Best Sunset Spots at the Shore
The Jersey Shore offers stunning sunsets - if you know where to look. Bay beaches, rooftop bars, and sunset cruises for golden hour magic.
🌅 Important: Sunset is on the BAY Side
New Jersey's coast faces east - the sun rises over the Atlantic Ocean, not sets. For sunset views, head to bay-side beaches, west-facing spots like Cape May Point, or elevated locations like rooftop bars.
Top Sunset Spots
Sunset Beach
Cape May Point • Beach
THE sunset destination. Delaware Bay views, concrete ship, Cape May diamonds.
Tip: Arrive 45 min before sunset
Stone Harbor Bayfront
Stone Harbor • Bay Beach
Stunning bay sunsets from 96th Street beach or waterfront restaurants.
Tip: Dinner at bayfront restaurant
The Rooftop at The Asbury
Asbury Park • Rooftop Bar
Cocktails with sunset views over the ocean and downtown Asbury.
Tip: Arrive by 7pm in summer
LBI Bay Beaches
Long Beach Island • Bay Beach
Multiple bay beaches along LBI offer spectacular sunset views.
Tip: Beach Haven bay beaches
Sunset Cruise
Cape May / Atlantic City • Boat Cruise
Watch sunset from the water on a sailing or motor cruise.
Tip: Book 2-hour sunset cruise
Barnegat Lighthouse
Barnegat Light • Lighthouse
Climb 217 steps for panoramic sunset views from Old Barney.
Tip: Check closing time (varies)
Atlantic City Boardwalk
Atlantic City • Boardwalk
Watch the sky change colors behind the casino skyline.
Tip: Near Steel Pier area
Avalon Fishing Pier
Avalon • Pier
Walk out on the pier for elevated ocean and bay glimpses.
Tip: Walk to the end
Sunset Cruises
Cape May Whale Watcher
Cape May
Atlantic City Cruises
Atlantic City
Schooner America 2.0
Ocean City
Sunset Viewing Tips
Bay Side for Sunsets
The ocean faces east (sunrise). Head to bay beaches for sunset views.
Arrive Early
Get to your spot 30-45 minutes before sunset for golden hour.
Check Weather
Some clouds make better sunsets. Completely clear skies can be less dramatic.
Bring Layers
Temperatures drop quickly after sunset at the shore. Bring a sweatshirt.
Book Sunset Dinners
Bayfront restaurants book up for sunset tables. Reserve 2-4 weeks ahead.
Stay for Blue Hour
The 20 minutes after sunset (blue hour) can be equally beautiful.
Sunset Beach: The Best Sunset at the Shore
Sunset Beach at Cape May Point is the premier sunset destination. Watch the sun sink into the Delaware Bay with the concrete ship SS Atlantus in view. During summer, a flag-lowering ceremony honors veterans as the sun sets. Hunt for Cape May diamonds (quartz pebbles) on the beach. Arrive 45 minutes early.
Cape May Point Guide