Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
CESAR OKADA/GETTY IMAGES
Whether you’re standing with your feet in the sand at Barra da Tijuca or sipping a caipirinha on Leblon’s golden shores, there are many ways to enjoy a Rio de Janeiro sunset. Locals looking for a romantic rendezvous, though, usually head to Arpoador — a small peninsula that sits between Ipanema and Copacabana and juts out into the ocean. Arpoador’s geography allows for stunning views in all directions, making it the perfect spot to watch the sun dip into the Atlantic.
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Malibu, California
IRJALIINA PAAVONPERA/TRAVEL + LEISURE
For the quintessential California sunset experience, head straight to Malibu. Point Dume State Beach offers unparalleled views of the Pacific, Malibu’s famed bluffs, and, if you’re lucky, dolphins playing in the warm waters. Point Dume is a great place to watch the sunset, but if you'd rather hit two beaches in one trip, spend your daylight hours here before heading to the nearby El Matador State Beach to watch the sun go down. El Matador's unique rock formations make the dazzling sunset views even more dramatic.