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 nine of the city's best.

Where is it? Eastern Suburbs How do you get there? Take a 20-minute ferry from Circular Quay to Watsons Bay, or take the 324 bus from Town Hall in CBD for about 45 minutes, or drive for about 20 minutes.

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.

Want to spend the night? Check out the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, which also offers a west-facing pub with excellent views of the harbour.

Where is it? Eastern Suburbs How do you get there? Take the train from the CBD to Bondi Junction for about 15 minutes, then walk about 25 minutes, or take the 333 bus from Hyde Park for about 30 minutes.

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.

Want to spend the night? Keen to spend a few days by the water? Check out the QT Bondi or the Hotel Bondi.

Where is it? Circular Quay How do you get there? Take the train to Circular Quay station, and then walk for about five minutes.

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.

Want to spend the night? Right in the heart of it all, the Opera House is in the centre of Sydney and some close-by accommodations that offer a view of the house include the Sydney Harbour Marriott, Four Seasons and Shangri-La.

Where is it? Sydney CBD, next to the Sydney Opera House How do you get there? Take a train to Circular Quay Station and walk for about five minutes, depending on which entrance you would like to go to.

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.

Want to spend the night? Although the gardens do close after sunset, if you want to stay nearby, consider checking into the InterContinental Sydney or the Pullman Quay Grand.

Where is it? North Shore How do you get there? Take the ferry from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo, then walk along the coastal track for about 10 minutes.

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.

Want to spend the night? Combine sunset at Bradley’s Head with a day at Taronga Zoo for the perfect Sydney Day, complete with a stay at Wildlife Retreat at Taronga.

Where is it? Northern Beaches How do you get there? Take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly and then take the 161 bus for 15 minutes.

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.

Want to spend the night? The only accommodation on North Head is Q Station Manly, which offers picturesque views of Sydney Harbour. If you’d rather be closer to the bars and restaurants of Manly, consider checking into somewhere like Manly Pacific Hotel or Peppers Manly Beach. 

Where is it? Sydney CBD How do you get there? Take the metro to Barangaroo, which will take you right to the edge of the 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.

Want to spend the night? Two of the closest stays to the park, and ones within steps of Barangaroo’s bars and restaurants, are Crown Towers or the Langham Sydney.

Where is it? In Sydney Harbour, west of the CBD How do you get there? Take a ferry from Circular Quay to 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.

Want to spend the night? There are campsites available on Cockatoo Island.

Where is it? The Rocks, Sydney CBD How do you get there? Take the train to either Circular Quay or Wynyard and then walk for about 10-15 minutes.

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.

Want to spend the night? Some of the closest accommodation options to Observatory Hill are the Shangri-La and the Langham Sydney. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider Sydney Harbour YHA.

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:

Sunset varies a bit depending on the time of year, but here’s when to make sure you’re at your sunset site in Sydney do you don’t miss it:

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.