20 Best Viewpoints of the Golden Gate Bridge at Sunset (with Map)

Are you hoping to see the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset during your trip to San Francisco?

The good news is that I love visiting the “city by the bay” and lived here for several years as a young chef while completing culinary school and working my way up in the restaurant industry. 

I would spend my days exploring the city, including scouting out the best places to see the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset.

Now, I get to guide you to these fantastic viewpoints where you can take some amazing photos or just relax and have a special moment with a loved one.

I included everything you need to know for a successful sunset adventure, from where to park to the best time of year to avoid the dreaded fog obstructing the view.

Get reading to pick out the perfect Golden Gate Bridge sunset spot for your next trip to San Francisco.

20 Best Places to See the Golden Gate Bridge at Sunset

1. Battery Spencer

Anyone’s first trip to San Francisco will be incomplete without a stop to take a postcard-perfect photo of the sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge.

We accidentally stumbled across this Golden Gate Bridge viewpoint while looking for parking along Conzelman Rd while visiting the Marin Headlands for a day of hiking. 

Luckily, our first time at Battery Spencer was between October and May, when the sky was clear, and a dense fog layer did not obstruct the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline. 

If you visit during the summer, the fog gets thicker in the morning and late afternoon, but you may get lucky and catch the bridge sticking out through the thick mist.

During our visit, it was very chilly at the viewpoint, so make sure to bring a jacket and dress in layers.

📢LOCAL TIP: This spot is excellent for wedding, engagement, and family photo shoots, but it could be a challenge with all the tourists, so consider hiring a professional photographer for memorable shoots. 

2. Golden Gate Observation Deck

We avoid large crowds of tourists at all costs as it can be overwhelming and take away from the experience. 

So, if you are like us and seek a less busy viewpoint of the bridge, the Golden Gate Observation Deck is one of the best places to view the Golden Gate Bridge. 

Located further up Conzelman Road, this viewpoint provides a sweeping view of the iconic landmark, although the peninsula may obscure the view of the sun dipping into the ocean. 

There has always been an open parking spot on our weekday visits, but weekends can be considerably busier. 

If the lot is packed with cars, additional parking is available a quarter mile up the road at Coastal Trail Parking, which offers a restroom and equally impressive vistas. 

For those up for a short hike, venture further toward Slacker Hill and stumble upon an even more scenic view of the bridge.

📢LOCAL TIP: Golden Gate Observation Deck and Battery Spencer are located quite close to each other, so you can visit these two viewpoints back-to-back on a single day. 

3. Kirby Cove

Kirby Cove is one of our hidden gems in San Francisco, where we can escape the noise and commotion while enjoying one of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

This beach-slash campground offers a calming vista of San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge from the sandy shoreline nestled up against the crashing waves from the Pacific Ocean.

This tiny slice of nature is located across the bay from the bustling city and is accessible by a short hike down the path to the right of the Battery Spencer parking area. 

Kirby Cove is at the top of our list of best spots to view the Golden Gate Bridge, and it is unbelievable that only a handful of people go here. 

This beach in SF also offers a gratifying way to watch the sunset light up the Golden Gate and is one of our favorite ways to cap off a trip to the Bay Area. 

📢LOCAL TIP: The hike back up to the parking lot is on an exposed dirt road that can be a bit challenging for some people.

4. Hawk Hill

Hawk Hill is another one of our favorite spots to take in the sunset glow, and this viewpoint is just 11 minutes further along Conzelman Rd from the much busier Battery Point. 

This historic military emplacement offers a spectacular perspective from the ridgeline looking down at the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.

This may be one of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city, and you also get the opportunity to check out the old Nike Missle Control Site that was used to guard the entrance to the bay.

Beyond the Golden Gate Bridge, this area provides prime views for beautiful photos of the city skyline, Marin Headlands, Farallon Islands, and most of the East Bay.

During our visits, Hawk Hill has been uncrowded, but you can walk a little farther northeast towards Meditation Hill, where you can get the view all to yourself.

Hawk Hill is also a premier area to capture the Golden Gate Bridge at sunrise as it emerges from behind the city and the Golden Gate Bridge.

📢LOCAL TIP: A secluded black sand beach is close if you feel like exploring the area. 

5. Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point (H. Dana Bowers Rest Area & Vista Point – Northbound)

This close-up view of the bridge is just as impressive as a panoramic view of the entire expanse, but there are better vantage points to see the sunset.

This is still a great stop when heading north out of the city to take in the view and use the restroom before getting back on the road. 

The Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point is located off Highway 101 in the southern tip of Sausalito and is a hotspot for visitors and photographers who wish to capture the bridge from up close. 

From the platform, we love watching the traffic crossing the bridge and the impressive view of its two towers lining up on the horizon. 

So, if you want the best view of Golden Gate Bridge for a hit Instagram post, we recommend making a beeline for Vista Point. 

📢LOCAL TIP: We suggest not driving to this spot due to minimal parking if you can ride a bike across the bridge from San Francisco.

6. Baker Beach

Whenever we yearn for a quick getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle, we inevitably gravitate to the sandy shores of Baker Beach. 

I used to live in the old military housing in the Presidio for a few years, and this was my go-to spot for a serene getaway where I could get some beach time and an epic view.

This area is the best place to see the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset, as you can relax on the sand and take in the varying shades of crimson and gold.

When I come back to visit with my wife and co-creator of this website, we take the 2.3-mile loop of Batteries to Bluffs Trail for a calming walk before settling in on the beach for sunset.

Be warned that the northern part of the beach is clothing optional, so consider this if this makes you uncomfortable or if you are visiting with children. 

📢LOCAL TIP: Baker Beach also offers an opportunity for a picnic at the tables opposite the parking lot, which provides protection from the coastal breezes. 

7. Fort Point

The first time we walked down to Fort Point, our jaws dropped when we saw the stunning view from below the Golden Gate Bridge.

This is one of the best spots to see the Golden Gate Bridge for a unique and breathtaking vantage point.

Fort Point is also a must-stop for any visitors to SF that haven’t ventured to this area near the opening of the bay.

The name of this viewpoint comes from a historic fort that was built during the Civil War, where they later placed the southern side of the Golden Gate Bridge.

If you hope to see the sunset at Fort Point, you might be disappointed as it is only visible from the top floor of the fort, which closes at 4:30. 

When we visited in December, we were able to head to the top floor and catch a glimpse of the sunset and the warm glow on the expanses of the bridge.

While guided tours are available to provide fresh insights into the fort’s history, we instead opted just to take a leisurely stroll along the water while watching passing ships and savoring the gentle lapping of the water.

📢LOCAL TIP: Fort Point’s waters become ideal for surfing during winter, attracting a thriving community of surfers to this unique break.

8. Lands End

Lands End is situated at the northwestern corner of San Francisco along the rocky cliffs that offer up a perfect location for a Golden Gate Bridge photo spot. 

To see the Golden Gate Bridge, you must take a brief and scenic hike along the Lands End Trail, which is one of our favorite spots for a short hike in the city.

This area is very touristy and gets ridiculously crowded, so a sunset visit is perfect for avoiding the parking nightmares and clumps of people crowding the trail.

If you do visit, make sure to spare some extra time to explore the area, including the Sutro Baths, Point Lobos, and the stone labyrinth.

Beyond the best sunset views in San Francisco, these overlooks also provide dramatic vistas of the rugged coastline and the large crashing waves from the mighty Pacific Ocean. 

📢LOCAL TIP: Make sure not to leave anything valuable in your car if you park in this area, as it is a hotspot for thieves who break into cars hoping to steal bags and other items from tourists.

9. Marshall’s Beach

This small stretch of beach is a bit of a hidden gem that requires a little hike and maneuvering down from the bluffs to the sand before you can take in the gorgeous views.

Marshall’s Beach is tucked away in the Presidio, stretching from the southern tip of the bridge to the north of Baker Beach, making it the best place to photograph the Golden Gate Bridge with fewer crowds.

To find this viewpoint, you park near the Golden Gate Overlook and follow the Battery to Bluffs trail down to the beach along a combo of stairs and dirt paths. 

Once you arrive, you will be blown away by the stunning view of the Golden Gate with the waves crashing on the rocks in the foreground.

When we take new visitors for a trip featuring the city’s highlights, Marshall’s Beach is always on the list as it stands in stark contrast to some of the more touristy spots to see the bridge and the sunset.

Discovering this hidden getaway gave us a fresh perspective on the Golden Gate Bridge, making it a must-visit in SF. 

Due to its seclusion, many tourists frequent this spot for a nude beach experience, so be prepared if you venture towards the northern section closer to the bridge.

📢LOCAL TIP: Wear shoes with good traction as the path down can be precarious, especially after a good rain.

10. Golden Gate Overlook

The Golden Gate Overlook viewpoint is located just off Lincoln Road in the Presidio, offering an exceptionally close perspective of the bridge, which is ideal for capturing stunning images. 

This famous viewpoint is a photographer’s dream, as the iconic bridge can be captured between the wind-blown Cypress trees just steps from the parking area. 

On our first visit, we only stopped to see the retired military cannon emplacements and were surprised by the stunning views of the Golden Gate.

We were fortunate enough to catch this spot on a clear day and were rewarded with a terrific perspective that looks straight down the length of the bridge.

The perfectly aligned golden towers, the traffic crossing the bridge, and the magnificent coastal bluffs below can all be admired from the semi-circle overlook. 

The area has plenty of free parking options, making the Golden Gate Outlook a convenient starting point for Golden Gate Bridge viewpoint hopping.

This is the best place to view the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset if you want that up-close shot.

📢LOCAL TIP: While hiking is unnecessary to get here, many hiking trails connect to this spot, including the Batteries to Bluffs trail, which also provides access to Marshall’s Beach. 

11. Battery East

Battery East Vista, located along Lincoln Boulevard in the Presidio, invites visitors to explore the nearby trails and viewpoints that are some of the best in the city.

At the center of Battery East is a semi-circular deck that flaunts a clear view of the entire Golden Gate Bridge, along with the city skyline and Alcatraz Island in the background. 

While not the best spot to witness the golden sun setting into the horizon, we were still left astounded by the experience of seeing everything, including the bridge and Alcatraz, bathed in gold.

The lookout deck seamlessly connects to the California Coastal Trail, allowing us to savor the fantastic vistas and explore the area on foot. 

If you want to explore further, this is one of our favorite spots in the city for a bike ride with stunning views along the way. 

📢LOCAL TIP: If the winds are strong, head to the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center to explore its history exhibits and grab a warm beverage from Equator Coffee with equally gorgeous views from the cafe.

12. Crissy Field

Crissy Field is one of our favorite places in the city to go for a leisurely walk, and it just happens to have some of the best views of the sunset and the Golden Gate Bridge.

A stroll along the beach’s promenade offers unobstructed views of the bay, cementing it as one of the best places to photograph the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset.

The picnic areas at Crissy Field West Bluff and the eastern beach serve as serene hangout spots to have a romantic picnic or to just relax and watch the sun dip behind the bridge.

On a few of our visits, we were lucky enough to see the bridge’s reflection on the water after the small waves crashed and slowly retreated into the bay.

This is also a popular hangout for active San Francisco locals who enjoy using Crissy Field for swimming, running, kite surfing, and exploring a restored tidal marsh.

📢LOCAL TIP: Crissy Field is exceptionally dog-friendly, where pet owners can let their dogs roam off-leash as long as they stay under voice command.

13. China Beach

This small cove is located in the tranquil northwestern part of San Francisco near the Sea Cliff neighborhood and sits directly across the bay from the Marin Headlands.

This beach is a perfect location for those looking for the perfect spot for prenuptial or engagement photos, as China Beach offers a stunning backdrop of the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset.

Its promenade offers romantic views of the rocky cliff shoulders and the beloved bridge at a distance, creating an ideal setting for a scenic photoshoot.

This Golden Gate Bridge picture spot also provides a sensational vantage point for watching the sun sink into the ocean, with its golden glow casting onto the bridge.

Ultimately, the area is sheltered from the wind and is rarely crowded, making taking photos or simply reveling in the serene vistas even more delightful. 

📢LOCAL TIP: Note that the parking lot nearest to China Beach accommodates approximately 20 vehicles, and alternative parking options require permits or are located farther away from the beach. If you visit at low tide, you may spot some tidepools here.

14. Treasure Island (Avenue of the Palms) 

Treasure Island is a 400-acre artificial island in San Francisco Bay that is only accessible via the Bay Bridge. 

The best view of the Golden Gate Bridge from Treasure Island is along the Avenue of the Palms, on the southwestern shore, where the entire SF waterfront is also visible. 

If you drive out to this island to take in the panoramic view of the famous bridge at sunset, stick around to see the lights turn on in the city across the bay.

With light traffic and open green spaces, the island provides very walkable streets and avenues, perfect for a quick stopover or for a quick stroll on the way out of town.

📢LOCAL TIP: The trickiest part of visiting Treasure Island is the strong winds that rip unobstructed across the bay, so consider wearing layers to stay comfortable if you decide to visit. 

15. Slacker Hill

We love hiking and trail running in the Marin Headlands, and one of our favorite spots for a snack or a quick picnic is at the top of Slacker Hill.

To reach this hilltop, you will have to be up for a steep climb that will make your legs burn, but the payoff is a breathtaking 360° view.

You will have a perfect spot to watch the sunset and see the Golden Gate Bridge, and the views stretch from Mount Tamalpais in the north to the East Bay.

For those who love a quiet place away from crowds, this is a perfect getaway for a romantic sunset or some quiet time enjoying nature.

For hikers looking to make a day out of a visit, Slacker Hills connects with the Coastal and SCA trails, making it easy to visit some of the best parts of the Marin Headlands.

This is the spot if you’re looking for one of the best places to watch the sunset in San Francisco.

📢LOCAL TIP: The fog is heaviest in the Marin Headlands during summer, which might block the rewarding view, so we suggest arranging a visit from October to May or during the middle of the day during the Summer. 

16. Coit Tower

The Coit Tower is not only an iconic emblem in the San Francisco skyline, but it also boasts some of the city’s best and most unique views from its location at the top of Telegraph Hill.

It will cost you a few dollars to get to the top, and there may be a line, but this touristy spot is worth the trouble to enjoy the fantastic views.

To get to the observation deck, we purchased a ticket from the gift shop and then rode an elevator to the top to enjoy the views of the city. 

If you want to catch the sunset from the top of the Coit Tower, you must visit during the winter when it gets darker earlier, as they close at 5:00 pm.

There are also guided tours for small groups of 4 to 6 people if you wish to learn about the tower’s construction and the history of the murals that adorn the inner base of the building.

While the parking lot provides a glimpse of the surrounding scenery, it is worth noting that the trees in the area obstruct the view.

📢LOCAL TIP: Coit Tower can get quite busy on weekends and during peak tourist seasons, causing a longer queue for the elevator, so patience is a virtue you must have when visiting. 

17. Point Bonita Lighthouse

Point Bonita Lighthouse offers the best location in the Bay Area for an unobstructed sunset view from the Peninsula on the southern tip of the Marin Headlands.

This pretty lighthouse is accessible by a half-mile hike on a partially paved road, followed by a short suspension bridge that leads to the dainty lighthouse. 

From this vantage point, we could see all the way to the Farallon Islands, with equally impressive views of the Golden Gate in the opposite direction. 

The lighthouse is open to the public, and they even offer up a sunset tour on Thursday nights during the summer for those who book tickets in advance.

📢LOCAL TIP: The lighthouse welcomes visitors daily until 3:30 PM, except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays.   

18. Angel Island

While Angel Island is visible from most waterfront destinations in the bay, you must take a boat or a ferry to reach this viewpoint. 

Once you arrive, you will have to hike or mountain bike to this state park’s best viewpoints, as there is no transportation on the island.

Our favorite place for stunning views is at the top of Mount Livermore, the highest point on the island, but be prepared for a 2.5-mile hike from the ferry dock. 

While the trail is just moderately challenging, there are more accessible viewpoints not far off the landing dock and main road, including Ayala Cove and Fort McDowell.

We also suggest heading to the secluded Perles Beach on the island’s northeastern side for the best sunset views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay.

📢LOCAL TIP: Numerous guided tours are available on Angel Island, including sunset tours, which we recommend if you wish to experience the best sunset-watching spots on the island.

19. Alcatraz Island

One of the best places to see the Golden Gate Bridge is from Alcatraz Island, which is also one of the top attractions in San Francisco.

To reach the famous Bay Area island, you will need to purchase tickets in advance and catch a ferry on Pier 33 for the night tour. 

The ride took 15 to 20 minutes when we visited, giving us a preview of the scenic bridge view we would see at sunset. 

One of the great things about doing the Alcatraz night tour is that it allowed us to experience the island’s eerie ambiance at nightfall and see the lit-up Golden Gate Bridge on the horizon on the boat ride back.

Alcatraz has many incredible viewpoints, but the one we highly recommend is at the southern end, near the old lighthouse, where you can see most of the Bay Area.

📢LOCAL TIP: Alcatraz is a tourist hotspot, particularly in the summer, so booking a tour at least a month in advance is best to secure a slot.

20. Sunset Cruise

The best option for seeing the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset is to book tickets for this cruise, which provides a perfect vantage from the water.

We particularly liked this option as boats can position themselves at the perfect angle where the sun will set directly behind the bridge.

This San Francisco Sunset Cruise sails through the Bay past several landmarks, including Coit Tower, Transamerica Pyramid, Paul’s Church, and the Bay Bridge.

During the intimate ride, we were also delighted to see Sausalito, Alcatraz, Tiburon, Angel Island, and the Marin Headlands from a new perspective. 

As for the tour’s highlight, this amazing trip culminates with a panoramic view of the Golden Gate Bridge set against the radiant sun dipping into the horizon, which might be one of the best sunsets in San Francisco.

📢LOCAL TIP: The boat ride is a bit bumpy, so a tripod or any stabilization device is handy for capturing steady, professional-looking photos. Also, remember to take some Dramamine if you get motion sickness.

Golden Gate Bridge at Sunset: What You Need to Know

San Francisco Fog

The one thing that can put a damper on your plans to see the sunset in San Francisco is its famous fog layer.

The fog is the heaviest during summertime, from June to August, so arranging to visit from fall to spring is suggested to ensure the sunset views are visible in this California coastal town.

While the heavy SF fog can be a nuisance, it still has its advantages, as it keeps the city chilly even in the summer, providing some relief from the heat in inland cities. 

How crowded are these spots during sunset?

While the popularity of the best sunset spots in San Francisco can vary, spots like Battery Spencer and Lands End draw larger crowds during sunset.

This can be especially true if you visit during peak tourist season or on holiday travel weekends.

In most cases, if you can hike farther up the trail or drive further away from the main tourist hubs, you can find a quiet spot to enjoy the Golden Gate at sunset.

Are these viewpoints easily accessible for individuals with mobility challenges?

Accessibility varies depending on the viewpoint’s location and amenities, so researching the area before going is essential.

Some viewpoints, including Battery Spencer and Fort Point, can be accessed through paved paths from the parking lot.

However, other spots like Kirby Cove and Slacker Hill require a moderate hike, which may not be suitable for mobility-challenged visitors. 

What is the best time to visit these viewpoints for sunset?

Sunset times vary, but the sun sets later during summer and earlier during winter.

We suggest looking up the sunset time on the day of your visit, plan accordingly, and arrive at least 30 minutes before the predicted time.

Additionally, fog in San Francisco is the lightest from September to May, and the sunset is more visible in these months.

Tips for Visiting Golden Gate Bridge Sunset Spots

1. Check the weather

San Francisco’s weather is nothing like the rest of the state, as the summers can be cold and foggy, and the Fall can be warm and very sunny.

On top of this unique microclimate, the weather can be volatile as the city is at the mercy of the Pacific Ocean. 

Admiring the Golden Gate Bridge is best done on a clear day, with minimal to no fog, to ensure you get the best views of San Francisco’s most prominent landmark. 

We suggest looking up weather predictions each day of your trip so that you can adjust your itinerary accordingly.

2. Arrive early

Parking in San Francisco can be very challenging, and you will not want to be stressed out looking for a spot while the sun sets below the horizon.

It also pays to arrive early to ensure you get a good spot to enjoy the view as sunny days draw in the crowds to see the Golden Gate lit by the sun’s warm glow.

If you show up too early, you will have time to scout out the best spots while taking in any additional viewpoints along the way.

3. Dress in layers

Most viewpoints sit on top of hills or the bluffs overlooking the ocean, so these areas are very exposed to the breezes off of the ocean.

This means it can be considerably colder at these viewpoints than in other parts of the city, which is semi-sheltered from the wind. 

It is best to come prepared by dressing in layers and bringing a blanket to keep you warm enough for maximum enjoyment.

4. Bring a headlamp

For viewing spots that require a brief hike, a headlamp is necessary to provide light on the way back to the parking lot.

Any lighting equipment will be necessary when coming down after a sunset trip on these viewing decks, especially if you stick around to enjoy the lights after dark.

5. Visit during the week if you want to avoid the crowds.

Any tourist attraction draws significantly larger crowds on weekends, especially the more popular options closer to other attractions.

Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints are typically bustling, with tourists longing to capture a good photo of the landmark on Saturdays and Sundays.

Large crowds on weekends can make it a challenge when looking for parking or a quiet spot to enjoy the sunset, so you may consider going on a weekday.

6. Consider using public transportation.

Do not miss out on your chance to see the sunset behind the Golden Gate Bridge because you are stuck driving around looking for parking.

Finding parking at these top viewpoints can be problematic during peak tourist season, turning a special moment into a stressful situation.

The good news is you can always commute to your destination since these spots are not far from the city and accessible via public transportation.

Make sure to look up the best route to the viewpoint before your trip, or consider using a rideshare service like Lyft or Uber.

7. Do not leave anything valuable in your car

Unfortunately, car break-ins are prevalent near busier attractions since visitors leave their bags and personal belongings in the vehicle when stopping at the viewpoint.

Do not leave valuables or anything visible, including loose change, in your vehicle, as this will increase your chances of a break-in.

You will either want to leave your belongings locked up in your hotel room or keep them with you when you go to see the sunset.

Map of Golden Gate Bridge Sunset Viewpoints

FAQs

What time of day is best to see the Golden Gate Bridge?

The best time to see the Golden Gate Bridge is during sunset when the sun’s warm glow lights up the bridge, enhancing its International Orange color.

You will need to look up the sunset time for the day you plan to visit, as the time of day changes throughout the year.

It’s also best to visit from Fall to late Spring to avoid the summer fog that can obstruct the view of the bridge.

Is sunset a good time to see the Golden Gate Bridge?

Yes, sunset is an excellent time to see the Golden Gate Bridge.

The iconic bridge looks majestic when cast in the sun’s golden glow, creating tremendous opportunities for capturing stunning photos and admiring its mesmerizing beauty.

Check the weather before planning your visit so you are not disappointed by the famous San Francisco fog blocking the view.

Is Golden Gate better for sunrise or sunset?

The Golden Gate Bridge is much better at sunset than sunrise, as you can watch the sun dip right into the Pacific Ocean while it illuminates the iconic structure.

Seeing the sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge is a highlight for most San Francisco visitors, while the sunrise is limited to only a few viewpoints west of the bridge in the Marin Headlands.

Where can I see the sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge?

There are numerous viewpoints to see the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset, including Alcatraz, Fort Point, and a sunset cruise on the bay.

Battery Spencer, Golden Gate Overlook, and China Beach also offer the closest views of the bridge cast in the sunset’s glow.

While there are many places to see the sunset and the Golden Gate Bridge, there are only a few options to see the sun dip behind the bridge.

Where is the best view of Golden Gate Bridge?

The best view of the Golden Gate Bridge is from any of the amazing vantage points along the southern tip of the Marin Headlands, across the bay from San Francisco.

These viewpoints are popular spots for their unobstructed views of the Golden Gate with the San Francisco skyline in the background. 

The top spots include Battery Spencer, Hawk Hill, Kirby Cove, and the Point Bonita Lighthouse.

Nevertheless, the “best” view is entirely subjective, so study the available options first, then choose the viewpoint that suits your preferences.

Does the Golden Gate Bridge light up at night?

Yes, the Golden Gate Bridge lights each night with a large variety of lighting that makes the bridge look red instead of its actual International Orange color.

The entire bridge glows with special lighting for the main cables, the towers, the walkways, and an additional 128 lampposts to illuminate the roads.

The lights also change colors and patterns to recognize special occasions and events. 

Bottom Line: Golden Gate Sunset Viewpoints

Now that you have the perfect spots to view the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset, all you need to do is plan your trip to San Francisco.

Don’t forget to bring some warm clothes and a blanket to enjoy the view to the fullest for a special memory that will last a lifetime.