Here comes the sun – the best sunrise and sunset spots on the Northern Beaches

There are sun worshippers, sun seekers and sundowners. Skin can be sun kissed or a room sun soaked. You can chase the sun or find your place in the sun.

This glorious star at the heart of our solar system is a figure of worship and a symbol of renewal; it fascinates and sustains.

So at either end of its long trek across our sky each day, the two bookend highlights of sunrise and sunset hold a special place in our hearts with their ability to inspire awe, peace or romance.

With more than 32km of coastline interspersed with dramatic headlands, the Northern Beaches has the perfect ocean catwalk for stunning sunrises as well as high headland vantage points to celebrate the wonderful westerly end of each day. Here are our favourites.

Enjoy dawn and dusk at Palm Beach

The views at Palm Beach are first class at any time, but sunrise and sunset are where Palm Beach really shines.

A coastal gem known for its pristine sandy shores and as the setting of the famous Australian soap opera Home and Away, Palm Beach gazes across the ocean to the east, and the Pittwater estuary backed by Ku-ring-gai National Park to the west, making it the perfect setting for dawn and dusk.

For an even more spectacular experience, head up Palm Beach’s northernmost point – Barrenjoey Headland with historic and heritage-listed Barrenjoey Lighthouse – for a truly magical experience.

Take a sunrise headland walk at Long Reef

Situated at the midway point of the Northern Beaches, Long Reef provides panoramic north-south views of the entire peninsula. It also sparkles up a treat to the east.

Early birds will be rewarded with gold as the sun lifts its head above the water horizon and looks towards Long Reef Headland.

A great way to start the day just before dawn is to enjoy the 3km return headland walk from the southern end of Collaroy Beach, over the hang glider launch pad headland to Long Reef Beach before returning, all while taking in the stunning morning views as the first rays of the day light up the Pacific Ocean.

Have a sunset picnic at Mona Vale

Overlooking the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, Mona Vale offers a panoramic spectacle as the sun emerges or gracefully bids adieu.

The beauty of this suburb lies in its captivating headland, an elevated vantage point that commands the best sunrise and sunset views.

Sculpted sandstone cliffs and native coastal vegetation frame the early morning scene, creating a natural amphitheatre for nature’s daily sunrise performance. Or close out the day with a leisurely and scenic dinner picnic from this beautiful spot.

 Manly shines at any time of day

Most would normally associate sunrises at the beach as a quiet affair, but not in Manly, which buzzes surfers, runners and swimmers out and about at dawn.

The silhouettes of surfers against the colourful backdrop, coupled with the iconic Norfolk pines, create a picturesque scene.

As dusk falls, Manly Cove – affectionately known as The Office – is a popular vantage point for sunsets over the harbour. Here you’ll find bars, pubs and restaurants buzzing. Alternatively, enjoy a casual picnic under the trees or a stroll along the harbour.

Whether you’re starting the day with the sunrise or winding down to sunset, Manly serves as a stunning natural canvas.