Salty Logo

WHAT'S NEW?

Subscribe to get our latest features, gear, and content delivered right to your inbox.

By subscribing, you accept our Privacy Policy

Follow us!

Salty

WHAT'S NEW?

Subscribe to get our latest features, gear, and content delivered right to your inbox.

By subscribing, you accept our Privacy Policy

Follow us!

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park beach in San Diego, California - Real-time ocean conditions and beach information on Salty

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Google Maps
Local Time: Loading...
VIEW PRODUCTS
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park beach in San Diego, California, is a stunning destination that offers breathtaking views and unique geological formations. What makes this beach truly notable is its dramatic sandstone cliffs, which have been sculpted over time by the relentless pounding of the Pacific Ocean. The cliffs are a deep reddish-brown color, and as the sun sets, they are set ablaze with hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a truly unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore the park's scenic trails, which wind along the cliffs and offer spectacular views of the ocean and surrounding landscape.

Typical activities at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park include hiking, tidepooling, and simply taking in the stunning views. The park is also a popular spot for surfers, who come to ride the waves at the base of the cliffs. Amenities are limited, but visitors can find restrooms, picnic tables, and a small parking lot near the entrance to the park. The best time to visit Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is during the late afternoon or early evening, when the sun is setting and the cliffs are at their most vibrant. However, visitors should be aware that the park can get crowded during peak season, which runs from June to September. During the winter months, the park is less crowded, but the weather can be cooler and rainier.

Visitors to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park should be aware of the potential hazards associated with exploring the park's rugged coastline. The cliffs can be unstable, and visitors are warned not to climb on them or get too close to the edge. Additionally, the park's tidepools can be slippery, and visitors should be careful not to disturb the marine life. It's also important to check the tide times before visiting, as the park's beaches and tidepools can be inaccessible during high tide. With its unique geological formations, stunning views, and wide range of activities, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to San Diego. By taking the necessary precautions and being mindful of the park's hazards, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience in this beautiful and awe-inspiring natural wonder.

Quick Answers

Tap or hover over a card to see the answer

What is Sunset Cliffs Natural Park most known for?

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is most known for excellent surfing conditions, and excellent underwater visibility.

Is Sunset Cliffs Natural Park kid-friendly?

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park may have limited amenities for young children. Check current conditions before your visit.

Is Sunset Cliffs Natural Park good for surfing?

Yes! Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a known surf spot and conditions today are excellent with 4.7ft waves at 9 second intervals.

What is the best time of year to visit Sunset Cliffs Natural Park?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the warmest weather and water temperatures. Summer can be crowded. Fall provides pleasant conditions with fewer visitors.

How are the crowds at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park?

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park tends to have fewer crowds due to limited amenities. Great for those seeking a quieter beach experience.

Is today a good day to swim at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park?

Swimming is possible with proper precautions. Current conditions: moderate water temperature (63°F, wetsuit recommended), large waves (4.7ft), experienced swimmers only.

Real-Time Beach Data

Salty delivers real-time intelligence across land amenities, air quality and weather, ocean conditions, and sun exposure.

🏖 LAND

Facilities & Restrooms

Restrooms: Yes

Parking & Access

Parking: Yes

Recreation & Sports

Surfing: Yes
Scuba diving: Yes

💨 AIR

Air temp: 51°F
Wind: 3 mph
Air pressure: 1019 hPa
Feels like: 47°F
Wind direction: E
PM 2.5: 23 µg/m³
Humidity: 76%
AQI: 47
PM 10: 25 µg/m³
Rainfall: 0 mm
Visibility: 11 mi
Dew point: 43°F
Conditions: Clear sky

💧 SEA

Water temp: 63°F
Wave height: 4.7 ft
Swell direction: W
Wave period: 9 sec
Current velocity: 0.9 mph
Swell wave direction: W

☀️ SUN

UV index: 3.7
Sunrise: 6:50 AM
Cloud cover: 0%
Sunset: 4:51 PM
Total daylight hours: 10 hrs

Nearby Beaches

Beach placeholder

Tide Beach Park

Solana Beach

La Jolla Shores Beach Park

La Jolla Shores Beach Park

San Diego

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove

San Diego

La Jolla Hermosa Park

La Jolla Hermosa Park

San Diego

Beach placeholder

Vacation Isle

San Diego

Ocean Beach City Beaches

Ocean Beach City Beaches

San Diego

Beach placeholder

Walkway to Beach (La Jolla)

San Diego

Beach placeholder

Cabrillo National Monument Ocean Access

San Diego

Beach placeholder

Border Field State Park

Imperial Beach

Crown Point Shores

Crown Point Shores

San Diego

South Oceanside Beach

South Oceanside Beach

Oceanside

Torrey Pines City Beach

Torrey Pines City Beach

San Diego

Salty

STAY IN THE LOOP

By subscribing, you consent to our Privacy Policy and receive updates.

ABOUT SALTY

Salty is your definitive source for real-time ocean conditions, beach information, and marine safety data worldwide. Access comprehensive beach intelligence including weather forecasts, water temperatures, wave conditions, and surf reports. Discover ocean education resources, conservation events, and beachside promotions all in one place. Whether you're planning a beach day, tracking marine conditions, or exploring coastal destinations, Salty provides trusted, up-to-date ocean and beach data for every shore around the globe.

© 2025 Salty. All rights reserved.

Visit California