Last November, San Francisco voters approved the ballot measure for a new park on the Great Highway. The proposition was contentious, with many San Franciscans eager for a new park, while residents closer to the potential park worried about the effects of losing the road.
Now, a few short months after Proposition K was passed, the new park is officially opening this weekend, on Saturday, April 12th, 2025. The public submitted suggested names for the new park over the last month, and officials picked the final name, landing on Sunset Dunes. The name references the nearby sand dunes and the neighborhood’s history of being covered in massive sand dunes in the early years of San Francisco’s development.
The opening event this weekend will include a ribbon cutting, live music, and family-friendly activities. The new park has murals by local artists, new lounge spaces including hammocks, and a nature exploration area for kids. The opening ceremony will take place between 11:30 am and 4 p.m. on Saturday.
The 2-mile park spans the road from Lincoln Way to Sloat Boulevard along the waterfront. Starting in 2021, the road was closed to traffic on the weekends, inviting people to bike, run, and walk along the scenic road to further enjoy the waterfront.
SF Recreation and Parks also announced a series of new improvements the public can look forward to with the park. Murals, seating areas with chairs and hammocks, and public art installations are all part of the first wave of improvements. Additionally, a place for skating, fitness, and a children’s Nature Exploration Area are all upcoming amenities.
“This park belongs to the people of San Francisco,” said Rec and Park General Manager Phil Ginsburg. “It’s a place where the City meets the sea, where art and nature come together, and where San Franciscans will leave their mark—not just by enjoying the park, but by giving it its name. We can’t wait to celebrate this historic moment on April 12.”
Sunset Dunes officially opens on Saturday, April 12, 2025. The festivities will start at 11:30 a.m. and run to 4 p.m. We recommend taking public transit to the park, as it may be challenging to find parking in the area.