Dawn patrol surfing in Dillon Beach

Dillon Beach, California

Sunrise and first light times for planning your dawn patrol session.

First light in Dillon Beach means glass, empty peaks, and the best conditions of the day before thermal onshores build. These 1 spots are worth the 5am alarm.

Sunrise

7:25 AM
First Light: 6:55 AM

Day length: 11h 4m

-3 min vs yesterday

Sunrise

7:25 AM

First light: 6:55 AM

Sunset

6:30 PM

Last light: 7:00 PM

Data from Dillon Beach · Updated daily

7-Day Sun Schedule

Today(Today)

Sunrise

7:25 AM

Sunset

6:30 PM

Day Length

11h 4m

Tomorrow

Sunrise

7:26 AM

Sunset

6:28 PM

Day Length

11h 2m

Wed, Oct 21

Sunrise

7:27 AM

Sunset

6:27 PM

Day Length

11h 0m

Thu, Oct 22

Sunrise

7:28 AM

Sunset

6:26 PM

Day Length

10h 57m

Best dawn patrol spots in Dillon Beach

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Featured Beaches(1)

Dillon Beach

Intermediate

Dillon Beach is the ocean-facing sandy shoreline at the northern entrance to Tomales Bay. Lawson’s Landing provides one route to its southern frontage.

Dawn patrol access guide for Dillon Beach

Parking and access info for early morning sessions before sunrise.

Dillon Beach
beach

Dillon Beach is the ocean-facing sandy shoreline at the northern entrance to Tomales Bay. Lawson’s Landing provides one route to its southern frontage.

Early access

Day-use beach parking is offered by Lawson’s Landing, subject to current hours, rates and availability. Follow marked routes and restrictions protecting dunes and wetlands.

Dawn patrol tips

  • Glassy morning conditions before onshore winds
  • Less crowded lineups at sunrise
  • East-facing beaches for sunrise views
  • Spots with easy parking for early arrivals

Surf Guides for Dillon Beach

Conditions

Dawn Patrol
You're here
Sunset Sessions
Evening golden hour spots
Tide Windows
Optimal tidal conditions
Water Temperature
Conditions & wetsuit guide

Frequently Asked Questions

About surfing in Dillon Beach

Dawn patrol in Dillon Beach 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.

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