The Top 19 Sunrise Experiences In Australia

Say yes to the country’s best sunrise activities to let a new day inspire and invigorate you.

Not a morning person? We get it. But did you know you’re missing out on some of Australia’s most spectacular immersive experiences? From life-affirming ocean swims and by-the-sea wellness journeys to one-of-a-kind animal encounters and adrenaline-pumping rides, our best sunrise experiences are guaranteed to surprise you. Set the alarm and get excited – our favourite picks are raring to go.

1. Sunrise Camel Experience at Uluru, NT

Strap yourself in for one of the most memorable rides of your life. A Sunrise Camel Experience through Uluṟu in the Northern Territory provides a cuddly (albeit a little smelly) hiking buddy while also recreating the Red Centre’s historical mode of transport.

a camel tour at sunrise in Uluru, NT — Ride with Uluṟu Camel Tours at sunrise. (Image: Tourism NT/ Matt Glastonbury)

Sit back and let the sway of your new mate clomping Australia’s spiritual heartland take you to a remote lookout where the big dusty rock and Kata Tjuṯa National Park can be witnessed in extreme golden hour glory. Wash everything down with freshly baked damper, tea and coffee.

people riding camels at sunrise in Uluru — Have a memorable Sunrise Camel Experience in Uluṟu. (Image: Tourism NT/ Plenty Of Dust)

2. Sunrise Kayak and Coffee on Sydney Harbour, NSW

Before the ferries and party boats kick into gear, Sydney Harbour is a quiet, soothing body of water begging to be skimmed with a kayaking adventure. While there are a bunch of access spots to jump into a session yourself, the Sunrise Kayak and Coffee tour is an outstanding pick for anybody in need of a helping hand.

kayaking at sunrise on Sydney Harbour, NSW — Go on a magical sunrise kayak tour in Sydney Harbour. (Image: Destination NSW)

Take in the Coat Hanger, the Sydney Opera House and every other iconic waterfront vista as coffee, a photographer and an experienced guide elevate your experience.

kayaking on Sydney Harbour, NSW — Paddle through Sydney Harbour as the sky lights up. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Boroka Lookout in Grampians National Park, Vic

There are plenty of ways to experience the beautiful Grampians National Park in western Victoria but we especially love how simple it is to access its most exceptional lookout spot.

a couple admiring the sunrise from Boroka Lookout in Grampians National Park, Vic — Watch the fiery sun from Boroka Lookout.

The Boroka Lookout is located 15 kilometres from Halls Gap and features two viewing platforms that cater for people with access needs. The peaceful morning views out to Halls Gap and Lake Bellfield are iconic while majestic mountain ranges fill out your entire line of sight.

a couple viewing the sunrise from Boroka Lookout in Grampians National Park, Vic — Sunrise views from Boroka Lookout are truly exceptional.

4. Wellness at Sea cruise off Glenelg, SA

A one-hour meditation session on the water paired with the warmth of dawn breaking. The heavenly Wellness at Sea cruise off Glenelg in South Australia is a no-brainer, run by local yoga instructors to hone in on your breathing and meditative movement.

People meditating on the Wellness at Sea cruise off Glenelg — The Wellness at Sea cruise off Glenelg is heavenly.

Providing a grounding start to the day, despite the whole being on water thing, the vessel itself is lush with a viewing deck, indoor cabin and cushioned seating.

Wellness at Sea cruise off Glenelg — Start the morning off right.

5. ANZAC Day Dawn Service at Elephant Rock, Qld

It’s only once a year but factor the Gold Coast’s ANZAC Day Dawn Service at Elephant Rock into future planning.

a surfer heading out to surf at sunrise at Elephant Rock, Qld — Sunrise hits differently at Elephant Rock. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Staged by the Currumbin RSL annually, the service is set against the dramatic natural rock formation (fitted with a viewing platform to tackle once crowds dissipate) on Currumbin Beach. It’s an unsurprisingly moving experience and that backdrop is utterly incomparable.

sunrise at Elephant Rock, Qld — Head to Elephant Rock for spectacular views. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

6. Hot Air Balloon Flight over the Avon Valley, WA

One of Australia’s biggest and most scenic hot air ballooning destinations, Western Australia’s Northam is the place to kick start an up-air adventure across the Avon Valley. The region has been taking early birds to the skies since the late 1960s.

an aerial view of hot air balloons surrounding Avon Valley — Hop in a hot air balloon above the Avon Valley. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Book your ride with Windward Ballooning who’ll guide your journey across rivers, fields, mountains, streams and beyond.

a hot air balloon flight over Avon Valley — Fly above mountains and streams with Windward Ballooning. (Image: Tourism Australia)

7. Nude Solstice Swim at Long Beach, Tas

Although Dark Mofo 2024 was cancelled, one of the festival’s most wonderful offshoot events is sticking around and guaranteed to delight.

In June, the Nude Solstice Swim in Tasmania invites liberated nudie rudies to plunge themselves into Long Beach as the day awakens. Marking the end of the June solstice, the longest day of the year, the event is free to join but you’ve got to register.

releasing red smoke at Dark Mofo's infamous Nude Solstice Swim — Join the Nude Solstice Swim in Tasmania. (Image: Dark Mofo/ Rosie Hastie)

8. Sunrise with the Wallabies Tour at Cape Hillsborough, Qld

Get up close and personal with our most iconic native critters on a Sunrise with the Wallabies Tour at Cape Hillsborough in Queensland’s Mackay.

wallabies on the beach against the sunrise backdrop at Cape Hillsborough — Sunrise makes the perfect backdrop. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Right before the sun rises, you’ll spy eastern grey kangaroos and agile wallabies tucking into mangrove seed pods as the shimmering blue comes to life behind them. Just make sure you check what time the sun’s up before you head off as the animals will retreat into the bush the moment day breaks.

a Sunrise with the Wallabies Tour at Cape Hillsborough — Sunrise with the Wallabies is an experience like no other. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

9. Sunrise Paddleboard Tour at Yorke Peninsula, SA

Getting out on a SUP is always calming but signing on for a Sunrise Paddleboard Tour of the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia is super serene.

paddleboarding at sunrise in Yorke Peninsula, SA — Hop on a Sunrise Paddleboard Tour at Yorke Peninsula. (Image: Yorke Peninsula)

Whether you’re a total pro or just starting out, the team will ensure you’re gliding safely in no time, free to soak up the sensational ocean nothingness as the sun warms your face.

the Sunrise Paddleboard Tour at Yorke Peninsula, SA — Elevate your mornings. (Image: Yorke Peninsula)

10. First Light Club Beachfront Yoga at Byron Bay, NSW

Set your intentions for the day with a go at First Light Club Beachfront Yoga in NSW’s Byron Bay.

people participating in a yoga class on the beach at First Light Club Beachfront Yoga at Byron Bay, NSW — Set your intentions for the day with a go at First Light Club Beachfront Yoga. (Image: Destination NSW)

Run by the team at Elements of Byron (so you know it’s great), the daily beachfront class allows you to soak up Pacific Ocean views while indulging in restorative morning me-time. Expect to be twisting, stretching and opening up your body to increase breathing capacity during your session.

participants stretching their body during the yoga session by the beach at First Light Club Beachfront Yoga at Byron Bay, NSW — Take in ocean views while doing yoga. (Image: Destination NSW)

11. Dawn, Heat and Dip at Kuuma Nature Sauna, Tas

Make the most of Tasmania’s chilly winter conditions with a Dawn, Heat and Dip at Kuuma Nature Sauna in Barretta, located at the southern end of the state.

Kuuma Nature Sauna at sunrise — Start the day at Kuuma Nature Sauna. (Image: Nina Hamilton)

Set on a pontoon, the incredible venue puts you right in the beauty of the region, allowing you to relish in the heat of a wood-fired sauna before taking a dip right outside to catch the sun peeking out. An ice bath like no other, this is hydrotherapy at its finest. It’s currently running until 31 August, so check the website for seasonal dates.

Person jumping from Kuuma Nature Sauna at sunrise — The incredible venue puts you right in the beauty of the region. (Image: Nina Hamilton)

12. Salty Sips ocean dip at Henley Beach, SA

There’s plenty to love about Henley Beach in South Australia, which is precisely why its community ocean dips, known locally as Salty Sips by Human.Kind , are so dang popular.

crowds of people at the a sunrise sweat, dip and sip event in Henley Square — Join the sunrise Salty Sips ocean dip. (Image: Jack Schofield)

Staged alongside yoga, coffee and snacks on the first Wednesday of each month, the initiative invites anybody and everybody, bringing out the best in the region to further enhance its staggering AM beauty.

a crowded beach during the Salty Sips Ocean Dip event — Wake up your senses at Henley Beach. (Image: Jack Schofield)

13. Sunrise Field of Light Tour at Uluru, NT

A non-negotiable while touring the Northern Territory, the Field of Light is an otherworldly arts and cultural experience, and now you can experience it at golden hour.

Sunrise Field of Light , which includes transfers to the renowned outdoor art installation, entry and a warm beverage, provides a life-changing perspective of the land at a time when the desert is stiller than ever.

the Sunrise Field of Light Tour at Uluru, NT — The Field of Light in Uluṟu glows at sunrise. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

14. Sunrise Session at Thredbo, NSW

NSW’s winter wonderland is especially magnificent at the break of dawn, which is why a Sunrise Session at Thredbo is never a bad idea.

the snow experience and Sunrise Session at Thredbo, NSW — Wake up early to catch the Sunrise Session at Thredbo.

You’ll be whisked up to soak up a new day atop Australia’s highest lifted point. Indulge in a boozy on-mountain breakfast before gaining access to the resort’s extra-long ‘Supertrail’ before anybody else tackles it that day.

a skier at the top of Australia's Highest Lifted Point in Thredbo during sunrise — Take in the chilly sunrise at Thredbo.

15. Honey Ryder Sunrise Jet Ski Tour in Darwin, NT

Is sunrise too slow for you? Dial up the thrills with a Honey Ryder Sunrise Jet Ski Tour in Darwin, a top-speed, 90-minute expedition.

the Honey Ryder Sunrise Jet Ski Tour in Darwin, NT — Welcome the sunrise on a jet ski. (Image: Tourism NT/Kane Chenoweth)

You’ll be cutting and carving like a pro thanks to an experienced onboard guide and if you’re feeling daring, over-16-year-olds can take a turn in the driving seat during the tour. Expect silky smooth conditions begging to be torn apart.

a woman riding a jet ski in Darwin at sunrise — Dial up the thrills with a Honey Ryder Sunrise Jet Ski Tour in Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT/Kane Chenoweth)

16. Hot Air Balloon Flight & Breakfast in the Yarra Valley, Vic

You’ve experienced the Yarra Valley’s famed wineries so take a new perspective. The hot air balloon Flight & Breakfast tour of Victoria’s much-loved wine country soars you above the vines first thing in the morning to marvel in their renowned allure.

a hot air balloon soaring above Yarra Valley — Soar above Yarra Valley’s famed wineries in a hot air balloon.

Once you’re done, a buffet breakfast teamed with sparkling wine at Balgownie Estate , awaits.

a hot air balloon above Yarra Valley at sunrise — Take the hot air balloon tour first thing in the morning.

17. Climb to Passage Peak on Hamilton Island, Qld

Peel yourself away from your island digs early to lose all manners of speech atop Passage Peak on Hamilton Island, one of the destination’s best walking trails.

a man gazing at the scenic views atop Passage Peak on Hamilton Island, Qld — Reach the top of Passage Peak for panoramic sunrise views on Hamilton Island. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

It’s breathtaking in every sense as a not-too-difficult 234 metres above sea level will deliver 360-degree views across The Whitsundays. Plus, you’ll avoid the crowds which flock to this headline attraction come daybreak.

a group walking along the pathway at sunrise Passage Peak on Hamilton Island, Qld — Climb to Passage Peak at the crack of dawn. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

18. Stirling Range Twin Peak Hiking Experience, WA

Explore one of Western Australia’s highest peaks, Bluff Knoll, on a Stirling Range Twin Peak Hiking Experience for advanced hikers.

The multi-day tour through Stirling Range National Park is well worth the training as you’ll be treated to Bluff Knoll’s famed, jaw-dropping 360-degree views when the sun rises as well as Mount Talyoberlup when the sun sets.

breathtaking mountain views on top of the Stirling Range National Park — Take in jaw-dropping vistas atop Bluff Knoll. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@apertunity)

19. Wildlife Sunrise Breakfast in the Hunter Valley, NSW

Switch out human companions for furry ones at a Wildlife Sunrise Breakfast in NSW’s Hunter Valley.

Held inside the Hunter Valley Wildlife Park, the very special animal encounter welcomes a new day with exclusive access to the grounds, a hand-feed of the resident giraffes, breakfast, food for a few different animals and a zookeeper tour.

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

The top 19 sunrise experiences in Australia