Sunset Cliffs Caves, Trails & Ravines

Make sure to also check out our list of Hidden Caves in San Diego County!

About Sunset Cliffs Caves, Trails & Ravines

Sunset Cliffs has some of the most picturesque coastlines in all of San Diego.  People flock to this area to marvel at the rugged cliffs, sea caves and all-around beauty.

This is definitely a choose-your-own-adventure and can be catered to any level or age.  There are stroller-friendly trails to enjoy the views and wildflowers, there are ravines made out of sandstone that offer all sorts of unique fun.  But many would argue that the real adventures are below where the sea caves are!

Please note that the sea caves must be explored during low tide to ensure safety, and some can only be accessed during negative tides which usually happen in the winter.

While you’re in the area, make sure to check out the Old Point Loma Lighthouse nearby!

Many of the cool Sunset Cliffs caves cannot be reached unless it’s super low tide. There is no way in them otherwise unless you swim and that’s obviously not safe. I recommend going on a low tide day and just walking along the shore.

There are many caves to explore, including a couple quite large ones. The best cave here, Rum Runners Cave, I have finally explored and given it its own page!

To get to the Sunset Cliffs Caves you start off in a dirt parking lot above the beach in Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. There are several ways to get below: one is by stairs, one is by rope and a a few others are through ravines.  All offer a ton of fun and it’s very much a choose your own adventure!

Here is what it looks like above.  Note there are also hiking trails connected to the parking lot that stay above the beach.  These have stunning views of the ocean below:

This large cave is part of our members section for the exact coordinates: