From the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department:

San Francisco’s Newest Coastal Park Officially Named Sunset Dunes

The two-mile park along the former Upper Great Highway will debut April 12

A new chapter in San Francisco history has begun, as the Recreation and Park Commission has selected a name for the City’s latest park: Sunset Dunes, the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department announced today.

During a special Recreation and Park Commission meeting, commissioners selected the name from a list of five finalists. The finalists – Playland Parkway, Sunset Dunes, Great Parkway, Fog Line and Plover Parkway – were carefully considered after an engaging public survey, which attracted 3,900 responses.

The survey, conducted between March 20 and April 2, allowed the public to select their top three name choices from a pool of 15 options. Respondents were encouraged to consider key factors, such as connection to nature, historical significance, community resonance, iconic placemaking and overall clarity. The final names emerged from the results based on popular selection and thoughtful feedback from the community.

“Sunset Dunes beautifully reflects both the natural beauty and the iconic spirit of San Francisco,” said Rec. and Park General Manager Phil Ginsburg. “We are thrilled to officially welcome Sunset Dunes as a new, vibrant addition to our City’s treasured parks, offering an unforgettable coastal experience for generations to come.”

“Ocean Beach and its surrounding area are sacred to both San Franciscans and visitors from around the world, so choosing the right name for this new park was a decision that demanded thoughtful consideration,” said Commission President Kat Anderson. “Sunset Dunes is a name that not only reflects the area’s iconic features, but it’s also one that everyone can take pride in.”

Community engagement played a key role in the naming process. Rec. and Park initially sought name suggestions, receiving over 4,200 submissions between March 1 and 16. Staff thoroughly reviewed the entries to ensure they were appropriate, avoided references to existing parks or locations and did not honor specific individuals. This process resulted in 3,200 potential names. A community meeting held on March 18, attended by 240 participants, further narrowed the list by ensuring the remaining names aligned with three key themes: historical significance, connection to nature and geography, and iconic placemaking. This approach helped streamline the selection to 15 final options, giving the public a refined list to choose from.

Sunset Dunes will provide stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, lush coastal ecosystems, and attractions and programming to keep visitors engaged, including murals, public art installations, seating, hammocks, a bike pump track, skateboarding elements, fitness classes, live music and more. The public is invited to explore Sunset Dunes during a community celebration on Saturday, April 12, happening from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Noriega Street.