Randlords – Braamfontein
Okay, so this spot isn’t always open to the public as it is the most exclusive venue in the city, but when they host parties on the 22nd floor of the Randlord, you better ensure you’re there! You will be perched on the highest point in Braamfontein, and get a complete 360 degree panoramic view of the City of Gold that stretches from the magnificent FNB Stadium and bustling Soweto to the Sandton Skyline.
For more info, click here.
Northcliff Water Tower – Northcliff
All the best things in life tend to be free, hence why I mention the Northcliff Water Tower as one of the best sunset spots in the city – I only say this because I have experienced it firsthand. One of my ex-boyfriends decided to spoil me with a romantic picnic for two at this spot, and I must say it is by far one of my fondest memories! The sunset from this spot definitely set the perfect backdrop to a romantic evening. So, if you are looking for an ideal date idea that will not bust the bank, then pack a picnic basket with tasty goodies and some good wine, find a comfy blanket, head to Lucky Avenue in Northcliff and set up at the Northcliff Water Tower.
Directions: From Beyers Naude Drive, turn left onto Frederick Drive. Left onto Hearn Drive, which will lead into Rockey Drive. Then turn right into Louie Avenue, and right again into Lucky Avenue.
Roots Restaurant at Forum Homini – Kromdraai
After a long day of taking in all the sights that the Cradle of Humankind and Sterkfontein have to offer, why not sit back and relax out on the deck at Forum Homini’s Roots Restaurant? Wind down while sipping on a glass of wine as the sun sets over the surrounding dam and veld. The restaurant offers a truly stunning African sunset. And, once the sun has gone down, head inside for a divine dinner to round off your day on a high note (be sure to book beforehand, as booking is essential).
For more info, click here.
Skye Bar – Sandown
Whether you are looking for a relaxing spot to wait out the traffic with a sundowner before heading home or a great spot for a stunning sunset and pre-party drinks to get your night started, the Skye Bar offers an elegant space just for that. This spot can be rather pricey when it comes to their cocktails, so ensure you visit it for a special occasion or if you are looking to spoil yourself! I think taking in the panoramic views of Sandton while sipping on a refreshing Honey Sling (Jack Daniels Tennessee Honey shaken cold with vanilla extract, pineapple juice, charged with soda water) sounds like the perfect way to start an evening out with the girls!
For more info, click here.
The Island Bar – Southern Sun Hyde Park
Grab a cocktail, sit out on the pool deck and take in the glorious Highveld sunsets from the Island Bar at Southern Sun Hyde Park. This happens to be one of the most popular and happening places to be over the weekends, as the vibe is busy and buzzing on Friday and Saturday nights. Their cocktails are superb and refreshing, perfect for the spring and summer nights, and the sunset views from this venue is one of the best spots in the city.
For more info, click here.
The San Deck – Tsogo Sun, Sandton
Sandton seems to have the best spots to catch the best sunsets in the city! So, another Sandton favourite if you are looking to sit back, lounge on the comfy and luxurious couches and sip on a sundowner while you watch the sun go down over the Sandton CBD skyline is definitely the San Deck at Tsogo Sun. On colder nights, they have three large fire pits that will set the ambience and keep you warm while you take in all of the city lights after the sun has gone down.
For more info, click here.
The Living Room – Maboneng
Reconnect with nature at The Living Room in the heart of Joburg! This rooftop venue offers urban-eco café cuisine, plant art and urban design, and also a showroom for green design and lifestyle. On Sunday afternoons they host fantastic live entertainment to end off your weekend on a chilled note, and best of all, you get the opportunity to check out the stunning views of the Maboneng Precinct as the sun goes down over the city.
For more info, click here.
Top of Africa – Joburg CBD
Head to the very top of the 50-storey Carlton Centre and take in a stunning 360-degree view of the city from one of the highest points in Joburg. From the observatory deck, you can see the whole of Joburg, from the FNB Stadium and Soweto in the south-west, Braamfontein and Hillbrow directly north, to Gandhi Square to the west. Take in this stunning sunset which literally turns Joburg into the City of Gold. There is also a bar and coffee shop at the very top!
For more info, click here.
The Beach – Rivonia
No need to take the tedious six-hour journey down to the coast just to enjoy a beautiful sunset on the beach along with your favourite cocktail! The Beach has finally come to Rivonia, offering a rooftop beach right in the heart of Joburg! This stunning venue has some of the very best sunsets over the city, and is fully equipped with a full bar with amazing cocktails, gourmet hot dogs and finger platters, and live entertainment!
For more info, click here.
Higher Ground Restaurant – Bryanston
On the stunning grounds of the St Stithians College, High Ground Restaurant is the perfect spot if you are looking to sit back and enjoy the stunning views of the city while indulging in fabulous cocktails and delicious food. They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner, and is ideal if you are looking to wait out the traffic after work, or need to get together with friends for after-work sundowners.
For more info, click here.
Remember that our “Top Picks” are not paid for and are compiled at the discretion of the journalist. We only write about what we love.
