what time does it get dark in florida in december

2 min read 25-02-2025

what time does it get dark in florida in december

Florida's December sunsets offer a beautiful end to the day, but knowing exactly when the sun dips below the horizon can be helpful for planning outdoor activities or simply enjoying the twilight. This article will explore Florida's sunset times in December and the factors that influence them.

Florida's December Sunset Times: A Statewide Overview

Unlike states with vast geographical differences, Florida's relatively compact size means sunset times across the state are fairly consistent. However, there will be slight variations. The further south you are, the later the sunset will generally be.

In general, during the first half of December, expect sunset around 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM in most parts of Florida. By the end of the month, you might see sunsets slightly earlier, closer to 5:15 PM or 5:30 PM.

Key Factors Influencing Sunset Time:

Latitude: The further south you are in Florida, the later the sunset. Key West, for example, will see later sunsets than Pensacola.
Date: Sunset times shift slightly each day, getting progressively earlier as December progresses. The exact time changes based on the date.
Local Time Zone: Florida observes Eastern Standard Time (EST) during December, which is five hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

How to Find the Exact Sunset Time for Your Location

Using online resources is the most accurate way to determine the precise sunset time for your specific location in Florida during December. Here are some excellent resources:

TimeandDate.com: This website allows you to enter your city or zip code and get very specific sunset and sunrise times, accurate to the minute.
Weather apps: Most weather apps (like AccuWeather, The Weather Channel, etc.) will provide detailed sunset information for your current location.
Google Search: Simply searching "sunset [your city, Florida]" on Google will usually provide you with the current sunset time.

Planning Your December Evenings in Florida

Knowing the sunset time is crucial for various activities, from outdoor dining to evening walks on the beach. Here are some ideas to make the most of Florida's December evenings:

Sunset Beach Walks: Enjoy the beautiful colors of the Florida sunset as you stroll along the beach. Remember to check the tide schedule!
Outdoor Dining: Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with fantastic sunset views. Reserve in advance for prime spots.
Evening Boat Tours: Witness the sunset from the water on a relaxing boat tour.
Stargazing: After the sun sets, the Florida sky offers excellent opportunities for stargazing. Head to a location with minimal light pollution for the best view.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Does daylight saving time affect sunset times in December in Florida?

A: No. Florida does not observe daylight saving time, so sunset times remain consistent throughout December.

Q: Are sunset times significantly different between North and South Florida in December?

A: There will be a small difference, with South Florida typically seeing sunsets 15-20 minutes later than North Florida. However, this difference isn't dramatic.

Q: What is the average length of daylight in December in Florida?

A: The average daylight hours in December in Florida range from approximately 10-11 hours, depending on the latitude. This is significantly shorter than during the summer months.

By using the resources provided and taking into account the factors listed above, you can easily determine the exact sunset time for your location in Florida during December and plan your outdoor activities accordingly. Remember to enjoy the stunning sunsets that Florida offers!