Where to Watch the Sunset in Laguna Beach
If you’ve lived in Laguna long enough, you know there is nothing like a summertime sunset here: the colorful sky, salty breeze, and shaggy dogs running along the water. And with Laguna sunsets being at their peak in the summertime, we thought a sunset dedicated article was much overdue.
Whether you’re heading out for an evening walk or just need a reset after a long day, golden hour in this town never disappoints.
So, we thought we would round up our favorite spots to soak it all in. We have a variety of parks and beaches, and all of them provide the ultimate views and vibes for your next sunset adventure.
Top of the World (Alta Laguna Park)
W Ridge, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
A true Laguna Beach classic, Top of the World is known all throughout SoCal for its pristine view of the coastline. Perched on the top of Alta Laguna Park, you get the best of everything (the entire world, some could say): the ocean, coastline, and mountains. The sunsets here are honestly incredible since there is so much to look at. You can come early for a sunset hike or just bring a blanket and station yourself on a bench. And if you want to watch the entire sunset, until the very last drop of color, I advise you to bring a sweatshirt since it can get chilly up there.
Crescent Bay Point Park
Crescent Bay Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
If a beautiful cliffside view is what you’re searching for, Crescent Bay Point Park is the place for you. With sweeping views of the ocean and coastline, you can sit back and enjoy the sunset on the grass field or by the cliff railings. With straight drop-off views of the ocean, this is also the ideal place to search for dolphins or watch the waves. With this picture perfect background, you can also get some picture perfect golden-hour photos. So bring your camera or your picnic blanket, and prepare yourself for ultimate peace.
Heisler Park
375 Cliff Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Rounding out the park recommendations, Heisler Park is last but certainly not least. Heisler Park is your place-to-be if you want to indulge in a sunset walk. With winding trails throughout the bluffs, this park is made for a sunset stroll. And if the sunset just gets too good, there are benches to sit down and watch. You will be surrounded by the Laguna community here, providing that perfect local atmosphere.
Victoria Beach
2700 Victoria Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Arguably one of the most unique locations in Laguna Beach, Victoria Beach provides a gorgeous beach and a pirate tower. You walk down the stairs to see a beautiful beach, and then look to the right and see a tower leaning into the cliffside. It is quite actually a photographer’s dream. How can a tower in the background not transport you into a fairytale? So pack your picnic and take a short escape at Victoria Beach.
Thousand Steps Beach
31972 Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Do not let the name intimidate you: one, the beach is worth the steps, and two, there aren’t actually a thousand steps. The name embraced a slight exaggeration, so don’t worry you will only climb around two hundred steps, give or take a few. No matter the steps, the beach is one of Laguna's best. A huge beach, rock formations in the water, and a gorgeous cliffside, there is nothing more to ask for out of a sunset spot. My recommendation would be to pack a picnic and spend a meal here. But if picnics aren’t on your itinerary, stop by AhbA after the sunset for the best post-beach dinner in Laguna Beach.
Michelle Monier is an Orange County local, who just graduated from San Clemente High School after serving as Editor-in-Chief of the yearbook publication and school newspaper. She is enrolled as a first-year Business Admin and Graphic Communications student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and will be a part of the Mustang Media Group Marketing Team. She is beyond excited and grateful for the opportunity to intern for Laguna Beach Living this summer. If you would like to reach out to Michelle, her email is michelle.monier@hotmail.com.
