16 Best Seattle Sunset Spots You Can’t Miss

Seattle, also known as the Emerald City, is the largest city in Washington. It consists of a variety of landscapes with an abundance of natural beauty. The best part about Seattle’s sunsets is that they’re almost always free to watch, and there are plenty of different places with beautiful views of sunsets in Seattle.

August and I were fortunate enough to witness some stunning sunsets while living in Seattle. Because of the area’s geography, the West Coast has some of the best sunsets if you ask me.

While the sun rises and sets every day (in most places anyhow!), there’s still something special about the colorful sky and brilliant scenery that it brings.

Sunsets have the ability to soothe our minds and provide serenity; they give us a moment to pause and appreciate what surrounds us. Below you’ll find some the most picturesque sunsets in Seattle; they’ll undoubtedly inspire your sense of wonder for what Mother Nature can accomplish.

To find out where some of our favorite spots are to catch a Seattle sunset, continue reading.

What Time Are Seattle Sunsets?

The earliest sunsets in Seattle take place in December at about 16:18. By the beginning of March, the sunset has moved to 17:55. Daylight increases every day from the beginning of the year through the middle, when we have sunsets occurring at 21:12 in early July.

For up-to-date information about the exact times for sunrise and sunsets in Seattle, click here.

Best Time To Go To Seattle For Seattle Sunsets

Seattle in the Summer (June-August) is the best time to view the sunsets in Seattle. The weather is warm during the day, and temperatures are comfortable at night with colorful sunset hues.

What is Golden Hour?

Golden hour is the time of day when sunlight is at its most beautiful and warm, creating a shade that makes everything look golden. It usually occurs the last hour before sunset and the first hour after the sunrises.

The best way to enjoy sunsets in Seattle is by walking along the waterfront or in Discovery Park, where you will see spectacular views of Mount Rainier and the city lights.

Best Places To See The Sunset In Seattle 

This list includes some of Seattle’s best attractions, parks, restaurants, pathways, and beaches to watch Seattle Sunsets. You’ll discover everything you need below, from family-friendly sunset locations to quiet, more reserved areas.

Where is the Absolute Best Seattle Sunset?

The best part about watching the sunset in Seattle is that there are many places to view it, with many different options for different settings. But for many people, they feel that Kerry Park is the best place for a Seattle Sunset.

What makes Kerry Park the Best Spot to Watch a Seattle Sunset?

 It has the perfect view of Seattle’s skyline and the Space Needle two iconic “Seattle” things

Kerry Park Seattle: How to Get The Best Photos

Learn the best tricks from a photographer for how to get the best Seattle sunset photos from Kerry Park

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Where is the Best Place to See the Sunset in Seattle?

Ok let’s dive into the different places throughout Seattle that we think offer the best sunsets.

Kerry Park Photographer’s Dream For Seattle Sunsets

Kerry Park is one of the most popular Seattle sunset-watching spots. It offers panoramic views of the Space Needle and downtown Seattle, making it one of the most beautiful sunsets in the city.

If you’re looking for a place to spend some time relaxing with some amazing views, head to Kerry Park!

We understand that choosing one photograph location in a big city like Seattle can be challenging but Kerry Park takes the #1 spot amongst photographers looking for sunset views of Seattle. So if you’re looking for the best spot as the sun goes down the park is outstanding for it’s views of downtown Seattle.

Alki Beach

Alki Beach is a popular spot for sunset views. It’s known for being the most scenic view in all of Seattle, so it makes sense why it would be such a popular destination. Alki Beach is incredibly serene and picturesque with its beachfront and fantastic ocean views.

Make the most of your time at Alki by taking in the beautiful views. I’d recommend bringing along a blanket, a beverage or two, and a friend who can share the sunset with you.

Are you a foodie? Here are our favorite Seattle Food Tours.

Sunset Hill Park

Sunset Hill Park is the perfect place for a sunset. It’s tucked away in Ballard, and it has a fantastic view of Seattle. The atmosphere is incredibly relaxing and low-key, making it the perfect spot to stroll with your significant other or grab a few drinks from one of the nearby restaurants.

We like Sunset Hill Park because of its expansive views and high elevation. The Sunset Hill Park has an observation deck for visitors who are lucky enough to have a clear day, making this spot perfect for watching sunsets.

Discovery Park

Discovery Park is the next best spot to view Seattle’s most spectacular sunset due to its location at a high point on Magnolia Bluff. It also has multiple areas of scenic views and stunning lookout points. From the park, you’ll have views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier, making this a great spot to watch the sunset over the city of Seattle.

Seattle Great Wheel For a Unique Seattle Sunset

The Great Wheel is a fun thing to do in Seattle for anyone who wants to make memories while enjoying breathtaking views of Seattle. On top of that, it also offers unobstructed views of the Seattle waterfront due to its height in relation to surrounding buildings. This is a romantic and unique spot to watch the sunset in Seattle.

Volunteer Park

Volunteer Park is a beautiful and popular location for sunset watching in Seattle because of its 360 degree views from the top of a water tower. It’s one place where people can watch sunsets and enjoy nature, without being crowded by other visitors.

Space Needle Observation Deck

The Space Needle Observation Deck provides a spectacular panoramic view of Seattle’s sunsets. It’s the best place to watch the sunset and enjoy one of the most popular Seattle attractions.

Watch as the sky turns from deep purple to pink, then orange, then red before finally turning dark blue in all its glory. During your sunset experience at the Space Needle, you’ll be able to see Mount Rainier and Puget Sound from your vantage point!

Lake Union Park

Lake Union Park is another fantastic place in Seattle to watch a sunset. It’s located just north of downtown and offers an unobstructed view of Lake Union, making it very easy to spot a beautiful sunset. It’s fun to watch Seattle light up as the sun sets down on Lake Union and then gradually moves into Puget Sound.

Gas Works Park

The sunset view at Gas Works Park is one that can’t be missed. With its proximity to both water and land, you’ll have an opportunity to see the sun go down in a unique way at in this location. Gas Works Park is a family-friendly spot to watch a sunset. It’s perfect for parents and children alike, as it has plenty of things to keep kids occupied.

The park is a great place to visit during the day and even better during the afternoon to evening hours as the sun goes down.

Golden Gardens Park

Golden Gardens Park is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset in Seattle for anyone who enjoys nature. The park is accessible by car, has plenty of parking, and provides seating on the beach or at the picnic tables. It offers perfect views of the Olympics and the sun setting over Puget Sound with amazing photo opportunities and gorgeous golden sand beaches and dramatic cliffs that surround it.

The beach at Golden Gardens Park has been listed as one of Washington State’s most beautiful beaches, while its stunning views are perfect for finding love and snuggling with your favorite person.

Marination Ma Kai

The Marination Ma Kai offers a beautiful view of the Seattle skyline and the surrounding neighborhood. The patio is perfect for grabbing a bite to eat as well, especially if you’re interested in catching a few drinks during Seattle’s famous sunsets.

Marination Ma Kai also has tacos and cocktails on their menu to make your experience that much better.

Olympic Sculpture Park

The Olympic Sculpture Park is a 9-acre sculpture park on the waterfront in Seattle. It serves to remind us of the beauty and significance of art and nature while also celebrating the city’s rich culture. The Olympic Sculpture Park has been one of those places that many people have enjoyed watching the sunset.

Ray’s Boathouse

Ray’s Boathouse is a popular place to watch the sunset in Seattle. If you want to feel like you’re part of this amazing show, just grab a table on their deck for dinner or drinks during summertime.

Ray’s Boathouse is a great place to take in the sunset, have some seafood and enjoy a well-made cocktail. The view of Puget Sound from an open patio is absolutely breathtaking.

A big plus: It’s right by the water and has an awesome view!

Columbia Tower Sky View Observatory

The Columbia Tower Sky View Observatory is a perfect place to see the sunset without crowds of the Space Needle. It’s located on top of one of Seattle’s tallest buildings and offers views from 360 degrees.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking view during twilight time, this is definitely the place to go.

Furthermore, the Columbia Tower Sky View Observatory is considered one of Seattle’s best-kept secrets because it offers breathtaking views of Elliott Bay, downtown Seattle, and more.

The observatory has everything you need for your perfect sunset. An expansive 360-degree view from the balcony that offers panoramic shots of the city skyline in all directions, it also has comfortable lounge chairs to enjoy the views with friends.

Carkeek Park

Carkeek Park offers beautiful views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It’s a great place to enjoy nature and watch sunsets because at low tide you can walk hundreds of feet out into Puget Sound exploring the best tide pool beaches in Seattle

Carkeek Park has many trails that lead you through garden areas where you can see birds soaring overhead or you can explore the pedestrian bridge that goes over the railroad tracks.

West Point Lighthouse

If you’re up for a little adventure, West Point Lighthouse is a popular location to view the sunset. If you’re seeking for something quick and easy to get to, be aware that there isn’t any parking near the lighthouse, so you’ll have to walk out to see the sunset.

West Point Light is a small Lighthouse south of downtown on Puget Sound. The Sound boasts wonderful panoramic in all directions including ferries, freighters, sailboats, vintage ships, tugboats, motorboats and the Olympic Mountains.

FAQ ABOUT THE BEST SEATTLE SUNSET