When it comes to catching the perfect sunset, the United States is home to some of the most breathtaking spots. Whether you’re looking to end a day of adventure or just seeking a serene moment of beauty, these eight destinations offer some of the best places to watch the sunset in the U.S. From coastlines to mountaintops, each location provides its own unique perspective on the day’s end. Here’s your guide to experiencing—and capturing—the magic of sunset across the country.
Before you go, be sure to stock up on a destination graphic from Altered Latitudes. Our UPF 50+ Solar Long Sleeves are the best protection from the sun’s harsh rays. Plus, they’re a great base layer during the cooler months. You need quick-drying and moisture-wicking layer in the winter as much as you do in the summer. Check out a few of our graphics for the featured sunset spots. You’ll find even more for the U.S., Bahamas, Carribean, and Virgin Islands on our website!
Best Places to Watch the Sunset in the U.S.
Maui, Hawaii
Best Sunset Spots: Haleakalā Summit: Watch the sunset from above the clouds at this volcanic peak for a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Ka’anapali Beach: A beachfront view with the island of Lanai in the distance.
How to Capture the Perfect Sunset Photo: Arrive early to set up your shot, as the lighting changes quickly. Use the panorama mode to capture the expansive view.
Enhance the vibrant colors by adjusting the exposure manually on your phone.
Daytime Sightseeing: Drive the scenic Road to Hana or explore the lush Iao Valley.
Post-Sunset Treat: Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop: Try their famous banana cream pie or enjoy a local craft beer.
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San Francisco, California
Best Sunset Spots: Baker Beach: Get an iconic view of the Golden Gate Bridge silhouetted against the sunset.
Twin Peaks: For a panoramic cityscape, this is the place to be.
How to Capture the Perfect Sunset Photo: Use the rule of thirds to frame the bridge or cityscape off-center for a more dynamic photo.
Adjust your phone’s white balance to bring out the warm tones of the sunset.
Daytime Sightseeing: Visit Alcatraz Island or stroll through the vibrant neighborhoods of Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury.
Post-Sunset Treat: Ghirardelli Square: Enjoy a decadent hot fudge sundae at this historic chocolate factory.
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Charleston, South Carolina
Best Sunset Spots: Waterfront Park: Watch the sunset over the Cooper River from this scenic park.
Folly Beach Pier: Enjoy a relaxed beach vibe with stunning ocean views.
How to Capture the Perfect Sunset Photo: Use leading lines, like the pier or palm trees, to guide the viewer’s eye to the setting sun.
Try shooting in portrait mode to focus on the colors and details of the sky.
Daytime Sightseeing: Tour the historic plantations or take a carriage ride through the charming downtown area.
Post-Sunset Treat: Kaminsky’s Dessert Café: Savor a slice of their famous pecan pie with a cocktail or coffee.
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Seattle, Washington
Best Sunset Spots: Kerry Park: For a stunning view of the Seattle skyline with Mount Rainier in the background.
Alki Beach: A laid-back spot with views of the Olympic Mountains across the Puget Sound.
How to Capture the Perfect Sunset Photo: Focus on the reflections of the sunset in the water to add a dramatic effect.
Use burst mode to capture multiple shots as the sun sets, then choose the best one.
Daytime Sightseeing: Explore Pike Place Market or take in the views from the Space Needle.
Post-Sunset Treat: Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream: Indulge in a scoop of their seasonal flavors.
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Apalachicola, Florida
Best Sunset Spots: Riverfront Park: Watch the sunset over the Apalachicola River with a view of the fishing boats.
St. George Island: Enjoy a peaceful sunset on the pristine white-sand beaches.
How to Capture the Perfect Sunset Photo: Experiment with different angles, such as shooting from a low vantage point to highlight the beach.
Increase the saturation in your phone’s editing tools to enhance the sunset’s colors.
Daytime Sightseeing: Visit the historic Apalachicola Maritime Museum or explore the unique boutiques downtown.
Post-Sunset Treat: The Station Raw Bar: Enjoy fresh oysters and a cold drink in this relaxed setting.
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Nantucket, Massachusetts
Best Sunset Spots: Madaket Beach: Known for its stunning westward-facing sunsets.
Brant Point Lighthouse: Capture the lighthouse as the sun sets behind it.
How to Capture the Perfect Sunset Photo: Use the lighthouse or dunes as a natural frame for your shot.
Lower the exposure to prevent the sunset from appearing too bright and washed out.
Daytime Sightseeing: Bike around the island or visit the Whaling Museum to learn about Nantucket’s rich history.
Post-Sunset Treat: The Juice Bar: Famous for its homemade ice cream—try the peach or blueberry flavors.
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Mackinac Island, Michigan
Best Sunset Spots: Arch Rock: This natural limestone arch offers a perfect view of the sunset over Lake Huron.
Windermere Point: A peaceful spot to watch the sun sink into the water.
How to Capture the Perfect Sunset Photo: Play with reflections of the sunset on the water’s surface for an artistic shot.
Use the grid feature on your phone’s camera to keep the horizon straight.
Daytime Sightseeing: Explore the island by bike or horse-drawn carriage, and visit Fort Mackinac for a dose of history.
Post-Sunset Treat: Sadie’s Ice Cream Parlor: End your day with a scoop of Mackinac Island fudge ice cream.
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Key West, Florida
Best Sunset Spots: Mallory Square: Join the daily sunset celebration with live music, street performers, and a panoramic view of the sun dipping into the Gulf of Mexico.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: Offers a quieter, more natural setting with beautiful beaches and fewer crowds.
How to Capture the Perfect Sunset Photo: Use the HDR setting on your phone to balance the bright colors of the sky with the darker foreground.
Experiment with silhouettes, such as palm trees or sailboats, to add depth to your photo.
Daytime Sightseeing: Explore the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum or take a stroll down Duval Street.
Post-Sunset Treat: Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe: Indulge in a slice of authentic Key lime pie.
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Altered Latitudes Shirts from Sunrise to Sunset
No matter where you are, these spots offer some of the best places to watch the sunset in the U.S. Each location has its own charm, making the end of the day a memorable experience. Don’t forget to bring your phone, follow these tips, and capture the perfect sunset shot to share with friends and family. Our Altered Latitudes Solar Long Sleeves with Destination or Lifestyle Graphics will make sure you stay comfy! Happy sunset chasing!
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Photos:
Key West: Pixabay
Maui: Pixabay
San Francisco: Pixabay
Seattle: Pixabay
Apalachicola: Pixabay
Nantucket: Pixabay
Mackinack Island: Pixabay
