All About LA Guide to LA

Top 5 Places to Watch the Sunset in LA

Los Angeles is known for such iconic things; famous movies, landmarks, and fantastic restaurants, but have you noticed how beautiful their sunsets are, too?! The best part of an end to a long day is looking out of your window and discovering it’s one of those photo-worthy sunset kinds of nights. Orange, yellow, and pink colors are flooded in the sky, making a gorgeous panoramic view. If you are in the mood to go for a quick drive, check our top 5 places to watch the sunset in LA, you won’t want to miss out!

Mulholland Drive Scenic Lookout

Address: 8591 Mulholland Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90046

Mulholland Drive has absolutely incredible views at any time of the day and any time of the year, but especially at sunset hour. When you reach the top of Mulholland Drive after driving through winding canyon roads, you can see a clear view of Downtown LA all the way to the ocean, and all of Los Angeles in between. Mulholland Drive has tons of scenic viewpoints where you can catch the sunset, one of our favorites is Jerome C. Daniel Overlook above the Hollywood Bowl.

Mulholland Drive – Photo by Aesthetic Andie on Stuffinla.com

The Griffith Observatory

Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Griffith Observatory may be an obvious location to catch a beautiful sunset in LA, but it is certainly not an overrated one. Griffith Observatory is another spot with incredible panoramic views that will never ever fail you. This is a great spot to take friends or family visiting from out of town to show off our beautiful city! Additionally, surrounding Griffith Observatory are many hiking trails if you’re looking to get some stops in!

Griffith Observatory – Photo by Bikes and Hikes LA

The Santa Monica Pier

Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401

The Santa Monica Pier is another classic, plus one that we adore. There is so much to do in Downtown Santa Monica, you can easily make an evening out of your sunset outing. Grab dinner across from the pier at one of the many restaurants at the Santa Monica Promenade, then walk to the edge of the pier to watch the sun touch the water. We highly recommend going on a weekday to try to avoid the massive crowds that flood in on the weekends.

Santa Monica Pier – Photo by Flashpacking America

The Pacific Palisades Bluffs

Address: 301 N Mt Holyoke Ave, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

There is a reason people call the Pacific Palisades the best neighborhood In LA (well, there is probably more than one reason!), but the clear reason is because of the unparalleled views. Sitting high above sea level, the Pacific Palisades peacefully looks out on the Pacific Ocean and catches every sunset without fail. The Pacific Palisades Park is the ultimate place to catch a sunset, so pick out a night, grab some takeout, and set up a little picnic to make it the total experience.

Pacific Palisades Bluffs – Photo by The New York Times

Pointe Dume State Preserve

Address: Malibu, CA 90265

If you’re a fan of Malibu like we are, you have to head out a little way up north to Pointe Dume State Preserve. Tucked away behind quiet neighborhoods, this reserve is such a magical, beautiful spot. Go on top of the Malibu coastal cliffs, sit back, and enjoy the natural view. Pointe Dume State Beach is just below this location and is another great spot to experience while you’re in the area. Bonus tip: During the spring months, Pointe Dume State Reserve is filled with the most lovely spring flowers – A must-see experience!

Point Dume State Preserve – Photo by Wonderland.xyz