Not many things in life can give you the sense of connection to the world along with the realisation of how magnificent and magical Mother Nature is, than seeing the sun rise early in the morning.
From the very first warm peak of morning sun that sends an abundance of colours to shoot across the skies, the golden hour every morning is a spectacle to behold. The calming sensation of watching the day slowly spring to life has something ethereal about it.
And what better way to enjoy the sunrise than to grab the best seats with coastal vantage points? Here is our list of the best places in Queensland to watch the sun rise.
- Kirra Hill Lookout, Coolangatta
Offering undeniably best views on the Gold Coast, Kirra Hill Lookout gives you the iconic view of the Surfers Paradise stretch in the North, and the quieter backdrop of Coolangatta all the way to Tweed Heads in the South.
This is the place you want to be for a great sunrise, followed by plenty of activities to keep you busy.
The journey up is a good walk, with stunning views to accompany you throughout your way. There are plenty of onsite facilities at the lookout, so don’t forget to bring along some bites for an early breakfast picnic, or go all the way with a cooler filled with snags and breakfast delights to cook up at the free-to-use barbecue pits at the top. Alternatively, you could always drive up instead if you aren’t feeling the walk or are running late to miss the sunrise.
The view from the top is astounding. Come at the right time and you can even spot some whales here at the lookout. Located on McLean Street in Coolangatta, you won’t want to miss out on your chance to witness one of the most stunning sunrises on the Gold Coast.
Kirra Hill Lookout is also great for those special events like New Year’s Eve, where you can catch the fireworks on Surfers Paradise as well as those happening in New South Wales. It’s also a great vantage point for the occasional big, full moons that rise over the Pacific Ocean.
After watching the sunrise at Kirra Hill, take some time to stroll along Coolangatta Beach and enjoy the greenery of Queen Elizabeth Park, which is just right next to it.
Don’t forget to head into the local favourite Coolangatta Hotel for a hearty lunch bite, and enjoy some fresh beer on tap or the wide array of drinks on the menu. Come back later in the evening for some live entertainment happening every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This month has some special live entertainment features such as Jason Delphin playing on Monday 7 June 2021, Rob Rhodes playing on Tuesday 8 June 2021, and Jason Delphin and The Rick Barron Duo playing on Thursday 10 June 2021.
- Cape Hillsborough, Mackay
An iconic phenomenon that mustn’t be missed, the sunrise at Cape Hillsborough brings in a uniquely Australian experience. Every morning, just before dawn and at first light, kangaroos make their way down to the beach to enjoy some morning breakfast of seaweed and mangrove seed pods. As the sun rises from the horizon arching slowly over the water, the perfect backdrop is set for a truly spectacular experience.
Don’t forget to bring your camera, as you surely won’t want to miss the picturesque snapshot of kangaroos on the beach at sunrise. For those wishing to get into the frame, bring along a tripod or a selfie stick as well!
- Alexandra Headland Bluff, Sunshine Coast
Grab your surfboard and paddle out to calmer waters at the Alexandra Headland Bluff in Sunshine Coast. Offering front row seats of a breathtaking sunrise as you float in water, the experience is nothing short of magical. Striking orange tones penetrate the dim skies with hues of pink and yellow followed by shades of light blue, it is a sight to be seen.
Don’t feel like getting wet? Sprawl out on the grassy areas instead, and stay dry while overlooking the water with a morning coffee in hand. You’ll still get great coastal views of an amazing sunrise. There are many cafes along the Bluff, where you can head in to have an artisan breakfast.
When preparing to chase the best coastal sunrises in Queensland, don’t forget a camera, some snacks if you plan on lingering around after, and plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your adventure. Until next time!
Banner image credit: Destination Gold Coast
