Sunset Cliffs Caves

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

About Sunset Cliffs Caves

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.

Although it is extremely enjoyable from above, the real adventures begin from below! Please note that the tide greatly determines if you can get into the sea caves.

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: