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    Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

    4.8 (1.2k reviews)

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    Sunset and ocean
    Olyvia K.

    Wow! I get why this spot is supposed to be one of the best spots in San Diego to catch the sunset. It's absolutely stunning. People will bring blankets and chairs as well as food which is such an incredible idea. To get to just enjoy a loved one's company while you can sit here enjoy the views and even enjoy your dinner or a dessert or snack or whatever!!! It is absolutely breathtaking and such a gorgeous spot. It is so lovely and I definitely want to catch more sunsets here!

    Jewelia C.

    One of the prettiest views I've ever seen... legitimately made me consider moving to San Diego.... I immediately looked up apartment rentals.....

    Cliffs
    Gwyneth N.

    SUNSET CLIFFS @ SD The views here was AMAZING with free parking in the neighborhood, just make sure to get there early to snag a good spot and closer parking (maybe about 45 min before the sun goes down)

    Cheryl G.

    Sunset Cliffs is a San Diego institution! I frequently go for walks in this area. A lot of of it is parallel to the street but at the end there is a nice open park with a few trails that butt up to Point Loma Nazarene university. It is especially beautiful right now in the spring... All the flowers are starting to come out and everything is green. This is also a great area to come out with a picnic and watch the sunset. And if you don't bring a picnic, there are lots of great taco and brunch spots in Ocean Beach for after your walk!

    Kevin T.

    A very underrated part of San Diego. Sunset Cliffs, as the name states is one of the amazing spots for sunsets. However, my wife and I love to come here for the scenic view and a nice hike. Parking - Street parking is ideal here, however I've seen many park on the lots alongside the coast for a closer view of the ocean. Although there's not a beach area, you're able to hike along the coast for a long while, you'll see people doing yoga, taking pictures, or hiking up and down the coastline itself. There's plenty of spots that stretches out towards the ocean, you'll see plenty of people enjoying the breeze. This is a sunset spot, but my wife and I visited for a morning hike, and it was just as scenic. It wasn't too cold and it was a very enjoyable 3 mile hike up and down the coast. Pictures are a must! For sunset specific visits, any spot is great, but there's a specific spot called Pappy's point where many gather to see the sunset. Aside from that, driving along the coastline with the window/roof down is a absolute gem moment. Definitely a relaxing spot to visit whenever in town.

    Alexa D.

    I love Sunset Cliffs! It's one of my favorite spots for photoshoots. Parking has never really been an issue for me, and the area is so big that you can walk around, explore, and take photos without feeling crowded. The views are absolutely gorgeous--especially around sunset--and there are so many beautiful backdrops. I've had so much fun running around with friends here capturing photos. Overall, it's such a peaceful, scenic spot and definitely one of my go-to locations!

    Nick P.

    I was pleased to find that the parking here is free. We parked in the parking lot but it can get filled up. I have seen people park along the street. Apparently, some of the locals have never heard of Rum Runner's Cave (Smuggler's Cave) or Rum Runner Cove. I found it on Google search but didn't see it. They have stairs that take you down to the tides. There were low tides when we went and I saw people walking along the rocks. If you do so, make sure you have some water shoes. You can go barefoot but be careful with your footing. This is a great place to take nice photos.

    Karen T.

    Beautiful park to visit at any time of the day, but it's especially beautiful during sunset. My husband and I hiked the trail here and enjoyed San Diego's natural coastal environment very much. The trail is short and easy without much elevation, making it great for beginners. It was stunning to see the clear ocean view. Certain parts of the cliff are uneven and steep, so it is important to be careful when navigating the cliffs. The entire park had plenty of room for us to explore nature's beauty, as it was not crowded at all. I would highly recommend checking this spot out if you are in the area.

    Elisa N.

    SUNSET CLIFFS NATURAL PARK @ SAN DIEGO Parking is available through street parking only, and it's usually pretty easy to find. If you can't get a spot during peak hours, there's also neighborhood parking right next door. There are plenty of areas to drive around, so you'll be able to find something. This is definitely a core spot for college students, honestly, for anyone living in San Diego. As a college student, I've always loved coming to Sunset Cliffs. It's super nice, the views are incredible, and watching the sunset here never gets old. It's also a great place for picnics. It can get crowded at night, but the vibe is always fun, and it's cool seeing everyone hang out. I recommend bringing a blanket since it gets a little sandy, but there are trash cans everywhere, and you can bring food. It's just a really great environment overall and definitely a place I think everyone should visit.

    Amanda J.

    I came here on a Saturday evening and it was pretty busy. There was a lot of traffic getting to the area and in the parking lot, but I was able to find street parking without too much trouble. The ocean views are beautiful and it's a really nice spot to take a walk, relax, and enjoy the scenery. Definitely worth visiting, especially around sunset.

    Siu M.

    Came during low tide to see the tide pools, what amazing place! The drive in was so spectacular, it felt like I was almost driving into the ocean. The parking in the gravel lot was easy (on a tuesday afternoon). Relatively big area to explore. I caught lots of beautiful shots of nature. This place is really fun and relaxing

    Andres A.

    Breathtaking view! Such a beautiful spot to just stand and admire the beauty of nature. Parking is a bit difficult, probably easier to catch an Uber and check it out. You can bring something to eat and just admire the scenery. Lots of people there it it did not feel overcrowded.

    These are the days I love my job!
    Mikey H.

    I can't believe how many fellow Yelpers I know have left reviews! I've been here a few times over the past year, but never thought about writing a review. This is one of the best reasons why San Diego is a great city to live in! My students needed a photograph of them watching the sunset. We drove over at 5:45, thinking it wouldn't be crowded, but it was! Some of them were also worried about the clouds that were rolling in. However, if memory serves me right, there's always been a few breaks between cloud banks for the sun to peak through. The evening was perfect! A man proposed to his girlfriend when we arrived. He put together a bed of white rose petals, a bunch of candles, and a lit up sign that said, "Will you marry me?" on a background of faux ivy. There was also a bottle of champagne chilling. He really did a great job! How could she say no especially with that sunset behind them! If you can't find parking, the neighborhood is your best bet depending on which cliff and/or beach you want to go to. For the most part, the people are all very chill and nice since it's sunset. Our only issue were the foreign people who walked right in front of me while I was taking pictures. I hate tourists...LOLLLLL! Definitely worth coming to at sunset...the most beautiful natural light!

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    8 months ago

    Pretty sunrise and sunsets; breathtaking views of the ocean and surfers. Great place to take a walk with friends or your dog!

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    Beautiful places to overlook and have a picnic at, would highly recommend since it's by so much of sd

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    Sunset Cliffs Natural Park Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

    I have seen people go to a section of sunset cliffs and have a romantic picnic. Do u know of the services?

    There are no services at the park.

    Can you find seashells here?

    No, these are very high cliffs with no beach access depending where you are.

    Is there rv parking for day use, not overnight camping? Just a spot go hang out for the day.?

    Absolutely.

    Can I fish here? And if so where can I do so with/without a permit

    Some people have fished from the shore but as far as I know only certain piers do not require a fishing license otherwise one is required everywhere else.

    I've never been here. Is it friendly for the senior citizen population, as in is it walking friendly for someone with mild disabilities?

    If you stay too side it shouldn't be an issue, I do not recommend attempting to walk down or get closer to the water or lower cliffs of you do not see official handicapped accessible walkways.

    Hi! Is this area currently open for hiking?

    Yes, all trails are open. However, parking lots remain closed as of today (5/17/20).

    Where are the caves at and where is the best place to find parking to watch sunset?

    Do they allow dogs? Only as because it's a national park?

    Sunset Cliffs is not a National park - it's a local/regional park. Dogs are allowed on leashes. There are certain times of the year where hours change for dog rules but I believe they are always allowed on a leash.

    Hello everyone! Any suggestion on where to park? :)

    It's always a roll of the dice where you can park. Street parking is usually all taken by people just sitting in their cars enjoying the breeze and/or sunset. But there's a few unpaved small parking lots adjacent to the cliffs where you might find a… 

    About what time is best to come for the sunset views?

    Show up at least a half hour before sunset and find a good spot. You'll see the sky and ocean change shades as the sun sets and after sunset there will still be light.

    Are there bathrooms?

    Yes. Over the cliff in the ocean. Haha jk. I don't recall seeing any restrooms.

    Where do I find the caves and are they easy to swim in?

    The Park itself is past Ladera Street. There is a small cave above tide line, not much water. I think you are talking about the arch further to the east of Ladera. I've seen photos of people jumping into the seawater there. Not sure if safe.

    Are there porta potties or restrooms of some kind available here?

    Yes there is porta potties at the Sunset Cliffs parking lot in the lower lot on the right side

    Is sunset cliffs dog friendly?

    No, not when the park ranger is there. Although many people walk their dog here, a park ranger just told us no dogs until after 6 in the summer months, along the entire cliff (trail included). It was July 4 and she told us we had to go.

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    Review Highlights - Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

    Gorgeous beach accessible via the stairs near the "Sunset Cliffs Natural Park" sign off Sunset Cliffs Blvd.

    Mentioned in 21 reviews

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    Civita Park

    Civita Park

    4.6
    (176 reviews)
    12.2 km

    Civita Park in Mission Valley has quickly become one of my go-to spots, especially since it's just…read morea short drive from home. It's super accessible with ample parking, and I love that there are multiple entry points and routes you can take depending on how long of a walk you're in the mood for. This park truly has something for everyone. There's a splash pad, basketball courts, a great playground for kids, and even a giant chess game, which is such a fun and unique touch. It's also an amazing place to walk your dog--I bring mine here all the time, and he absolutely loves all the open grass and the variety of paths we can explore. One of my favorite features is the set of stairs that lead up toward the residential areas and the dog park. If you take them all the way up, you're rewarded with really pretty views at the top, which makes the little climb totally worth it. Overall, Civita Park is clean, well-designed, and perfect whether you're looking to be active or just enjoy a relaxing afternoon outdoors. Definitely a Mission Valley gem!

    Pros: Spacious, plenty of walking paths, with nice clean facilities, which include 2 family…read morebathrooms with baby diaper changing stations and several drinking fountains. There's also a row of small fountains for kids to play, run through and splash in. Cons: It's a really nice park ON A COOL DAY. Lately, with temperatures 10 to 19° above "normal average" - or maybe it's just the new normal - it's hard to recall the last time we got to experience a cool day. But here, the way the gazebos, tables, and benches are set up reflects a pretty severe case of denial that this is Southern California, and not quite within walking distance from the beach. It WILL get hot whenever it damn pleases, with or without notice. It did so in February already, in case you missed it. We came a few times for the farmers market. Both days were unfortunately " 80°F" her weather report, which in reality feels like 92°F, and we had to scramble to find a little bit of shade, so that we could eat our street food without passing out from heat stroke. We huddled awkwardly on the curb under a small tree. Other people passing by with food in their hands looked at us with envy. NOT A SINGLE PERSON sat on the readily available benches with tables, because they were in the blazing sun, yet lacked any shade. Never mind an umbrella, not even holes to put one in!! Denial much?? It's really sad, because it's a beautiful place. It just DESPERATELY needs more shade for the visitors to feel comfortable without clinging to trees or the bathroom walls.

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    Tunnel Mural
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    The Children's Park

    The Children's Park

    4.3
    (37 reviews)
    8.4 km

    We enjoyed the park here! It had more people than usual when we play at parks but it was downtime…read moreand comic con weekend. Great play structures. Built with probably age 7+ in mind but my toddler was able to enjoy everything easily. The slides were metal but it didn't burn anyone going down. I was happy there was a good amount of shade! Bring your own food and snacks. Prices are ridiculous. The ice cream truck was $6 for an ice cream sandwich. Prices are not posted and I didn't have the heart to say nevermind and disappoint the kiddos. Great park!

    This is more based on the dog park that's on the same lot as the Children's Park. This one uses…read moreturf, which i find has it's benefits on the days after a rainstorm since it doesn't get muddy. There are four big pine trees with separate retaining walls around three of them for owners to sit down. With it being so close to the bay, there's often a nice breeze that goes through the park. There's no divide between small dogs and big dogs, so it's best to just keep an eye on your dog, and many owners around here are usually respectful. The street parking immediately adjacent to the park is free, however, it has a limit of 30 minutes, and the parking meter workers are strict on it if they're around. I bring my dog here around lunch time because those who live/ work in the area tend to bring their dogs during their break time and my dog gets his socialization time. They close 8am-11am MWF for maintenance/ cleaning. Currently, both gates are broken so it's not as secure as it should be, and who knows when the city will actually fix it. There're a few agility structures and a water dispenser. The children's park itself looks pretty cool for kids with a lot of structures with slides and swings. There's also another separate area with fixed exercise equipment that looks well- maintained. The water feature in the park is a water feature, not a pool.

    Photos
    Where can you find a large art sculpture and the many areas made of wood and the climbing is for exercise.
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    The Children's Park in Downtown, San Diego, CA
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    Childrens park one of the best educational parks and for the many structures you can have fun the whole day.

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    Maruta Gardner Playground

    Maruta Gardner Playground

    4.8
    (29 reviews)
    6.1 km

    The most amazing park my toddler and I have ever had the pleasure of visiting- thus far!!!…read more As we were driving to Old Town, we passed by a few playgrounds prompting my little monster's request for some play time. After we were doing doing some basic tourist-y things, I hopped on Yelp in search of a few parks located withing the vicinity. Maruta Gardner Playgound seemed to be the most entertaining and appropriate for my wild child. Parking was plentiful and the size of this particular playground was great. Not only was the look and design very unique, you really couldn't ask for a better view. Seating was plentiful and again, the design of things were so cool. Shade is easily found and the play structure is great for children + adults of all ages. Lastly, there are restrooms and water fountain located not too far. Shout out to Ms. Maruta Gardner!! My daughter and I thank you because this place wouldn't have been possible without you. Your dedications and love for your community was undeniable. Thank you for beautifying everything around you and rest in paradise. 5/5 Stars!! Definitely a must if you are in San Diego!!

    My kiddo loves obstacle course type playgrounds, par-core, all the things, so I googled what was…read morenear us and spotted this place. Soo cute in person, big playground, lots of space, grassy area to the little pond lake thing to walk around. Also the parking lot was really big lots of shade. We had a fun morning.

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    MARUTA GARDNER PLAYGROUND
    MARUTA GARDNER PLAYGROUND
    MARUTA GARDNER PLAYGROUND
    MARUTA GARDNER PLAYGROUND

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    Liberty Station NTC Park

    Liberty Station NTC Park

    4.6
    (173 reviews)
    4.1 km

    We're fortunate to be able to walk to all Liberty Station has to offer. ,…read more Dog walks along the water, shopping Trader Joe's or Vons, Sephora. My optometrist is there and the Scripps clinic takes walk-ins for lab work and other services. Tender Greens, Ikuru sushi is simple and very good. Liberty Public market has all kinds of food options, Con Pane for coffee, bread and yummy carbs! Solare for Michelin recommended Italian food. The Joan performing arts center is home to Cygnet Theater company now in its second season there, it's the perfect date night spot. Kayak rentals in the summer behind the hotels and events of all sorts at the Park - Every weekend there is something going on! Grateful to have all this in walking distance to our house !

    Liberty Station NTC Park is a large neighborhood park which hosts local events and various kids…read moresports. The park, formally part of a naval training center, sits along an inlet of the San Diego Bay. Great views of downtown San Diego can be seen from the scenic walkway along the bay. Tropical vegetation lines the nicely paved and accessible walkway. I saw a few benches along the walkway to sit. I saw kid's soccer practice and people riding bikes and walking in the park. A local business offered paddle boarding with your dog for a fee. A coin show was advertised in the nearby convention center. The park is multifunctional. A footbridge is available that crosses over the small bay. I saw a building that had restrooms towards the center of the walkway. The park is a good place to run or walk. I walked to the park, so I'm not sure about parking. I noticed a little street parking.

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    Liberty Station NTC Park
    Liberty Station NTC Park
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    Kate O Sessions Memorial Park

    Kate O Sessions Memorial Park

    4.6
    (350 reviews)
    10.7 km

    OBSESSED! I came here when I first moved to SD and somehow forgot just how gorgeous this park is…read more I've been back twice recently and just soaked it all in. The weather was perfect, sun was out and it was one of those places where it's easy to lose track of time. Sooo soo peaceful ! One disclaimer.. be careful where you walk and where you step. There's a pretty big gap between the grass and the edge of the pavement in one area that is easily hidden. I wasn't paying attention, tripped and scraped both of my knees. Thankfully my ankle ended up being okay after icing it at home. Be careful lol. There's so much space in the park so don't worry about nabbing a great spot. Bring a blanket or beach chair, have a picnic, take in the city views, or just sit and relax for a while. Before you get all the way up the main overlook, there's a large flat grassy area before you enter that looked perfect for birthday parties or small get togethers. Both times I visited were during the day and it wasn't crowded. I did see quite a few people sunbathing lol don't think I've ever seen that at a park before. If you're looking for a peaceful spot to unwind and enjoy some of the best views in San Diego, definitely make some time for Kate Sessions Park!

    This was my second time visiting this park, and I absolutely love it. The views are breathtaking,…read moreand the atmosphere is so peaceful. I enjoy bringing a blanket, relaxing on the grass, and looking up at the beautiful sky. It's the perfect place to spend some quiet time alone or gather with family and friends. Both times I've visited, I was able to find parking at the top without having to circle around, and there's also street parking available. The park is very clean, well-maintained, and has a playground for kids. I highly recommend this park if you're looking for a peaceful place to relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy some beautiful views.

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    Kate Sessions Memorial Park in San Diego.
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    Sunset Cliffs Natural Park - parks - Updated August 2026

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