59 Sunset Captions for Instagram (Funny, Short & Non-Cringy)

You’ve just shot an epic photo of the sunset, and now you need the perfect sunset caption for Instagram… I’ve got you covered!

This list is full of short, funny, beautiful, and non-cringy sunset captions to copy and paste.

You’ll find short captions, long ones, lyrics, one-word sunset captions, and more.

Don’t forget about our other guides to the best one-word captions for Instagram and inspirational quotes for photographers.

Now, let’s get stuck in!

What Are Some Short Sunset Captions for Instagram?

1. The best view for free

While individual preferences typically determine what we find attractive, almost all of us can agree on one of the most beautiful sights in the world: a full sunset.

Better than a beachfront view from the presidential suite at a 5-star resort, a sunset can be admired from anywhere for free.

In addition to watching the sun begin to rise slowly, watching it set brings an instant euphoria you don’t have to pay for.

See also our guide to 43 mountain captions for Instagram.

2. Pure luxury for the eyes

A gorgeous representation of all the colors on the spectrum, a sunset is truly a feast for the eyes, and this line is the perfect caption for a sunset sky.  

3. A sight to behold all year long

You may not get to enjoy the beautiful foliage marked by the color-changing leaves of autumn all year, but you can enjoy a gorgeous sunset any time of year.4. Be a ray of sunset

A ray of sunshine traditionally refers to someone who is a bright light in the room — elevating the mood with their mere presence.

Your followers will appreciate the clever twist on this classic phrase.

5. The good news? Nothing lasts forever

How exactly does this apply to a gorgeous sunset? It’s a reminder that nothing — good or bad —is infinite, making it one of the best sunset captions for Instagram.

Use this unassuming caption to draw IG readers in with an inspirational message encouraging them to change their perspective and see the positive.

A gorgeous sunset doesn’t last forever and neither do cloudy skies, so we can all appreciate how it symbolizes the end of a long, unpleasant day.  

6. Every sunset has a story

Whether it’s representing the end of something negative like a long workweek or the end of a treasured family vacation, solid sunset captions can remind your IG followers that every sunset symbolizes the unique story and state of mind of everyone appreciating it.

7. All things come and go

Like the nothing lasts forever caption above, this caption can be another gentle reminder that bad things may come, but they’ll also go. Some of the best sunset captions for Instagram are the most simple!

And the same goes for the good things, so appreciate the good while you can — whether it’s cherished memories of a loved one or a moment of solitude amidst a busy day of carpool.

8. Sunset vibes

Sometimes, keeping it simple is best —no explanation needed.

• Related: How to take photos of the sunrise and the sunset

What Are Some Funny Sunset Captions for Instagram?

1. Sunset? All set.

When all you need to be content is a sunset, you’re all set! Funny sunset quotes are a great way to connect with your IG fam. Let this lighthearted caption remind your IG followers that the simple things are often the best things.

2. Let me [sun]set the record straight…

A cute line like this opens up the door of curiosity that will intrigue your IG followers to keep reading. This is an opportunity to follow up with a cute, relatable subhead such as:

Let me [sun]set the record straight …. I love summer nights more than anything or anyone ;)

3. Ready, sunset, go

A playful take on the phrase commonly used to indicate the beginning of a race, funny sunset captions like this one is perfect for demonstrating you’re eager to chase sunsets around the world.

4. Sunset worshipper  > Sun worshipper

Forget sunbathing for hours by the pool — try lounging near a sunset instead.

Admiring a sunset not only encourages you to take time to slow down and appreciate nature’s beauty, but it also brings a slew of psychological benefits.

In the same way plant walls and natural light are supposed to boost well-being while bringing an overall feeling of connecting to nature from your desk, engaging with something real in nature, like a sunset, can enhance your well-being.

A study from the Journal of Environmental Psychology demonstrated that people who are more in tune with nature report having a better quality of life and feeling of contentedness.  

5. [Sun] set yourself up for success

What could be more successful than snagging the perfect view of a perfect sunset? Almost nothing. And your followers will appreciate your lighthearted take on this traditional idiom.

And who doesn’t love a good pun set off by a bracket to keep the integrity of the quote while showing your clever wordplay.

6. There ain’t no sun[set] when she’s gone

A fun take on the 1971 song by Bill Withers, this is hands down the best caption for a romantic shot of a couple showing golden sunsets spent relaxing with romance.  

7. [Sun] set yourself free

 Encourage your IG family to free themselves from stress and worry by admiring the sunset.

Whether you’re out on a stroll, sprawled out for a picnic or just appreciating the view from your backyard, you’ll instantly feel free from the workday tension when you take a moment to connect with the sunset. The best sunset captions for Instagram provoke deeper thinking.

8. Don’t let anything come between you and the sunset

Use this line to remind yourself and your followers that you can leave your troubles and even the most pressing matters behind when you stop and appreciate a gorgeous sunset. 

9. I guess I’m just [sun]set in my ways 

A funny take on being set in your ways. Your IG followers will appreciate the pun.

• Related: How to take photos during golden hour

One-Word Captions for Beautiful Sunsets?

1. Wow

Who isn’t floored by a beautifully breathtaking sunset with its vivid colors and atmospheric powers? Wow says it all — so make sure to include it in your sunset captions for Instagram.

2. Extraordinary

In a sea of ordinary billboards lining the cityscape, your IG followers will appreciate the fact that every sunset is unique and extraordinary.

3. Sensational

Remind your followers that connecting with nature, specifically, a sunset, will help them remember the magnitude of everything around them — earth’s natural beauty is truly sensational: impressive and attractive.

4. Radiant

While we may think of this word as emitting light, which a sunrise technically still does, radiant also means remarkable and exceptional, which makes it fitting for a sunset’s unsurpassed beauty. 

5. Captivating

What’s more captivating than the world’s natural beauty? Or the vibrant rainbow of colors that appear during a sunset? Not much. 

6. Phenomenal  

We can’t think of a more perfect word to encompass a sunset, which actually is a natural phenomenon.

Beautiful Sunset Quotes for Instagram

1. “Every sunset brings the promise of a new dawn.”

To quote legendary transcendentalist essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson with a positive philosophical approach, there’s a new beginning on the horizon for every evening’s setting sun.

2. “No sun outlasts its sunset but will rise again and bring the dawn.”

Maya Angelou’s words are as promising as Ralph Waldo Emerson’s but with a slightly more poetic feel. A feeling of profound promise undoubtedly makes up the best sunset captions for Instagram.

3. “Every sunset is an opportunity to reset.”

We couldn’t agree more, let the sunset be your guide in reminding yourself and your IG followers to let go of any stress from the day while looking ahead to the future.

4. “With every sunset, a new hope is born and old expectations die.”

Taken from Noor Unnahar’s poetry, this quote is the quintessential way to look at a setting sun washing away one day and bringing a fresh one.

5. “When I admire the wonders of a sunset or the beauty of the moon, my soul expands in the worship of the creator.”

This moving quote from revolutionary leader, Mahatma Ghandi, perfectly captures the way in which the beauty of nature can stimulate your soul and your senses. 

6. “Sunset is the most spiritual moment where human race meets the extraordinary spirit of the universe.”

If this quote from Turkish playwright Mehmet Murat Ildan doesn’t give you goosebumps, nothing will. By telling us to dig deeper in how we look at sunsets, this quote from Mehmet Murat Ildan will give your Instagram followers a newfound appreciation when looking at golden skies.

7. “A sunset is the sun’s fiery kiss to the night.”

Another touching quote from author, Crystal Woods, shows that we can classify a sunset as a beautiful way to part with one day before welcoming a new one with a sunrise. And who doesn’t love romantic sunset quotes?

8. “May every sunrise hold more promise and every sunset hold more peace.”

This quote by author Umair Siddiqui represents how we should all think about sunrises and sunsets — as hope for new beginnings and a sense of peace for however the day ended.

9. “Sunset is a wonderful opportunity for us to appreciate all the great things the sun gives us.”

Another quote from Mehmet Murat Ildan that encourages us to practice gratitude. Urge your Insta followers to practice gratitude, especially when sitting under beautiful sunsets.

We’ve only scratched the surface of beautiful sunset quotes you can leverage as an Instagram caption! 

Best Captions for the Sunset Sky

1. Beautiful things are on the horizon

Your followers will love the double entendre of the sun slowly fading below the horizon and the inspirational message that great things are ahead, so it will definitely be in the running for one of the best sunset captions for Instagram.

2. Sunsets are red, skies are blue

A cute take on the poem we all know titled Roses are red, this cute caption perfectly encapsulates the broad range of colors seen in the sky during sunset.

According to an article by the University of Wisconsin, the colors of the sunset occur from a phenomenon known as scattering.

This process affects the color of light emitted by the sky, which is determined by the particulate size and the light’s overall wavelength.

This is why the colors of the sunsets appear as a mix of orange, yellow and red.

3. Sunsets are your reminder to keep dreaming

Let a glorious sunset be your reminder to prepare for days ahead and to chase after your dreams and make your goals a reality, and the same can be shared with your Insta family.

4. A sunset is a fire in the sky — feel it burn within you

Pick a caption that encourages and inspires your IG followers with a quick, relatable string of inspirational words not to let the fire inside you burn out.

Beach Sunset Captions for Instagram

1. Sunkissed: The sky, not me ;)

There are few things better than witnessing the sun kissing the ocean on a magnificent beach. And rather than highlighting a brilliant tan, or sunkissed glow, you can play on a gorgeous shot of a sunset with a caption that brings a clever twist to the term. 

2. Life’s a beach

We’ve all come across this short and sweet phrase before, and it’s a great, kid-friendly way to avoid offending your IG followers while giving them a laugh. So humor your IG followers while giving them a chance to imagine the beautiful sea breeze.

3. Let’s chase sunsets

Forget catching fish — head to the nearest beach to embrace the ocean breeze, admire the palm trees and catch the unforgettable duo of the sun meeting the ocean in perfect harmony.

4. Who’s ready to [sun]set sail on the weekend?

What’s better than starting off your weekend at the beach and admiring the sun-kissed ocean?

Hardly anything and your followers will agree, especially with a playful spin on the legendary sailing phrase indicating a departure.

In this case, let’s depart from all the weekday worries.

And beginning captions with questions has been shown to increase engagement and catch the attention of even the most mindless IG scrollers.

Non-Cringy Sunset Captions

1. Tequila sunset

If you happen to have a photo of your cocktail or even a shot of tequila with a stunning summer sunset in the background, this caption is perfect! A play on the Southwest American cocktail, tequila sunrise, your Insta following will love this playful pun whether they’re enjoying a mixed drink or sunset beers.

2. Soothe your soul

Not every caption needs to spell out exactly what’s in the photo — leave a little mystery for your IG followers with a caption that will stop them dead in their scrolling.

We’ve already touched on how extensive the psychological benefits of catching a sunset are, so use these first few words as an opportunity to explain how a sunset brings us a sense of tranquility and awe when the sky turns pink, which can reduce inflammation. There’s no cringe factor in that.  

3. Expand your horizons.

Another clever play on the formal definition of a sunset, which is when the sun disappears below the horizon due to the earth’s rotation, encourages your IG family to try new things while imagining the feeling of refreshing breezes on the beach.

Sunset Lyrics and Quotes from Songs

1. “As long as I gaze on Waterloo sunset I am in paradise.”

This quote from the Kinks’ 1967 song, Waterloo Sunset, says it all: Create your own paradise with a single gaze at a sunset and enjoy more romantic sunset quotes.

2. “All the colors in the sky kiss another day goodbye.”

These honest words from Neil Young’s 1985 hit, California Sunset, once again serve as a reminder that regardless of what your day was like, the sunset signals its inevitable end.

3. “Let’s rendezvous at sunset.”

Lyrics from a sexy little ballad by Australian pop singer, Kylie Minogue, these words deliver the perfect, carefree summer vibe to accompany the best sunset photo. And we can all relate to the rendezvous that continues all the way to sunrise as this sultry song describes. 

4. “She shoots her colors all around like a sunset going down.”

Taken from the iconic Rolling Stones’ song, She’s A Rainbow, this romantic ode to the narrator’s muse speaks to how people’s personalities can be a beautiful explosion of colors with a hundred shades, like a sunset warming up cloudy skies.

5. “Don’t let the sun set on our love.”

This modern pop hit from Demi Lovato begging her lover not to end their relationship is something everyone can relate to. And your IG followers will appreciate the poetic play on the traditional ‘don’t give up’ message.

6. “Watch how she fades into the sunset.”

Sheryl Crow’s lyrics create a beautifully simple caption that will encourage you to make positive changes and to bloom without toxic relationships that no longer serve you — and they’ll also undoubtedly intrigue your IG followers.

7. “There’s too many sunsets I haven’t seen.”

Let these lyrics from Sara Bareilles’ 2007 song, Many the Miles, be a reminder to you and your IG followers to take time to sit down and appreciate the beauty in things that are only there for a limited time.

8. “It’s a sunrise and a sunset, from a cradle to a casket.”

Arguably the best analogy for sunrise and sunset comes in the form of these lyrics from Bright Eyes’ 2000 song, Sunrise, Sunset, which emphasize how a sunrise can represent the birth of a new day or life, and the sunset can represent the end of it or a casket.

9. “Sunset people, doin’ it right night after night.”

Taken from Donna Summers’ 1979 disco hit, Sunset People, her lyrics represent that almost tangible change in mood when the day turns to night when you get more relaxed and live your most exciting life. That excitement makes it one of the best sunset captions for Instagram.

Urdu Sunset Quotes from Rumi

1. “Your light is more magnificent than sunrise or sunset.”

Another one of the best sunset captions for Instagram translated from Urdu to English, this optimistic quote from Persian poet and 13th-century icon, Rumi, teaches us to appreciate the light within us that burns brighter than the light around us. 

2. “To praise the sun is to praise your own eyes.”

Let this quote from Rumi hold the weight it should: your eyes are a gift and being able to appreciate the sun rising and setting is a glorious thing.

3. “The sun loved the moon so much he died every night to let her breathe.”

Reminiscent of a Shakespearean tragedy, this profoundly poetic Rumi quote breathes new life into our concept of a sunset.

4. “And still, after all this time, the sun has never said to the earth, ‘you owe me.”

Because how else could we even appreciate all of the earth’s beauty without the gift of natural light? And it’s that same sunlight that dims and brings a new perspective to beautiful places when the sun begins to set, and cityscapes light up.

5. “There is a sun within every person.”

Every person has a light inside, sometimes it dims like the sunset and sometimes it brightens like the sun rising. This deeply moving yet simple quote from Rumi demonstrates that juxtaposition.

6. “The sun comes back every day with new and powerful secrets.”

Such a pensive quote, which seems to state that the sun sheds light on secrets and follows each sunset with a sunrise that brings power and allows you to see things more clearly — secrets and otherwise.

7. “A sunset is proof, that an ending can also be beautiful.”

Yet another profound quote by Rumi and another one of the best sunset captions for Instagram proves that the most beautiful kind of end imaginable is a sunset.

Final Words

There’s no denying how many ridiculously good captions there are for your insanely gorgeous sunset photos.

By igniting the conversation with a variety of approaches to how you look at sunsets, you can encourage yourself and others to take the sunset as a reminder to relax, reset and refresh while looking forward to the future.

Whether you want to take the humorous, philanthropical or heartfelt route, you can easily find the perfect quote or clever line that complements your stunning picture with the help of our article.