Sunset Spots: Best Places to Watch the Sun Go Down in Perth
There’s something undeniably magical about watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. In Perth, a city blessed with stunning natural beauty and a western coastline, sunset watching is almost a rite of passage for both locals and visitors. During my recent trip to Perth, I made it a point to visit several locations renowned for their breathtaking sunset views. Here’s my guide to the best spots in Perth to watch the sun go down, along with my personal experiences, tips, and recommendations.
1. Cottesloe Beach: The Classic Sunset Experience
Location: Cottesloe, approximately 15 minutes from Perth CBD
Nearby Attractions: Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club, Marine Parade
Best Time to Visit: Anytime throughout the year, but particularly in late spring to early autumn when the weather is warm and the skies are clear.
Cottesloe Beach is perhaps the most iconic spot in Perth for sunset watching, and for a good reason. The expansive stretch of white sand, the rolling waves of the Indian Ocean, and the historic Indiana Teahouse make for a picture-perfect setting as the sun sets.
I arrived at Cottesloe Beach about an hour before sunset to secure a good spot. The beach was bustling with activity—families were playing in the sand, surfers were catching the last waves of the day, and photographers were setting up their tripods. The vibe was relaxed, with everyone looking forward to the evening spectacle.
As the sun began to descend, the sky transformed into a canvas of warm colors. The reflection of the sunset on the water was mesmerizing, and the silhouette of the Norfolk pines added a touch of drama to the scene. I found a spot near the water’s edge, where I could dip my toes in the cool ocean while enjoying the view. It was a moment of pure tranquility, with the gentle sound of the waves providing the perfect soundtrack.
Recommended Tip: Bring a beach towel or a portable chair for a more comfortable experience. If you’re into photography, a tripod is essential to capture the changing colors of the sky.
2. Kings Park and Botanic Garden: A Panoramic View of the City
Location: Fraser Avenue, West Perth
Nearby Attractions: Lotterywest Federation Walkway, Western Australian Botanic Garden
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early summer when the wildflowers are in bloom.
Kings Park is a massive urban park that offers some of the best panoramic views of Perth’s skyline and the Swan River. Watching the sunset from here gives you the unique experience of seeing the city bathed in golden light, with the sun setting behind the distant Darling Scarp.
I opted for the Fraser Avenue Lookout, one of the park’s most popular viewing spots. Arriving about an hour before sunset, I strolled through the park, enjoying the lush greenery and the scent of native flowers. As the sun began to set, I settled on a bench overlooking the river. The view was simply stunning—the sun dipped slowly behind the hills, casting a warm glow over the city, and the river shimmered in the fading light.
As the day transitioned into night, the city lights started to twinkle, creating a beautiful contrast against the darkening sky. The experience was magical, combining the natural beauty of the sunset with the man-made charm of the cityscape.
Recommended Tip: Kings Park is vast, so wear comfortable shoes and give yourself plenty of time to explore before settling down for the sunset. Pack a light picnic to enjoy while you watch the sun go down.
3. Fremantle’s South Mole: A Tranquil Escape
Location: Fleet Street, Fremantle
Nearby Attractions: Fremantle Harbour, Round House
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though the warmer months provide clearer skies.
South Mole, located in the historic port city of Fremantle, offers a tranquil and somewhat secluded spot for sunset watching. This breakwater stretches out into the Indian Ocean, providing an unobstructed view of the horizon.
I arrived at South Mole just before sunset, and the first thing I noticed was the peacefulness of the area. There were only a few other people there, some fishing, others just sitting quietly, waiting for the sun to set. The atmosphere was calm, a welcome contrast to the bustling Fremantle markets and cafes nearby.
As the sun began its descent, the view was nothing short of spectacular. The ocean stretched endlessly before me, with the sun casting a golden path across the water. The stillness of the surroundings amplified the beauty of the moment, making it one of the most serene sunset experiences I’ve ever had.
Recommended Tip: The area is exposed and can get windy, so bring a light jacket even in warmer months. It’s also a great spot for some quiet reflection or meditation as the sun sets.
4. Matilda Bay Reserve: Sunset by the Swan River
Location: Hackett Drive, Crawley
Nearby Attractions: The University of Western Australia, Perth Zoo (across the river)
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the river is calm.
Matilda Bay Reserve is a scenic spot along the Swan River, offering a peaceful setting to watch the sunset. The reserve is popular with locals for picnics, jogging, and kayaking, and it’s easy to see why—it’s a beautiful area with sweeping views of the river and the city skyline.
I visited Matilda Bay on a warm autumn evening. The reserve was lively with people enjoying various outdoor activities, but it wasn’t overcrowded. I found a spot near the iconic blue boathouse, which added a picturesque element to the sunset view.
As the sun began to set, the sky turned a soft orange, reflecting beautifully on the calm waters of the Swan River. The city skyline in the distance was gradually silhouetted against the fading light, creating a stunning backdrop. The peacefulness of the river combined with the beauty of the sunset made for an incredibly relaxing experience.
Recommended Tip: Bring along some snacks or even a full picnic. There are plenty of grassy areas where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the sunset. Don’t forget your camera—this spot is perfect for capturing reflections on the river.
5. Scarborough Beach: A Vibrant Coastal Experience
Location: Scarborough Beach Road, Scarborough
Nearby Attractions: Scarborough Beach Pool, Esplanade
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn, especially on weekends when the area is lively.
Scarborough Beach is known for its vibrant atmosphere, and it’s a fantastic spot for a more energetic sunset experience. With plenty of restaurants, bars, and a buzzing beachfront promenade, this is where you can combine a stunning sunset with some lively evening activities.
I headed to Scarborough Beach on a warm summer evening. The beach was alive with activity—people were swimming, playing volleyball, and enjoying the last rays of sunshine. I grabbed a spot on the sand, close enough to hear the waves but far enough from the crowds.
As the sun set, the sky exploded with color—vivid oranges, pinks, and purples that reflected off the ocean’s surface. The waves glowed in the evening light, and the whole beach seemed to be bathed in a golden hue. After the sun had set, I joined the crowd at one of the beachfront bars for a refreshing drink, enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Recommended Tip: Scarborough Beach can get busy, especially on weekends, so arrive early if you want a good spot. After the sunset, explore the local dining options—there’s something for every taste.
6. Rottnest Island: A Sunset Adventure Off the Coast
Location: 19 kilometers off the coast of Perth, accessible by ferry
Nearby Attractions: Pinky Beach, Bathurst Lighthouse
Best Time to Visit: Summer months for clear skies and warm weather.
Rottnest Island, or “Rotto” as the locals call it, is a must-visit destination off the coast of Perth. While it’s famous for its quokkas, the island’s sunsets are equally noteworthy. Watching the sun set over the ocean from this secluded paradise is an experience like no other.
I planned my trip to Rottnest Island specifically to catch the sunset from Bathurst Lighthouse. After spending the day exploring the island and snapping photos with quokkas, I made my way to the lighthouse in the late afternoon. The view from the lighthouse is spectacular, with uninterrupted vistas of the Indian Ocean.
As the sun began to set, the colors of the sky reflected off the surrounding water, creating a breathtaking scene. The peacefulness of the island, combined with the beauty of the sunset, made it a truly memorable experience.
Recommended Tip: If you’re staying overnight on Rottnest Island, book your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season. The island is small, and availability can be limited. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight for the walk back after sunset, as it can get quite dark.
7. Hillarys Boat Harbour: A Sunset by the Marina
Location: Southside Drive, Hillarys
Nearby Attractions: AQWA (The Aquarium of Western Australia), Sorrento Quay
Best Time to Visit: Summer evenings, when the harbor is bustling with activity.
Hillarys Boat Harbour is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a blend of shopping, dining, and recreational activities. The marina itself is a great place to watch the sunset, with the boats gently bobbing in the water and the sky changing color in the background.
I visited Hillarys Boat Harbour on a warm summer evening. The area was busy with families, couples, and groups of friends enjoying the waterfront. I chose to watch the sunset from one of the outdoor dining areas
at Sorrento Quay, where I could enjoy a meal while taking in the view.
The sunset at Hillarys was beautiful—the colors of the sky reflected off the water, and the marina lights began to twinkle as the sun dipped below the horizon. The combination of the lively atmosphere and the stunning sunset made for a perfect evening.
Recommended Tip: If you’re planning to have dinner at Hillarys, make a reservation in advance, especially on weekends. After the sunset, take a stroll around the marina—the atmosphere is delightful in the evening.
Perth is a city blessed with numerous stunning locations to watch the sunset, each offering a unique experience. Whether you prefer the classic beach sunset, a panoramic view of the city, or a peaceful spot by the river, Perth has it all. During my visit, I found that each location offered its own special charm, making sunset watching in Perth a truly unforgettable experience. No matter where you choose to go, be sure to arrive early, bring a camera, and take a moment to soak in the beauty of the moment.
There’s something undeniably magical about watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. In Perth, a city blessed with stunning natural beauty and a western coastline, sunset watching is almost a rite of passage for both locals and visitors. During my recent trip to Perth, I…