Southern California, blessed with sunshine almost year-round, is the perfect destination for those craving vitamin D and stunning sunset displays every evening. Los Angeles, in particular, offers an irresistible charm as twilight descends. Let’s explore some of the best sunset viewing spots where you can fully embrace the magical “golden hour.” And don’t forget to check in at the iconic Santa Monica Pier to capture unforgettable memories!
Pacific Park: Radiant Sunset Views from the Pacific Wheel
Santa Monica Pier is not only an amusement destination but also a fantastic place to watch the sunset. While you can admire the view from almost anywhere on the pier (except maybe the restrooms!), the most ideal spot is from the top of the Pacific Wheel. Standing 130 feet high, this world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel provides unobstructed panoramic views.
Panoramic view of Santa Monica Pier and the Pacific Wheel illuminated at sunset
As night falls, you’ll witness another spectacular light show. Over 174,000 energy-efficient LED lights twinkle and dance across the ocean surface, creating a dazzling and magical scene. This is definitely an enjoyable sunset experience for the whole family.
Griffith Observatory: Sunset with a Panoramic City View
Griffith Observatory is one of Los Angeles’ most iconic tourist destinations, and also a famous filming location. Start your visit by watching the sunset from atop the mountain in Griffith Park.
Visitors enjoying a beautiful sunset from Griffith Observatory with a panoramic view of Los Angeles
With the city sprawling below, stunning beauty behind you, and unobstructed views from downtown to the Pacific Ocean, this is a wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle of life. Moreover, visiting the observatory and using the telescopes are free, making it a romantic and budget-friendly date idea. Free Wi-Fi also allows you to instantly share those breathtaking sunset photos on social media.
Castaway: Romantic Dinner with Stunning Sunset
Perched in the hills above Burbank, Castaway offers panoramic views of the San Fernando Valley and downtown Los Angeles. This historic restaurant has undergone a $10 million renovation, featuring a cozy Green Room bar, mid-century modern touches, and large windows that open up the indoor-outdoor space. Patio seating is ideal at sunset, but even if it’s full, the restaurant’s tiered design ensures you can enjoy the stunning views from almost anywhere.
Malibu Beach Inn: Private Sunset on Billionaire’s Beach
Located on the famed Billionaire’s Beach, Malibu Beach Inn is a luxurious beachfront boutique hotel offering many options for sunset viewing. For a private experience, book a room and relax on your balcony, as all 47 rooms have private balconies (and most have ocean views).
Serene sunset view from a balcony at Malibu Beach Inn
You can also head down to the beach and watch the sun dip below the horizon behind the pier, or snag a patio table at Carbon Beach Club to enjoy the sunset with a chocolate caramel tart.
Spire 73: Sunset From the Tallest Open-Air Bar in the Western Hemisphere
As Michelle Obama said, “When they go low, we go high!” Head to Spire 73, the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere. This bar is located on the 73rd floor of the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown. Arrive early to snag a window seat, or opt for a fireside bench on a cooler evening. Pro tip: Los Angeles sunsets are often more vibrant when the skies are clear after rain or wind.
Dockweiler State Beach: Artistic Sunset with Graffiti Boat
Since 2014, sunset lovers have had an extra reason to visit Dockweiler State Beach. A 70-foot wooden boat washed ashore and became stranded on the beach. Unable to be moved, it has transformed into a living mural, constantly changing by graffiti artists, adding a unique urban edge to your sunset photos.
Unique graffiti-covered wooden boat on Dockweiler State Beach, creating a striking sunset scene
Additionally, the beach features fire rings, picnic areas, a long bike/walking path, volleyball nets, and a pier for fishing and bird watching.
The Getty Center: Sunset Amidst Art and Architecture
Enjoy art, 360-degree views, Richard Meier’s stunning architecture, and breathtaking sunsets as you wander the grounds of this top-notch free museum, perched atop the Santa Monica Mountains. If the weather turns, head to the painting galleries on the upper floors of the North, South, East, and West Pavilions, as they all feature natural light interiors through glass walls, allowing you to watch the sunset from indoors. The Roman Gardens at the Getty Villa are also an excellent sunset viewing spot.
Terranea Resort: Endless Sunset Views by the Mediterranean Coast
Sunset viewing opportunities are nearly endless at this luxurious Mediterranean-inspired resort, located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Watch the swirls of pink, gold, and orange as you lounge at one of the four pools (including an adults-only covered pool overlooking Catalina), work out in the gym, play golf on the nine-hole course, relax on the plush daybeds of a casita, stroll around the grassy and rocky paths, or listen to live music on Nelson’s lawn.
Beautiful ocean sunset view from Terranea Resort
The Rooftop by JG: Sunset with Stars in Beverly Hills
Whether it’s celebrities or the starry night sky, stargazing is common at The Rooftop by JG, the chic eatery atop the 12-story Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills. Sink into plush emerald cushions as the sun sets behind the Century City skyscrapers, creating a perfect color palette to pair with your pineapple mai tai or spiced tuna sashimi with tropical fruit.
Los Angeles is not just a city of movie stars and vibrant beaches, but also a fantastic place to witness some of the most beautiful sunsets. Plan your trip today and don’t forget to check in at Santa Monica Pier at sunset for unforgettable experiences!