The sun rises to the east and sets in the west, as everyone knows. Sydney is an east coast city, meaning sunrise occurs along the coastline, and sunset closer to downtown. Although I only lived in Sydney for eight months and wish it were longer, I was still able to snag some great sunsets at legendary spots. Here are my favorite spots to watch the sunset in Sydney:
1. Dudley Page
At the northern edge of the eastern suburbs, you’ll find the plush homes lining Vaucluse and Watson’s Bay. Catch the 380 bus, and it’ll take you directly to Dudley Page, an elevated park that offers a great spot to watch the sunset overlooking the Sydney harbour bridge.
Tip: it’s a roomy lawn with plenty of space, so bring the full getup – picnic blanket, bottle of wine, glasses, music, and whatever else you fancy.
2. Milk Beach
Tucked behind the affluent Rose Bay houses, Milk Beach is a small but homely slice of shore that offers the perfect view of the harbour, bridge, and city skyline. Catch a ride near Carrara Road, and walk down the beach along Hermitage Foreshore Walk, close to the Strickland House.
This small but cosy slice of heaven may be crowded on certain days, but bring a towel and find a spot to enjoy the sun bidding farewell for the day. You’ll be right at the edge of the harbour, so if the weather permits, you can even take a dip on a balmy night.
Tip: Arrive well before sunset to get a great seat. There may be louder crews there, but on a peaceful and calm evening, it is absolute perfection.
3. Circular Quay
Settle in by the Opera House, either in Darling Harbour at Squire’s Landing, or at the Opera Bar. Come early to snag the best front row seats to sunset, accompanied with a glass of rose. You won’t be disappointed with this up-close, in-the-action viewpoint right against the Opera House and Habour bridge.
Tip: Come for happy hour at any of the surrounding bars, although Opera bar is certainly a key choice. You will need to come well before sunset time to get the best spot.
4. Bondi Beach
Aside from sand and waves, you’ll get the added bonus of surfers. Although tucked on the opposite side of sunset, the pastel shades of blues and pinks will romanticise your day. Watch the sunset along the edges of the beach, or on the beach itself while surfs shred the waves.
Tip: It’s a gamble how vibrant or soft the sunset will be, but come in a mindset that embraces the ocean and the waves.
5. Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair – Sydney Botanical Gardens
Capture both the Opera House and Harbor Bridge against each other from Sydney’s Botanical Gardens, at Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair. This is a true vantage point any time of the day in Sydney, but sunset hour makes it remarkable.
If you want to be a bit extra and have a bigger budget, you can also climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge at sunset, or hop on a harbour boat.
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These are the best spots to watch the sunset in Sydney, in my book! Of course, these sunset spots aren’t limited to just these…there’s the northern side of the harbour as well. Always remember, if you’re heading to a park or beach, please pick up your trash and leave no trace.
Want to do more in Sydney? Read about these day walks or farmer’s markets to get the freshest, quality foods.
