The best beach to spot the sunset?

Question

Which beach would be the best place to see the sunset next week? Santa Monica or Malibu were in my mind but I like to listen to your suggestions. I would love if the sun ”sinks” in the water so the view would be clear.

Answer

Los Angeles has many west-facing beaches perfect for a “sun sinks directly into the ocean” sunset. In winter and early spring—like next week—the sun sets far enough south on the horizon that most coastal spots from Santa Monica to Malibu give you a clean, unobstructed view over open water.

Both Santa Monica and Malibu are great choices, but Malibu generally offers more dramatic scenery, fewer crowds, and clearer ocean sightlines. Still, each spot has its own personality depending on the type of sunset experience you want.

Below are the best beaches near LA for a perfect ocean-horizon sunset:

El Matador State Beach (Malibu) – A spectacular choice if you want the most iconic, photogenic sunset. Cliffs and sea stacks frame the sun as it drops straight into the water. It’s quieter and more romantic than Santa Monica. There’s a short walk down stairs to the beach, so arrive early.
Point Dume / Westward Beach (Malibu) – Wide, open, and peaceful with a huge unobstructed view of the horizon. You’ll see the sun drop directly into the water with almost nothing blocking your view. This beach is excellent if you want easy parking + fewer people + a true “big sky” sunset.
Zuma Beach (Malibu) – One of the best straightforward sunset beaches. Long and open, always unobstructed, easy to access, and perfect if you want a relaxed environment where you can simply sit and watch the sun disappear into the ocean.
Santa Monica Beach / Santa Monica Pier – If you want a classic LA experience, this is wonderful. The sun sets straight over the water this time of year. Expect more crowds, but the view is beautiful and you can watch the sky change colors behind the Ferris wheel as well.
Venice Beach – Similar sunset angle as Santa Monica but with a slightly more laid-back vibe. Great if you want people-watching + sunset together. The sun still drops directly into the water in March.

Additional tips for choosing the perfect sunset location:

For the clearest, most “pure” horizon line: Zuma Beach or Westward Beach. These rarely have haze blocking the horizon.
For dramatic cliffs and photography: El Matador.
For ease of access + classic LA vibes: Santa Monica or Venice.
For fewer crowds and very easy parking: Westward Beach or Zuma.

If you want the absolute best chance of that perfect “sun melts into the water” moment with a wide-open horizon and minimal obstruction, Malibu—especially Zuma or Westward Beach—is your top pick.

Next week’s sunset times will be around early evening, so arrive 20–30 minutes before sunset to enjoy the changing light and secure a good spot.