There’s something magical about watching the sun dive behind Californian hills as shades of orange, pink, and purple burst into the sky. From coastal views to hidden hills, the Bay Area offers numerous places for romantic outings, hangouts with friends, or just for time alone. Here are four spots that you should visit.
Cañada College
Just a short drive off Highway 280, Cañada College is a sunset-watching gem. Perched above the Peninsula, Cañada offers a perfect mix of open space and panoramic views, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking for a last-minute sunset.
With one side overlooking the rolling hills of 280 and the other side showing the city lights next to the water, the setting is stunning. On certain evenings, you are able to see the clouds drift over the highway and the distant mountains while you catch the sun’s last rays.
For senior Oliver Loza, Cañada has become a go-to sunset spot. “I really like Cañada,” he said. “The view is honestly amazing. Catching it is a vibe, especially if you’re with friends after a nice day out.”
With multiple viewpoints, spacious parking lots, and easy access, Cañada College proves to be a spectacular find.
Ralph D. Percival Memorial Vista Point.
If you’re ever driving along Highway 280 near Belmont or San Mateo during golden hour, take a moment to pull over at the Ralph D. Percival Memorial Vista Point. While the small blue sign near the exit might seem underwhelming at first, a windy road leading uphill to a mini park reveals a scenic view that’s truly unforgettable.
Overlooking the Crystal Springs Reservoir and framed by the mountains of Highway 280, this vista point has it all. While the freeway quietly hums below, visitors can stroll along a short path, watching the sun dip behind the mountains and catching occasional glimpses of the city skyline. Tall trees lining the path provide an elevated vantage point, with many people climbing up to sit on the branches and take in the view.
This vista point is sophomore Gabriella Recendez’s favorite sunset spot. “I like it because it has really pretty views, and you can see cars drive by,” she said. “It’s more in nature, but if you walk to one specific spot, you can see the city too.”
Foothills Nature Preserve
Tucked between the hills of Palo Alto, Foothills Nature Preserve offers one of the best sunset experiences in the Bay Area. With scenic trails, a quiet reservoir, and breathtaking views, it feels like a distant escape from life.
That being said, getting there requires a bit of effort. It’s about a 20 minute drive, along narrow, winding roads, and on certain days, there’s a nine dollar entry fee.
Once you arrive, the reward is undeniable. As the sun begins to set, golden light pours over grassy slopes of the hill and reflects across Boronda Lake. With a quick drive around the Preserve, visitors can find campsites with chirping birds and other wildlife roaming around.
“I like Foothills because it’s very elevated, and you can get a great view of the entire Bay and the ocean,” senior Sarah Littlefield said.
Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve
Sitting a couple miles east of Palo Alto, the Baylands Nature Preserve offers a one-of-a-kind sunset view. Filled with flat trails winding through wetlands and salt marshes, it’s one of the few places where you can see the full sky glow during sunset.
Sophomore Atessa Gholma expressed that this sunset view is exceptional compared to others in the area. “I really like the landscape because it’s very flat, and you get a full 360—you can see the sunset across the whole sky and the land,” she said.
With easy access to the trails and sights of salt marshes and wetlands, the natural sights offer a quiet place to walk, reflect, or watch the light fall behind buildings.
