Best Sunsets in Sedona

Where is the best place to watch sunset in Sedona?

Anywhere in Sedona is bound to have a beautiful sunset.  These are some of our favorite places to catch the best sunset.

Most popular Sedona Sunset at the Airport Mesa

The most popular place to watch a sunset in Sedona is on the Airport Mesa.  The overlook draws a big crowd so you’ll want to get there early. When the sun sets, not only does the western sky look gorgeous, but the views of Sedona and the red rocks are spectacular.  As the sunlight shines on the red rocks, the colors begin to change and the rock formations begin to look more and more beautiful.  From West Sedona, you’ll turn on Airport Drive.  Take the winding road up to the Airport Mesa.  At the top, you’ll find a parking lot on the left.  There is a charge for parking. If you don’t mind a little uphill hike, you may want to stop at the first turnout on airport road and find higher ground there.

Crescent Moon Sunsets

Another great place to watch a sunset is located at the Crescent Moon Day Use Park where Cathedral Rock and Oak Creek can be found.  You’ll have to pay a fee to enter the park.  The best advice is to get there before the sunset time because the sun sets sooner in this area allowing for beautiful shadows on the rocks.  You can also get to Cathedral Rock by taking the trail located on Back O’Beyond Road off State Route 179.  This is a popular trail and parking is limited and on weekends and during busy times, if the parking area is closed, you will need to take the Sedona Shuttle to gain access to the area.

Sunsets away from the Crowd

If you want to stay away from the crowds, take a drive on the Upper or Lower Red Rock Loop Roads, the Red Rock Scenic Byway, Dry Creek Road/Boynton Canyon Road or Cultural Park Road.  Any stop along these roads, you’ll find a beautiful sunset view.  For more information about these drives, check out our list of Best Scenic Drives.

Advice for the Best Sunset

Here is some other advice to consider while trying to find the perfect sunset.  Remember that once the sun goes down in Sedona, it gets dark quickly.  If you plan to hike to your sunset destination, just remember you may be hiking in the dark when you return.  Also, once the sun starts to set, it gets chilly in certain times of the year, dress appropriately.

Sedona Sunsets Best with a Tour

The Sunsets in Sedona are beautiful.  You may want to experience them with a local tour guide who knows the best places to see them.  Some Jeep tour companies have sunset tours available that also include information about red rock formations and vortexes.  You may also see some great sunsets from the Verde Canyon Railroad Train Ride during their starlight tour or by renting a Harley Davidson.

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