Bright Star over Southern Cali..or something else?

Tonight after dark around 6:30 pst, I have sighted what looks like a unsually bright star in the southern - southwest skies over southern california. I'm not sure if its one of our neighbouring planets within our solar system! but can't help but wonder if this could be a spaceship? I don't have a telescope, or binoculars, but this bright star seems to have flickering lights to the naked eye. I'm thinking anyone on the north american continent especially the west, provided they have clear skies, could be able to see it. For those that do, check it out and please provide some feedback!