Best Sunrise and Sunset Spots in Sedona (With Updated Seasonal Sunrise & Sunset Times)

If you’re searching for the best sunrise and sunset spots in Sedona — or wondering what time the sun rises and sets in Sedona throughout the year — this guide will help you plan the perfect golden hour experience.

Sedona is stunning at any time of day, but sunrise and sunset are when the red rocks truly transform. Soft pinks, deep crimson, glowing cliffs, and long desert shadows create some of the most breathtaking views in Arizona.

Before choosing where to go, it helps to know when to go.

Sedona Sunrise and Sunset Times by Season

Sunrise and sunset times in Sedona change throughout the year. Below is a seasonal overview to help you plan your visit.

Times are approximate and vary slightly each year.

Tip: Plan to arrive 20–30 minutes before official sunrise or sunset times to experience the full transition of light.

Winter (December–March)

• Sunrise: ~7:15–7:30 AM
  
  
• Sunset: ~5:15–6:15 PM
  
  

Winter offers crisp air, long shadows, and rich color saturation. It’s also one of the quieter times to experience sunrise in Sedona.

Spring (March–June)

• Sunrise: ~5:30–6:15 AM
  
  
• Sunset: ~6:30–7:30 PM
  
  

Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Sedona. Sunset parking at well-known overlooks fills quickly.

Summer (June–September)

• Sunrise: ~5:10–5:45 AM
  
  
• Sunset: ~7:15–7:45 PM
  
  

Summer brings dramatic monsoon skies and early sunrise times. If you’re visiting during warmer months, sunrise is often the most comfortable time to explore.

Fall (September–December)

• Sunrise: ~6:00–7:15 AM
  
  
• Sunset: ~5:15–6:45 PM
  
  

Fall features cooler evenings, golden cottonwoods, and beautifully balanced daylight hours.

Now that you know the best times to watch the light change, here are the best places to experience sunrise and sunset in Sedona.

1. Joy Mountain at The Joy — A Private Panoramic Sunrise & Sunset Experience

For guests staying at The Joy, one of the most unique sunrise and sunset views in Sedona is just steps away.

A private 15-minute hike up Joy Mountain leads to panoramic views across Cathedral Rock, Thunder Mountain (Capitol Butte), Coffee Pot Rock, Snoopy Rock, Wilson Mountain, and deep into Oak Creek Canyon.

Unlike popular public overlooks, you won’t need to compete for parking or crowd space. Even at full guest capacity — approximately 30 guests spread across expansive acreage and 12 acres of creekside land — the experience remains spacious and peaceful.

At sunrise, the valley glows in soft pinks and golds.

At sunset, layered reds and long shadows stretch across the basin.

For those seeking a quieter, more elevated golden hour experience, this is one of Sedona’s most overlooked vantage points.

2. Airport Mesa — Iconic Sunset Views Over Sedona

Airport Mesa is one of the most famous sunset spots in Sedona.

From this elevated overlook, you can see Cathedral Rock, Thunder Mountain, Coffee Pot Rock, and the entire town of Sedona nestled between red rock formations. As the sun sets, the cliffs glow while city lights begin to twinkle below.

Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak travel seasons.

3. Cathedral Rock at Red Rock Crossing — Best Sunrise Reflection

Red Rock Crossing offers one of the most photographed sunrise views in Sedona.

While Cathedral Rock is often crowded at sunset, sunrise provides a calmer and more intimate experience. From Red Rock Crossing, Cathedral Rock reflects in Oak Creek as morning light shifts from lavender to gold.

If you’re looking for one of the best sunrise spots in Sedona without the sunset crowds, this is an excellent choice.

4. Doe Mountain — Expansive Horizon Sunset

Doe Mountain offers elevated, panoramic views with slightly fewer crowds than Airport Mesa.

The short climb leads to a flat mesa top where the horizon opens in every direction. Sunset here feels expansive and immersive.

5. Chapel of the Holy Cross — Golden Hour Architecture

Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of Sedona’s most recognizable landmarks.

Built directly into the red rock cliffs, the chapel creates a dramatic silhouette at sunrise and sunset. It’s accessible, iconic, and uniquely Sedona.

Where Is the Best Place to Watch Sunrise or Sunset in Sedona?

There are many incredible sunrise and sunset spots in Sedona.

But the experience can vary dramatically depending on where you stay and how you plan.

At popular public overlooks, you’ll need to arrive early and navigate limited parking. For a more relaxed and spacious experience, staying somewhere that offers direct access to panoramic views can transform your entire trip.

In Sedona, timing matters.

But so does breathing room.

And sometimes the best sunrise or sunset view is the one you don’t have to chase.