Hawk-Eyed Sunset

Sunset Hike at Hawk Hill in the Marin Headlands

12.09.2020
Woman hiking Hawk Hill in the Marin Headlands at Sunset

Yeah, it’s a killer sunset spot—easily one of the best in the Bay Area. Hawk Hill in the Marin Headlands is magical, with a sweeping panorama 923 feet above the Pacific.

From 923 feet above the Pacific you’ll enjoy a sweeping panorama of the Golden Gate, the San Francisco skyline, and the Marin coast from Point Bonita out to Point Reyes. (Just make sure you leave within an hour after sunset.) Hawk Hill isn’t just a prime vantage for sunset. It lives up to its name for viewing not just hawks but falcons and other raptors.

The US Army used this prime location during WWII as a coast artillery battery to protect the entrance to the bay. From the main parking area it’s a short hike through some tunnels to a sensational view of the coast. Wind your way up to the top of Hawk Hill and find ample space to saunter around old battery remnants and benches or natural perches for gazing at the sunset as it sinks, slims, and flattens across the Pacific or glows golden over our beautiful City by the Bay.

The Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco sparkling at sunset

As twilight sets in, the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges light up and San Francisco begins to sparkle, an urban oasis whispering in a silent night … brighter days ahead.

Parking for Hawk Hill is at the top of Conzelman Rd. (map). It's limited. Hawk Hill closes one hour after sunset. Dog-friendly!

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