Sunsets are a magical time to watch the chasm between day and night. Australia is filled with stunning sunsets, from cotton-candy pinks to fiery orange glows.
Byron Bay has crystal ocean waters and a big surf culture – but it’s the sunset that really steals the show. The Derby Jetty is one of the southern hemisphere’s best spots to witness the phenomenon.
1. Bronte Rockpool
A sandstone cliff and saltwater rockpool set against a backdrop of cotton-candy pink and lavender makes this beach on Sydney’s eastern suburbs one of the best spots to watch a sunset. It’s less of a tourist trap than Bondi and has a distinctly local feel.
Byron Bay’s beaches are a hit with surfers, swimmers and families. You can grab a spot on the northern end of Main Beach or Belongil Beach to watch the sun take its final dip.
The Northern Territory might have fewer beaches but the ones it does have are stunners. Enjoy a sunset from the water on a gentle cruise through Kakadu National Park or from a viewing point overlooking Uluru and Kata Tjuta’s colossal ochre monolith.
2. Dudley Page Reserve
Located north of Bondi, Dudley Page Reserve is a beautiful park that overlooks the city skyline and Harbour Bridge. The sunsets here are truly awe-inspiring, as they take on cotton-candy pinks and vibrant orange glows.
These 12 iconic rock stacks are a must-see attraction on Australia’s Great Ocean Road, but they’re even more magical at sunset. If the crowds are too much to handle, head to Loch Ard Gorge for a quieter viewing spot.
During the right time of year, the sun actually sets BETWEEN Sydney’s Opera House and Harbor Bridge! It’s the perfect vantage point to see this iconic landmark in all its glory. This spot is also a favorite among droners, so be sure to bring your camera.
3. America Bay
America Bay is a beautiful hidden spot to catch a sunset close to Sydney. You’ll have to hike a bit to get here, but it is worth it!
This little town is home to crystal ocean waters, flooded sunshine and a big surf culture. Located in the far north of Australia, Broome is known for its unique pearling history and beautiful natural features, including stunning red Pindan soil cliffs, lagoons and beaches.
Australia’s Kimberley region is all about rocky mountains and wide open spaces, but it’s also about a dazzling sunset show! Watch five rivers gush into the sea and create a colourful vista that’s incredibly difficult to capture on camera. It’s a sunset that truly must be seen to believe.
4. Bradley’s Head
The most magical thing about sunsets is that they’re unpredictable. They can start with pale pink and purple and turn into bright oranges and smoky reds. That’s what makes sunsets so exciting, especially if you’re lucky enough to be at the right spot at the right time.
A little way north of Sydney is a small beach with pretty jetty views that’s perfect for watching a sunset. Bring a picnic and settle down to watch the sky change colour over Sydney’s Harbour Bridge and Luna Park.
The Northern Territory’s Kakadu National Park is a huge nature preserve with an abundance of plants and animals – including saltwater crocodiles. But the most iconic sunset here is at Ubirr, a rock outcrop that overlooks the Nadab floodplains.
5. Sydney Harbour
A glistening harbour at sunset is a classic Australian photo. Watch the sky turn cotton-candy pink and lavender from vantage points around the Sydney waterfront – like Blues Point Reserve past Lavender Bay.
Kakadu National Park in Northern Australia is another nature-lovers paradise with a spectacular sunset view. A huge nature preserve, the park is home to saltwater crocodiles, migrating birds, and ancient rock art.
Alternatively, head to the charming seaside town of Noosa on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast for a picture-perfect sunset. Here, you can spot Noosa’s iconic mining stacks silhouetted against a fiery orange-red sky. It’s the quintessential Australian postcard scene! The charming holiday town of Noosa has a wide range of beach spots to choose from. You could even stroll the Noosa River for a serene experience.