Not to be confused with Stonehenge, Scrippshenge is when the sun sets directly between the concrete pillars of Scripps Pier. This is a rare event when the setting sun aligns perfectly under Scripps Pier, creating a concrete fireball.
Scrippshenge is a photographers dream that only aligns perfectly to happen once or twice annually.
Scrippshenge 2024 Dates
There are only a few dates per year when Scrippshenge happens. By partnering with local photographers whom study the sunset coordinates, this page will be updated annually with Scrippshenge dates.
Generally, Scrippshenge will occur twice per year. The most common windows for viewing will be the beginning of May and the beginning of August. The most probable Scrippshenge dates of 2024 are listed below.
- May 1 – 3, 2024
- August 7 – 9, 2024
Check sunset times before you go. Generally, the sun will pass beneath Scripps Pier about 5 minutes before the actual sunset time.
Where should you watch Scrippshenge from?
The best place to watch Scrippshenge is directly beneath Scripps Pier. You should be able to find nearby street parking on La Jolla Shores Drive. Get here at least an hour before sunset to snag parking. From here, you can walk down Naga Lane and a ramp will empty you out on the North side of the pier. Alternatively, there is a staircase on the South side of the pier near Caroline’s Cafe.
Since Scrippshenge is best to watch from beneath the pier, crowds will begin gathering well before sunset, at least one hour. If you want prime viewing to set up your camera stand, you should arrive more than an hour before sunset. Otherwise, you’ll be standing behind a crowd of people waving their cameras and phones in the air.
While you can still watch the sunset from the side of the pier or even on the walking path along the coast above the pier, you can really only capture the epic moment when the sun intersects with pier from standing beneath it.
The technology in phones is so good these days but to capture the sunset best, I recommend a 4k camera with a zoom.
How does Scrippshenge happen technically?
The alignment of the sun with the pier is a result of the Earth’s axial tilt and its orbit around the sun. This unique positioning creates a specific window of time when the sun’s path perfectly aligns with the orientation of the pier, leading to the breathtaking spectacle known as Scrippshenge. Observing this phenomenon provides a deeper appreciation for the intricate dance of celestial bodies and the natural wonders that surround us.
Grab your camera and enjoy San Diego’s most epic sunset!
Try Sunset Cliffs for another photogenic sunset spot in San Diego.
