Best Sunset Spots in Perth: Best Places to Watch the Sunset 2026

There's something magical about watching the sun sink below the horizon, painting the sky with brilliant shades of orange, pink, purple, and gold. In Western Australia, few cities offer sunset experiences quite like Perth. Blessed with over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year and a spectacular west-facing coastline, Perth is one of the best places in Australia to enjoy unforgettable sunsets.

Whether you're planning a romantic evening, searching for Instagram-worthy viewpoints, enjoying a family holiday, or simply looking to relax after a day of sightseeing, discovering the best Perth sunset spots should be on every travel itinerary.

From pristine beaches and scenic lookouts to riverside parks and hilltop viewpoints, Perth offers an incredible variety of locations to experience nature's daily masterpiece. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best sunset spots in Perth has to offer, recommend the best sunset spots in Perth beach lovers shouldn't miss, reveal hidden sunset spots in Perth Hills, and suggest memorable sunset dinner spots in Perth for an unforgettable evening.

Why Perth Is Famous for Sunsets

Unlike many major cities that face east or are surrounded by tall mountain ranges, Perth enjoys a unique geographical advantage. One of the few Australian capital cities where visitors can watch the sun set directly over the Indian Ocean.

In addition to this, Perth has a warm climate with summers quite similar to those of Mediterranean cities; there is little air pollution, and beaches are far and wide, which all add up to great conditions for watching magnificent sunset scenes not only on some days but basically all year round.

Sunset view over Perth skyline from Kings Park and Botanic Garden

Best Sunset Spots in Perth Visitors Should Experience

If you want to discover one or several great places where to enjoy a nice sunset, then there are plenty of such places in Perth, but there are certain ones which are so popular that they have been very often mentioned as top picks by the locals through the years.

Kings Park and Botanic Garden

Kings Park is one of the attractions you simply must check out if you visit Perth. View the city skyline from the park, along with the beautiful Swan River and the green rolling hills stretching beyond the horizon.

The sunset time is when the buildings in the city light up with a warm golden hue reflecting off windows and the river glistens as a shimmering streak of light in the fading daylight.

You can add to your overall experience by:

• Exploring the various walking trails
• Relaxing on the picnic lawns
• Checking out the native gardens
• Visiting the scenic lookouts
• Taking photographs

There really is something for everyone. Whether you are a couple, a family, or a lone traveler, this is the place for you.

South Perth Foreshore

South Perth Foreshore is another spot that provides one of the best views of the city.

The scenario that becomes visible to your eyes when the sun is setting is the juxtaposition of the brightly lit modern buildings of Perth and the tranquil riverfront. This view is really lovely and mesmerizing to watch.

Locals love to come here for walks, open-air get-togethers with food, or even taking pictures.

Best Sunset Spots in Perth Beach Lovers Will Enjoy

Perth's coastline stretches for hundreds of kilometers, providing countless opportunities to watch the sun melt into the Indian Ocean.

Cottesloe Beach

Often considered the best sunset spots in Perth, beach visitors can experience, Cottesloe Beach is famous for its white sand, crystal-clear water, and relaxed atmosphere.

As evening approaches:

• Surfers catch the final waves.
• Cafés fill with diners.
• Families gather along the shoreline.
• The sky transforms into vibrant shades of orange and pink.

The iconic Indiana Teahouse adds extra charm to the beachfront landscape.

City Beach

City Beach combines beautiful ocean views with modern dining facilities.

Its wide sandy shoreline offers ample space to relax while enjoying spectacular sunset colors.

The elevated dunes also provide excellent photography perspectives.

Scarborough Beach

Scarborough Beach has become one of Perth's most vibrant coastal destinations.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Beachfront bars
• Outdoor markets
• Sunset yoga
• Surfing
• Live entertainment

The combination of energetic atmosphere and breathtaking ocean sunsets makes it one of Perth's most popular evening destinations.

Trigg Beach

Less crowded than some neighboring beaches, Trigg Beach appeals to photographers and nature lovers.

The rocky coastline creates dramatic foregrounds for sunset photography.

Spectacular sunset at Cottesloe Beach in Perth

Sunset Spots in Perth Hills

The beach areas of Perth might often overshadow other locations when it comes to sunset viewings in the city. Nevertheless, the sunset spots in Perth Hills offer equally breathtaking views.

Besides forests and valleys, elevated viewpoints also reveal distant city skylines.

Lesmurdie Falls, located within Korung National Park

The primary attraction of this park is the waterfalls. Apart from that, it has some great sunset views of the Perth metropolitan area.

The surrounding bushland is very nicely highlighted by the interplay of light and shade.

Kalamunda National Park

There are many nice-looking points in the park that allow delightful views of Perth's skyline.

Evening is the best time to watch how the city lights come on one by one as the sun is setting.

Mount Brown Lookout

A hidden gem among locals, Mount Brown offers peaceful panoramic views away from busy tourist areas.

It's perfect for travelers seeking quieter sunset experiences.

Sunset Dinner Spots in Perth

Combining spectacular scenery with excellent cuisine creates unforgettable travel memories.

Fortunately, Perth offers numerous outstanding sunset dinner spots in Perth.

Odyssea City Beach

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, Odyssea serves contemporary Australian cuisine with front-row sunset views.

Fresh seafood is a highlight.

Bib & Tucker

Located near Leighton Beach, Bib & Tucker combines seasonal menus with stunning coastal scenery.

Large windows maximize ocean views throughout dinner.

The Shorehouse

This elegant waterfront restaurant offers sophisticated dining in a relaxed beachside setting.

Sunset reservations are particularly popular.

Island Market Trigg

With expansive terraces overlooking the ocean, Island Market Trigg provides a lively atmosphere perfect for evening dining.

Oceanfront sunset dining experience at a restaurant in Perth

Best Time of Year for Perth Sunsets

Perth's climate allows beautiful sunsets year-round.

Summer

• Long daylight hours
• Warm beach evenings
• Vibrant outdoor dining

Autumn

• Comfortable temperatures
• Crisp evening air
• Rich golden sunsets

Winter

• Dramatic cloud formations
• Spectacular photography opportunities
• Whale migration season

Spring

• Blooming wildflowers
• Mild weather
• Pleasant hiking conditions

Each season offers unique photographic possibilities.

Photography Tips

Only a handful of simple steps are needed in order to take beautiful photographs of Perth's sunsets.

1. Be There Early: The highest quality light usually starts 30 to 45 minutes prior to the sunset.

2. Wait Until Sun Disappearance: Quite often, the sky shows the most amazing colors after the sun has already gone.

3. Introduce Foreground Elements: Bringing in jetties, rocks, trees, or people will result in more lively and interesting photos.

4. Weather Forecast: A partly cloudy sky often creates the most dramatic sunset colours.

Family-Friendly Sunset Locations

Families with children may look for places that also offer some other facilities.

Among the places we recommend are:

• Hillarys Boat Harbour
• Elizabeth Quay
• Matilda Bay Reserve

These locations offer a mixture of playgrounds, restaurants, walking tracks, and other accessible conveniences.

Romantic Sunset Experiences

If you want a special night out for two, why not:

• Have a picnic by the beach at Cottesloe
• Eating out while enjoying the view of the Indian Ocean
• Relaxing with a sunset cruise on the Swan River
• Enjoying the panoramic view from hilltops in Kalamunda
• Taking a leisurely walk through Kings Park

Thanks to its laid-back atmosphere, Perth is undoubtedly the perfect place for a romantic getaway.

Hidden Sunset Gems

While famous beaches attract many visitors, lesser-known locations can provide equally rewarding experiences.

Point Walter Reserve

A peaceful riverside location perfect for evening strolls.

Bold Park

Walking trails lead to elevated viewpoints overlooking both the city and coastline.

Mettams Pool

This sheltered coastal area offers beautiful reflections during calm evenings.

Panoramic sunset view from the Perth Hills overlooking the city

Sustainable Sunset Tourism

Visitors can help preserve Perth's natural beauty by:

• Take your rubbish with you.
• Staying on designated walking trails
• Respecting wildlife
• Avoiding damage to coastal dunes
• Supporting local businesses and cafés

Responsible tourism ensures these spectacular locations remain enjoyable for future generations.

Planning Your Perth Itinerary

Many travelers combine sunset viewing with other Perth attractions.

Popular daytime activities include:

• Exploring Rottnest Island
• Visiting Perth Zoo
• Shopping in Elizabeth Quay
• Discovering local wineries in the Swan Valley

Ending the day at one of Perth's spectacular sunset locations creates the perfect conclusion to any itinerary.

=> Learn more: Things to Do in Perth, Australia

Planning Your Australian Holiday

When Perth is included in your Australian itinerary, one thing not to forget is to have all your travel papers ready well ahead of time.

Besides that, overseas guests need to make sure their passport is valid, hotel reservations are done, travel insurance is bought, and visa conditions are checked before departure.

Should you need support in handling your application for an Australian tourist visa, going through a travel visa agency specializing in that area is one of the ways to get the job done smoothly and quickly.

Many international travelers choose Australia Immigration Services for assistance with Australian tourist visa applications and travel documentation. Professional support can help ensure your travel plans proceed smoothly, allowing you to focus on exploring Perth's incredible beaches, natural attractions, and unforgettable sunsets.

Conclusion

From pristine coastlines and vibrant beaches to tranquil riversides and scenic hilltop lookouts, the variety of Perth sunset spots makes Western Australia's capital one of the finest places in the country to end the day. 

Whether you're searching for the best sunset spots in Perth has to offer, relaxing at the best sunset spots in Perth beach, discovering hidden sunset spots in Perth Hills, or enjoying memorable evenings at sunset dinner spots in Perth, you'll find breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences around every corner.