The 21 Most Breathtaking Sunsets In Australia

From the Outback to beaches, here are some of the most spectacular sunset locations around Australia.

While sunrises are the domains of the early birds among us, watching the sun go down is far more accessible to those who inevitably hit the snooze button. And with sunsets this good-looking, you won’t want to miss out. Here are our top spots to watch sunsets across Australia.

1. Tyndall Range, Tas

Starting with our favourite island state, the Tyndall Range in the West Coast region of Tasmania serves up some truly drop-dead gorgeous sunsets. If you’re feeling up for the challenge, watch the rays go down from the Tyndall Summit.

sunset watching from a tent at Tyndall Summit — Bask in the grandeur of the golden skyline from the Tyndall Summit. (Image: allaboutadventure)

2. Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, Tas

Whether it’s to see the Aurora Australia or falling snow in the winter or as a finishing point to its crisscrossing tracks through alpine vegetation and woodland, the lookout at the top of kunanyi / Mt Wellington is spectacular at any time. But watching the sun go to bed at the end of the long day is a glorious experience and one that can be had near Hobart at any time of the year.

two people atop the summit of Mt Wellington at. sunset — Hike up Mt Wellington for the best sunset views. (Image: Tourism Tasmania & Glenn Gibson)

3. Gold Coast, Qld

Watching the surfers dive in and out of the water, evening walkers taking their strolls, and lingering sunbathers soaking in the last rays is always a good vibe. Hands down, the Gold Coast has to be one of our favourite cityscape sunsets – in part because it adds in a whole lot of beach to boot.

a woman heading to surf in Gold Coast, Qld — Ride the waves at sunset on the Gold Coast. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

4. Simpson Desert, NT, SA and Qld

Wild, desolate and beautiful, heading to the Outback is something everyone has to do at least once in their life. And while the extreme temperatures in the Simpson Desert can be scorching by day and downright chilly by night, the middle ground – the Outback sunsets – are simply breathtaking.

sunset at Simpson Desert, NT, SA and Qld — Sunsets over the Simpson Desert put gold-hued dunes in the spotlight. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

5. Palm Cove, Qld

Newbies to the tip of North Queensland will be drawn to the top for many reasons, but predominantly to experience the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Let’s add to the list the coastal beauty of Palm Cove, best experienced while sipping a tropical cocktail and watching the sun sink over the water to that list.

Couple in Palm Cove — Watch the sun go down with a cocktail in hand in Palm Cove. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

6. Blue Mountains, NSW

When it comes to panoramic views that can be experienced on a day trip from Sydney, the hazy lilacs of the Blue Mountains beckon you out west. But if you make it an overnight trip (and we highly recommend you do), you can settle down on a picnic blanket with friends and a few beers to watch the sun go down over the bushland and sandstone peaks of the Three Sisters.

Scenic views over the Nepean River from The Rock Lookout,Mulgoa. — The hazy lilacs of the Blue Mountains beckon you out west. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Sydney Harbour, NSW

As far as Australian landmarks go, the world’s biggest harbour in the country’s largest city is a million miles away from a hidden secret. But when you’re on a boat out on the water, and the light catches the rolling clouds of a dispersed summer storm, making it look like the sky is on fire with neon pinks over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, you really will not care.

sun setting over Sydney Harbour — The sun sets majestically over Sydney Harbour. (Image: Destination NSW)

8. Broken Hill

For an Outback experience in NSW, make the 13-hour road trip from Sydney to the old mining town of Broken Hill. To get the best, and strikingly different view of, the sunset here, we recommend stopping by the art installation of the Living Desert Sculptures.

the art installation of the Living Desert Sculptures in Broken Hill — The Living Desert Sculptures make a striking sunset backdrop. (Image: Destination NSW)

9. Twelve Apostles, Vic

A must-do stop on any Great Ocean Road trip, the eight stacks (the others have crumbled away), are a magnificent sight to behold. Stop here in the late afternoon to capture the rosy light on these limestone giants.

sunset in Twelve Apostles, Vic — Catch the golden sunset casting a glow upon The Twelve Apostles. (Image: Visit Victoria)

10. Wilsons Promontory National Park, Vic

Want an east and a south coast sunset? Drive southeast from Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory National Park in Gippsland. Top spots to see this include Whisky Bay, the dunes of the Big Drift and Squeaky Beach.

sunset in the Whisky Bay Wilsons Promontory National Park — Take in coastal sunset views from Whisky Bay, Wilsons Promontory National Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

11. The Grampians, Vic

The sandstone mountain ranges (known as Gariwerd by the Jardwadjali people), teeming wildflowers and raging waterfalls have long attracted visitors to the Grampians. Make sure to linger a little longer to watch the sun go down over the ranges.

sunset over Grampians National Park — Witness the sun go down over The Grampians. (Image: Visit Victoria)

12. Broome, WA

Western Australia is lucky enough to have some of the best coastal sunsets in the country, thanks to the fact the sun directly sinks over the water. If you find yourself up at Cable Beach in Broome, one of the Kimberley’s most famous beaches, that means you can take a photograph of one of Australia’s most iconic sights. We are talking, of course, about snapping the camels walking across the sand with the sun sinking behind them.

Ride camels at sunset on Cable Beach, Broome. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

13. Burringurrah/Mount Augustus, WA

Out in the Mount Augustus National Park is a rocky wonder to rival Uluṟu in the Red Centre. Twice the size of the famous monolith, Burringurrah (as named by the local Wadjari people), it is the perfect place to watch the sun go down with fewer people around.

sunset over Mount Augustus National Park, WA — The breathtaking sunset at Mount Augustus National Park rivals Uluṟu’s. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

14. Margaret River, WA

As a travel destination, the Margaret River south of Perth is perhaps best known for its mouthwatering local produce, exquisite wines and towering Karri forests. But one of the underrated pleasures of this area is heading to the famous Busselton Jetty, which outcrops over 1800 into the sea and feeling yourself surrounded by all the colours of the sinking sun.

an aerial view of Busselton Jetty — Watch the sunset reflect onto the endless blues at Busselton Jetty. (Image: Tourism Western Australia; @ospreycreative)

15. Southport Beach, SA

One of the easiest getaways from Adelaide, the Fleurieu Peninsula has an embarrassing amount of riches, including the vineyards of McLaren Vale, the seals and dolphins of Victor Harbour and markets that serve up some of the region’s best produce. Add to that list Southport Beach at Port Noarlunga, catching a wave or watching the sunset.

surfing in Southport Beach at sunset — Hit the waves at Southport Beach come sundown. (Image: Samuel Price)

16. Mount Lofty, SA

About twenty minutes out of the city in the Adelaide Hills, you will find one of the locals’ favourite scenic viewpoints – Mount Lofty. Accessible either via a gorgeous, but steep, bushwalk the view makes for a well-deserved reward. (Or you can always drive up there.) Take advantage of the lower temperatures in the evening to make the walk, and watch the city below turn luminescent.

sunset in Mount Lofty, SA — The sunset casts orange silhouettes over the city from Mount Lofty Obelisk. (Image: Laszlo Bilki)

17. Flinders Ranges, SA

Rugged and wild, the Flinders Ranges are one of the top Outback experiences to have in South Australia. Travelling through its rocky peaks and depths, you will find stories of ancient creatures and Dreamtime stories. Come the evening, settle down to watch the ancient landscapes unfold below in all the colours of the sinking sun.

sunset in Flinders Ranges, SA — Soak up golden hour in the Flinders Ranges. (Image: Emilie Ristevski)

18. Uluṟu, NT

When it comes to nature photography, it doesn’t get much better than the glow of Uluṟu at sunset. Onlookers will try to capture the deep reds, shifting oranges and pink-blue skies. But nothing can truly communicate the joy of seeing this sacred rock monolith in person.

sunset in Uluṟu, NT — Orange sunset hues paint the sky over Uluṟu. (Image: Emily Murphy)

19. Darwin, NT

The steamy capital of the Northern Territory is no shrinking violet when it comes to her sunsets. With the raging and dramatic summer storms come some breathtaking coastal evening views.

sunset at sea in Darwin, NT — The sun sinks into the sea in Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT)

20. Nitmiluk/Katherine, NT

Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge National Park is an easy sell and leaves you with an impression of ancient times gone past: from seeing its outstanding sandstone gorges, swimming in its crystal summer pools and hearing ancient Dreamtime stories. Watching the sunset here is the icing on top of the cake.

the sun setting over Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge National Park — Sunsets in Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge National Park are outstanding. (Image: Tourism NT/Let’s Escape Together)

21. Lake Burley Griffin, ACT

This iconic lake in the centre of Canberra is not just one of the main tourist attractions in the Australian capital – it is also the lifeblood for the countless locals who cycle, run and walk around it every morning and evening. Join them for a jog but use the incoming sunset as an excuse to slow down and watch the lake begin to glow.

sunset in Lake Burley Griffin, ACT — Capture fiery sunset hues over Lake Burley Griffin. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

The 21 most breathtaking sunsets in Australia