We named Solara after sunny days and nights and the bright moments they bring. So naturally, we think Australian sunsets are a spectacular way to live with fizz. Here are our top spots to have a wander, find a place to perch, and watch mother nature do her thing.

Canberra, ACT: Shepherd’s Lookout

Despite Canberra’s reputation for being perfectly planned and political, there’s a lot of beauty and colour to be found around the ACT. Shepherd’s Lookout is a prime spot for a truly stunning sunset – overlooking the Murrumbidgee River, with a backdrop of the Brindabella ranges.

Three minutes from Holt on Stockdill Drive, Shepherd’s Lookout is in the Woodstock Nature Reserve – and there’s a viewing platform around 250m from the carpark. Take your camera… or just enjoy it in the moment.

Hobart, TAS: Mount Wellington / Kunanyi

To get a sunset view in Hobart, you’ve got to head up! And with views of the local area, the Derwent Estuary, Storm Bay and beyond, there’s a lot to see from the top of Mt Wellington / Kunanyi.

About 20 minutes from the CBD, once you reach the top you’ll have a choice of viewing spots and boardwalks to access. Take gloves and a beanie just in case – even in Spring. And if you’re a morning person? We’re told sunrise is pretty spectacular too.

Melbourne, VIC: St Kilda Pier

On a clear night, the sunset in Melbourne is a thing of beauty – especially from St Kilda Beach. While some choose to set up a picnic on the sand and take it all in, you can wander down the iconic pier to get stunning views of the colours on Port Philip – or a vantage point of the skyline bathed in light.

But one extra drawcard for this spot is the Little Penguin colony. They come ashore just before dusk, so keep your eyes out – you may just spot them.

Perth, WA: Sunset Hill, Scarborough Beach

For those who want to catch a sunset into the Indian Ocean, as the name suggests, Sunset Hill is a top spot to get uninterrupted 180-degree views. It’s an expansive grassy area to the north of Scarborough Amphitheatre – perfect conditions for friends, food and fizz.

There’s a lot to explore in the area, too – skate bowls, promenades for long walks, playgrounds and of course, the beautiful sands of Scarborough Beach.

Adelaide, SA: Moana Beach

It’s a beach sunset with a difference at Moana, with one of the only ‘drive up’ beaches around. There’s a dedicated stretch of the beach you can drive onto, right up to the water’s edge. Perfect for a day of fun in the water before catching the sunset, or, if it’s chilly, you can watch the show from the comfort of your car!

About 35kms out of Adelaide CBD, it’s also a spot loved by the locals for its surfing, fishing and long coastal walks.

Darwin, NT: Cullen Bay

The top end is known for some pretty spectacular sunsets – and the view from Cullen Bay offers just that. Just 2km out of Darwin’s centre, it’s right near the Cullen Bay Marina - where the locals invite you to come to their restaurants to grab some takeaway.

Once you’ve got dinner sorted, it’s time to find a patch of grass (or sand) to make yours as you farewell another day in Darwin.

Brisbane, QLD: Kangaroo Point

If you find yourself in Brisbane just before the sun goes down, pack a picnic and head to Kangaroo Point. It’s a photographer’s favourite on the Brisbane River, and a great spot to catch the last light of the day from different vantage points depending on how adventurous you’re feeling.

Stand by the cliffs near the café for a great view, snag a free bbq, or head downstairs to the rocks for a bit more of an adventurous trip. You might even spot some rock climbers.

Till next time,
Team Solara.