Best dawn patrol spots in California
100 spots across California
Early risers in California are rewarded with glassy conditions and empty lineups. These spots offer the best dawn patrol sessions before the wind picks up.
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Sunrise Times Across California
Sunrise and first light times from north to south. Click a city for detailed dawn patrol planning.
| City | Sunrise | First Light |
|---|---|---|
| Manchester | 7:05 AM | 6:35 AM |
| Bodega Bay | 7:02 AM | 6:32 AM |
| Bolinas | 7:01 AM | 6:31 AM |
| Stinson Beach | 7:01 AM | 6:31 AM |
| San Francisco | 7:00 AM | 6:30 AM |
| Pacifica | 7:01 AM | 6:31 AM |
| Half Moon Bay | 7:01 AM | 6:31 AM |
| Davenport | 7:00 AM | 6:30 AM |
| Capitola | 6:59 AM | 6:29 AM |
| Santa Cruz | 6:59 AM | 6:29 AM |
Surf Guides for California
Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
About surfing in California
- Dawn patrol in California typically starts at first light, around 30 minutes before sunrise. This gives you the glassiest conditions before onshore winds develop.
- Early morning offers glassy conditions, fewer crowds, and calmer winds. Water temperature is also warmer relative to air temperature at sunrise.