Sunrise
Mt Coot-tha
Mt Coot-tha is famous for its sunrises and is well worth the early start. Watch Brisbane wake up from above with one of the best views the city has to offer. Feeling adventurous? Take on one of the walking trails and hike your way to the summit just in time to meet the sun.
P.S. Mt Coot-tha is also pretty special at sunset but sunrise is when it really shows off.
Nudgee Beach
You’re going to want to look up the tide as well as the time for this sunrise spot. Head to Nudgee Beach on a day where the low tide and sunrise times align. You’ll get to watch the sunrise reflect across the water, but the real hero is the exposed, light bathed and rippled sand.
Woody Point Jetty
While this spot is good for a sunset, it really shines with the rising sun. So pick a spot and watch the sun come up over the water. With lots of cafes nearby, you’ll also be able to satisfy all your post sunrise breakfast cravings.
Shorncliffe Pier
Shorncliffe Pier is Brisbane’s largest timber pier and another spot that will let you watch the sunrise over the water. Stroll down the pier to get as close to the sunrise as possible and watch as the ocean mirrors the sky.
Sunset
Kangaroo Point
Offering one of the best vantage points for a Brisbane sunset, you’ll be spoilt for choice with viewing spots all along the cliffs. Pack a picnic and snag a barbecue spot to enjoy the city and river in the late afternoon light before the city twinkles to life.
Wilson Outlook Reserve
For an epic view of the Story Bridge and little bit of sunset love, head to Wilson Outlook. This small park is a hidden gem in the Brisbane landscape and will fulfill all your cotton candy sunset dreams. You’ll want to get your cameras ready for this one, as the view is one of Brisbane’s most Instagrammable.
New Farm Park
New Farm Park is the perfect picnic spot day-long, but your picnic will feel just that bit more magical if you grab your picnic basket and head in for sunset. Enjoy snacks and good company while the sky is painted in sunset hues. Hot tip: visit while the jacarandas are blooming for a full visual treat.
Eleven Rooftop Bar
Feel like sipping on something fancy while you watch the sunset light bounce off Brisbane’s skyscrapers? Eleven Rooftop Bar is where you’ll want to be. Located in the heart of Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, head in early to snag one of the city facing seats and sip drinks while the sun goes down. They have an extensive list of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with bar snacks to help keep your energy levels up.
Mt Gravatt Lookout
This hidden gem is located in the Brisbane suburbs and won’t let you down if you’re chasing sunsets. With stunning panoramic views you’ll want to soak in the sunset forever. There are walking tracks which are great during the day, but we recommend accessing the spot by car so you’re not trying to navigate the tracks once the sun has disappeared. Heading to this spot in winter? Pack a blanket to keep cozy for when the warmth of the sun fades.
Student One
Rather stay in bed until the very last minute? Want to stay closer to home? Lucky for you our Student One residences are the perfect sunrise and sunset viewing spots. While our favourites are the Wharf Street Sky Lounge and the Elizabeth Street Rooftop, don’t underestimate the view you can get straight from your Student One room.
Sky Lounge
