Getting there & practical tips
Tanjung Aru Sunset Photography — Best Spots, Timing & Settings
Last updated: October 2026
The west-facing horizon and open sky make Tanjung Aru one of Sabah’s most photographed sunsets. You do not need pro gear — a phone works — but a few choices improve the result.
This guide covers where to stand and when, without promising a specific sunset time.
Where to shoot
First Beach gives the classic wide horizon with silhouettes of stalls and palms. Third Beach offers a calmer, more open frame toward the resort headland. Perdana Park’s fountain is a different, lit subject a short walk away.
Timing and light
Arrive 60–90 minutes before sunset to capture the build-up of colour. The most saturated light is often in the 20–30 minutes around the sun dropping. Stay a little after for the blue-hour afterglow.
Practical settings
On a phone, tap to lock exposure on the bright sky and lower it slightly to keep colour. A tripod helps for blue hour. For cameras, shoot RAW and bracket if you want detail in both sky and foreground.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a tripod?+
Not for the bright sunset, but a small tripod helps for the darker blue-hour shots after the sun sets.
Is drone photography allowed?+
Drone rules change and coastal areas near the airport can be restricted. Check current civil-aviation rules and fly only where permitted.
Related guides
Planning a visit to Tanjung Aru Beach?
See the main guide for hours, location, transport and the sunset overview.
Go to the main guide