I still remember the first time I saw the sun set over the ocean. Growing up on the east coast, I was used to watching it rise over the water but sunsets? They disappeared behind buildings or bushland. So when I landed in Perth for the first time in 2015 and found myself standing on the grass at Cottesloe Beach, watching the sun sink straight into the sea, it felt pretty special.
Since then, I’ve made it a bit of a ritual. Whenever friends or family visit, I always take them to catch a classic Perth sunset. One of the best was with my sister Rebecca, lounging at Bathers Beach Club, seafood platter between us, cocktails in hand, watching the sky change colour over the Indian Ocean. Doesn’t get much better!
Perth’s west-facing coast makes it one of the best places in Australia to catch a sunset. Whether you’re into beach swims, relaxed sunset picnics or a spot with a drink in hand, there’s a place for you. Here are the best sunset spots in Perth.
Best Sunset Beaches in Perth
Perth’s coastline dishes up some of the easiest and most iconic sunset views in WA. Whether you want to kick back on the sand, grab a drink nearby, or go for a swim while the sky lights up, these are the best beach spots I keep going back to.
Cottesloe Beach
This is where it all started for me – Cottesloe Beach was my first-ever Perth sunset and still my favourite! The grassy terraces are ideal for picnics or you can find a spot on the sand near the groyne. There’s a reason this place is iconic.
Top tips:
- Grab fish and chips from Amberjacks across the road and chow down on the grass.
- The beach is west-facing, so even in winter you’ll get a straight-on sunset.
- Parking fills up fast on warm evenings or try Station Street or come by train (Cottesloe Station is about a 15–20 minute walk).
City Beach
More laid-back than Cott, and less crowded. It’s great for a swim, especially at golden hour. City Beach is a great option for people who don’t want to travel far from the city for a classic beach sunset. There’s also loads of parking and space to spread out on the sand or grass.
Top tips:
- Odyssea and Clancy’s Fish Pub both do sunset drinks and dinner, book ahead if you want a table with a view.
- Toilets and change rooms are right on the beach if you’re coming for a sunset swim.
- There’s a wide, tiered wall above the beach that makes a great viewing platform if you don’t want sandy feet.
Bathers Beach, Fremantle
Bathers Beach has a special place in my heart. When my sister came to visit for the first time, we parked ourselves on a beach lounge at Bathers Beach House, shared a seafood platter and watched the sun dip into the water with cocktails in hand. It’s a top-tier Perth moment!
Top tips:
- You can book beach loungers at Bathers Beach House during summer – worth it if you want a drink with your sunset. Be sure to book in advance because they fill up fast!
- There’s a grassy area just behind the beach if the sand’s too crowded or windy.
- Parking in Fremantle gets hectic on weekends – try the Fishing Boat Harbour carparks or take the train in.
Scarborough Beach
Scarbs is one of the best all-rounders – great waves, wide open sand, and loads of spots to sit and watch the sky change. It’s also super accessible, with ramps, wide paths, and beachside facilities that make it easy to rock up for a swim or stroll before sunset.
Top tips:
- In summer, time your visit with the Scarborough Sunset Markets (Thursday evenings) – the food and vibe is spot on.
- There’s a concrete wall that runs along the beach, great for perching with takeaway fish and chips.
- There’s loads of free and paid parking, but it fills fast – come early or catch a bus if you’re local.
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Inland and Elevated Sunset Spots
Not every great sunset in Perth has to be on the beach. If you’re after sweeping views over the city, river or bushland, these inland and elevated spots are well worth checking out, especially if you don’t feel like dealing with sand in your shoes!
Kings Park and Botanic Gardens
An absolute classic, especially if you’ve got visitors in town. The lawns near the State War Memorial are one of the best spots to watch the sun go down behind the city skyline. On a clear day, you’ll get the Swan River, CBD and even bits of the Darling Range all lit up with golden light.
Top tips:
- Get there a bit early to grab a patch of grass – sunset brings a bit of a crowd, especially in summer and on weekends.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grass
- Parking is free but scattered – try Fraser Avenue or Lovekin Drive for good access.
- If you’re after a quieter experience, head further into the park near the Pioneer Women’s Memorial fountain – still great views but with fewer people.
Zig Zag Scenic Drive (Gooseberry Hill)
If you want a proper lookout feel without hiking, Zig Zag Scenic Drive in the Perth Hills is a solid pick. It winds down the escarpment with a handful of pull-over bays where you can park up and take in uninterrupted views across the city and out to the coast. It’s especially good when the sky’s clear – you can see the whole metro area light up!
Top tips:
- The drive is one-way downhill (from Ridge Hill Road to Williams Street), so start from the top.
Sunset is a popular time, so go on a weekday if you want a quieter experience. - No toilets or shops on site, so bring whatever you need with you.
- Great for a relaxed date night or solo unwind session – just roll down the windows and enjoy.
Reabold Hill (Bold Park)
This is the highest natural point along Perth’s coastal stretch, and the views from the top are seriously underrated. From the lookout platform at the end of the short boardwalk, you can see across bushland to the Indian Ocean in one direction and back towards the city in the other. It’s a good mix of nature and big-sky sunset watching.
Top tips:
- The walk from the carpark to the lookout is short (around 200m) but unpaved in parts, so choose sneakers over thongs.
- There’s no lighting after dark, so bring a torch or head down before it gets too dim.
- Great option if you want sunset views without crowds, usually quiet even on weekends.
- Nearby Perry Lakes has BBQs and picnic spots if you want to turn it into a proper evening out.
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Unique Sunset Experiences
These spots offer something a little different – whether you’re heading out on the water, catching the sunset from an island or throwing together a relaxed riverside BBQ. Perfect if you’re after more than just a view.
Rottnest Island
If you’re already heading over to Rotto, don’t miss the chance to watch the sun go down from the island – it’s next level! Pinky’s Beach is a classic sunset spot, with the Bathurst Lighthouse in the frame, while West End gives you that wild, open-ocean view with barely anyone around.
Top tips:
- Sunset times line up well with the last ferry in summer, but if you can stay overnight, do it – less rush is worth it
- Bring a torch or phone light if you’re walking back after dark – some paths aren’t lit.
- Pinky’s has a beach bar and food if you want to make an evening of it. Otherwise, pack snacks and drinks for the beach.
Quokkas tend to settle in by sunset, but you might still spot a few wandering about near the settlements.
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Sunset Sailing or Cruises
Watching the sunset from the water is a great way to avoid the crowds and see the coast from a different angle. If you’re after something a bit more special than your usual beach hangout, a twilight sail from Fremantle is worth considering.
The Fremantle Twilight Sail is a beautiful way to enjoy the sunset. You’ll set off from Fishing Boat Harbour, cruise along the coast for a couple of hours, and watch the sunset with a glass of sparkling wine in hand. They also pass around antipasto nibbles, and you can BYO extra drinks.
Top tips:
- Book in advance – it’s a small group tour and can sell out, especially in warmer months.
- The boat leaves 90 minutes before sunset and returns to the same jetty at Cicerello’s in Freo.
- Wear comfy clothes and leave the heels at home – it’s barefoot on deck.
- Whale sightings are possible between September and November, which is a bonus!
It’s a great one for couples, small groups, or even as a gift idea if you’re hunting for something a bit different. You can check Fremantle Twilight Sail availability or book it here.
Sunset Picnics & BBQ Spots
If you’d rather keep things low-key (and free), Perth has plenty of great picnic and BBQ spots with sunset views. These are ideal for midweek evenings, family catch-ups or when you just want to chill without the beach rush.
Top spots to try:
- Point Resolution Reserve (Dalkeith): Tucked away by the river with big views across to the city. Plenty of grassy space, BBQs and a relaxed local feel.
- Matilda Bay Reserve (Crawley): A classic riverside spot with lots of space and shaded areas. You’ll get a golden glow over the water as the sun dips behind the city skyline.
- Colonial Gardens (Maylands): Quiet and leafy, this park has views back across the Swan River. It’s a solid pick for a peaceful evening.
Top tips:
- BYO snacks, drinks, and mozzie spray, sunset often means bug hour!
If you’re using public BBQs, get there early (especially on weekends) to snag one. - Bring a jumper or blanket, even warm days cool off fast once the sun’s down.
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Tips for Catching the Perfect Perth Sunset
A few simple tricks can make the difference between a good sunset and a great one. Here’s how to make sure you’re in the right place at the right time:
- Check the sunset time before you head out. Apps like Time and Date or even just Google will do the trick. Aim to arrive at least 20–30 minutes early so you’re not rushing (and you catch golden hour too).
- Pick your weather: clear skies are ideal, but sometimes scattered clouds make the colours even better.
- Pack the essentials: a light jacket, mozzie spray, snacks or drinks, and something to sit on. If you’re heading somewhere grassy or rocky, a camp chair or picnic rug can save you.
- Avoid west-facing carparks: unless you want sun flare in your eyes the whole time. Look for a spot where the view opens west over water or land.
- Have a plan for getting home: some quieter spots don’t have much lighting after dark.
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Last Words on the Best Sunset Spots in Perth
Whether it’s your first time seeing the sun drop into the Indian Ocean or just your latest after-work unwind, Perth delivers when it comes to sunsets. From laid-back beach hangs to river picnics, hilly lookouts and twilight sails.
If you haven’t already, pick one from this list and give it a go this week. Or better yet, start your own sunset ritual. Bring some mates, pack a few snacks and make an evening of it. Perth’s sunsets don’t need much planning, but they’re always worth it!
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