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Sunset Cliffs Coastal Trail (Linear Park)
4.8 ★★★★★ 687 Google reviews · Running trail in San Diego, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Sunset Cliffs Coastal Trail (Linear Park)'s own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Hiking trail atop the Pacific Ocean bluffs offering sunset views & seasonal gray whale watching.
What runners say about Sunset Cliffs Coastal Trail (Linear Park)
“Absolutely stunning views of the ocean with some great jagged rock areas to sit and relax while watching the waves crashing or the sun going down.”
“The serene ambiance and the stunning display of colors in the sky create a perfect setting for a memorable evening.”
Absolutely stunning views of the ocean with some great jagged rock areas to sit and relax while watching the waves crashing or the sun going down. It’s a short walk from ocean beach and is very accessible. Definitely a place to be careful as it can be steep and quite a jarring drop off.
One of my favorite places to take a walk or go for a run in the morning. The gorgeous views are hard to beat as well as that cool ocean breeze. If you’re willing to brave the crowds, this is the location to catch an unforgettable San Diego sunset.
Very beautiful coastal cliffs! We parked closer to the Sunset Cliffs Staircase and walked up and down to coast about 1.5 miles each way. Very scenic walk with views of the cliffs, ocean, flowers and beautiful coastal homes. Highly recommend.
amazing spot for a beautiful walk. although the name implies you should probably try to catch the sunset there, it’s beautiful during the daylight as well! not too busy either which makes it special.
Trail conditions & character
“Absolutely stunning views of the ocean with some great jagged rock areas to sit and relax while watching the waves crashing or the sun going down.”
“Go early in the day to beat traffic and get prime parking, especially on weekends.”
“The serene ambiance and the stunning display of colors in the sky create a perfect setting for a memorable evening.”
Plan your run at Sunset Cliffs Coastal Trail (Linear Park)
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Websitesandiego.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near San Diego
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
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