Sunset Dunes is a two‑mile stretch of the former Great Highway that now functions as a year‑round coastal park in San Francisco’s Outer Sunset neighborhood. Running parallel to the Pacific Ocean, it offers wide open space, fresh air, public art, and plenty of room for kids to move.
SF’s Most Controversial Park
Have you been to San Francisco’s most controversial park? Sunset Dunes officially opened as a permanent park in April 2025, after the Great Highway was closed to car traffic.
The controversy stems from concerns raised by some west‑side residents who feel the closure has pushed traffic onto nearby residential streets, increasing congestion and safety issues. Over the past year, there have been multiple efforts to reverse the decision. Most recently, in January, District 4 Supervisor Joel Engardio introduced a last‑minute proposal to reopen the Great Highway to cars, but it failed to qualify for the ballot.
I don’t live on the west side of the city, so I can’t speak firsthand to how the park has affected daily traffic patterns. What I can say is that Sunset Dunes is a unique, welcoming public space, and one I strongly encourage families to experience for themselves.
What to Do at Sunset Dunes with Kids
1. Ride or Skate at the Sloat Skate Space
Hands down, this small skate park is both my favorite and my kids’ favorite part of Sunset Dunes. My kindergartener and preschooler love riding their bikes and scooters along the smooth wooden track, and the concrete ramps are clearly popular with skateboarders of all ages.
2. Watch the Waves from a Hammock
There are two sets of public hammocks at Sunset Dunes, located between Taraval Street and Santiago Street. The northern set offers the best ocean views and is a perfect spot to relax, read a book, or just watch the waves roll in.
3. Interact with Art from San Francisco’s Big Art Loop
While the skate park may be my kids’ favorite activity, Octavius the Giant Octopus is definitely their favorite thing to see. Located near Sloat Boulevard, Octavius is one of several large‑scale art installations throughout the park. In total, there are five art pieces along Sunset Dunes, including two from San Francisco’s Big Art Loop.
4. Go on a Stroller Run
Running is actually what brought me to Sunset Dunes for the first time. A long, uninterrupted stretch with no cars or street crossings makes stroller running , especially with a child on a bike in tow , far less stressful. Whether you’re new to running with kids or just want to switch up your route, Sunset Dunes is an excellent option.
Check out my San Francisco Stroller Running Spots Here
5. Explore the Rivera Nature Exploration Area
The Rivera Nature Exploration Area features logs and stumps set in sand alongside the paved path, creating space for open‑ended, imaginative play. My kids always enjoy climbing, balancing, and jumping from log to log.
That said, I personally found this area a bit underwhelming compared to other nature‑based play spaces in San Francisco. Adding signage or hands‑on information about the dune ecosystem, native plants, or local wildlife would go a long way toward making this space more engaging.
6. Play the Piano at the Beach
Yes , there’s a piano at Sunset Dunes! A donated piano can be rolled out and played directly on the old highway. While I haven’t personally seen anyone use it yet, we’ve loved listening to outdoor piano performances in Golden Gate Park, and I hope this becomes a lively feature here as well.
Final Thoughts
Sunset Dunes has become one of my favorite places to get outside with my kids while also fitting in a workout. Between the ocean views, rotating public art, and car‑free space, it feels both peaceful and distinctly local.
While it may not top the list for first‑time visitors , especially compared to destinations like Tunnel Tops or Golden Gate Park , it’s a fantastic spot for families looking to experience a more everyday, neighborhood side of San Francisco. If you live in the city or are visiting with kids and want a low‑key outdoor adventure, Sunset Dunes is well worth the trip.
Know Before You Go
Address:
Sunset Dunes runs along the former Great Highway, roughly from Sloat Boulevard to Lincoln Way, San Francisco, CA.
Where to Park:
Street parking is available along nearby residential streets. If you don’t plan to walk the full two miles, it’s helpful to park close to the specific area you want to visit (such as the skate park or hammocks).
Public Transportation:
Yes , Sunset Dunes is accessible by public transit. Muni bus lines that serve the Outer Sunset include the L Taraval, N Judah, and several bus routes along Sunset Boulevard and Lincoln Way. From there, it’s a short walk to the park.
Dogs:
Dogs are welcome at Sunset Dunes and are a common sight. They must be kept on leash and are required to stay off the dunes themselves , just like people.
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