Best of 27 Places for sunsets in San Francisco
San Francisco offers a variety of stunning locations to watch the sunset. "Places for sunsets in San Francisco" is a popular search for both tourists and locals alike. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the picturesque Baker Beach, there are numerous spots to capture a breathtaking sunset photograph. Don't miss out on the chance to witness the city's natural beauty as the sun goes down.
- 1. The Painted Ladies
- 2. Dolores Park
- 3. Lands End Lookout
- 4. Crissy Field
- 5. Coit Tower
- 6. Alamo Square
- 7. PIER 39
- 8. Japanese Tea Garden
- 9. Twin Peaks
- 10. Fort Funston
- 11. Ina Coolbrith Park
- 12. Corona Heights Park
- 13. Golden Gate Overlook
- 14. Sutro Baths
- 15. Sutro Heights
- 16. Grandview Park
- 17. Tank Hill
- 18. Mile Rock Beach
- 19. Point Lobos
- 20. Crane Cove Park
- 21. Sunset Reservoir Park
- 22. Sunset Parkway
- 23. Billy Goat Hill
- 24. Immigrant Point Overlook
- 25. Treasure Island Vista Point
- 26. Inner Sunset Neighborhood
- 27. Hearts in San Francisco
1. The Painted Ladies
Iconic SF postcard view

The Painted Ladies of San Francisco, a row of Victorian houses, offer a striking contrast against the backdrop of the 21st Century City. These colorful houses, located on Steiner Street, are a must-see attraction in the city. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque view of these historic homes while relaxing at Alamo Square Park. The location provides a perfect spot to admire the surrounding history and modernity, especially on a sunny day.
To fully experience the Painted Ladies, plan a visit to the most famous set across from Alamo Square Park. The vibrant colors of these well-preserved Victorian houses are a delight to photograph. Besides the famous set, there are other Painted Ladies scattered throughout San Francisco waiting to be discovered. Overall, visiting the Painted Ladies is a great way to immerse oneself in the rich history and culture of the city.
2. Dolores Park
Historical landmarks, Cultural events

Dolores Park is a well-known location for sunbathing and a place where applying sunscreen is essential due to the strong sun rays. The park also boasts stunning views of the city skyline, making it an ideal spot for visitors to enjoy and take in the scenery.
Having a peaceful picnic in Dolores Park as the sun sets can make anyone feel like the star of their own story, enhancing their overall experience with the picturesque surroundings and soothing atmosphere.
3. Lands End Lookout
Accessible cliffside trail, whale watching

Lands End in San Francisco is a fantastic location to take a walk and enjoy beautiful views of the land, ocean, and Golden Gate Bridge. The area is known for its stunning sunsets, making it a popular spot for visitors and locals alike.
The park features whimsical and winding trails through rocky cliffs, providing a unique and scenic experience for all who visit. In addition to its natural beauty, Lands End is also a top place to catch the sunset in San Francisco, offering breathtaking views of the sky as it changes colors over the ocean and bridge.
4. Crissy Field
Free admission to national park site

Crissy Field, located in San Francisco, is an ideal destination to experience breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset. This picturesque location offers a relaxing atmosphere, making it a popular choice for visitors and locals alike.
Crissy Field Beach, a part of Crissy Field, provides a stunning vantage point for watching the sunset behind the Golden Gate Bridge. The sight of the sun setting over the bridge is truly awe-inspiring, making it a highly recommended activity for anyone visiting the area.
5. Coit Tower
Iconic Dorothy Hamill sculpture

A sunset view from Telegraph Hill's peak offers a stunning tableau of the city, with Russian Hill in the foreground and the sun setting in the distance. This location provides an ideal vantage point to witness a picturesque sunset over the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge, as seen from the base of Coit Tower.
If you find yourself in San Francisco with clear weather, a visit to the emblematic Coit Tower to observe the sunset is highly recommended. The view of the sun setting over the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge is a sight to behold, making it a worthwhile detour during your stay in the city.
6. Alamo Square
Painted Ladies landmark

Alamo Square, located in San Francisco, is divided into two halves, each offering unique views. The East half of the park provides a stunning perspective of the Painted Ladies, also known as the "Seven Sisters," and downtown San Francisco. Once you've taken in the sights on the East side, make your way to the West half of the park to witness a breathtaking sunset. After sunset, head back to the other side of the square to admire the illuminated skyline of downtown San Francisco at night.
Alamo Square is a beautiful and picturesque location, situated on one of San Francisco's many hills. The square's most notable feature is the Painted Ladies, a row of seven Victorian houses with vibrant and striking paint jobs. Additionally, the square offers panoramic views of downtown San Francisco, making it an ideal spot to take in the city's skyline, both during the day and at night.
7. PIER 39
Iconic San Francisco landmark

Pier 39 in San Francisco is a must-visit destination, offering a variety of activities for visitors. The pier is known for its large population of sea lions and pelicans, which can be observed up close. There are also several shops and restaurants to choose from, making it the perfect place to spend the evening. Visitors can enjoy great views of the bay while sipping on a cocktail, or take in an acrobatic show.
The sunsets at Pier 39 are particularly stunning, and watching the sun go down over the water is a popular activity. Afterward, visitors can head inside to explore the partially open-air boardwalk. Here, they will find even more shops and restaurants, as well as more opportunities to watch the sea lions. The atmosphere is both fun and beautiful, making Pier 39 a great place to spend an evening.
8. Japanese Tea Garden
Historic site with over a century of history

The Japanese Tea Garden is a perfect place to watch the sunset and enjoy a serene environment. The garden, with its beautiful landscape, offers a memorable experience as the day ends. The lighting during sunset adds to the magic of the place, making it even more enchanting.
Visitors to the Japanese Tea Garden can expect to be treated to a beautiful sight, particularly during sunset. The garden's lighting creates a magical atmosphere, enhancing the natural beauty of the landscape. Whether you're looking for a peaceful place to relax or a stunning backdrop for your photos, the Japanese Tea Garden is an excellent choice.
9. Twin Peaks
Nature's beauty, famous TV show filming location

Twin Peaks, two adjacent hills in the City, stand at a height of 922 feet, making them the second tallest peaks after Mt. Davidson. Covering 64 acres, the area provides a 0.7-mile trail network leading to the summit, where one can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Bay. Watching the sunset from Twin Peaks is an awe-inspiring experience, and if you're lucky, you might even witness the fog, known as Karl, rolling in like a tide, creating an atmospheric view.
Hiking the trails to the top of Twin Peaks is a must for any visitor, as the journey offers spectacular sights of the surrounding Bay Area. Once you reach the top, prepare to be left breathless by the breathtaking scenery. The picturesque sunsets are a popular attraction, but an added bonus is the fog, which often envelops the peaks, providing a unique and magical experience.
10. Fort Funston
Historic WWII batteries and military fortifications

Fort Funston offers stunning ocean views on clear days, with benches placed along the path for visitors to relax and take in the scenery. A popular activity at the site is watching hang gliders launch off the ocean bluff. There is a boardwalk near the parking lot's west end that leads to a viewing deck situated next to the hang gliders' take-off point, allowing for an up-close experience.
In addition to the hang gliders, Fort Funston is known for its wide variety of dogs that can be found throughout the area. The park is a popular spot for dog owners to bring their pets, making it a great place for dog lovers and those looking to meet new furry friends. The park's natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
11. Ina Coolbrith Park
Historic park with scenic beauty

Nestled in the Russian Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, this charming park lives up to its name with lush greenery and stunning views of the downtown skyline and bay bridge. Visitors can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the park on benches or climb the steps to a hidden picnic spot, an ideal location for watching the sunset.
The park is a hidden gem, surrounded by houses and only accessible by foot. Early risers who hike up Taylor Street will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city skyline and bay bridge. The stairs that run through the park can also serve as a challenging early morning workout for those looking to get some exercise while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
12. Corona Heights Park
Dog-friendly park, popular filming location

Climbing up the hill at Corona Heights offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy stunning views from its 520ft summit. The experience is made more enjoyable by the peaceful and quiet environment that allows for relaxation and reflection.
At the top, you can scramble up the red rocks and be rewarded with jaw-dropping 180-degree views of the city below. Watching the sunset and seeing the city light up is a particularly breathtaking sight, making the climb well worth the effort.
13. Golden Gate Overlook
Breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay

As the day ends in San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge becomes more striking as the setting sun casts a golden hue on it. The bridge's beauty is accentuated by the diffused light, and the waters below reflect the golden glow, creating a breathtaking sight. One of the best places to witness this natural spectacle is the Golden Gate Overlook.
To fully enjoy the view, it's recommended to wear warm clothing as it can get quite windy at the Overlook. The experience of watching the sunset at this location is worth the effort, as the changing colors of the sky and the reflections on the water create a memorable scene.
14. Sutro Baths
Free admission, dog-friendly

Sutro Baths is a popular spot for taking sunset photos, offering a stunning backdrop for photography. However, visitors are reminded to prioritize safety and avoid taking unnecessary risks for the sake of a picture. The location's charm extends beyond sunset hours, as evidenced by the breathtaking scenery during late night visits. The moon's bright reflection on the water and the glistening stars above make for a truly magical experience.
During the night, the Sutro Baths offer a serene and intimate atmosphere. Sitting on the ledge while observing the powerful waves crashing against the ruins, the bright moon, and the gloriously shining stars create a breathtaking and memorable scene. While daytime visits might offer different views, the enchanting beauty of the Sutro Baths at night is not to be missed.
15. Sutro Heights
Free admission, dog-friendly

Sutro Heights Park is a wonderful location for watching the sunset, with stunning views of the ocean and city. The park has a long and interesting history, but often goes unnoticed by many people. The park's south-facing lookout point provides some of the best views of the sunset over Ocean Beach.
Visitors to Sutro Heights Park can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and city, especially during the sunset. The park's history is rich and full of stories, yet it remains a hidden gem for many. The lookout point in the park offers a stunning view of the sunset over Ocean Beach, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a beautiful and peaceful spot to watch the sun go down.
16. Grandview Park
Dog-friendly, free admission

Golden Gate Park and the Inner Sunset district in San Francisco are great locations to enjoy a bottle of your favorite drink while taking in the stunning views. One such spot is Grand View Park, located in the Inner Sunset. The park's summit is small, but it provides breathtaking views of the entire San Francisco peninsula.
Grand View Park's summit offers a 360-degree view, making it an ideal spot for photography or a romantic picnic. Visitors can see the Pacific Ocean, the Marin Headlands, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge from the park's summit. Despite its small size, the park is a popular destination for both tourists and locals seeking a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.
17. Tank Hill
Historic site, popular for sunrise and sunset watching

Tank Hill is one of several hidden gems in the urban landscape, offering spectacular views of the city and bay. Its vantage point allows visitors to see from Point Reyes in the north to South San Francisco in the south. The hill is an ideal location for viewing both sunrises and sunsets.
Despite its modest size, Tank Hill compensates with stunning panoramic views. A short hike to the top is rewarded with a visual treat of the bay, downtown San Francisco, and as far as Oakland and Berkeley. This peaceful spot is perfect for those seeking a respite from the city's hustle and bustle.
18. Mile Rock Beach
Part of the larger Lands End Trail

Mile Rock Beach, located in San Francisco, boasts a steep descent but is known for its breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge framed by towering rocks. The beach provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for visitors seeking solitude. The panoramic beauty of the sunset is particularly stunning on clear days, making the 260-step journey down the stairs well worth the effort.
In summary, Mile Rock Beach is a hidden gem in San Francisco that features a steep terrain but rewards visitors with magnificent views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. The beach is an excellent place for a peaceful retreat, offering a panoramic view of the stunning sunset, especially on clear days. The 260-step staircase leading to the beach might be challenging, but the breathtaking scenery is a worthy payoff.
19. Point Lobos

Ocean Beach in San Francisco is a popular destination, rated 4.2 stars thanks to its breathtaking sunsets. It's the perfect place to relax with a loved one or by yourself, so make sure to bring everything you need for a cozy and enjoyable time. Forget about coffee table books and opt instead for a bottle of wine, plastic cups, and some lip balm to protect you from the wind.
Meanwhile, Point Lobos in San Francisco offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, making it an ideal spot for scenic walks and exploration. During your visit, you can also check out nearby attractions such as Lands End, Lands End Lookout, and the Sutro Baths, all of which are worth seeing and will complete your memorable experience at Point Lobos.
20. Crane Cove Park
Newly opened park along San Francisco Bay

Crane Cove Park is a revitalized 7-acre green space located in San Francisco's Central Waterfront, which was originally an inaccessible industrial shoreline. The park offers picturesque views of the East Bay and Bay Bridge, making it an ideal spot for various outdoor activities.
The park features two expansive lawn areas for dog-walking, jogging, and picnicking, as well as a small beach for visitors to enjoy. The redesign of this former industrial area has created a much-needed park for the community, providing a perfect spot for relaxation, exercise, and taking in the natural beauty of the San Francisco Bay.
21. Sunset Reservoir Park
Dog-friendly park, beautiful sunsets

The place in question is known for its tranquility and serene atmosphere, making it a popular spot for various activities. One can find benches here, providing a comfortable place to sit and enjoy the surroundings. The view is particularly stunning, offering a breathtaking vista of the sunset. This makes it an ideal location for unwinding, reading a book, or simply doing some thinking.
In addition to its suitability for individual activities, this place is also great for dog owners looking to take their pets for a walk. The added bonus of witnessing a beautiful sunset further enhances the experience. Overall, it is a versatile location that caters to a variety of preferences and pastimes.
22. Sunset Parkway

San Francisco is a city known for its beautiful sunsets, with various picturesque spots including the Golden Gate Bridge, the ocean, and the San Bruno Mountains. One of the most popular locations to catch a sunset is Twin Peaks, which offers a panoramic view of the city from its two prominent peaks. The area is marked by a large tower and provides a stunning view of the sunset over the city.
As a long-time resident of San Francisco, I can attest to the breathtaking sunsets the city has to offer. Twin Peaks stands out as one of the best sunset spots, with its expansive view encompassing the city's unique landscape. The towering peaks and the large tower create a memorable backdrop for any sunset view, making it a must-visit location for both tourists and locals alike.
23. Billy Goat Hill
Dog-friendly hill with city skyline views

The location offers stunning views, particularly at night, and features a swing that adds a thrilling element. A cool breeze adds to the pleasant atmosphere.
Swing enthusiasts or those seeking excitement can find it here, while the view of the city is an extra perk. At night, the scenery becomes even more breathtaking. The cool winds contribute to a refreshing experience.
24. Immigrant Point Overlook

Immigrant Point Overlook is a must-visit location for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Marin Headlands. During the day, the scenery is magnificent, but the sunset is a particularly spectacular sight. The overlook provides an ideal vantage point to watch the sun go down, offering a truly unforgettable experience, especially when the weather is clear.
To enhance your visit, make sure to plan your trip around sunset and hope for clear skies. The fog can sometimes impede the view, but if you're lucky, you'll be treated to a breathtaking display of colors as the sun sinks below the horizon. Immigrant Point Overlook is a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers alike, providing a unique opportunity to capture the beauty of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
25. Treasure Island Vista Point

Treasure Island, located near San Francisco, is a great spot for wine tasting and dining, but its primary attraction is the stunning views of the city, particularly at night. It is advisable to bring a camera and a coat, as the area can get quite chilly. The best times to visit are at sunrise in the morning and at sunset in the evening.
The main activity to enjoy at Treasure Island is taking in the breathtaking panoramic view of San Francisco. This location is ideal for those who wish to avoid large crowds and tourists. The best times to visit are at sunset and sunrise, although any time of day offers a fantastic view of the city.
26. Inner Sunset Neighborhood

27. Hearts in San Francisco

Copy link Inspired by Tony Bennett's song "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," the Hearts of San Francisco can be found scattered throughout the city, in both public and private spaces. (Psst, there's one hidden inside the ground-floor lobby of LinkenIn's headquarters at 222 Second Street, which is visible from the Second Street sidewalk.) However, the one shown here in Union Square is possibly the most photographed. Open in Google Maps Foursquare Union Square, San Francisco, CA 94108 Visit website A post shared by Lucas Morace (@lucasmorace11) on August 9, 2017 at 12:44 p.m. PDT Also featured in: Mapping 18 Places to Get into the Christmas Spirit in San Francisco Where to Embrace the Christmas Spirit in San Francisco