Dawn patrol surfing in Jacksonville Beach

Jacksonville Beach, Florida

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

First light in Jacksonville 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

7:19 AM
First Light: 6:49 AM

Day length: 12h 24m

+2 min vs yesterday

Sunrise

7:19 AM

First light: 6:49 AM

Sunset

7:43 PM

Last light: 8:13 PM

Data from Jacksonville Beach Pier · Updated daily

7-Day Sun Schedule

Today(Today)

Sunrise

7:19 AM

Sunset

7:43 PM

Day Length

12h 24m

Tomorrow

Sunrise

7:18 AM

Sunset

7:43 PM

Day Length

12h 26m

Wed, Apr 1

Sunrise

7:17 AM

Sunset

7:44 PM

Day Length

12h 27m

Thu, Apr 2

Sunrise

7:15 AM

Sunset

7:45 PM

Day Length

12h 29m

Fri, Apr 3

Sunrise

7:14 AM

Sunset

7:45 PM

Day Length

12h 31m

Best dawn patrol spots in Jacksonville Beach

Dawn patrol access guide for Jacksonville Beach

Parking and access info for early morning sessions before sunrise.

Jacksonville Beach Pier juts into the Atlantic and collects swell on both sides. The sandbars around the pier produce forgiving peaks that are perfect for learning and longboarding, though they can pack a punch during hurricane season. It's a community gathering spot with a friendly vibe.

Early access

Walk along the beach to the north or south side of the pier; avoid paddling under the pier where lines and hooks dangle.

Parking

Paid parking lots and meters line the beachfront. Use the ParkMobile app and avoid parking in residential areas without permits.

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 Jacksonville Beach

Frequently Asked Questions

About surfing in Jacksonville Beach

Dawn patrol in Jacksonville 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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