No two sunsets are the same, so why not try to see as many different sunsets as possible? And while you’re at it, why not see them from some of the most breathtaking places in the world? If you’re an early riser, some of these might double for a nice sunrise, but it’s really all about the sunset for now.
Grand Canyon (Arizona, U.S.)
Millions of people visit the Grand Canyon every year, and those who are smart stick around late enough in the day to see the sun create an awesome display as it sets. Many debate the absolute best point to view the show – some vote for the south rim, others for Hopi Point, and some just run around amazed by the sheer wonder of it – but you can’t really go wrong. Just be sure to keep watching your step even as you’re mesmerized by the power of the sun.
Matterhorn (Pennine Alps, Switzerland/Italy)
It’s not exactly an easy walk to the top of the Matterhorn (unless your a mountain goat or a really strong hiker), but you can also see amazing sunset views just being near it. Located on the Switzerland/Italy border in the Pennine Alps, its four steep faces point to the four compass points, so you’ll be able to see the sun reflect directly onto the western-facing side. In fact, it might even be more gorgeous to stay in normal-human altitudes to watch the sun go down beside it. And yes, I’m saying that so I won’t be responsible if you try to climb the Matterhorn.
Stonehenge (Wiltshire, England)
The prehistoric monument of Stonehenge has long been considered one of the most fascinating remnants of the Neolithic and Bronze Age. The ring of standing stones is a sight on its own, but when the sun shines between the rocks as it goes down, it’s an entirely different experience. In fact, the site faces the summer solstice sunrise and aligns with the sun on the winter solstice, meaning it was literally designed to watch sunsets. Solstice celebrations are still held there today, which wouldn’t be a bad way to check it out!
Serengeti (Tanzania)
Known for its diverse wildlife and seemingly endless landscape (“Serengeti” actually means “Endless Plains” in the Maasai language, Maa), Serengeti is a pretty sweet spot to plop down for some prime sunset viewing. It offers a classic view of stretching land punctuated by infrequent trees, and often will throw back the shadows of animals who graze in the area. Just remember that Serengeti boasts one of the largest lion populations in the world, so don’t get too caught up that you forget to be aware of your surroundings. Dusk usually means dinnertime, and is a prime time to hunt.
Mount Haleakala (Hawaii, U.S.)
Located on the south side of Maui, Mount Haleakala is the largest dormant volcano in the world and one of the area’s most popular attractions. Not surprisingly, as you get quite the snapshot when the setting sun’s rays reflect on the blackened volcanic rock. In fact, Hawaiian legend says that the demigod Maui was able to harness the sun from the top of this mountain to slow down and lengthen the day – which is most likely how it got its name. “Haleakala” means “house of the sun” in Hawaiian.
Jökulsárlón (Iceland)
By this point, most people know that Iceland is green and Greenland is ice, but the incredible natural beauty of Iceland sometimes takes visitors by surprise. So you might as well go for gold and head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon in Southeast Iceland that borders the Vatnajökull National Park (bonus points if you can pronounce any of that). The best part is that sunsets during the summer last for hours, and the sun never truly goes down. The “midnight sun” is a favorite among tourists and locals who get to stumble out of the bars at 4 a.m. with the light guiding them home.
Lake Annecy (French Alps)
Voted Europe’s cleanest lake, Lake Annecy is a marvel unto itself. Sourced from mountain streams and a deep spring at one end, the lake is a year-round attraction for those seeking a bit of beauty in our pollution-stained world. When the setting sun sun sets its pristine waters aflame, you have a pretty good deal. It’s also surrounded by gorgeous greenery, cycling paths, and you can actually swim in it, so you can make a full day of it!
La Paz (Bolivia)
Sitting in a sunken valley of the Andes Mountains in Bolivia, La Paz still nearly 12,000 feet above sea level. As the city climbs the hills of the Andes, it remains in the shadows of the beautiful snow-capped Mt. Illimanti, but still presides over miles upon miles of untouched rock formations. Also the capital city of Bolivia, La Paz is a diverse and fascinating cultural center, so you know you’ll have something to do while you wait for the sun to go down.
Oia (Santorini, Greece)
The Greek Islands are no slouch in the beauty department, and their sunsets don’t disappoint either. If you’re looking for a romantic spot to watch the sun go down with your honey, look no farther than the hilltop town of Oia on Santorini. The town itself is built on volcanic rock and being surrounded by the sparkling Aegean Sea makes for quite the pretty picture. Just know that you most likely won’t be alone – Oia is increasingly becoming a popular destination for tourists to watch the sunset, so you’ll have to get there early to snag a good spot.
The Moon
If you can swing it, why the heck not?
