Five Scenic Spots to Watch the Sun Go Down in Auckland

A dreamy sunset with a cold one in hand is as much part of the classic Kiwiana summer repertoire as music festivals, a day spent getting unwanted sunburn at the beach, supporting fundraiser sausage sizzles, and going everywhere in either no shoes or the closest thing to it: jandals.

We've compiled our five favourite scenic spots to watch the sun go down in Auckland when the forecast promises clear skies and dreamy colours.

Russell Street via Flickr

TOP OF RANGITOTO ISLAND

One of Auckland's most iconic vistas is also one of the best sites for a sunset viewing session. You can take a ferry over to the island, just be sure to factor in the time it takes to hike up the summit track so you don't spend the best part with your back to the view. You'll also want to take your camping gear and spend the night on Motutapu Island since the last ferry off Rangitoto leaves at 4pm. This picturesque island is one of our favourite outdoor places to visit in Auckland.

BETHELLS BEACH

This West Coast beach has one of the most incredible sunset views in the city. For an extra special view back along the beach, take a very short walk to the south to the large cave formation which provides shelter from the elements during the summer season.

Russell Street via Flickr

MANUKAU HEADS LIGHTHOUSE

Home to one of the clearest, least light-polluted skies in the city, the Manukau Heads Lighthouse is a particularly pretty spot to look out over the harbour while the sun goes down. If you're lucky you'll also see some of Maui's dolphins — Manukau Harbour is home to the last of their kind.

PORT FITZROY, GREAT BARRIER ISLAND

Another beautiful sunset spot is on Great Barrier Island. Although only certain special parts of the bay have unadulterated views of the sun dipping below the ocean, the entire area is so ridiculously peaceful and beautiful you won't mind if you don't nab the perfect sunset view. This is one of the top islands to escape to when you're looking to get off the mainland. You will not regret making the trek out here.

Russell Street via Flickr

TOP OF MOUNT VICTORIA, DEVONPORT

The sunset views from atop Mount Victoria are incredibly accessible — the walk isn't too steep and if you're not having a cold one you can drive right to the summit of Mount Victoria and nab a west-facing parking spot from which to enjoy the western view out across Auckland's sparkling inner city.