Sunrise and Sunsetin Perth, Australia

Perth sits on Australia's west coast facing the Indian Ocean, which gives its beaches some of the clearest sunset views of any Australian capital. The Swan River foreshore also provides several open eastern horizons for sunrise.

Best sunrise spots in Perth

1. Kings Park

   The lookouts along Fraser Avenue in Kings Park offer sunrise views over the Swan River and the Perth CBD, with the Darling Range visible on the horizon. Entry is free and the park is open 24 hours.

2. Elizabeth Quay

   Elizabeth Quay is a waterfront precinct on the Swan River's northern bank with views east across the water, making it a practical spot to watch the sun rise over the river. It is a 5-minute walk from Perth train station and open around the clock with free public access.

3. Lake Monger Reserve

   Lake Monger in the suburb of Wembley is a flat freshwater lake with an unobstructed eastern horizon, well suited for sunrise. Free parking is available along the streets bordering the reserve.

4. Bathers Beach

   Bathers Beach sits near the Fremantle harbour entrance and catches early morning light from the east over the water. Fremantle train station is a short walk away, with direct trains from Perth taking about 35 minutes.

5. Burswood Park

   Burswood Park on the eastern Swan River bank has open views toward the east and the Darling Ranges, making it a straightforward sunrise spot. Free parking in the Optus Stadium precinct is available outside event days.

Best sunset spots in Perth

1. Cottesloe Beach

   Cottesloe Beach faces directly west over the Indian Ocean and is one of Perth's most popular locations for watching the sun go down. Parking is available along Marine Parade; Cottesloe train station is about 15 minutes' walk from the sand.

2. Kings Park

   From the western edge of Kings Park, elevated on Mount Eliza above the Perth coastal plain, the sun sets toward the coast with the city skyline in the foreground. Multiple free car parks are signposted within the park.

3. Scarborough Beach

   Scarborough Beach is a long open stretch of sand on Perth's Sunset Coast, facing west over the Indian Ocean. Paid parking is available along The Esplanade, and the Scarborough Beach Pool complex has an outdoor bar.

4. Bathers Beach

   The west-facing shoreline at Bathers Beach catches the last light of the day over the Indian Ocean. The Fremantle Arts Centre is adjacent to the beach, and several cafes line Marine Terrace nearby.

5. Burswood Park

   Facing west from the grassed Swan River foreshore, the Perth CBD skyline reflects in the water as the sun sets behind the city. Burswood train station is a short walk from the park entrance.