Sunrise in San Diego – 7 of the Most Spectacular Sunrise Points in San Diego!

Who doesn’t love a beautiful sunrise on a pleasant morning? San Diego is popularly known for its idyllic climate and the stunning beaches which run along 70 miles of the country’s coast. The city has many beautiful parks, historic monuments, memorials and trails which have some of the most extraordinary and incredible views of the West Coast and the city. You can visit the national reserves and mountains or even just drive-up Sunrise Highway!

The 7 Best Sunrise Points in San Diego

1. Mount Soledad National Veterans Memorial

This one-of-a-kind veteran’s memorial in America not only honors veterans both living and dead, it also offers stunning and mesmerizing views of sunrises. People hike up the beautiful Mount Soledad to gaze at the breathtaking views of the Bay, oceans, mountains and the horizon. The emotions people feel here are something which cant be experienced anywhere else!

Hours: 7 am – 10 pm
Location: 6905 La Jolla
Contact Number: + 1 858-459-2314 

2. Sunset Cliffs National Park

Sunset Cliffs National Park is 68-acres of natural beauty that stretches along the Pacific Ocean. There is a lot to see here as the park has designated multiple species conservation areas, intricately carved coastal bluffs, arches and sea caves. You can also go down to the beach or enjoy sunsets here too! Be careful near the cliffs as they are crumbly and parking spaces are limited too here.

Hours: Open 24 hours
Location: Ladera St.
Contact Number: +1 619-525-8213

3. Cowles Mountain

Enjoy stunning sunrises from the highest point in San Diego. It is 1,592 feet high and takes approximately an hour to hike. It is a 3-mile hike and hikers are also welcome to bring along their furry friends! You can avail their free parking and also use their restrooms situated at the bottom of the trail. The trail offers stunning views of San Diego on clear days and panoramic views of the city. Avoid going here during summer between 11 am to 3 pm because the temperatures can get too high. 

Location: Mission Trails Regional Park

 

4. Torrey Pines State Reserve

This 1,750-acre reserve is dedicated to preserve the Torrey Pine trees and other indigenous wildlife in their natural and native environment. The reserve also offers some of the most beautiful and eye-catching views and sunrises. The Torrey Pines Reserve offers a great hiking experience for both beginners and experts. The Guy Fleming Trail, Razor Point Trail and the Beach Trail are some of the popular trails which people enjoy. Guided tours leave from the Visitor Centre at 10 am and 2 pm on weekends and holidays.

Hours: 7 am – 5 pm
Location: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla
Contact Number: +1 858-755-2063

5. Cabrillo National Monument

Built in 1949, the beautiful park offers a view of San Diego’s harbour, skyline, Coronado and on clear days, you can also see panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Tijuana. Visitors can gaze at stunning sunrises and also visit the various former military installations and buildings. The Old Point Loma Lighthouse is the highest point of the park.

Location: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr
Contact Number: +1 619-557-5450
Entrance Fees: Non-commercial Vehicle: $ 20 (Valid for 7 days), Motorcycles: $ 15, Walker/Bicyclist: $ 10, Annual Pass: $ 35

6. Sunrise Highway

As the name suggests, Sunrise Highway is a road that runs from the Laguna Mountains, east of San Diego from I-8 at Laguna summit to State 79 near Cuyamaca Lake. This roadway provides breath-taking and beautiful scenic views and is popular among bicyclists and motorcyclists for the same. You can enjoy stunning views of sunrises and even sunsets.

7. Oak Canyon

If you wish to enjoy a trail that not only offers views of sunrises but also of beautiful wildflowers, this is the place to be! It is per-friendly and people of all ages can visit this place. If you choose to go, you must visit the Oak Canyon waterfall.

Tips for Before You Go Hiking for Sun Rises in San Diego:

1. Make sure to check the weather before heading out

2. Bring an extra pair of socks and pack a First Aid kit

3. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and carry trail snacks and lunch

4. Carry an extra power bank for electronics

5. Inform friends and families before heading out onto trails or to parks

6. Beware of wildlife and plants

7. Wear hats, sunglasses, breathable shirts, shorts or pants. On rugged trails, wear hiking boots.

Whenever you visit such places, be mindful and respect the place and make sure you do not litter. Everyone has the right to enjoy the beauty that San Diego has to offer! You will definitely fall in love with the city and its beauty.