Golden Hour: Where to See the Best Sunsets in San Francisco

Sunsets in San Francisco, California, are more than a little magical.

Neighborhoods of steep hills, the Golden Gate Bridge, bookstores that have been BEAT, the original anchor brew, extra sour(dough), the insane turns of Lombard Street, giant redwoods, and the pioneering spirit of the west.

A sunset in SF is more than a good idea, it’s essential. Whether you want beach or city views, light hikes, no hikes, more privacy, or more people, this list has you covered.

Here’s where to catch the best sunsets in San Francisco:

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Tips for Catching Sunset in San Francisco

Pack a jacket. Most of these spots are elevated and windy, and SF nights can get chilly. A comfy beanie for your ears is also a good idea.

Bring a light source. This inexpensive collapsable lantern is perfect for evening or night hikes, plus it’s light, compact, and easy to fold up.

Summer has more fog than winter. The more fog, the less sunset visibility. However, life-changing sunsets happen year-round in San Francisco!

When in doubt, push the Easy Button. To get the best sunset spots at the right time without all the hassle, go for a San Francisco Sunset Photography Tour.

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Sunsets in the City

Twin Peaks

Neighborhood: Cole Valley

Twin Peaks is one of the most popular viewpoints in the entire city (read: it gets busy!).

In the west, you’ll see the sunset over the Pacific Ocean and the Sunset District. To the south, you’ll see the San Bruno Mountains, and to the north, the Golden Gate Bridge, Sutro Tower, and, on a very clear day, Alcatraz.

How to get to Twin Peaks: Most people don’t know this, but there are many ways to get up to Twin Peaks. You can drive up or park on Crestline Drive and follow the stairs.

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Battery Spencer

Neighborhood: Marlin Headlands

A Golden Gate sunset should be on everyone’s bucket list, and Battery Spencer is one of the best places to cross it off!

This is that postcard Golden Gate Bridge view, with downtown, the bay, boats passing under the bridge, and Alcatraz tossed in for an extra dash of SF.

Note: Battery Spencer is across the Golden Gate Bridge in the Marin Headlands, but the view of the city makes it one of the prettiest places to see sunsets in San Francisco.

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Top of the Mark

Neighborhood: Nob Hill

The historical Mark Hopkins Hotel is well known for its sparkling 360-degree views of the city. The hotel’s 19th floor holds the iconic sky lounge, Top of the Mark, an ideal place for a sunset and a 5-star dinner.

Sunset from a Cable Car

Cable cars are one of the best (and most iconic) ways to see the city! You’ll get unique views of all major landmarks, from the Bay, Golden Gate, Alcatraz, Lombard Street, etc,

Everyone should experience a cable car sunset at least once!

Tip: Here’s my easy guide to riding a cable car in San Francisco, including routes, cost, tips and tricks.

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Best Ocean Sunsets in San Francisco

Baker Beach

Neighborhood: Presidio

If you want iconic Golden Gate Bridge and bay views, Baker Beach is it. Baker Beach is also wildly accessible, with a huge parking lot, a rarity in San Francisco.

Pro Tip: Pack binoculars, this is a prime whale-watching spot!

Marshall’s Beach

Neighborhood: Presidio

Marshall’s Beach, a continuation of Baker Beach, is a favorite among tourists and photographers. Golden Gate is much closer, and the photos look surprisingly different than at Baker.

Getting there: Hiking is required. Start on the Batteries to Bluffs Trail, and look for the sign for the stairs leading to Marshall’s Beach. The stairs are steep, take your time on the way back up.

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Less Crowded Sunset Spots

Tank Hill

Neighborhood: Twin Peaks

The top of Tank Hill overlooks the city and bay, and with fewer tourists is more private. There are plenty of spaces between rocks and a few benches to sit and enjoy the pastel colors of a West Coast sunset.

Tip: Pack a photo-worthy picnic basket and romanticize your life.

How to Get to Tank Hill: At the Twin Peaks Blvd and Clarendon Avenue intersection is a hidden set of wooden stairs. Once you defeat the short but steep walk to the top, continue walking northward, away from the stairs, until you see the tank foundation.

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Billy Goat Hill Park

Neighborhood: Glen Park

A true neighborhood green space, you won’t find many tourists here at Billy Goat Hill Park, but you will see locals jogging and walking their dogs. BGH has an amazing view of SF’s skyline that I really like, framed by the lookout point next to the large tree. Set up a portable phone tripod to get the best photos!

Note: Sometimes, there is a rope swing. Residents put it up, the city takes it down, and the cycle continues. 

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Sunsets in San Francisco: FAQ

Where can I watch the sunset on the beach in San Francisco?

The best places to see beautiful ocean sunsets in San Francisco are Marshall and Baker Beach… however, is there really such a thing as a bad ocean sunset?

Any beach in SF is a lovely spot for a sunset.

Is Twin Peaks good for Sunset?

YES!!!

From Twin Peaks, you’ll see the sunset over the Pacific Ocean and the Sunset District.

To the south, you’ll see the San Bruno Mountains, and to the north, the Golden Gate Bridge, Sutro Tower, and, on a clear day, Alcatraz.

Can you see sunset from Golden Gate Park?

Yes, you can watch the sunset from the Golden Gate Park! The bridge tends to have more fog, so you’re better off watching the sunset from a nearby beach or vantage point.

Baker or Marshall Beach is your best bet to get up close to Golden Gate.

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