Seize the Day: Celebrating the Summer Solstice in Bay Area

The Summer Solstice, Friday, June 20, 2025 | 5:54 AM – 8:18 PM, marks the longest day of the year and the official beginning of summer. That’s 14 hours, 23 minutes of sunshine and the perfect time to embrace the vibrant energy of the season. Start your day by welcoming the sunrise over the Bay, then on to solstice fun until sunset:







Take advantage of the longest day of the year with the East Bay Regional Parks:

Saturday, June 21, 8-10 a.m. Summer Solstice Hike at Coyote Hills in Fremont

Saturday, June 21, 6-7 p.m. Summer Solstice Walk at Big Break in Oakley

Saturday, June 21, 8:30-9:30 p.m. Solstice Celebration Campfire Program at Dumbarton Quarry Campground in Fremont

Sunday, June 22, 1-3:30 p.m. Celebrate Summer Solstice at Del Valle in Livermore








Watch the Sunrise and Sunset

The San Francisco Bay Area has some spectacular spots for watching the sunrise and sunset, with options ranging from coastal cliffs to hilltop vistas. Here are some of my favorite places in the Bay Area:

MARIN

Hawk Hill (Marin Headlands) Just north of the Golden Gate Bridge offering panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco skyline and the Bay.

Battery Spencer (Marin Headlands) it’s better known for sunsets but this is fantastic for sunrises behind the Golden Gate Bridge, especially on clear mornings.

Mount Tamalpais East Peak at over 2,500 feet, offers one of the most sweeping views.

SAN FRANCISCO

Twin Peaks in the heart of SF has a 360° view of the city and the bay.

Bernal Heights Park is less crowded than Twin Peaks plus it’s a short hike that rewards you with a stunning view of downtown and the Bay.

Lands End / Sutro Baths beautiful coastline and cliffs with dramatic early light with ocean views.

Treasure Island has great views of downtown San Francisco silhouetted against the rising sun.

EAST BAY

Grizzly Peak (Berkeley Hills) offers views of the bay, bridges and SF skyline.

Tilden Park (Inspiration Point) is a great combo of trails and views over the East Bay hills.

SOUTH BAY

Mission Peak (Fremont) is a rigorous hike (3-4 miles up), but the views from the summit are stunning.

Windy Hill Open Space Preserve overlooks the entire Bay Area, including Silicon Valley.

Just have fun what ever you decide to do to celebrate the longest day of the year! Start planning now and Happy Summer Solstice!