Sunsets happen every day, but we rarely pause to truly take them in. Whether you’re sitting on a cliff above the sea or gazing across wide-open plains, there’s something magical about watching the sky shift from bright to burning to dark.
Chasing sunsets may sound like a travel cliché, but there’s a reason it became one. Some destinations put on a show so stunning that they turn an ordinary evening into a lasting memory. From ancient cities to vast canyons, these are some of the best sunset destinations in the world.
Santorini, Greece
Golden hour in Oia, where whitewashed homes and Aegean blues glow under the fading sun — Santorini’s sunset never disappoints. Photo: @poly_capture
Santorini, a volcanic island in the Aegean Sea about 200 kilometres from mainland Greece, is often considered one of the most beautiful sunset destinations on Earth. Its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches perch dramatically on steep cliffs above the caldera. Why you need to see it: In the village of Oia, crowds gather nightly to watch the sun slip into the sea, bathing the town in golden light. For a quieter experience, head to the Akrotiri lighthouse, where you’ll find stunning views in a more peaceful setting. Whether crowded or calm, Santorini is a top pick for romantic sunset spots.
Masai Mara, Kenya
As the sky turns to fire, a lone giraffe stands against the light — this is the Masai Mara Sunset Shift in its most unforgettable form. Photo: Ahmed Galal/Unsplash
Located in southwestern Kenya, the Masai Mara is a vast nature reserve known for its golden plains, rich biodiversity, and dramatic landscapes. It is home to elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, and more. Why you need to see it: At sunset, the savanna turns into a cinematic backdrop. Flat open land allows for brilliant silhouettes, especially of the iconic umbrella acacia tree. As the sun dips low, bold colours take over the sky, making this one of Africa’s most scenic sunset views and a must-see bucket list sunset destination.
Bagan, Myanmar
Temple spires pierce the haze as Bagan’s sunset wraps the ancient city in warm, timeless light. Photo: Thet Khine
Bagan, in Myanmar’s Mandalay region, is an ancient city that once served as the capital of a mighty kingdom. Today, more than 2,000 Buddhist temples and pagodas still stand across the forested plains. Why you need to see it: There is nothing quite like watching the sun set behind a skyline of pointed temple spires. The light filters through the dust and haze, creating a surreal glow across the horizon. The Shwesandaw Pagoda, often called the “sunset pagoda,” offers one of the best panoramic views. It’s one of Asia’s most unforgettable sunset photography locations.
Saugeen Shores, Ontario, Canada
An iconic Canadian beach summer scene — golden skies, warm sand, and a shoreline alive with sunset energy. Photo by Brianne Farquhar
Saugeen Shores, located on the eastern edge of Lake Huron, is made up of Port Elgin, Southampton, and Saugeen. Once a hub for the fur trade, today it’s a beloved lakeside destination for beachgoers and nature lovers. Why you need to see it: Sunsets here are a nightly ritual. Families and couples gather with blankets and ice cream to watch the sky light up in strokes of orange, pink, purple, and blue. On summer evenings, a lone bagpiper often plays from the shoreline, making it one of the most memorable and romantic sunset spots in Canada.
Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA
Witnessing the Grand Canyon Sunset Shift — one of the world’s most breathtaking golden hour moments. Photo: Ernest Karchmit
The Grand Canyon, a geological wonder in Arizona, stretches nearly 450 kilometres across layered red rock formations carved over nearly two billion years. It’s a must-see for travellers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. Why you need to see it: At sunset, the canyon’s layers catch the light and transform into a rich tapestry of reds, oranges, and deep shadows. The view from the rim is vast and humbling, while trails offer more intimate perspectives. For fans of sunset photography, this is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring places on the planet.
