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Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 8,856 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 Natural 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.
Natural cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean offer views of the coast & the occasional cliff diver.
What runners say about Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
“Sunset cliffs is a hidden gem in San Diego, You have to go see the sunset it is stunning and there are so many places to view it, a very popular spot for surfer's too.”
Fun Fun Fun! and Gorgeous! Do not miss the cave down by the shore, you can take some nice photos there. SCNP offers several trails that will take down the Cliff and to the beach but you must be careful not to slip. Please wear hiking shoes or at least Non/Slipping footwear.
This is easily one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Pacific region. I visited at dawn and couldn't resist a morning workout along the rugged shore, surrounded by the sights and smells of the ocean and the fresh flowers in bloom.
I was pleased to find that the parking here is free. We parked in the parking lot but it can get filled up. I have seen people park along the street. Apparently, some of the locals have never heard of Rum Runner’s Cave (Smuggler’s Cave) or Rum Runner Cove. I found it on Google search but didn’t see it.
When the tide is out you can make your way down a steep narrow staircase to the beach. Here you will find small tide pools. For the adventurous people out there take a walk across the rocks to the caves to view the ocean from a new perspective. Just be careful the rocks can be slippery and hurt of you happen to fall.
Trail conditions & character
“Sunset cliffs is a hidden gem in San Diego, You have to go see the sunset it is stunning and there are so many places to view it, a very popular spot for surfer's too.”
“Logistics & Safety: Parking: There are several small, free lots along the cliffs as well as street parking.”
“It’s always a highlight to watch the surfers navigate the steep stairs to brave the waves.”
Plan your run at Sunset Cliffs Natural 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
- Phone(619) 525-8213
- 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 Coastal Trail (Linear Park)
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Old Sea World Drive Bay Trail
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This small bayside park with shade trees & benches offers views of the San Diego skyline.
