10 best places in Sydney to see epic sunsets

Xperience Team
01 Apr 2025 - 4 min read

As day transitions into evening, Sydney's skyline transforms into a vibrant display of colours at sunset. The city's breathtaking mix of natural and urban landscapes, including iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, as well as beautiful beaches such as Bondi and Manly, creates a stunning scene against the backdrop of a setting sun.

While there's countless spots to watch the setting sun, we've narrowed it down to 10 of the city's best.

Best places to watch the sunset in Sydney

1. Watsons Bay

Facing west with a stunning outlook over Sydney Harbour toward the city, Watsons Bay feels like a world away, but is actually just 10 kms from the CBD via ferry.

There's plenty of spots to enjoy the view from too. Our favourite? Robertson Park, right next to the ferry wharf, is a grassy, family-friendly spot by the beach. Grab some fish and chips from Doyles and have a picnic while the sun sets.

2. Bondi Beach

While Bondi is an east-facing beach, the sky, after-work bustle and the overall ambience are what puts the city's most famous beach on our list. Whether you're sitting on the sands or sipping a glass of bubbly at a restaurant with a view, we can guarantee sunsets at Bondi won't disappoint.

Sydney Opera House at sunset

3. Sydney Opera House

The Opera House and surrounding area offer panoramic sunset in Sydney views against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour and the famous Harbour Bridge. While awaiting the sunset, consider joining the Sydney Opera House Guided Tour. This tour allows you to explore the iconic landmark, learn about its history and architecture, and see behind the scenes of this world-renowned performing arts institution.

4. Royal Botanic Garden

Nestled to the east of the iconic Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanic Garden graces the shores of Sydney Harbour. One of its highlights is Mrs Macquarie's Chair. This spot, set within the verdant garden, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge. Its beauty makes it a sought-after location for picture-taking and for relishing the setting sun.

5. Bradleys Head Amphitheatre

Nestled in the Sydney Harbour National Park, Bradleys Head Amphitheatre provides a tranquil setting on the north shore with the Harbour Bridge as a backdrop, making it ideal for a peaceful sunset experience. You can either drive here, or take a sunset walk along the picturesque Taronga Zoo to Balmoral Beach harbour-side track.

North Head, near Manly in Sydney, at Sunset

6. North Head

Visit the northernmost point of Sydney Harbour National Park for a tranquil location with magnificent views of the ocean and city. If you can make it in time, take the nearby Manly Ferry back to the CBD while the sun has still painted the sky with pinks and purples for an extra special view.

7. Cremorne Point

Experience a serene sunset while taking in views of Cremorne Point's metropolitan skyline, Opera House, and Harbour Bridge. This harbouBrfront site is all the more charming because of the serene atmosphere.

Marrinawi Cove, a swimming area in Barangaroo.

8. Barangaroo Reserve

Depending on where you sit, this waterfront park offers stunning views of the city skyline, Darling Harbour and the north shore in an urban setting. For a truly unique experience, check out Marrinawi Cove. Opened in 2023, the sheltered cove is one of the CBD's only natural swimming spots where you can take a dip while watching the sun go down.

9. Cockatoo Island

Sitting in the middle of Sydney Harbour to the west of the city, Cockatoo Island offers spectacular sunset views. You can get here by ferry from Circular Quay in just under 20 minutes. For a truly unique experience, you can catch both the sunset and the sunrise by staying overnight on the island in one of its glamping tents.

Observatory Hill in The Rocks, Sydney at sunset.

10. Observatory Hill

Just a short walk from either Wynyard or Circular Quay station, Observatory Hill offers panoramic views of Sydney Harbour from high above The Rocks. The grassy hill in front of the building is just perfect for sunset picnics overlooking the Sydney Harbour Bridge and toward North Sydney.

Where to watch the sunset over water in Sydney

Being on the east coast of Australia, there are fewer places that we can watch the sun set over water than over on the west coast. But, that doesn't mean there aren't any! Here are a few of our picks mentioned above, and more:

Watsons Bay
Sydney Opera House
North Head
Barangaroo Reserve
Cockatoo Island
Observatory Hill
Mrs Macquarie's Chair
Kurnell Beach
Station Beach (near Palm Beach)

Witnessing the sunset in Sydney is worth it for the breathtaking views, iconic landmarks, cultural significance, and overall magical atmosphere that the city offers during this time. It's an experience that captures the essence of Sydney's beauty and leaves a lasting impression on those who have the opportunity to enjoy it. Do not miss the opportunity, and plan your trip to Sydney now with Traveloka!

Looking for more things to do in town? Check out our wide range of Sydney attractions, tours and day trips.

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