Where to find the best sunsets in Australia

02 February 2024
By Allie Voyage

Nothing beats watching a glowing sunset over a stunning vista at the end of a long day.

As the vast Australian landscape undergoes its daily transformation, bidding farewell to the sun in a symphony of colours, we find ourselves captivated by the sheer magnificence of its sunsets. From the golden hues painting the coastal horizons to the fiery displays over rugged outback terrain, the Land Down Under offers a kaleidoscope of evening wonders.

With the help of our @whyweroadtrip community, we've gathered some of the most unique and spectacular places to watch the sun set all around this beautiful country.

Australia Rock, NSW

Head to Narooma on the far south coast of New South Wales and you'll come across Bar Rock Lookout. Taking the steep stairs down, you'll find Australia Rock - a cutout in the rock face that looks just like the mainland of Australia. Catch it at the right time, and you'll witness a stunning blaze of sunset through the uniquely shaped hole.

Credit: @josephsujono.photography on Instagram

Echidna Chasm, WA 

Echidna Chasm is a short two-kilometre return walk in Western Australia’s Purnululu National Park. Taking the route, you’ll come face to face with towering rocks, fallen boulders wedged between the chasm walls, and paths not even a metre wide.  

As the sunlight snakes its way through the chasm, catch the sunset dousing the gorge in a golden hue. 

Credit: @thetruckinghills on Instagram

Karlu Karlu / Devil’s Marbles, NT 

Along the Stuart Highway, you may see these familiar rocks that have become a symbol of outback Australia. As the sun hits the boulders, you’ll be able to take in their enchanting deep red colour. But remember to look from afar – climbing on the boulders is not allowed. 

Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the cool surroundings of the rock provide a much-needed retreat for native animals in the hot desert. 

Credit: @betsysbiglap on Instagram

Twelve Apostles, VIC 

Australians will be no strangers to the Twelve Apostles located alongside Victoria’s dramatic coastline on the Great Ocean Road. 

Take a break on your road trip to stop here during sunset hours and bask in the gentle glow of a warm dusk sun. With beautiful sandy beaches below, you could spend hours lapping in this view. 

Credit: @ire815 on Instagram

The Balconies, VIC 

You can drive all the way to Reeds Lookout in Victoria’s Grampians National Park. From there, it’s an easy two-kilometre hike to The Balconies – a unique rock formation that juts out across the valley and offers panoramic views of the surrounding ranges. 

Perfect for sunsets, grab a picnic blanket and laze the afternoon away. More adventurous bush walkers can sit on the lower balcony, but remember to stay safe and away from the edge. 

Credit: @thefreedomchapter on Instagram

Tjoritja / West MacDonell Ranges, NT 

Don’t worry if you miss a sunset in this stunning park because you can spend the night camping at multiple locations. So take your time and soak up as many sunsets as you desire.  

During the days, there are numerous waterholes to take a dip in—perfect for cooling off in the hot Northern Territory weather or after one of the many walks available that range from easy to overnight. 

Credit: @hayley.mitch.travels on Instagram

Clayton Station, SA 

For something a bit out of the ordinary, stay the night on cattle station in South Australia and watch the sun set from your very own outdoor hot tub. 

The cattle station also offers camping if you’d rather catch the dwindling rays from the comfort of your own tent. Take this opportunity to see a very unique but vital part of Australia. 

Credit: @browneanddustyadventures on Instagram

Uluru, NT 

No list would be complete without the inclusion of Australia’s own Wonder of the World – Uluru. The dusty reds and glowing yellows during both sunrise and sunset meld seamlessly with the hues of the desert to create an ocean of tranquility – even in the middle of the country. 

There’s plenty of different ways to get to and stay at the red centre, so make sure this trip goes on your bucket list. Rest assured, the beauty of Uluru at both sunrise and sunset guarantees an unforgettable experience you won't regret.

Credit: @giuliabitto on Instagram

Blue Mountains, NSW 

Any Sydneysider will have visited The Blue Mountains multiple times in their life as it is an easy drive from the centre of Sydney. But with so much to see and do in the area, how many of us have taken the time to venture outside during the dusk hours to simply stop and bathe in the sun’s warm glow? 

Well worth a visit, even for interstate travellers, the Blue Mountains offer some of the most accessible wonders of nature, from stunning rock formations, rainforests, and fantastic bushwalking. 

Credit: @lora_mylife on Instagram

Flinders Ranges, SA 

You’ll feel like you’re stepping into another world when driving through the Flinders Ranges. With deep craters and towering mountains, exploring the Ranges gives you the sense that you’re the only people on earth. 

Take a moment to fully appreciate the sky at sunset with unobstructed views that stretch for kilometres. And stay for the night in Arkaroola International Dark Sky Sanctuary to gaze at a swirling shower of stars like you’ve never seen before. 

Credit: @vanquish_the_ordinary on Instagram