There’s something truly magical about watching the sunset in Sydney. As the sky transforms into a canvas of pink, orange and golden hues, the city takes on a whole new glow.

Whether you’re by the harbour, on a coastal headland, or relaxing in a family-friendly park, Sydney offers some of the best sunset spots in Australia.

With its mix of iconic views, waterfront lookouts and hidden gems, catching a Sydney sunset is the perfect way to end the day, unwind, and capture stunning photos to remember the moment.

The Best Spots to Watch a Sydney Sunset in 2025

What Time is Sunset in Sydney?

During summer in Sydney, the sun sets at around 8.03 pm.

Daylight savings occurs twice a year in Sydney, when our clocks wind backwards and then forwards - confusing, isn't it?!

Daylight savings will start again on Sunday, 5 October 2025 when our clocks will wind forward one hour from 2 am.  

Sunset Locations in Sydney

1. Observatory Hill Park

Located in Millers Point, Observatory Park Hill offers sweeping views of Sydney Harbour and Sydney Harbour Bridge; it’s the perfect spot for a Sydney sunset picnic. 

The grassy park, while popular with both locals and visitors, is one of the quieter spots to watch the sunset in the heart of the city. It's easy to get to on foot or by public transport, and its heightened level offers stunning panoramic views of the city and sunset. 

Location: Upper Fort Street, Millers Point

RELATED:
10 Incredible Lookouts in Sydney

2. Mrs Macquarie’s Chair

Mrs Macquarie's Chair has all the famous icons in one glance - the view of the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and the Harbour! It is one of Sydney’s most popular spots to watch a sunset, so it’s best to get in early, before the sun sets to make it easier to find a preferred viewing/picnic spot.

Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney

3. Manly Cove

For a relaxed beachside sunset, Manly Cove is hard to beat. The sun dips behind the harbour waters, creating a postcard-perfect scene. With plenty of dining options nearby, it’s a great spot to combine dinner with sunset views.

Location: Manly Cove, Fairlight Walk, Manly

4. Little Bay, La Perouse

If you want to head a bit farther from the centre of the city, you can watch a very special sunset over Botany Bay from Little Bay in La Perouse (hero image). 

This gem of a spot offers uninterrupted views of the sky, and you can even keep the kids busy plane-watching, as many planes depart at this time. The magical pink/red colours over the glistening water is a beautiful sight the kids will love. 

Location: 4R Coast Hospital Rd, Little Bay

5. Waverton Peninsula Reserve

Larkin Street Lookout at the Waverton Peninsula Reserve offers stunning views of the Harbour Bridge and city skyline, which looks particularly grand as the sun goes down. It offers picture-perfect views with the pink setting sunlight glinting off the glass skyscrapers.

Location: Larkin St, Waverton

6. Green Point, Oyster Bay

Green Point offers a great view of the Como Marina in the Shire. It has the perfect family picnic atmosphere, combining little boats and calm waters with a stunning sunset! Lots to keep the kids busy here. 

Location: Green Point Road, Oyster Bay

7. The Grassy Knoll, North Bondi

Bondi's Grassy Knolls offers relaxed beach vibes, a pick of sand or grass, great cafes nearby and a stunning colourful sunset. The Knoll is the perfect spot for those long summery Sunday afternoons.

Location: Ramsgate Avenue, North Bondi

8. Water Street, Balmain

The view from Balmain Sailing Club sweeps across Sydney Harbour and is idyllic for sunset spotting. The kids will love spotting the boats bobbing along and the stunning orange ombré sunset backdrop. 

Location: Water Street, Balmain

9. Milk Beach, Vaucluse

A hidden gem on the harbour, Milk Beach offers spectacular sunset views with the Harbour Bridge and Opera House as your backdrop. The calm waters and small stretch of sand make it a favourite for photographers and families alike.

Location: Vaucluse Road, Vaucluse

10. Barangaroo Reserve

Right in the heart of the city, Barangaroo Reserve offers a modern harbourside setting with landscaped lawns, walking tracks and sunset views stretching across the water. It’s family-friendly, easy to access, and ideal for a twilight stroll.

Location: Hickson Road, Barangaroo

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