Best San Diego Beaches for Fall Sunsets
- San Diego Beach Review
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
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San Diego is spoiled with colorful sunsets year-round, but locals know that fall is the sweet spot. From September through November, the skies are clearer, the crowds are lighter, and the weather is comfortably warm. The result? Bold hues of orange, pink, and purple stretch across the Pacific, creating some of the most dramatic sunsets you’ll ever see.
Why Fall is Such a Great Time for San Diego Sunsets
Clouds: Fall brings more high clouds, which catch color and spread it across the sky.
Crisper air: Less humidity, less haze, better visibility.
Sun’s angle: Lower sun angles in fall create longer golden hours.
Fewer crowds: After summer, beaches are less packed, so it’s easier to find your spot without fighting foot traffic.
Fall sunsets are also slightly earlier in the evening (around 6:30–7 PM early in the season, shifting to 5–5:30 PM in November), giving you the perfect excuse to grab a blanket, pack a picnic, and savor golden hour.
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The Best Beaches for Fall Sunsets in San Diego
Here’s a breakdown of the top beaches and coastal spots where fall sunsets shine brightest.
1. Mission Beach
Mission Beach’s long and wide sandy shoreline makes it one of the best sunset spots in the city. The boardwalk views, palm trees, and openness add a classic SoCal feel.
Local Tip: Grab a rental bike or rollerblades for a sunset cruise along the boardwalk.
2. Pacific Beach
Just north of Mission Beach, Pacific Beach offers lively energy mixed with stunning skies. Watch the sun dip behind Crystal Pier or head slightly north to Law Street Park for a quieter vibe.
Local Tip: Arrive early to secure street parking — see our Guide to Parking on the San Diego Coast for helpful information on parking at San Diego's most popular beaches.
3. Windansea Beach
This La Jolla gem is known for its surf culture and natural beauty. The rocky shoreline and the famous thatched surf hut make for postcard-perfect sunset photos.
Local Tip: Bring sturdy sandals — the rocks can be slippery.
4. Torrey Pines State Beach
Towering cliffs and wide sandy stretches make Torrey Pines a jaw-dropping place to watch fall sunsets. From the beach, you’ll see the golden light illuminate the sandstone cliffs.
Local Tip: If you’re up for a short hike, head up to the Torrey Pines Reserve trails — the elevated views of the Pacific are unmatched. Be sure to familiarize yourself with hiking and trail information before you go.
5. Fletcher Cove (Solana Beach)
Fletcher Cove is a quieter option for fall sunsets, popular with locals who prefer less crowded sands. Plus, the backdrop of the cliffs makes for a picturesque sunset, and the small park above the beach gives you a higher vantage point for photos.
Local Tip: Checkout some of the cafes, restaurants, and shops along Highway 101 in Solana Beach after the sunset.
6. Moonlight State Beach (Encinitas)
This Encinitas favorite offers family-friendly amenities like fire pits, restrooms, and picnic tables — all within steps of the sand. Watching a sunset here feels like the perfect fall beach evening.
Local Tip: After the sunset, walk into downtown Encinitas for dinner at a local restaurant.
7. Carlsbad State Beach
Carlsbad’s coastline stretches wide, with long sandy beaches perfect for strolling as the sun dips below the horizon.
Local Tip: Enjoy exploring Carlsbad Village for dinner or dessert after sunset.
Honorary Mention: Sunset Cliffs
Not technically a beach, but no San Diego sunset list is complete without Sunset Cliffs. With dramatic rock formations and crashing waves below, it’s arguably the city’s most iconic sunset viewing point.
Local Tip: Stay back from the edges — cliffs can be unstable.
Best Beaches for Fall Sunsets at a Glance
Recommended Gear & Experiences
Beach Gear:
Backpack beach chair – lightweight, perfect for sunset watching.
Beach wagon – carry everything across wide sandy stretches.
Experiences:
FAQs About Fall Sunsets in San Diego
What time does the sun set in San Diego during fall?
September: around 6:30–7:00 PM
October: around 6:00 PM
November: closer to 5:00 PM
Is fall a good time to visit the beach in San Diego?
Yes — fall is known as “local summer.” Water temperatures remain warm, crowds are lighter, and sunsets are some of the best of the year.
Do I need a jacket for fall sunsets?
Evenings cool quickly once the sun sets. Bring a light hoodie or blanket to stay comfortable.
Which beach is the least crowded for fall sunsets?
Fletcher Cove and Windansea are quieter options compared to Pacific Beach or Mission Beach.
Can I have a beach bonfire after sunset?
Yes — at beaches like Moonlight State Beach and Mission Beach, designated fire pits are available. Learn more in our San Diego Beach Bonfires Guide.
Final Thoughts
Fall sunsets in San Diego are some of the most breathtaking in the world. Whether you’re catching golden hour from the cliffs of Torrey Pines, the lively energy of Pacific Beach, or the quiet shores of Fletcher Cove, you’ll find the season offers the perfect mix of beauty and peace.
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