Sunlight Hours in San Diego

San Diego receives an average of 12.1 hours of daylight per day. This varies throughout the year, from 9.9 hours on the shortest day to 14.2 hours on the longest day.

During winter solstice, the sun reaches a maximum altitude of only 33.8° above the horizon at solar noon in San Diego. This creates shadows that are 1.5x the height of objects.

April through September offers the longest days and highest sun angles in the Northern Hemisphere.

South-facing gardens receive the most consistent sunlight year-round in San Diego. Consider shadow patterns from neighboring structures when planning outdoor spaces.

In March, golden hour in San Diego occurs in the morning from 07:01 - 08:01 and in the evening from 17:54 - 18:54. These times shift throughout the year as sunrise and sunset times change.

The UV index in San Diego varies by season. During summer, UV can reach 13 (very high), while winter UV levels are much lower. Always check daily UV forecasts and wear SPF 30+ sunscreen during peak hours (10am-4pm).

San Diego receives approximately 1,984 hours of sunshine annually. This makes it a good location for solar panels, with typical payback periods of 5-10 years. For optimal performance, orient panels south at a 33° tilt angle.

In March, sunrise in San Diego is around 07:01 and sunset is around 18:54, giving 11.9 hours of daylight. The earliest sunrise occurs around the summer solstice (05:44) and latest sunset follows shortly after.

For optimal daylight and outdoor conditions in San Diego, April through September offers the longest days and highest sun angles in the Northern Hemisphere. The shoulder seasons often offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Shadow length varies dramatically by season in San Diego. At summer noon, shadows are only 0.2x the height of objects (sun at 81°). In winter, shadows extend to 1.5x object height (sun at just 34°).