Tucson, Arizona, is one of the best places in the U.S. to watch the sunset. Whether you’re taking in the vast desert landscapes or the dramatic silhouettes of the surrounding mountain ranges, the sunsets here are nothing short of breathtaking. From the moment the sky turns golden, you’ll find that Tucson’s many scenic spots offer perfect vistas to watch the sun set. To make the most of these magical moments, I’ve handpicked five of the best hotels near Tucson’s top attractions where you can enjoy both comfort and stunning sunset views.
1. The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain
Location: 15000 N Secret Springs Dr, Marana, AZ 85658
The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain is an absolute dream for those who want to experience luxury with an unobstructed view of the desert’s beauty. Nestled in the Tortolita Mountains, the resort offers a perfect balance of seclusion and sophistication, with 850 acres of sprawling desert land around it.
What I Loved:
From my room, I had panoramic views of the rugged mountains and sweeping desert plains. The best part? Watching the sunset from the comfort of my private balcony. The desert sky transforms with brilliant colors, creating a surreal moment. The resort offers excellent amenities including a top-rated golf course, an outdoor pool, and a world-class spa.
Guest Reviews:
Guests consistently rave about the seamless blend of nature and luxury. One guest mentioned, “It’s a perfect retreat for those who want to disconnect while still enjoying top-tier service and amenities.” Another reviewer called the sunset views from the property “some of the best they’ve ever seen.”
Price:
Rooms typically range from $450 to $700 per night, depending on the time of year and room type. Booking in advance often leads to special promotions, so it’s worth checking.
Best Booking Platforms:
- Booking.com often has competitive prices and frequent discounts.
- Expedia offers package deals, especially when booking flights and rental cars together.
- For the best exclusive offers, I recommend booking directly on The Ritz-Carlton’s official website.
Booking Tip:
Book at least 3 weeks in advance, especially for peak seasons like winter, when the desert’s mild temperatures attract more tourists. If you’re looking for additional perks like resort credits or spa discounts, sign up for the hotel’s loyalty program.
2. The JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa
Location: 3800 W Starr Pass Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85745
If you’re a nature lover looking for a place where you can combine both stunning desert views and easy access to hiking trails, JW Marriott Starr Pass is perfect for you. Located at the base of the Tucson Mountains, this resort offers incredible views of the Sonoran Desert, especially at sunset. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring the nearby Saguaro National Park or hiking up Sentinel Peak.
What I Loved:
The property is expansive, and I loved walking around the trails right outside the resort. Watching the sun dip below the mountains was a truly magical experience. The resort features multiple pools, a championship golf course, and several dining options with views over the desert. The Signature Grill is an amazing place to dine while soaking in the sunset.
Guest Reviews:
Reviews for this resort often highlight the breathtaking views and the warm hospitality. One guest wrote, “It felt like a desert paradise, and I’ll never forget the evening sunsets by the pool.”
Price:
Rooms range from $250 to $450 per night, depending on the season.
Best Booking Platforms:
- Agoda often features great deals on Marriott properties.
- Hotels.com offers deals for loyalty members, making it an excellent option for frequent travelers.
Booking Tip:
Booking through the Marriott Bonvoy app allows you to earn loyalty points that can be redeemed for free nights or upgrades, so I always recommend that route for frequent travelers.
3. The Desert Diamond Casino Hotel
Location: 7350 S Nogales Hwy, Tucson, AZ 85756
For a blend of relaxation, excitement, and stunning sunset views, Desert Diamond Casino Hotel offers a unique experience. Located just outside Tucson, this hotel provides a more unconventional lodging option compared to the traditional resorts. The casino’s vibrant atmosphere adds a fun twist, while the scenic desert views remain at the forefront of its appeal.
Whether you’re into trying your luck at the gaming tables or simply unwinding after a day of exploring, the Desert Diamond Casino offers something for everyone. Its location just off I-19 makes it easily accessible, and despite being a bit removed from the city’s hustle, you’re never too far from all that Tucson has to offer.
What I Loved:
The combination of a comfortable hotel stay and the chance to enjoy an evening at the casino made this an exciting yet laid-back choice. The rooms are clean, modern, and cozy, providing all the essential amenities. The standout feature for me was the rooftop bar, which gives you the chance to enjoy a drink while soaking in a spectacular desert sunset. Watching the golden hues of the sun reflect off the cactus and rugged terrain was truly mesmerizing.
While the property doesn’t have the sprawling grounds of some of the luxury resorts, the lively casino atmosphere and friendly staff make up for it. The food options are varied, and the convenience of staying right on-site made it easy to spend the evening without leaving the property.
Guest Reviews:
Guests generally rave about the excellent service and the fun, upbeat atmosphere. One guest said, “The rooftop bar is the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing, with panoramic views of the desert and an energizing vibe.” Others have mentioned that while it’s not the most luxurious property, the value for the price is excellent. One review noted, “The casino is a nice touch, and the rooms are comfortable—plus, the sunset views from the rooftop bar were just unforgettable.”
Price:
Rooms generally range from $100 to $180 per night, making it one of the more affordable options for those seeking something unique. For the price, it offers a lot of value, especially with the added benefits of a casino and dining options on-site.
Best Booking Platforms:
- Hotels.com often offers competitive rates, and booking through the platform can earn you rewards.
- Booking.com also frequently has last-minute deals and discounted rates for Desert Diamond Casino Hotel.
Booking Tip:
To make the most of your stay, check the Desert Diamond Casino website for any package deals that include hotel stays, casino credits, or dining offers. These bundles are a great way to get added perks and maximize your stay. Additionally, booking directly through their website may provide exclusive promotions, such as room upgrades or discounts on dining.
4. Loews Ventana Canyon Resort
Location: 7000 N Resort Dr, Tucson, AZ 85750
For those seeking a luxury escape with views of both the desert and the nearby Catalina Mountains, Loews Ventana Canyon Resort is a hidden gem. It’s positioned perfectly for sunset lovers, as you can watch the sun dip behind the mountains while relaxing on the balcony of your room.
What I Loved:
This resort is all about relaxation. The golf course is beautiful, and I thoroughly enjoyed the pool area, which had great views. The dining at Canyon Ranch Grill was superb, with local ingredients and dishes that reflect the region’s culinary influence. The sunset views were unparalleled, and I loved ending my days on the terrace with a drink in hand.
Guest Reviews:
Many guests rave about the spectacular views, with one saying, “I’ve never seen sunsets like this before. Watching it from my room was absolutely magical.”
Price:
Rooms start at around $250 per night and can go up to $500, depending on the season and room selection.
Best Booking Platforms:
- Expedia often offers good packages with extra amenities included.
- Priceline is worth checking for last-minute deals or discounts for early bookers.
Booking Tip:
To get the best price, check for early bird promotions on the Loews Ventana Canyon website or use Expedia for bundled deals.
5. Arizona Inn
Location: 2200 E Elm St, Tucson, AZ 85719
If you’re looking for a charming, boutique-style experience, Arizona Inn is a classic choice. With its historic charm, the inn provides an intimate experience while still offering access to some of Tucson’s best sights, including Mission San Xavier del Bac and the surrounding desert landscapes. The property offers a peaceful and luxurious setting with great views of the desert at sunset.
What I Loved:
The old-world charm and intimate setting made this a memorable stay. I loved sitting by the outdoor pool area with a cocktail while watching the desert sky light up at dusk. The staff was incredibly friendly, and the attention to detail really made my stay special.
Guest Reviews:
The hotel has an excellent reputation for service and charm. A recent guest noted, “This is the perfect place to escape, with its cozy feel and stunning views.”
Price:
Rooms typically range from $200 to $350 per night, depending on availability and season.
Best Booking Platforms:
- Agoda offers competitive pricing for boutique hotels like Arizona Inn.
- Booking.com frequently offers room upgrades and free cancellation.
Booking Tip:
The Arizona Inn has great offers for extended stays or if you book for more than two nights. If you’re traveling during the off-season, you might find even better deals by checking Agoda or Booking.com.
These hotels, each with its own unique charm and proximity to some of Tucson’s most beautiful outdoor spots, provide ideal accommodations for sunset lovers. From luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels, Tucson has a wealth of options that will ensure a memorable stay. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a lover of desert landscapes, or simply looking to relax and enjoy some of the most beautiful sunsets in the U.S., you’ll find the perfect place to stay here.
For booking, I recommend checking out Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda for the best deals and availability. These platforms often offer exclusive discounts, loyalty benefits, and package deals when you book in advance.
Tags: hotels, Near Attractions, Tucson