Sunsets in the Whitsundays are a time to enjoy. There’s something about the end of a sailing day in the Whitsundays that just calls for a glass of something bubbly. Maybe it’s the warm light skimming across the water, or the way the islands turn gold before slipping into dusk.
And when you’ve got a whole yacht to yourselves on a bareboat charter, choosing the right place to anchor makes all the difference.
Whether you’re celebrating your honeymoon, an anniversary, or just the fact that you’re here in paradise, here are our favourite spots to drop anchor, pop a bottle of something sparkling, and toast to the good life.
Sunset at Shute Harbour
The best anchorages to catch a sunset in the Whitsundays
1. Stonehaven Bay (Hook Island)
Best for: Long golden light, calm water, and dramatic scenery
Stonehaven is known for its protection from southeast winds, making it a solid choice for an overnight anchorage—but it’s also one of the best spots for a sunset drink. The surrounding hills catch the light beautifully, and the bay is wide and open, giving you front-row seats to the sun dipping below the horizon.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot turtles coming up for air nearby while you clink glasses.
2. Chance Bay (Whitsunday Island)
Best for: Total seclusion and barefoot beach moments
Tucked away on the southern side of Whitsunday Island, Chance Bay feels like it was made for the perfect escape. Anchor just offshore and take your tender in for a beach picnic, or stay aboard and watch the sky slowly shift colour over the tree-lined bay.
It’s not uncommon to have the whole place to yourselves—no resorts, no noise, just nature doing its thing.
Sunset at Stonehaven
3. Butterfly Bay (Hook Island)
Best for: Snorkelling by day, sunset drinks by night
Butterfly Bay on Hook Island is a favourite among sailors for its coral gardens and calm waters, but it’s also a sneaky-good sunset spot. The sun sets behind the headland, and the surrounding cliffs and trees light up with a warm glow.
It’s not as exposed as some other spots, so you’ll feel tucked in and cosy—especially nice if you’re enjoying a longer, lazy drink and don’t want to bounce around at anchor.
4. Bauer Bay (South Molle Island)
Best for: A wide-open view, perfect for golden hour watching and starry skies later on.
Bauer Bay on South Molle Island is a west-facing anchorage that really delivers when it comes to sunsets. The sun drops straight into the ocean here, casting a warm glow across the bay. It’s quiet, calm, and gives off a bit of that “castaway but luxe” vibe.
You can tender in and explore the fantastic bushwalks around South Molle. After sunset, this is also one of the better spots for stargazing in the Whitsundays—so hang around on deck a little longer.
5. One Tree Hill (Hamilton Island)
Best for: Sweeping 360-degree views and sunset magic and access to a bar at the top of the hill!
One Tree Hill is the highest point on Hamilton Island, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Arrive early to secure a spot, pop the champagne, and enjoy the stunning sunset as the sky transforms into a colorful masterpiece. Catching a sunset from One Tree Hill while your berthed at the Hamilton Island Marina is a must for any bareboat charter in the Whitsundays.
Tips for a Sunset Toast on the Water
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Chill your drinks early. Fridges can take a little longer aboard boats, so pop your champagne or sparkling rosé in early—maybe with a bag of frozen grapes for good measure.
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Bring a light throw or jumper. Evenings can get breezy, especially if you’re sitting outside for a while.
- Mix cocktails. For fun, check out these nautical themed cocktail ideas
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Watch for wildlife. Dolphins often cruise past around dusk, and seabirds make their evening rounds—keep your eyes open.
One Last Thought
The best part about a sunset toast on a yacht isn’t the drink or the view (though those help). It’s the quiet feeling that you’ve got nowhere else to be, no schedule to stick to, and nothing to do except share the moment and soak up your holiday!
No five-star restaurant can really compete with that
Want help planning the perfect sunset anchorages for your charter? Just get in touch and our team can help you plan.
