Blvd (free, but you’ll be hiking up the steep trail or stairs).
If you’re up for exercise, climbing the famed Culver City Stairs is a local favorite workout – just bring water and give yourself 20–30 minutes to reach the top if you’re taking it slow. Otherwise, driving to the top and walking a short path to the overlook is also an option (ideal if you have folks who can’t do steep hikes). There are restrooms near the parking area.
Best to arrive about 45 minutes before sunset to snag a parking spot and enjoy golden hour views. Keep in mind it can be breezy up there. As you stand on the overlook at sunset, you truly appreciate L.A.’s geography – city and sea all in one eyeful – and why this is one of the best sunset views LA can serve up.
Temescal Canyon Overlook
A hiking reward with Pacific glow. For those willing to lace up their hiking shoes, Temescal Canyon offers a sunset experience earned by a trek – and all the more beautiful for it. Tucked in the hills of the Santa Monica Mountains (at the edge of the Pacific Palisades), the Temescal Ridge Trail leads to an overlook that feels worlds away from the city.
After a moderate uphill hike through chaparral and rustling sycamore trees, you emerge at a broad vista point about 1,000 feet above sea level. Come at sunset, and you’ll catch the Pacific Ocean glowing to the west, the sun dipping into the water near Santa Monica Bay, and the entire Santa Monica coastline bathed in soft light. Turn around, and you might see the city of Los Angeles spread out to the east, fading into dusk.
It’s the kind of panorama that makes a little huff-and-puff totally worth it: the ocean, the mountains, and the city all in view, framed by a sky ablaze in oranges and pinks. The atmosphere is peaceful and a touch adventurous – often you’ll share the moment with only a handful of other hikers, all quietly marveling as daylight slips away.
The popular route is the Temescal Canyon Loop or the out-and-back to the overlook. Starting from Temescal Gateway Park (near Sunset Blvd and Temescal Canyon Rd), it’s about 2 miles up to the ridge. Expect a moderate hike – some steep sections, about 800 feet of elevation gain – taking 45 minutes to an hour to reach the top.
There is a parking lot at the trailhead (around $12 fee) and street parking on Sunset Blvd if you’re lucky. The trail is well-marked. Try to reach the ridge viewpoint at least 15–20 minutes before sunset to catch the peak colors (earlier if you want to see golden hour on the canyon). There’s a bench at the overlook to rest on.
After the sun is gone, don’t linger too long – it gets dark quickly in the canyon. Bring a flashlight or headlamp for the hike down, as the return trail among the trees will be quite dim. By the time you’re back at your car, you’ll have that satisfied glow of having earned one of L.A.’s best sunset views. It’s an experience equal parts poetic (nature’s nightly show) and practical (exercise and views in one).
Griffith Park
Griffith Park’s Observatory is famous for sunsets, but for a more expansive and less crowded experience, consider hiking up to Mount Hollywood – the park’s second-highest peak at 1,625 feet. From the Mount Hollywood summit, you get a 360-degree panorama of Los Angeles: downtown’s skyline to the south, the San Fernando Valley to the north, the Hollywood Sign peeking from the west, and the Observatory’s domes glowing below you.
At dusk, this vantage point is nothing short of breathtaking. The sky morphs through a spectrum of colors – the western horizon flares orange behind the distant ocean, while the city side of the sky turns pink and purple. As the sun drops, a hush often falls among the few hikers up top. You’re watching the whole metropolis transition from day to night in one grand sweep.
Within minutes, the grid of L.A. streets begins to sparkle; you’ll see the city light up for the night right before your eyes. It’s a cinematic feeling, as if you’re on a natural balcony witnessing Los Angeles switch on. Getting there: There are multiple routes up Mt. Hollywood.
One popular path starts near the Griffith Observatory parking lot (the Charlie Turner Trailhead) – a 3-mile round-trip hike on a gradual fire road. Alternatively, the shorter but steeper route begins at the Boyscout Trail near the Trails Cafe in Fern Dell. Either way, plan for about 30–45 minutes of hiking each way. Trails are dirt but broad, suitable for anyone in decent shape (take water!).
Sunset is a popular time, so you may see others on the trail, but the summit area is roomy with picnic tables and fences to lean on. Aim to reach the top 20 minutes before sunset so you can watch the lead-up colors. There are no facilities up there (restrooms and water are back at the trailhead or Observatory).
Technically park trails close at dusk, so rangers prefer you head down promptly; bring a flashlight for safety, as it will be quite dark under the trees. Mount Hollywood is perfect for those who want a little adventure with their view. It’s the same sunset you’d see at the crowded Observatory below, but from up here, it feels more profound – a private light show with the entire city in attendance.
Runyon Canyon’s Hidden Ridge
A local favorite, intimate viewpoint. Runyon Canyon Park in Hollywood is known for its celebrity hikers and busy trails, but it does have a secret sunset spot if you know where to go. Skip the crowded main outlooks and head to the park’s East Ridge Trail – a narrower path along Runyon’s eastern side that leads to a quiet perch locals love.
As you ascend the dusty trail (less trafficked than the popular West Trail), you’ll find a small bench at a point just before the trail starts descending. This is the Hidden Ridge viewpoint. Settle here at sundown, and you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of central Los Angeles and the Hollywood basin spread out below.
The atmosphere is more intimate than you’d expect in the middle of the city – often just a few people or even just you, sitting on that bench watching the show. The sunset colors glow over the urban landscape, silhouettes of palm trees and high-rises dotting the scene.
You can see the Griffith Observatory on a distant hill and maybe even the Hollywood Sign’s silhouette if you look over your shoulder. As the sky turns ember-orange then soft pink, there’s a feeling of quiet community among whoever made it up here – a nod that you’ve found the spot that tourists often miss.
Start at Runyon’s Vista Street entrance (southwest gate). Take the dirt path that climbs immediately upward (the east ridge route) rather than the paved road. It’s a steep but relatively short hike up the ridge. You’ll pass some exercise stations and then continue until the trail levels out on the ridge with expansive views.
The bench is located at a prominent overlook point before the trail heads down toward the north end of the park. It’s about 0.7 miles up. Wear good shoes – the trail can be crumbly. There’s no shade, so an evening hike is pleasant, but bring water. Parking around Vista St and Fuller Ave is street-only and competitive (watch for permit restrictions).
Many people ride-share to Runyon to avoid parking hassles. The park officially closes at sunset, so plan to head back as twilight fades (park rangers do sweep). But for that brief time on Hidden Ridge, you get a personal, insider’s sunset experience – the kind that feels like you uncovered an L.A. secret.
Mulholland Drive Turnouts
Winding road, classic cinematic light. Mulholland Drive is legendary for its views, and at sunset this twisty hilltop road lives up to the hype. Driving along Mulholland in the golden hour feels like being in a classic film: the sunlight slants through the chaparral, Los Angeles spreads out on either side of the ridge, and every turnout beckons you to stop and take in a different vista.
There are several designated overlooks along Mulholland Drive where you can safely park and watch the show. Two of the best: Hollywood Bowl Overlook and Universal City Overlook. At the Hollywood Bowl Overlook (nearout post mile 3.3), you get a quintessential view of the L.A. Basin – the Hollywood Bowl amphitheater directly below, Downtown L.A.’s skyscrapers off to the east, and the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory visible in the hills to the left.
As the sun sets behind you (it sinks to the west, behind the Santa Monica Mountains), the sky over the city turns pastel orange and pink, and the landmarks start to glow. On clear evenings you can even see all the way out to the Pacific from here. Meanwhile, the Universal City Overlook (a bit further west, overlooking the San Fernando Valley) offers a broad view of the Valley’s neighborhoods and mountains beyond – lovely when the western sky turns violet and the lights of Universal Studios flicker on.
Each stop along Mulholland has its own ambiance, but all share that romantic, cinematic quality that made this road famous. You might recall scenes from movies or just feel like you’re in one. Visitor info: Mulholland Drive can be accessed from Cahuenga/101 on the east or from the 405 on the west; the prime stretch for overlooks is between the 101 and Laurel Canyon. Plan to cruise through just before sunset so you can scout a turnout with space.
Parking at overlooks is free but limited (maybe 5–10 cars max at each), so have a backup spot in mind if one is full. Bring a light jacket – it gets cooler up on the ridge after sundown. There are no facilities (apart from occasional information signs) and no streetlights, so be cautious when walking around the turnouts at dusk.
After sunset, you can continue driving west as the city lights twinkle below – it’s a fabulous way to see nighttime L.A. unfold. Few experiences are as classically L.A. as watching the daylight fade from Mulholland, where every overlook frames the city like a scene in a reel.
Manhattan Beach Pier
Pastel sky and surf reflections. As the sun sets over Manhattan Beach, time seems to slow down. Along this iconic pier and its surrounding beach, you’ll witness one of the most gentle and beautiful sunsets in Los Angeles. The sun dips toward the ocean directly off the pier, often turning the sky a dreamy palette of pastels – apricot, lavender, baby pink – which then reflect in the wet sands and shallow waves like a giant mirror.
It’s a favorite scene for photographers: the silhouette of the Manhattan Beach Pier (with its roundhouse aquarium at the end) framing the colorful sky, while the water beneath doubles the spectacle. Walk out to the end of the pier and you can watch surfers catching the last waves of the day, appearing as black cut-outs against the glimmering water.
Turn back to look at the shore, and you’ll see the quaint beach town start to light up, the Strand lights twinkling as joggers and families linger in the glow. The vibe here is laid-back and community-oriented. It’s common to hear a cheer when the sun finally slips below the horizon, especially if it’s one of those especially brilliant sunsets.
Parking can be tricky in this popular beach town – there are metered lots near the pier and a garage a few blocks up, but on weekends arrive early. The pier is pedestrian-only and free to access; it’s fully open during daylight hours (it closes around 10 p.m.).
For the best experience, come about an hour before sunset. Explore the pier, maybe grab an ice cream or coffee from a nearby café on Manhattan Beach Blvd, and find a spot either on the pier (for an over-water perspective) or directly under it on the sand (for a dramatic view of the sun through the pier pilings). At low tide, the wet sand provides gorgeous reflections of the sky – great for photos.
Manhattan Beach’s waterfront has plenty of benches along the walkpath if you prefer to sit. And once the show’s over, you’re in a perfect place for evening fun: excellent restaurants and bars line the streets just up from the beach, making it easy to turn a sunset viewing into a full night out.
Perch Rooftop Bar (Downtown LA)
Skyline sunsets with music and cocktails. High above the streets of Downtown, Perch is a rooftop oasis that delivers a sunset experience with a touch of urban glamour. Stepping out onto Perch’s 15th-floor open-air terrace feels like entering a chic garden in the sky – there are twinkling string lights, potted trees, and the city’s skyscrapers at eye level all around. As the sun starts to set, the glass towers of DTLA blaze with reflection.
Look west and you can see the sun dipping toward the horizon beyond the city, painting the sky in deep oranges. Look east and the skyscrapers gradually shift from golden to silhouette, and then to a constellation of lights as dusk deepens. The rooftop’s ambiance is mellow and cinematic. Often there’s live jazz music or a DJ spinning lounge beats in the background, adding a lovely soundtrack to the visual spectacle.
With a craft cocktail in hand and a gentle breeze coming through, you watch day turn to night amid clinking glasses and soft chatter – truly one of the most romantic ways to catch a sunset in Los Angeles. Plan your visit: Perch is both a restaurant and a bar. If you’re aiming just for drinks and views, you can usually walk in and head to the bar/lounge area (no cover charge).
To snag a good spot by the railing, arrive around 45 minutes before sunset, especially on weekends, as it fills up with after-work and pre-dinner crowds. Happy hour runs 4–6 p.m. on weekdays , so coming during that window gets you both drink specials and the early sunset colors. Dress is smart casual – it’s a see-and-be-seen kind of place, though daytime tourists are welcome.
There’s an elevator ride up (so it’s accessible), then one flight of stairs to the highest rooftop level. Once up there, you can order a Kir Royale or craft cocktail and small plates if you’re peckish. Sunset unfolds slowly from this vantage – you might catch a fiery sky to the west and the glow on the eastern buildings.
Don’t rush off; the “blue hour” after sunset often brings a violet sky over the skyline that’s just as gorgeous. And as city lights come on one by one, a live band might start playing below your table or a DJ might kick up the energy – turning your sunset viewing into a lively night out. There are few places where “cinematic” and “relaxing” meet so perfectly, but Perch manages to be both, offering one of the best sunset views in LA alongside that martini.
Sunset Timing and Photography Tips
Catching the perfect L.A. sunset isn’t just about where you go – it’s also when and how you go. Here are some tips to maximize the experience and maybe even snap that postcard-worthy shot:
- Arrive Early (and Stay Late): Plan to be at your chosen spot 30–45 minutes before the official sunset time. The period leading up to sunset – the golden hour – often has the most beautiful soft light for photos and sets the mood as the sky slowly changes. Plus, it ensures you get parking and a good viewing spot before any crowds.
Equally, don’t pack up the moment the sun slips below the horizon. Some of L.A.’s best colors ignite 10–20 minutes after sunset, during twilight. The sky can flush neon pink, purple, even red once the sun is gone – a dazzling afterglow locals fondly call “L.A. pink.” Stay at least until the first stars pop out.
- Season Matters: Los Angeles sunsets are striking year-round, but there are subtle differences. In winter, the air tends to be clearer (especially after rain) and the sun sets further south over the ocean, giving dramatic, crisp views – you can often see distant mountains or islands with unusual clarity. Winter twilight also lasts a bit longer, extending the color show. In summer, the sun sets later (around 8 p.m.) and more northwest.
You often get a protracted, mellow fade of orange and pink that warms the sky for a long time. Summer’s marine layer can add unique texture – sometimes low clouds offshore light up bright orange underneath. The bottom line: winter sunsets = bold and defined; summer sunsets = soft and extended. Both are gorgeous in their own way, so adjust your expectations (and camera settings) accordingly.
- Check the Weather: A little cloud cover often makes for the most dramatic sunsets, as clouds catch and reflect the light. Don’t be dissuaded by partly cloudy forecasts – those might yield the best sunsets. On the other hand, a heavy marine layer (common in May–June mornings, known as “June Gloom”) could obscure the horizon. If it’s foggy at the beach, consider heading to a higher elevation spot (like Griffith or Baldwin Hills) which might sit above the low clouds.
- Use Apps and Tools: To plan your sunset outing, consider using a sun position app or website. Tools like Sunseeker or The Photographer’s Ephemeris can tell you the exact sunset time and direction for your location , as well as when golden hour and “blue hour” occur. There are also dedicated “golden hour” apps that send alerts for prime lighting. These are particularly handy if you’re aiming to photograph the scene and want to be set up at just the right moment.
- Photo Tips: If shooting with a camera or even a smartphone, remember that sunsets are high-contrast scenes. You may need to tap on the brightest part of the sky on your phone to prevent the sun from blowing out the exposure. Consider bracketing exposures or using HDR modes to capture detail in both sky and foreground. A polarizing filter (for cameras) can deepen sky colors and reduce glare off water. For a creative touch, include silhouettes – palm trees, a person watching, the Ferris wheel – to give scale and interest to your sunset shots. And don’t forget to look behind you – often the eastern sky (opposite the sun) turns a beautiful pink or purple (the “Belt of Venus”) that’s worth a picture too.
Planning a Sunset Route
With so many great sunset spots in Los Angeles, why not turn your evening into a sunset-hopping adventure? Below are a few themed itineraries that link multiple viewpoints. Each “route” is a suggestion to help you experience different sides of L.A.’s magic hour. Just remember to account for traffic (typically lighter once the evening sets in) and parking time, and always prioritize safety over squeezing in one more stop.
Coastal Glow Route
Start in late afternoon with a hike at Temescal Canyon. Enjoy the views from the overlook as the lowering sun gives the canyon a golden halo. Next, drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to El Matador State Beach in Malibu.
Aim to arrive by sunset proper – you’ll catch the sun dipping into the Pacific amid dramatic cliffs. After your beach sunset, continue a bit north or backtrack a few miles for a well-deserved Malibu dinner. There are oceanfront restaurants like Malibu Farm Pier Café or the casual Malibu Seafood shack (outdoor picnic-style dining) where you can dine while the sky’s last colors fade.
This route treats you to an active start, a serene beach climax, and a delicious finale. (Driving tip: PCH traffic eases up considerably by evening, but give yourself at least 45 minutes from Temescal to El Matador, longer on weekends.)
City Light Trail
Experience how the sunset interplays with L.A.’s urban landscape. Begin along Mulholland Drive in the Hollywood Hills – catch golden hour at an overlook like the Hollywood Bowl Overlook, where the city sprawls below you. As the sun sinks, head south (via Laurel Canyon or the 101 to 110 freeways) to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook above Culver City.
There, you can watch the moment of sunset with a 360° view – the skyline silhouettes and the ocean horizon glowing. Once darkness falls, make your way to Downtown L.A. for a celebratory nightcap at a rooftop such as Perch (which you read about above). From this stylish perch, you’ll see the skyline you just watched from afar, now up close and glittering. Toast to a day well spent. (Timing note: Start about 1.5–2 hours before sunset at Mulholland.
After that, you have roughly 30–40 minutes to get to Baldwin Hills for sunset – doable if you leave as soon as colors start, but on heavy traffic days you might go straight to Baldwin first, then Mulholland after sunset for twilight views of the lights.)
Beachfront Evening
For those who want maximum beach vibes, this route strings together a few coastal gems. Begin with a leisurely drive along Vista Del Mar in Playa del Rey as the sun starts its descent – the ocean will be on your right, shimmering. Continue south to Manhattan Beach Pier to catch the main event.
This could be your designated sunset viewing spot – watch surfers and the pier’s silhouette as the sky goes cotton candy. After the sun is down, treat yourself to dinner in Manhattan Beach or nearby Hermosa Beach; there are plenty of seafood joints, taco spots, or brewpubs in these beach towns (for example, Paradise Bowls for something quick or The Strand House for upscale with a view).
Finally, cap off the night by driving up the coastal road (or Sepulveda Blvd then Lincoln Blvd) to Santa Monica Pier. By the time you arrive, twilight will have deepened. Here you can enjoy the Pacific Park Ferris Wheel all lit up in its technicolor glory against the night sky, maybe take a ride if it’s still open, or play some carnival games and grab a dessert.
The contrast of a peaceful earlier sunset to the vibrant neon nightlife of Santa Monica Pier gives you the full spectrum of L.A.’s evening charm. (Hint: This route works best in summer or early fall when daylight is longer and Santa Monica’s activities go later. In winter, Santa Monica Pier might be quieter earlier, so you could reverse the order, starting there pre-sunset and ending in Manhattan Beach.)
The Takeaway
Sunsets in Los Angeles never get old. Each one feels a little different, a little magical, as if the city is taking a deep breath at the end of the day. The rush of traffic fades, the light turns soft and golden, and for a few moments everything slows down. Whether you’re standing in the sand at Venice Beach, sitting on a hill in Griffith Park, or just looking west from your balcony, the city seems to glow from within.
These moments remind you why people fall in love with LA. It’s not just the beauty of the colors, but the feeling they bring, that sense of peace, gratitude, and quiet renewal as the day slips into night. Watching the sunset becomes less about chasing the perfect view and more about being present, wherever you are.
So wherever you find yourself in Los Angeles, take a few minutes to stop and watch the sky. Let the light fade, listen to the city hum, and feel that mix of calm and wonder settle in. The sun will rise again tomorrow, but this sunset, this exact glow, will never come again. And that’s what makes it unforgettable.
FAQ
Q1. What time should I arrive for sunset in LA?
Get there 30–45 minutes before official sunset for golden hour, and stay 10–20 minutes after for peak colors.
Q2. Which season has the best sunsets?
Winter after rain brings crisp, high-contrast skies, while summer offers long, pastel fades. Both deliver great color in different styles.
Q3. Are clouds good or bad for sunsets?
High or patchy clouds are ideal since they catch and reflect color. A solid marine layer can block the horizon at the beach.
Q4. Beach or hills, what’s better?
Beaches give horizon dips and water reflections, while hills such as Griffith, Mulholland, and Baldwin Hills add skyline layers and city-light transitions.
Q5. Do I need to check tides for El Matador?
Yes, low tide exposes arches, caves, and safer footing, while high tide can limit access and angles.
Q6. Is Point Vicente good for wildlife at sunset?
In winter or early spring, you may spot migrating gray whales offshore. Bring binoculars just in case.
Q7. Any safety tips for sunset hikes?
Start early, carry water, and bring a headlamp for the return. Trails darken fast after sunset, so stick to well-used paths.
Q8. What about parking near popular spots?
Lots fill before sunset at beaches and overlooks. Have a backup lot, consider rideshare, or arrive earlier on weekends.
Q9. Can I bring a tripod?
Usually fine on public beaches and sidewalks, just avoid blocking paths. Some parks or plazas may restrict tripods, so follow posted rules.
Q10. Are drones allowed at these locations?
Rules vary, and many coastal or urban areas have restrictions. Check local regulations and never fly over crowds.
Q11. Best quick-view options without hiking?
Palos Verdes bluff pull-offs, Baldwin Hills drive-up lot, Mulholland turnouts, Santa Monica or Manhattan Beach piers.
Q12. Photo settings for vivid color?
Expose for the sky to keep detail, try bracketing or HDR, use a polarizer for water glare, and include silhouettes for scale.