Los Angeles is full of things to do: great food, cool neighborhoods, and famous sights. But one of the best ways to enjoy the city is by watching the sunset. If you're a first-time visitor or a local looking for a new view, catching a sunset Los Angeles style is something special.
You might be planning a romantic evening, a hangout with friends, or just want a moment to yourself. No matter what kind of sunset you’re after, you’ll find a perfect place on this list. Some spots are easy to get to, while others involve a short hike, but all of them are worth it. And if you time it right, you’ll get to see the sky turn into a masterpiece of colors.
In this blog, we’ll show you the best places to watch the sunset in Los Angeles, plus tips on when to go and what to do nearby. So grab your camera, pack a snack, and get ready for golden hour magic in LA!
1. Griffith Observatory
Sunset views at Griffith Observatory | Photo Credits: Lezlie on Flickr
Griffith Observatory is one of the most iconic places to catch a sunset in LA. Located high above the city in Griffith Park, this spot gives you great views of Los Angeles, from downtown skyscrapers to the Pacific Ocean on clear days. You can even join a guided hike to Griffith Observatory before sunset to take in the scenery along the way.
Once you reach the top, grab a spot on the front lawn or observation deck. As the sun dips below the horizon, watch the city lights slowly glow to life.
🕑 Best time to go: 4:30 PM (winter) or 6:30 PM (summer) to hike and catch golden hour
🎢 Nearby Attractions: Greek Theatre, Los Feliz restaurants, LA Zoo
2. Runyon Canyon Park
Sunset glow over Runyon Canyon Park | Photo Credits: Travel Savvy Agency
If you're in the mood for a little workout with your sunset, head to Runyon Canyon Park. It’s a local favorite for hiking and dog-walking, and the open ridges have wide, dramatic views of the city.
As you reach the higher trails, you’ll get clear sights of Downtown LA, the Hollywood Sign, and even the ocean in the distance. It's a peaceful escape, yet right in the middle of the city. The wide sky at sunset feels like it wraps around you.
🕑 Best time to go: Hit the trail by 4:00 PM (winter) or 6:00 PM (summer) to reach the top by sunset
🎢 Nearby Attractions: Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Strip, Hollywood Bowl
3. Santa Monica Pier
Sunset skies over Santa Monica Pier, LA | Photo Credits: Zi Xian Leong on Wikimedia
Few things say "California dream" like a sunset at Santa Monica Pier. With the Ferris wheel spinning and ocean waves crashing below, it’s a picture-perfect spot for your sunset fix.
You can grab a snack on the pier, take a ride on the Pacific Wheel, or just sit on the sand and watch the sun melt into the ocean. As the sky turns orange and pink, the lights on the pier start to glow, creating a magical, movie-like moment.
🕑 Best time to go: Get there by 5:00 PM (winter) or 7:00 PM (summer) for sunset views and pier fun
🎢 Nearby Attractions: Third Street Promenade, Venice Beach Boardwalk, Palisades Park
4. Point Dume
Coastal sunset views at Point Dume, Malibu | Photo Credits: Kelly Verdeck on Flickr
Looking for something quieter and more nature-filled? Point Dume is a stunning cliffside spot in Malibu that gives you front-row views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s a favorite among locals for its peaceful vibes and wide-open skies.
Climb the short trail to the top of the bluff for panoramic views, or stay below near the beach and watch the waves roll in. At sunset, the cliffs glow gold and the horizon stretches forever. It’s the kind of place where you feel totally present!
🕑 Best time to go: Arrive by 4:30 PM (winter) or 6:30 PM (summer) to explore the cliffs before sunset
🎢 Nearby Attractions: Zuma Beach, Malibu Pier, Tuna Canyon Park
5. El Matador State Beach
Sunset skies over El Matador State Beach, Malibu | Photo credits: Tamás Matusik on Flickr
You’re in for a treat at El Matador State Beach; this place is pure sunset magic. You’ll see sea caves, tall rock arches, and waves crashing against the shore as the sun begins to dip. It’s one of those spots that feels like it was made for golden-hour photos.
Get there early so you can explore the beach, climb around the rocks, and maybe even find a quiet corner for yourself. As the sun starts to shine through the rock formations, the whole scene lights up in warm orange and pink tones.
🕑 Best time to go: Be there by 4:30 PM (winter) or 6:30 PM (summer) for the best light through the rock formations
🎢 Nearby Attractions: Leo Carrillo State Park, Malibu Country Mart, Broad Beach
6. The Hollywood Sign trail
Sunset skies behind the Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles | Photo credits: Rafal Maciejski on Pexels
You’ve seen the Hollywood Sign in movies, on postcards, and probably all over social media, but have you ever seen the LA sunset from up there? The trails around the sign give you one of the best sunset views in the city. You can even join a Hollywood Sign walking tour to learn fun facts about LA while you hike.
As you head up the trail, you’ll get awesome views of Griffith Park and the city below. Once you reach the top near the sign, take a moment to enjoy the sunset. The hills glow with gold and pink light, and the city lights slowly start to twinkle. It feels peaceful, exciting, and totally L.A.
If you hang out a little longer, you’ll see the stars come out and the sky turn deep blue. It’s a great spot for photos or just to relax and enjoy the view.
🕑 Best time to go: Start hiking by 3:30 PM (winter) or 5:30 PM (summer) to reach the top in time
🎢 Nearby Attractions: Griffith Park, Lake Hollywood Park
7. Echo Park Lake
Evening light over Echo Lake Park, LA | Photo credits: Flickr
Right in the heart of the city, Echo Park Lake offers a calm and colorful sunset spot. As the sun sets behind the palm trees, the water reflects the changing sky: orange, purple, and everything in between.
You can even rent an Echo Lake Park swan boat and glide across the lake during golden hour. The peaceful water, paired with skyline views, makes it feel like a hidden gem. It’s a perfect way to end a busy day in the city.
🕑 Best time to go: Around 4:30 PM for a swan boat ride at golden hour
🎢 Nearby Attractions: Echo Park cafes, Dodger Stadium, Silver Lake shops
Tips to catch the sunset in LA
Want to make the most out of your sunset Los Angeles experience? Here are some helpful tips to help you plan the perfect golden hour moment:
1. Check the sunset time
Sunset times change with the seasons. In winter, the sun can set as early as 4:45 PM, while in summer, it may be closer to 8:00 PM. Use a weather app or a quick Google search to check the exact time for the day of your visit.
2. Dress in layers
Even if it’s warm during the day, the temperature can drop quickly after sunset, especially near the ocean or in the hills. Bring a light jacket or hoodie just in case.
3. Stay for the stars
Don’t rush off after the sun disappears! The sky often stays colorful for another 20 to 30 minutes during twilight. That’s when the pinks, purples, and deep blues come out.
4. Book attractions early
Some of the best sunset spots, like Griffith Observatory and Santa Monica Pier, have nearby attractions that get booked fast, especially in peak season. To save time and money, grab a Klook Pass Los Angeles which bundles top attractions and experiences, including Universal Studios, aquarium visits, and more.
FAQs about sunset in Los Angeles
How long after sunset does it get dark?
It usually gets fully dark about 30 to 40 minutes after sunset in LA. This time is called twilight, and the sky often stays colorful during this period. It's a great time for photos or just soaking up the last light.
What time does it get dark in LA?
In Los Angeles, it typically gets dark around 5:00 PM in winter and around 8:00 PM in summer. Sunset times change with the seasons, so check a local sunset chart before you go. Always arrive early to get the best viewing spot!
What is 30 minutes after sunset called?
That time is called "civil twilight." It’s when the sun is just below the horizon, and there's still enough light to see without streetlights. It’s also one of the most photogenic times of day!
What is the shortest day in LA?
The shortest day of the year in LA usually falls on December 21, during the winter solstice. On that day, the sun sets around 4:45 PM. But even in winter, the sunsets in LA stay beautiful and vibrant.
Make sunset the highlight of your LA trip!
Catching a sunset in Los Angeles isn’t just a photo opportunity; it’s a must-do experience. If you’re enjoying it from a quiet beach, a scenic hike, or a buzzing pier, every sunset in LA tells a different story.
So plan ahead, bring your essentials, and don’t forget to check out helpful tools like the Klook Pass Los Angeles to bundle nearby attractions. With the right spot and perfect timing, golden hour in LA can easily become your favorite part of the day.
Now go chase that sunset; you've got front-row seats to one of the best shows in California!
What is Klook?
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
✨ Follow us for more deals and inspiration for your upcoming travels
