Scripp's Pier is an incredible pier to shoot at many angles. Excellent for sunset shots. A great beach to chill out afterward.
Parking is easy, there are tons of random street you can park on just a little walk away. Be sure to arrive on scene at least an hour before sunset. Make sure to look up the sunset time and the weather forecast. Clouds will make for the most dramatic images with the most color from the sunset. Expect other photographers there being it is a very popular photographed pier. I got there several hours before for a quick surf session and then setup my tripod to stake out my spot I wanted. Getting there early is important so you get the spot you desire before someone else has it or is in the way. Play around with Neutral Density filters and take some long exposures after the sun is down. Also be prepared to get a little wet!