The best places to watch the sunrise and sunset in Sydney

Situated on the northern most edge of Sydney Harbour and 11km from the city, North Head has a fantastic panoramic of the harbour and Sydney skyline, making it the perfect sunset (or sunrise) watching spot. Head up there with a zesty takeaway and a chilled bev and watch the city turn pink. Make sure you're there for when the city's lights switch on, and pro tip: keep an eye out for bandicoots. 

Parramatta River was an important food source and meeting point for the Burramattagal, Toongagal, Wallumattagal, Wangal, and Wategora peoples before colonisation. It is also a pretty incredible place to watch the sunset. Think brilliant colours, bold pinks and glimmering light. 

For wild views look no further than America Bay. An hour drive from Sydney's CBD, this location requires a one kilometre walk each way and is rocky terrain (so proceed with caution). But once you're there, the sunset can't be beat. Just make sure you walk back before it gets dark. 

For a sunset with a swingin' '60s twist that overlooks all (and we do mean all) of Sydney, you can't go past Bar 83. For rotating spectacular views, cocktails and eye-popping decor, this venue is an excellent place to park yourself for the big star's descent down.

Watson's Bay Boutique Hotel faces west, but yet (plot twist) you're seated facing over the water. This curious combination makes for a stellar sunset spot in Sydney. Grab an Aperol and take in the pretty lights. 

Sitting up on Observatory Hill is a good decision for any keen sunset hunter. With panaromic views across Sydney city and the harbour, this gorgeous spot elevates you above the wilderness of the Sydney metropolis. A popular proposal and wedding photo spot, this rounded corner of Sydney is one that deserves attention. 

For deep gold light, eye-watering visuals and crazy water reflection action head to Manly Cove at around 5pm. Snaffle hot chips, perch yourself on the low stone wall and try spot a fairy penguin (or two). 

Snaking along the shoreline all the way to the end of Johnson Street in Annandale, this Glebe waterside park offers one of the best views of ANZAC Bridge and is a perfect place to lay out a picnic spread and watch the dogs gambol, the sun set and the lights of Sydney's CBD illuminate.

Beauty and convenience don’t always go hand in hand, but Opera Bar is a glam exception to the rule. It manages to be both one of the most enviably located bars in the city as well as its most advantageous spot for a pre-show drink. On the day you snag a seat facing the Harbour Bridge up on the raised promenade you should go buy a lottery ticket, because lady luck has smiled on you.

You take the elevator up from the heart of the recently refurbed pub downstairs, but drinking at altitude is a popular pastime in this city so there might be a wait list. Although they’ve named the bar Henry Deane, after the engineer and architect who designed the hotel above the original Palisade pub up on Millers Point, there’s not a spirit level or drafting board in sight – it’s a high class joint – and perfect for watching the sun set.