Updated February 2026
Best Places to Watch Sunrise in Los Angeles
Los Angeles offers some of California's most spectacular sunrise viewpoints, from hillside observatories to coastal beaches. Whether you're an early riser or planning a special morning, these locations provide unforgettable sunrise experiences across the city.
1. Griffith Observatory (Our Top Pick for Los Feliz Residents)
There are few things that will get me out of bed before sunrise, but the breathtaking view from atop Griffith Park in Los Angeles is definitely one of them.
Griffith Park is located on Los Feliz Boulevard and is the 2nd largest city park in California, bringing a much-needed touch of nature to the Los Angeles area. Not only is the hiking great for watching the beautiful sunrise, but the park has other attractions to enjoy such as the Greek Theatre, LA Zoo, and Mt. Lee—home of the Hollywood sign.
How to Get There:
To hike and watch the sunrise, park at the west entrance at Fern Dell Nature Center. You must arrive bright and early. The hike is quite enjoyable as it winds through gigantic sycamores along a small brook. It's impressive how quickly you can remove yourself from the hustle and bustle of the city and be greeted by the beauty and silence of nature.
The Experience:
The hike takes approximately 45 minutes each way, so pack water and light snacks to recharge once you reach the top. Even though the round trip is 1.5 hours, the incline is gradual, making it accessible to those who aren't avid hikers.
When you reach Griffith Observatory, go around the back to the viewing deck where you can enjoy a full panoramic view of Hollywood and downtown Los Angeles. Watching the sunrise means getting up early, but the view is absolutely worth the trek and early morning start.
Best Time: Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunrise
Parking: Free at Fern Dell Nature Center (limited spots)
Accessibility: Moderate hike, gradual incline
Nearby: Easily accessible from Los Feliz, Franklin Village, Atwater Village, Glendale, and Hollywood
2. Runyon Canyon
Popular with hikers and dog owners, Runyon Canyon offers stunning sunrise views over Hollywood and the Pacific Ocean on clear days.
Location: Fuller Avenue entrance (Hollywood)
Best Time: 45 minutes before sunrise to secure parking
Difficulty: Moderate, with steep sections
Why Go: 360-degree views, dog-friendly, close to Hollywood
3. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
This Baldwin Hills park provides sweeping views of downtown LA, the Hollywood sign, and on clear days, the ocean.
Location: La Cienega Boulevard entrance
Best Time: Year-round sunrise viewing
Difficulty: Easy to moderate trails
Why Go: Less crowded than Griffith Park, great for families
4. El Matador State Beach (Malibu)
For a coastal sunrise experience, El Matador Beach offers dramatic rock formations and Pacific Ocean views.
Location: 32350 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu
Best Time: Summer months (sun rises over land in winter)
Difficulty: Easy, but steep stairs to beach
Why Go: Unique beach sunrise, perfect for photography
5. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
Often called the "Culver City Stairs," this viewpoint offers sunrise views of the LA Basin, downtown skyline, and Pacific Ocean.
Location: 6300 Hetzler Road, Culver City
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: 282 steps to the top
Why Go: Quick workout with big rewards, free parking
6. Echo Mountain (Altadena)
For serious hikers, Echo Mountain provides sunrise views over the San Gabriel Valley and LA Basin.
Location: Lake Avenue trailhead, Altadena
Best Time: Year-round, but bring layers
Difficulty: Challenging 5.5-mile round trip
Why Go: Ruins of historic railway, incredible views
7. Point Dume (Malibu)
A clifftop trail offering sunrise views over the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands.
Location: Westward Beach Road, Malibu
Best Time: Spring and summer
Difficulty: Easy 1.5-mile round trip
Why Go: Whale watching opportunities, dramatic coastal views
Tips for Watching Sunrise in Los Angeles
Timing: Arrive 30-45 minutes before official sunrise time for the best light and colors
Parking: Popular spots fill up quickly—arrive early
What to Bring: Water, light snacks, layers (mornings can be cool), camera
Weather: Check fog forecasts—marine layer can obscure coastal sunrises
Safety: Hike with a buddy and bring a headlamp for pre-dawn trails
Why Sunrise Beats Sunset in LA
While Los Angeles is famous for its sunsets, sunrise offers unique advantages:
- Fewer crowds at popular viewpoints
- Cooler temperatures for hiking
- Clearer air before daily pollution builds up
- Wildlife is more active
- Parking is easier to find
Plan Your Sunrise Adventure
Los Angeles offers sunrise experiences for every fitness level and interest—from challenging mountain hikes to easy beach walks. Griffith Observatory remains our top recommendation for Los Feliz residents due to its accessibility, incredible views, and the peaceful morning hike through nature.
Looking for more Los Feliz recommendations? Explore our guides to Los Feliz neighborhoods, hiking trails, and local culture.