One of the most mesmerising feelings is enjoying the amazing beauty of the sunrise with your family, friends, or alone in Sydney. Sydney, being an eastern city, offers a variety of excellent locations to enjoy the glow, ranging from sandy beaches to rocky overlooks. Indeed, it is an extremely beautiful and fascinating moment. In today’s fast-growing world, everyone is quite busy with their work, and as a result, we don’t have enough time for our family, friends, or ourselves. However, everyone likes to add a little more excitement to the mornings, so what could be more beautiful than watching the sunrise?
Experiencing the sunrise in Sydney is likely to be an extremely unforgettable experience for visitors as well as locals. The peaceful coastline, chirping birds, and beautiful morning combined with the delicate colours of the sun give you the most pleasant morning feeling.
Here is a list of Sydney’s top sunrise spots, where you can catch the best view. So let’s explore together.
1. Bronte Beach
Bronte Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in the Eastern Suburbs and is situated to the east, from where you can capture the entire city’s sunrises. From this beach, you can enjoy the stunning colours of the sky reflecting in the water and watch the rising sun behind the waves of the sun. On this beach, you can take a walk to the right of the beach, where you can enjoy a morning swim or just simply enjoy the view. You will also experience people doing exercise and yoga. The beach is the perfect place to start the morning. Once you have seen the sunrise, you can enjoy surfing. It is great for beginners and experienced. Skilled surfers can just take a surfboard and go into the ocean, while newcomers can check out training schools near Bronte Beach.
More Activities To Do in the Area:
If you are visiting Bronte Beach, listed below are some amazing places near this beach that you can visit with your family and friends.
- Explore Beach Park: Bronte Park, which is just next to Bronte Beach, is the ideal location for relaxing in the sun. This Sydney park features a playground for children and a public area with a lot of facilities, such as BBQ, play units, shade trees, shelter, and public toilets.
- Try Bronte Train Rides: Join Bronte Train Rides for a thrilling journey where every minute is an exciting adventure. Explore beautiful charm, gorgeous scenery, and lifetime memories. Bronte Train Rides is for both train lovers and those looking for a different adventure.
- Exploring the Waverley Cemetery: Located above Bronte Beach’s cliffs, Waverley Cemetery provides you with a historic beauty to escape from Sydney’s busy environment. It was established in 1877 and features magnificent marble structures, statues, and Victorian monuments.
- View Aboriginal Artwork Near Mackenzies Bay: By walking 10 minutes to the north from Bronte Beach, you may witness ancient Aboriginal art. It depicts an aquatic animal that could be a basking shark, whale, or ray. A neighbouring monument describes the arrival of the Dharawal; a Dharawal is a story that is linked to this engraving.
| Name | Bronte Beach |
|---|---|
| Address | Bronte Beach, Bronte, NSW 2024, Australia |
| Direction | https://maps.app.goo.gl/jykFp4svVVaJkudUA |
| Distance From CBD | 2.3 Km |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel through Birrell St and Bronte Rd, you will reach Bronte Beach in around 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. By Bus: To reach Bronte Beach, you can take the following bus lines - 379, 381. By Train: You can also catch the train SCO, T4 to reach Bronte Beach. |
| Sunrise Time | 6:05 AM |
| Opening Hours | Open all the time |
| Nearby Attractions | Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo, and Australian Museum |
| Nearby Restaurants | Bronte Belo, Oakberry Acai Bronte, Bronte Beach Kiosk, Pure Bronte, The Coop |
2. Hornby Lighthouse
Hornby Lighthouse looks stunning in the early morning when the sun is rising. The well-known lighthouse with its red and white stripes gives the entire town a red glow when the first ray of sun touches the lighthouse. This results in beautiful reflections in the water, giving it a mesmerising feeling. For the most breathtaking view, you can take a walk over there; this will bring positive thoughts to your mind and will relax you. You will also see the walkers and joggers near the lighthouse.
More Activities To Do in the Area:
If you are visiting Hornby Lighthouse, listed below are some amazing things to do with your family and friends:
- Visit Sydney Opera House: The Sydney Opera House is a famous building known worldwide for its amazing design and lively performances. After seeing the sunrise, you can visit the rich history of Sydney Opera, which combines different cultures. Come inside to explore the fascinating stories that make the Opera House truly inspiring, where diversity is celebrated.
- Explore the Goat Island: Discover the interesting history of Goat Island by visiting this once you see the sunrise at Hornby Lighthouse. It is known as Me-mel (or Memel) among the Gadigal Aboriginal people. Goat Island’s rich history is best explored on a guided tour offered by a guide at the National Parks and Wildlife Service, since it is not open to the public.
- See Rose Bay Beach: Five kilometres away from Hornby Lighthouse, Rose Bay Beach is a large city harbour beach. It offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Harbour Bridge. Its services, which include picnic spaces, a playground, restrooms, and showers, are well-liked by both locals and visitors. This beach is a good option for fishing, sailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
| Name | Hornby Lighthouse |
|---|---|
| Address | S Head Heritage Trail, Watsons Bay, NSW 2030, Australia |
| Direction | https://maps.app.goo.gl/jb6sgzMdZNVWih8LA |
| Distance From CBD | 13 Km |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel via New South Head Rd., you will reach Hornby Lighthouse in around 22 minutes from the Sydney CBD. By Bus: To reach Hornby Lighthouse, you can take the following bus lines - 324 and 325. By Ferry: You can also catch the ferry F9 to reach Hornby Lighthouse. |
| Sunrise Time | 6:05 am |
| Opening Hours | Open all the time |
| Nearby Attractions | Bradleys Head, Strickland Estate, and Military relics at Bradleys Head |
| Nearby Restaurants | Camp Cove Kiosk Watsons Bay, Doyles on the Beach Restaurant, Beach Club at Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, Bay Cafe Watsons Bay, Eastern Bay Thai |
3. Bondi Beach
One of the most popular places in Sydney to see the sunrise is Bondi Beach, which is located in the east of the city. The deep water in this ocean provides you with a wonderful view. Waking up early and seeing this gorgeous view is like a dream come true. On this beach, you will see people performing yoga and meditation, and with this, you will witness enthusiasts, swimmers, and active joggers during the early sunrise. This beach has been a tourist spot for more than a century and attracts millions of visitors for its soft golden sand, crystal-clear blue waves, and convenient access to restaurants, shops, and cafes. After viewing the sunrise, you can enjoy the most popular water sport in Sydney, which is surfing. Learn surfing at one of the greatest surf schools in Australia, which provides 2-hour surfing classes. Bondi Beach is known for its incredible beauty, lively atmosphere, and surf culture.
More Activities To Do in the Area:
If you are visiting Bondi Beach, listed below are some amazing things to do with your family and friends:
- Visit the Bondhi Market: Bondi Markets alone are worth travelling to Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs for. The Bondi Markets, located at the northern end of Campbell Parade, sell anything from presents and flowers to second-hand items, homemade jams, and local produce on Saturdays. Shopping near beaches can be one of the desired things to do.
- Explore the Coastal Walk from Bondi to Manly: The Bondi to Manly Walk is a path between Australia’s two popular surf beaches. It is a beautiful coastal road that passes by many of Sydney’s most famous landmarks, including the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Botanic Garden. The 80km walk may be completed in two to seven days, with amazing coastline views, beautiful bathing locations, and many historic landmarks.
- Visit Iskcon Temple Sydney: The Hare Krishna Temple in Sydney, also called Sri Sri Radha Gopinatha Temple, is the main spot for the Bhakti Yoga Movement in the city. People feel blessed to be there and find true happiness and inner fulfilment through mantra meditation, spiritual music, and service to Sri Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
| Name | Bondi Beach |
|---|---|
| Address | Bondi Beach NSW 2026, Australia |
| Direction | https://maps.app.goo.gl/gnarSEXKdrj8Z5ML7 |
| Distance From CBD | 9.1 Km |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel via Cross City Tunnel and Bondi Rd, you will reach Bondi Beach in around 14 minutes from the Sydney CBD. By Bus: To reach Bondi Beach, you can take the following bus lines 333 and 379. By Train: You can also catch the train T4 to reach Bondi Beach. |
| Sunrise Time | 6:04 am |
| Opening Hours | Open all the time |
| Nearby Attractions | Surfing at Bondi Beach, Ben Buckler Point, and visiting Bondi Pavilion. |
| Nearby Restaurants | North Bondi Fish, Bonditony's Burger Joint - BONDI, Bangkok Bites Bondi Beach, Carbon Mexican Woodfire |
4. Shangri La Hotel
A stunning sunrise can now be witnessed in a luxurious environment. The five-star Shangri-La Hotel offers accommodations with the most amazing views of Sydney’s sunrise. Now you can enjoy the Sydney sunrise in your lavish room while having breakfast in your bed or from the standalone tub, where you will see the sky turning golden and reflecting in the sea. If you are a bit lazy but have a dream to view the sunrise, then the Shangri La Hotel is perfect for you. The view will be outstanding, and you need not regret what you paid. Despite that, you will be amazed to see a photoshoot of the stunning view.
More Activities To Do in the Area:
If you are visiting Shangri La Hotel, listed below are some amazing things to do with your family and friends:
- Stroll across Harbour Bridge: Take a walk across the renowned Harbour Bridge for a unique experience once you have witnessed the sunrise at Shangri La Hotel. Enjoy the amazing views of Sydney’s skyline and the shimmering waters of the sea. As you walk through this architectural masterpiece, you can feel the pleasant sound of the city beneath your feet. Enjoy the charm of Sydney’s monuments, capturing the heart of this amazing bridge.
- Discover Harts Pub in Sydney: Enjoy the amazing surroundings of Harts Pub in Sydney. A delightful refuge where the past comes alive, with a distinct blend of modern comfort and historic charm. Harts Pub is located at a distance of 140 m from the Shangri La Hotel and it allows you to enjoy food and drinks while engaged in the timeless atmosphere of a past period. You can enjoy an interesting trip where every moment merges into the rich texture of history.
- Explore the Bridge Climb: Bridge Climb takes you on an exciting journey across the sky. After seeing the sunrise, you can climb the famous bridges and immerse yourself in stunning surroundings and exciting challenges. Bridge Climb enables you to reach new heights, combining breathtaking views with heart-pounding excitement for an amazing adventure over the skies. Elevate the feeling of adventure with Bridge Climb and witness the breathtaking beauty that opens above the skies.
- Visit Barangaroo Reserve: Experience a city escape at Barangaroo Reserve, an aquatic paradise in Sydney that perfectly combines nature and development. You can easily reach this place after viewing the sunrise since it is just 1 kilometre away from Shangri La Hotel. Discover the rich history of this recycled land as you stroll through rich flora, sculptural structures, and breathtaking views. Barangaroo Reserve allows you to explore, calm down, and connect with nature during the city’s fast-moving life.
| Name | Shangri La Hotel |
|---|---|
| Address | Shangri-La Sydney, 176 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia |
| Direction | https://www.google.com/travel/hotels/s/FzX6nrdxQiVfKqTx6 |
| Distance From CBD | 1.4 Km |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel via Clarence St, you will reach Shangri La Hotel in around 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. By Bus: To reach Shangri La Hotel, you can take the following bus lines 172X, 288, 320, 333, 396, B1. By Train: You can take the train T2 and T3 to reach Shangri La Hotel. By Ferry: You can also catch the Ferry MFF to reach the Shangri La Hotel. |
| Sunrise Time | 6:08 am |
| Opening Hours | All time Open |
| Nearby Attractions | National Gallery of Modern Art, Caravan Evolved Craft Private Limited, Crimson Art Gallery. |
| Nearby Restaurants | Lotus Barangaroo, Machiavelli, Mejico Restaurant, and Restaurant Hubert |
5. Observatory Hill Park
Another stunning location in Sydney for sunrises is Observatory Hill. It is Sydney’s oldest viewing spot, which travels through the rocks to witness the amazing sunrise. You might be surprised to know that Observatory Hill is the scene of a breathtaking sunrise. Enjoy the view as the early morning light fills Luna Park and the Harbour Bridge from the top of Lower Fort Street. Visitors may enjoy a picnic on the grass or in the beautiful nature. This is a well-liked location for wedding photography in Sydney. So this weekend, plan to watch the sunrise from this spot with your partner and enjoy your day.
More Activities To Do in the Area:
If you are visiting Observatory Hill Park, listed below are some amazing things to do with your family and friends:
- Discover YHA Sydney Harbour – The Rocks: At a distance of a 5-minute walk, discover the charm of The Rocks once you have witnessed the sunrise. The colourful hostel provides a unique blend of modern comfort and historic charm. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, surrounded by historic sites and breathtaking sea views. With helpful services and a welcoming environment, The Rocks is the starting point for an exciting urban trip to one of Australia’s beloved cities.
- Enjoy the Botanic Garden of Sydney: Explore Sydney’s stunning Botanic Garden after viewing the sunrise at Observatory Hill Park. Surround yourself with bright plant life, beautiful views, and peaceful waterfalls. Whether travelling through gardens or attending educational trips, this botanical garden provides relaxation for both nature lovers and minds with questions.
- Discover the Museum of Sydney: After viewing the sunrise, you can visit the Museum of Sydney, which is just 5 minutes away from Observatory Hill Park. Enjoy a mesmerising trip through the city’s past, with exhibitions and antiques that depict its cultural evolution. In this informative cultural experience, you will learn about the various storylines that form Sydney’s distinct identity, from indigenous heritage to modernity.
| Name | Observatory Hill Park |
|---|---|
| Address | Observatory Hill Park, 1001 Upper Fort St, Millers Point NSW 2000, Australia |
| Direction | https://maps.app.goo.gl/fNjpRFD1UQE3x43cA |
| Distance From CBD | 1.9 KM |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel via Kent St., you will reach Observatory Hill Park in around 6 minutes from the Sydney CBD. By Bus: To reach Observatory Hill Park, you can take the following bus lines 173X, 288, 311, 320, and B1. By Train: You can also catch the train T2 AND T3 to reach Observatory Hill Park. |
| Sunrise Time | 6:08 am |
| Opening Hours | All times are open |
| Nearby Attractions | Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Watsons Bay, and Wild Life Sydney Zoo. |
| Nearby Restaurants | Ventuno Restaurant, Ribs & Burgers The Rocks, Muum Maam Barangaroo, El Camino Cantina |
6. Coogee Beach
You may witness an amazing sunrise at Coogee Beach, which is located towards the eastern point of Sydney. The beach is covered with golden sparks in the early mornings. You may walk along the stunning beach’s shore and enjoy the breathtaking sunrise view. This view is going to make your morning even more beautiful. It is a very peaceful location where you are going to capture your heart because this beach is surrounded by numerous varieties of pine trees and other breathtaking natural features.
More Activities To Do in the Area:
If you are visiting Coogee Beach, listed below are some amazing things to do with your family and friends:
- Explore the Coogee to Bondi Walk: The famous Coogee to Bondi Walk showcases Sydney’s beautiful coastline. Once you have witnessed the sunrise, you can take this historic walk that provides a beautiful 6-kilometre coastal stroll offering incredible views of beaches, cliffs, and rock pools. Enjoy the cool sea breeze as you walk along this amazing path.
- Visit Heffron Park: You can have a fun day at Heffron Park after seeing the sunrise at Coogee Beach. The vegetation, playgrounds, and relaxation areas provide a perfect place for picnics, walks, and family activities. The park’s beautiful charm provides peaceful relief. At Heffron Park, you may relax, enjoy nature, and create beautiful memories.
- Experience the Taronga Zoo Sydney: After witnessing the sunrise, you can discover the thrills at Taronga Zoo Sydney. Enjoy thrilling experiences with fascinating animals, ranging from soft koalas to scary lions. You will also learn about wildlife conservation. Stroll through the zoo’s lovely grounds, which offer stunning views of Sydney Harbour. It’s a wonderful adventure for the entire family, full of excitement and learning. Taronga Zoo Sydney invites you to see nature’s beauties and have unforgettable experiences.
- Discover Gordons Bay: Explore the beauty of Gordons Bay, a beautiful place with incredible views. After viewing the sunrise, you can discover the simplicity of this coastal place. Take a stroll along the shoreline, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, and calm down in the pleasant atmosphere. Gordons Bay is an ideal destination for individuals seeking peace and natural beauty.
| Name | Coogee Beach |
|---|---|
| Address | Coogee Beach, Coogee NSW, Australia |
| Direction | https://maps.app.goo.gl/mto88j8RRKJWYHfEA |
| Distance From CBD | 10.6 Km |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel via Cross City Tunnel, you will reach Coogee Beach in around 30 minutes from the Sydney CBD. By Bus: To reach Coogee Beach, you can take the following bus lines 350, 370, 373, and 374. By Train: You can also catch the train SCO T4 to reach Coogee Beach. |
| Sunrise Time | 6:08 am |
| Opening Hours |
In Summers:
Monday to Sunday: 7 am–7 pm In Winters: Monday to Sunday: 7 am–5 pm |
| Nearby Attractions | Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour, and Royal Botanic Garden Sydney |
| Nearby Restaurants | Little Jack Horner, Spice Thai Cuisine, Sugarcane Restaurant, Coogee Pavilion Ground Floor |
Conclusion
We can conclude by saying that Sydney provides breathtaking sunrise views from various stunning locations. Getting up early and witnessing the sunrise provides several physical and mental benefits too. Early risers develop a positive attitude that enables individuals to focus continuously on their work or other daily responsibilities. Bronte Beach attracts early risers looking for the ideal way to start the day with its colourful reflections of the sky and calm atmosphere. Each sunrise location in Sydney offers unforgettable moments and life-changing experiences. So whenever you are planning your trip to Sydney, do not forget to explore these sunrise spots to get the best view of nature.