Where to find the best sunrises and sunsets in the US

Photo by Jad Limcaco
We all lead such busy lives these days. We’re juggling work, kids, spouses, running errands, taking care of a home, and trying to fit in time for ourselves. We usually don’t stop to take a look around and appreciate all that nature has to offer us. We tend to be very consumed with what is going on throughout social media or in the news. If we put our phones down for just a moment, we might be able to soak in some of the beauty that comes from a sunrise or sunset. You may have managed to view a sunrise or sunset in the area that you live in, but there are some beautiful areas of the country that have spectacular views.
The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a spectacular sight, no matter what time of day you view it. Being one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World, you can see the sunrise or sunset from many different spots at The Grand Canyon. There really isn’t a bad point for you to stop. Hopi Point is one of the most popular. Yaki Point is another area that tends to be a bit quieter and more secluded. Bright Angel Lodge is a great place to catch the sunrise or sunset as well.

Photo by Jonathan Wheeler
The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys is such a relaxed spot to check out a sunrise or sunset. If you want to catch the sun rising, you’ll want to head to the east shore. The west shore is where you’ll want to be for the sunset. The Ocean Key’s Sunset Pier is perfect for the sunset. You can even grab a cocktail and enjoy the nightlife from this spot. There is a yearly festival in Mallory Square that is called the Key West Sunset Celebration. You’ll find tons of tourists and locals stopping by to see the sunset. There are also food vendors, psychics, musicians, and much more.
Wailuku, Hawaii
It goes without saying that Hawaii would have amazing sunrises and sunsets. Wailuku, Hawaii allows you to sit back on the beach and enjoy the beauty of nature in the early morning hours or late at night. In this area, you can sit back at Kamaole Beach Park II. On a clear day, you’ll be able to spot Molokini Island off in the distance.
Apalachicola, Florida
The majority of sunsets and sunrises occur near water, but you can get an even more fantastic experience by visiting Apalachicola, Florida. This is where you can get a tour of St. George Island by way of the sunset boat tour that they offer. You’ll even get to try your hand at shucking fresh oysters. With a stop by Sand Dollar Island, you run the chance of being able to see some dolphins swimming around in the water. The sunrise is also picturesque here. There aren’t many places you won’t want to stop to see the view. Summers are the absolute best in Apalachicola.

Photo by Eric Zhang
Seattle, Washington
Seattle is known for its rain throughout the year, but there are days when you can catch a lovely sunset and sunrise. The best place to go is Carkeek Park. There are plenty of cozy spots, lush trees, and you have the Olympic Mountains in the background. You can also head over to Pier 66, which is located on the waterfront of Seattle.
Glenwood Springs, Colorado
With the Rocky Mountains in the backdrop, Glenwood Springs, Colorado, shows just how amazing the sunset or sunrise can be in a landscape that is different from the beach. If you’d like to see a little bit more than where you’ve designed to sit down to enjoy the view, you can take the Iron Mountain Tram through the lit up the sky. There is also the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, where you can relax and watch the sun.

Photo by OC Gonzalez
Santa Barbara, California
The bright red and orange sunsets that you find in Santa Barbara are like no other sunset in the world. You can spend some time at The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach, which is a popular location for dinner, drinks, and a noteworthy sunset. They have daily fresh seafood specials, an impressive cocktail menu, and much more. You can also stop by Stern’s Wharf. The pier is a prime location to check out the sunrise and sunset looking out at the Pacific Ocean.
There’s something that is just so magical about a sunrise or sunset. To see the world look so beautiful right before us makes us realize how amazing our lives actually area. Traveling to different areas to see a sunrise or sunset makes for a magical trip. The summer months tend to be the best for magnificent colors and shades of light. Wherever you plan on heading, take a look at the weather forecast ahead of time. Don’t forget to plan accordingly when it comes to your clothing that day. Even if you’re visiting a location in the middle of summer, it can be chilly when the sun isn’t up. Dress in layers to help you stay comfortable. You can use an hourly forecast to predict what the temperature may be when you arrive at your destination in the early hours or late hours of the day.
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