Where To Catch The Best Sunsets In The US
Dusk, the magic hour, plays host to that miraculous time just before evening sets in – when the cloud-flecked sky becomes flooded with colors of fire red, lavender, and deep orange. Sunsets have drawn people for thousands of years to experience its remarkable spell that is cast upon the landscape, changing the way the world looks just for a moment, and photographers have traveled to various parts of America to capture this natural phenomenon. Whether you’re sitting on the shores of California’s coastline or perched high above the dramatic canyons of the world-famous Grand Canyon, the US boasts plenty of destinations for optimal sunset views.
The Everglades, Florida
At the Everglades National Park – 1.5 million acres of protected wetlands – sunset views are filled with sawgrass marshes, mangroves, and pine savannas. Here, catch a glimpse of the glowing set reflecting off the waters while relishing in its natural serenity of the rich flora and fauna surrounding you.
1. Grand Canyon, Arizona
Park
Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Grand Canyon already takes the cake when it comes to majestic canyon views and pristine desert, so it’s no wonder this dramatic landscape makes for the ultimate sunset-viewing destination. Expect a multitude of colors draped across the sky, purple-stained mountains, and red-tinged canyon walls. What better way to experience the Grand Canyon’s beauty than with a little sunset backdrop?
2. Pebble Beach, New York
Bridge
Pebble Beach, New York
Pebble Beach has been a famous viewpoint for decades, appearing in many films as an iconic destination for a New York City backdrop. Head here during sundown when the city’s lights twinkle against a colorful skyline, shimmering Hudson waters, and the towering Brooklyn Bridge.
Pebble Beach, Manhattan Bridge Pedestrian Path, Brooklyn, NY, USA
Treasure Island, California
San Francisco is an enchanting city, characterized by rolling hills of historical, brightly colored homes and a rocky coastline; because it’s situated on the tip of a peninsula that is mostly surrounded by water, SF makes for an incredible sunset-viewing locale. Catch a stunning sunset from nearly anywhere in the city, but for the best view of the city’s treasures – the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the city skyline – head to Treasure Island, a man-made island nestled just below the Bay Bridge.
Mount Haleakalā, Hawaii
Ever wanted to view a sunset from 10,000 feet above sea level? Here’s your chance – head to Maui’s east coast, where a massive volcano known as Mount Haleakalā resides, covering nearly three-quarters of the island. Sunset chasers can cycle, hike, or take a horseback ride to its summit for unparalleled views of mountain peaks and a glimmering sun peering through cotton clouds that dot the sky below you.
3. Santa Monica Pier, California
Amusement Park
Key West, Florida
Key West, the furthest island of the Keys, is a no-brainer when you’re on the prowl for a perfect sunset. Located at the southernmost point of the US, and without any obstructed views, it is where sunset dreams come true. Revel in the beauty of its tropical waters, palm tree-lined shores, and breathtaking scenes as the sun disappears into the horizon.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks, a string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, is known for its stunning coastline, historic fishing villages, and beautiful beaches; and with nothing but water surrounding the area, it makes for an optimal sunset-viewing venture. Expect seagrass-lined dunes and deep-blue waters, alongside color-filled skies. Pro tip: head to Nags Head or Cape Hatteras, the region’s most picturesque shores for prime sunsets.
Ojito Wilderness, New Mexico
Just outside Albuquerque, the Ojito Wilderness boasts a remarkable landscape of steep mesas, box canyons, rocky terraces, and multi-colored sandstone cliffs. This desert gem is where sunset magic happens – purple-tinged mountains, juniper and cactus-lined horizons, and rare badland rock formations stand against the backdrop of glowing sunset skies, a vision unlike any other.
4. The Grand Tetons, Wyoming
Natural Feature, Park
5. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Park
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