This article highlights the gorgeous Sunset Cliffs located in San Diego, California.
Screams, one after another, caught my attention. In a second, I was looking down trying to determine where the cries were originating.
A group of 20-somethings was trying to reach the bottom of the 400-feet tall cliffs. There were no ‘real’ paths to accomplish the task. The only option was to follow the steep route others had sort of flattened on the face of the cliff.
When I looked down, the girls were trapped in one of the crevasses chiseled by nature. Nobody was moving or making obvious progress. I guess somebody was freaking out. Oh, and did I mentioned all this was tackled in flip flops?
I didn’t stay to watch the outcome of this little adventure (I want to think they made it). However, I understood why they were so eager to reach the bottom.
Down there, a beach scene straight out of a glossy magazine was taking place in full glorious force. Happy, off-leash dogs were running around while their owners were lounging on a chair.
Entire families were playing ball, eating, and cuddling under blankets. Other brave souls were enjoying the frigid waters of the Pacific Ocean. In the distance, surfers were waiting for the waves in groups.
All this was happening at the time of the day where the sun was giving the sandstone cliffs a fiery red hue.
Table of Contents
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
Sunset Cliffs is a neighborhood in the Point Loma community of San Diego. The area is named for the sheer cliffs which border the ocean.
This is a wonderland of carved bluffs, arches, caves, and tidepools. The sea, rain, and telluric forces have worked their magic in here.
The city of San Diego has protected this shoreline by creating a Natural Park. A 1.5-mile trail allows visitors to take a closer look at the geological highlights, the 80 native plant species, and the wildlife (including birds, lizards and even, foxes). But, beware, the area retains a primal and rugged personality.
This is not your typical, cookie-cutter type of beach or coast. Hours can be spent looking at the layers, patterns, and colors on the cliffs. Big boulders, which at one time where an integral part of the cliffs, are now home to hundreds of cormorants and other marine birds.
Flocks of pelicans fly by often. Your neck stretches in unnatural ways trying to decipher the colors in their bellies.
Then, there are caves and arches. What seems like a stable, flat rock has a huge opening underneath. You realize that later when you contemplate the area from another angle and you see the sun rays penetrating thru.
Plus, this place cannot get more local. I actually discovered the spot through local blogs. This is a true neighborhood hang out. Locals come to take in some fresh air, meet friends and watch the sunset. So, this is the place to escape the touristic side of San Diego.
Sunset Cliffs Details
There is not a specific address associated with the park. It is located on the west side of the Point Loma Peninsula, south of Ocean Beach. The term “Sunset Cliffs” refers to the entire neighborhood. If you enter it on a GPS, you may end on a random street in the area.
You need to enter a more specific feature like “Sunset Cliffs Beach” or “Sunset Cliffs Cave” to get to the actual cliffs.
After my visit, I realized I missed some great parts of the park (like the main tide pool area and the badlands). The website www.sunsetcliffs.info has good information on the area. At the site, you can download a brochure describing the main paths and points of interest.
I started the post with a story of several girls descending the cliffs through a dangerous part. Of course, I am not recommending this practice. There is stair access and, at least, one designated path to get to the beach or tide pools. Consider your safety and use those.
The area is not highly developed. So, do not expect facilities. During my visit, I didn’t see restrooms or water fountains.
Park along Sunset Cliffs Boulevard or on designated areas.
There is no entrance fee.
Observe extreme caution when walking the Cliffside Trail. The terrain is unstable and undeveloped.
If you get to the rocks close to the ocean, be vigilant. A big wave can sweep you (or scare you causing a fall). Never turn your back to the ocean.
Many come to the area lured by the big sea cave in the coast. Do your research on how to access. To my knowledge, swimming to the inside is not recommended during high tide.
Sightseeing Gear
Get ready for a day of sightseeing by bringing the right gear. Here is a list of the items I pack to explore cities and towns in California.
- Walking Shoes – Comfortable walking shoes are a must. I recommend investing in a good pair. My go-to brands are Clarks, Tevas, and Sketchers.
- Anti-Theft Bag – Keep your belongings safe by keeping them in an anti-theft bag. The ones manufactured by Travelon have a 5-points security system including an RFID blocking pocket. >>Check out their crossbody bag here If you prefer a backpack, this one is a good option
- Sweatshirt – A sweatshirt is a must to keep me warm during chilly mornings and nights. >Click to see this California appropriate option here
- Sun Block – Do not leave the house (or the car) without applying sunblock. I repeat, always wear sunblock when outdoors. >Buy sunblock here
- Lip Balm with Sunscreen – Protect your lips by applying a balm with sunscreen. >Get one of the best lip balms here
- Wide Brim Hat – A wide brim hat is a great way to protect your scalp, face, and neck. The ones manufactured by FURTALK come with an anti-UV function. >Buy this amazing hat here
- Hand Sanitizer – Do not forget to pack hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes.
- Sunglasses – These are another must when it comes to protecting from the sun. A polarized, sporty pair works better outdoors. >Take a look at this wonderful pair
- Water Bottle – Do not forget to bring water! Keep yours cold by taking a beautiful Hydro Flask water bottle. >Check out the insane options here
- THERMOS Tumblers – I have been a fan of the THERMOS brand since I received a tumbler as a gift. The tumblers keep drinks hot for hours. >>Buy THERMOS insulated tumblers here
- Camera – I have never gotten used to taking pictures exclusively with my phone. I prefer to use the Sony Alpha a6000. It is compact and takes gorgeous pictures. >Buy Sony Camera here
- Tripod – A compact tripod to take your photos and videos to a different level. >>Check out this popular option here
- Portable Power Bank – It is a pain to keep phones charged on trips (more if you are taking pictures, posting on social media, and navigating). Having a power bank is a lifesaver. The Anker portable charger can charge a phone 5 times. >Buy this incredible power bank here
Nearby Attractions
You can combine a visit to the Sunset Cliffs with other wonderful attractions on the Point Loma Peninsula. Here are some ideas:
Cabrillo National Monument – Monument, located at the tip of the Point Loma Peninsula, commemorating the voyage of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. Visit for great views of the San Diego Bay and tide pools.
Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery – Impressive cemetery honoring servicemen and women fallen in battle. You can visit the different memorials and enjoy the monumental views. This is a truly unique place.
Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery
Ocean Beach – I describe this place as the alternative beach in San Diego. If you are familiar with Los Angeles, this is the Venice Beach of San Diego. This neighborhood is full of restaurants, breweries, shops, a pier, and tidepools. Super fun area to relax and feel the good vibes.
Liberty Station – At the moment, this is one of my favorite areas of San Diego. I can’t get enough of the Public Market, THE LOT, and the Corvette Diner.
More of San Diego
Torrey Pines: Rare Trees, Hikes, and Trails
Ultimate San Diego Bucket List
LA to San Diego Drive: Road Trip Itinerary
More of Southern California
Los Angeles Ultimate Bucket List
Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles
150+ Places to Go in Orange County
Places to Visit in Santa Barbara
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Christy says
Hey Ruth! I did a Google search for the arch in Sunset Cliffs and your blog came up! I’ve been to Sunset Cliffs, but for some reasons I’ve never noticed this arch. Is this the beach that has the difficult trail?
Also, I checked out that link you gave, but I didn’t see any information about the tide pools there.