Boasting sweeping views across the Swan River and Elizabeth Quay, the Songbird Bar & Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton, Perth is a must-visit for sunset seekers. No matter what time of year you decide to visit, you’ll be experiencing the bar at the right time: the same is adaptable year-round – designed as a stunning open air space in summer, and with an inviting fireplace for crisp winter evenings. Side note: We hear the Native Peach cocktail, which combines Old Young’s Vodka, Bénédictine, quandong earl grey, crème de pêche, peaches and fresh citrus is the perfect partner for those golden Swan River sunsets. 1 Barrack Street, Perth, WA.
Desperately seeking sunsets? These are Australia's best rooftop bars
As the heat of summer dissipates, and cooler, crispier Indian summer evenings beckon, we find there’s nothing quite like a rooftop drink at sunset to cap off the week. So, with that in mind, we’re rounding up the best rooftop bars for a sunset drink, Australia-wide. Yes, no matter whether you’re in Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Cairns or Melbourne, we’ve got you covered.
W Brisbane WET Deck
Located on the rooftop of W Brisbane on Level Four, the WET Deck bar exudes a relaxed tropical resort feel that’ll make you feel like you’re miles away from the hustle and bustle of the CBD. At night, you’ll enjoy a beautifully illuminated view of the city lights and the river, so if you drop in for a dusk drink, then be sure to pop back after dessert for a nightcap. 81 North Quay, Brisbane QLD.
Little Albion, Sydney
Nestled in the leafy inner Sydney suburb of Surry Hills, the Little Albion is a firm sunset favourite among those in-the-know. The boutique hotel features an oasis-like rooftop garden, sweeping city views and delish gourmet nibbles. The ‘honour bar’ is the perfect place to watch the city come alive as you sip your devastatingly perfect gin and tonic. 21 Little Albion St, Surry Hills NSW.
Cairns' only rooftop bar: Rocco at Riley Cairns
Perched high atop the beautiful Cairns skyline is Rocco: Cairns’ only rooftop bar and highest restaurant. The five-star Riley Hotel, operated by the Crystalbrook Collection, is ideally situated right on the shoreline, meaning those perfect sunset ocean views simply never end: in fact, the bar offers 270 degree panoramic views of Cairns and the Coral Sea. 131-141 Esplanade, Cairns QLD.
Peaches
When the weather is fine head to this summery rooftop venue, where it’s all about sweeping CBD vistas and peaches and cream vibes, which match perfectly with their fun, frosty, cocktails. For something more serious, you’ll find an extended list of shaken and stirred concoctions downstairs. 301 Swanston St, Melbourne. peaches.melbourne.
Crippen Place, Adelaide SA
It’s tough to stay for “just a few” at this rowdy rooftop bar. With music venue Rocket Bar downstairs, the vibe is vintage garden party meets LA backyard (there’s a giant palm tree in the centre). During summer, they screen cult classics at the back, like Cocktail and Dazed and Confused. 17 Crippen Place, Adelaide crippenplace.com
W Brisbane Rooftop Iconic WET Deck Terrace
The sunshine state has a reputation for being laid-back and fun, and the W Brisbane Rooftop is no exception. Located in the heart of the Brisbane CBD, on the banks of the iconic Brisbane River, the W Brisbane rooftop is an ideal vantage point from which to view your favourite cityscape at sunset. Housing an array of dining and bar options – including the WET Deck on level four, which houses indoor seating and a poolside terrace – the W Brisbane is an ideal spot for your that twilight toast. 81 North Quay, Brisbane QLD.
Rocco Rooftop Bar at Riley, Cairns
Swing by to try one of their signature cocktails (or the hand-picked champagne menu, if that’s more your speed) after a day of snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef. We hear the Pucker Up cocktail – which combines Tablelands honey, freshly squeezed citrus, 666 Pure Vodka and pomegranate – is a firm favourite.