How To Hike To The Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave, San Diego, CA

Hiking to the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave is a fun way to explore the rugged San Diego coastline. Some of the sea caves are only accessible during negative tides, and visiting at the right time makes all the difference. I finally made it out during a king negative tide, and it was such a cool experience. In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to do it, too, including directions, where to park, the best time to go, and important safety tips to keep in mind.

Where Is the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave?

The sea cave I visited, which is also known as the Open Ceiling Sea Cave, is located along the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park coastline, near the intersection of Sunset Cliffs Boulevard and Monaco Street. On Google Maps, it’s marked as “Sunset Cliffs Cave,” which makes it easy to find, but you want to head over to Luscomb Point to get down.

I’ve also included an AllTrails map below that shows Sunset Cliffs Boulevard and Hills Street, which is where I found the easiest way down to the cave. The access point involves scrambling down some rocks, but it’s more straightforward than other spots along the cliffs.

What the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave Is Like Inside

Because it was a -1.9 king tide when I went, and I timed it properly, the water was nowhere near the cave. It felt very safe to walk on the sand and climb the rocks to take photos.

The cave has an open ceiling with gorgeous scenic views looking out toward the ocean. It can get quite crowded depending on when you go, especially during popular low-tide windows.

What To Wear and Bring

Here’s what I recommend wearing and bringing for the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave. I’ve also linked my favorite tried-and-true items below if you want to shop the exact gear I use.

• Shoes with good grip: I wore my Altra Lone Peak 9s because they’re very grippy and dry quickly. A lot of people were wearing water shoes, which can work too, as long as they have solid traction. Just please don’t wear flip-flops.
• Clothing that can get wet: You’ll almost certainly get splashed or step in water at some point, so wear quick-dry clothing you don’t mind getting wet. Avoid cotton!
• Small daypack: Bring a small pack with essentials, including a basic first aid kit; you never know.
• Phone or camera: I used my DJI Action 5 Pro on this trip with the floating case and didn’t bring my ND filter since it doesn’t stay on well with the float attached (though it probably would’ve helped). The floating case protected the camera really well. Now that I know what to expect, I’ll bring my Sony A7 IV with a 14mm lens next time.
• Waterproof phone pouch: A must for protecting your phone from splashes, wet sand, and unexpected waves while still being able to take photos.
• Microfiber towel: Not something you need to carry, but keep one in the car to dry off wet shoes, legs, or gear before getting back in.
• Optional gear: Trekking poles can be helpful for extra stability on slippery rocks.

Best Time To Visit the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave

Timing is everything for visiting the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave. This is one of those hikes where the tide dictates whether it’s doable or straight-up dangerous.

I used US Harbors’ San Diego tide chart to plan my visit, and it’s a great resource for checking exact tide times and levels before you go.

I went on a Friday (January 2nd), when the tide hit its lowest point at 2:54 pm with a -1.9 ft tide. I started around 2:00 pm, which gave me plenty of time to hike down, explore the sea cave, and get back out before the tide started rising again.

Low Tide Is Non-Negotiable

It’s extremely dangerous to attempt this hike when the tide isn’t at a negative low. Waves can surge into the cave, cut off your exit, or knock you off slippery rocks. If the tide chart doesn’t show a negative tide, save this for another day.

How Low Is “Low Enough”?

Aim for at least a -1.0 ft tide or lower, with more negative being better. King tides are ideal because they expose more of the rocky shoreline and make access much easier.

Give Yourself a Buffer

Plan to start about an hour before the listed low tide time. That window gives you time to park, hike down, explore, and hike back up safely. Most people can do the entire visit, in and out, in about an hour.

Parking Near Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave

Parking near the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave can be a bit tricky, especially on weekends. If you can swing a weekday visit, do it; you’ll save yourself a lot of circling.

There’s a small dirt parking area off Ladera Street, but it fills up fast. If that lot is full, your best bet is limited on-street parking in the surrounding residential neighborhood. Just be respectful of the locals: don’t block driveways, watch for posted signs, and be mindful that this is still a lived-in area, not a trailhead parking lot.

If you don’t find a spot right away, patience (and a short walk) usually pays off.

Is the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave Legal to Visit?

Yes, California’s coastline is public, and visitors are generally allowed to explore coastal areas like this as long as there are no posted closures or restricted zones in place.

That said, conditions at Sunset Cliffs change constantly. Erosion, unstable cliffs, and rough surf can lead to temporary closures or unsafe access points, so always pay attention to posted signs and avoid areas that look unstable or blocked off.

Be Respectful of the Area

• Respect marine life and tide pools, observe, don’t disturb
• Take only photos and memories; leave everything exactly as you found it
• Stay clear of erosion zones and don’t cross barriers or fences
• Be mindful of nearby private property when accessing the cliffs

Leave No Trace

This area is incredibly fragile. Practicing Leave No Trace is a must. Pack out everything you bring in, avoid stepping on tide pools or vegetation, and help keep Sunset Cliffs wild for the next person who visits.

Because tides, surf, and cliff conditions change constantly, what feels safe one day may not be the next. If conditions don’t look right, turn around; the cave will still be there another time. But the tide won’t wait for stragglers before coming back in.

How To Hike Down to the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave

There are multiple ways to get down to the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave, and the best option depends on your comfort level and the tide.

Option 1: Staircase Access (Easiest, But Longer Beach Walk)

The most straightforward way down is via the staircase at Sunset Cliffs Boulevard and Ladera Street. This option is easy and well-defined, but it requires a longer walk along the beach to reach the sea cave.

That longer beach walk can be risky during anything other than a solid negative tide, wet rocks, slippery surfaces, and the need to hustle back before the tide comes in are all things to keep in mind.

Option 2: Rock Scramble Near Hills Street (My Preferred Route)

I went down through a rockfall near Hills Street along Sunset Cliffs Boulevard, and found it surprisingly easy. It does involve a short rock scramble, but I saw kids doing it without issue.

The biggest thing to remember is that you have to climb back up the same way, so only choose this route if you’re comfortable scrambling in both directions.

The upside is that this access point leads to a much shorter beach walk, which reduces the chances of slipping on wet rocks or racing the tide. You’ll likely still get a little wet either way.

Option 3: Stairs Down, Scramble Up (Mix-and-Match)

You can also go down the stairs and come back up through the rock scramble on the other side. This can be a smart option because it lets you get back to street level as soon as you’re safely off the beach, instead of walking farther along the shoreline.

Option 4: Surfer Route Near Luscomb’s Point (Not Recommended)

I heard there’s another way down that surfers use near Luscomb’s Point, but I’ve never taken that route myself. I wouldn’t recommend it unless you are very experienced and actually know what you’re doing.

Safety Tips (Read This Before You Go)

• Rogue waves: Always be aware of the ocean and how close the water is. Keep an eye out for rogue waves, even during low tide.
• Rising tides: Don’t forget your watch, and actually use it. Keep track of time so you’re not caught off guard as the tide starts coming back in.
• Rockfall and slippery algae: No matter your experience level, slips and accidents can happen to anyone. Take your time, move carefully, and consider bringing trekking poles for extra stability on slick rocks.
• Never turn your back on the ocean: Conditions can change quickly, and waves can surge in without warning.
• Kids and dogs: I wouldn’t risk bringing a dog down here. Adventurous, disciplined kids who understand the importance of listening and respecting nature should be able to handle it, but you know your kids best. Don’t push your luck.

Photography Tips for the Sea Cave

Because the cave is fairly tight, a wide-angle lens works best to capture as much of the space as possible. A phone camera also works well, especially newer models with ultra-wide lenses.

In terms of lighting, midday light makes it easier to navigate the rocks and move around safely. Earlier or later light can be beautiful if the tide timing works in your favor, but chasing golden hour isn’t worth the risk if the tide is coming back in.

Despite the name, sunset isn’t always the best time to visit. Low tide doesn’t always line up with sunset, and poor light combined with rising water can make the climb out sketchy real fast.

Because the cave is small, be mindful of others waiting for photos. Take your shots, soak in the views, and make space so everyone gets a turn.

FAQs About the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave

Is it kid-friendly?
It depends on the kids; only you know what they can handle. I wouldn’t recommend this for babies or toddlers. Older, adventurous kids who can safely make their own way down and back up might be okay, but use your best judgment.

Is it dog-friendly?
I wouldn’t recommend bringing a dog here.

Can you swim to the sea cave?
No, I wouldn’t recommend this. Conditions can change quickly, and swimming here is dangerous.

How long does the hike take?
Typically about one hour total, in and out. That includes enough time to explore the cave and soak in the views.

Is it ever completely inaccessible?
Yes. The sea cave is mostly inaccessible and can only be safely reached during negative low tides.

Final Thoughts: Is the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave Worth It?

The Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave is one of those places that feels special because it isn’t always accessible. Catching it during a solid negative tide makes the experience safer, more relaxed, and far more enjoyable. When conditions line up, it’s a fun mini-adventure with dramatic views, a unique open-ceiling cave, and a totally different perspective of the San Diego coastline.

That said, this isn’t a hike you should force. Tides, surf, and cliff conditions matter more here than distance or fitness. If the timing isn’t right or things don’t feel safe, it’s better to turn around and come back another day. The cave will still be there, and planning it properly is what makes the experience worth it.

If you’re patient, prepared, and respectful of the environment, hiking to the Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave is absolutely worth adding to your San Diego outdoor bucket list.