In Anna Maria Island, Florida, the sunrise time changes in April 2025. On April 20, the sun rises at 7:00 AM local time. First light is at 6:36 AM, and sunset is at 7:59 PM. The day length is 12 hours and 59 minutes. Enjoy beautiful views from Coquina Beach and refer to a printable calendar for planning.
Sunset times on Anna Maria Island also change with the seasons. Generally, sunsets occur between 5:30 PM in winter and around 8:30 PM in summer. These twilight moments attract photographers and nature lovers alike, who gather to capture the island’s scenic beauty.
For those planning a trip, it’s vital to check the specific sunrise and sunset times during your visit. This guide helps you maximize your experience on Anna Maria Island. Witnessing these daily transformations creates lasting memories.
Next, we will explore the best spots on Anna Maria Island for viewing sunrises and sunsets. These locations will enhance your experience and provide unforgettable moments. Whether you prefer quiet beaches or lively areas, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.
What is the Typical Sunrise and Sunset Time on Anna Maria Island Throughout the Year?
Sunrise and sunset times on Anna Maria Island refer to the specific moments when the sun appears above the horizon or disappears below it each day. These times vary throughout the year due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis and its orbit around the sun.
According to the U.S. Naval Observatory, sunrise and sunset can change by several minutes each day, leading to significant shifts over the seasons. This variation is influenced by geographic location and atmospheric conditions.
During winter months, sunrise occurs later and sunset happens earlier. In contrast, summer features earlier sunrises and later sunsets. The longest day occurs around the summer solstice in June, while the shortest day is around the winter solstice in December.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides detailed solar data and indicates that on Anna Maria Island, sunrise can range from approximately 6:30 AM in December to around 6:00 AM in June. Sunset can occur between 5:30 PM in December and 8:30 PM in June.
Factors influencing these times include Earth’s axial tilt, atmospheric refraction, and local geography. These elements combine to create the unique experience of day length throughout the year.
Data from the NOAA shows that the average annual day length varies from 10 hours and 23 minutes in winter to over 13 hours in summer, directly influencing local activities and moods.
The changing lengths of day impact various areas, including agriculture, tourism, and mental health. Longer days in summer can enhance outdoor activities while shorter winter days might contribute to seasonal affective disorder.
Health impacts can be seen as longer days promote physical activities, contributing to health benefits. Additionally, the tourism economy thrives on extended daylight, drawing visitors for sunset viewings.
To maximize the benefits of varying sunrise and sunset times, stakeholders are encouraged to promote outdoor activities and advocate for mental health initiatives during the darker months. Recommendations include community events, outdoor fitness programs, and more accessible outdoor spaces.
Strategies to enhance outdoor engagement include flexible scheduling of events and facilities based on seasonal light patterns. Additionally, utilizing technology such as apps can help residents track and plan around sunrise and sunset times effectively.
How Do Seasonal Variations Affect Sunrise and Sunset Times on Anna Maria Island?
Seasonal variations significantly influence the times of sunrise and sunset on Anna Maria Island, leading to shifts in daylight availability throughout the year. This phenomenon occurs primarily due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis and its orbit around the sun.
- Earth’s tilt: The Earth is tilted at an approximately 23.5-degree angle. This tilt causes varying angles of sunlight to strike different parts of the Earth at different times of the year, affecting day length.
- Length of day: In summer, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted toward the sun, resulting in longer days and earlier sunrises. Conversely, in winter, the hemisphere tilts away from the sun, leading to shorter days and later sunrises. For example, on June 21st, the longest day of the year for Anna Maria Island, sunrise occurs around 6:30 AM, and sunset is around 8:30 PM. Meanwhile, on December 21st, the shortest day offers a sunrise at approximately 7:10 AM and sunset at 5:40 PM.
- Change throughout the year: The times of sunrise and sunset gradually shift each month. For instance, the days lengthen significantly from March to June, then shorten from September to December. The shift can be estimated at about two minutes per day around the equinoxes.
- Local geographical features: The island’s flat terrain and proximity to the Gulf of Mexico also slightly influence how light appears. Ocean horizons can create visual effects that alter the perception of sunrise and sunset times.
- Impact on lifestyle: These variations impact activities such as fishing, tourism, and outdoor events, as longer daylight in summer increases opportunities for enjoyment of natural beauty.
Understanding these factors helps residents and visitors of Anna Maria Island plan their activities in accordance with changing daylight hours.
What Are the Geographic Factors Influencing Sunrise and Sunset Times on Anna Maria Island?
The geographic factors influencing sunrise and sunset times on Anna Maria Island include its latitude, longitude, local topography, and seasonal variations.
- Latitude
- Longitude
- Topography
- Seasonal Variation
- Time Zone Adjustments
These factors shape the patterns of light and darkness experienced on Anna Maria Island throughout the year.
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Latitude:
The latitude of Anna Maria Island directly affects the angles at which sunlight reaches the area. Located at approximately 27.5° N, the island experiences more pronounced variations in sunrise and sunset times throughout the year. According to the U.S. Naval Observatory, as one moves closer to the equator, the times of sunrise and sunset are more consistent, while higher latitudes show more variation. This is evident in Florida, where summer days can be significantly longer than those in winter. -
Longitude:
The longitude of Anna Maria Island contributes to its timing relative to the Earth’s rotation. Situated at around 82.7° W, the island adheres to Eastern Standard Time (EST) and observes Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) in the summer. Each degree of longitude corresponds to a time difference of roughly four minutes. This means that minor variations in longitude within the time zone can slightly change the observed times of sunrise and sunset. -
Topography:
The local topography of Anna Maria Island includes its coastal landscape, which can influence the visibility of the sunrise and sunset. The flat terrain allows unobstructed views of the horizon. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), features like hills or buildings can lead to earlier sunsets and later sunrises compared to areas with open horizons. -
Seasonal Variation:
Seasonal changes cause significant shifts in the timing of sunrise and sunset. During summer, longer daylight hours occur due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis, while in winter, shorter days result. The sunrise may occur around 6:30 AM in the summer and can change to around 7:00 AM in winter, with sunset times shifting from approximately 8:30 PM to 5:30 PM. This pattern is confirmed by solar data from the U.S. Naval Observatory. -
Time Zone Adjustments:
Local timekeeping practices, including Daylight Saving Time, also impact the recorded times of sunrise and sunset. In Florida, clocks are set forward one hour in spring, affecting the time at which these events occur. This adjustment shifts sunrise and sunset an hour later during the warmer months, which can confuse visitors unaccustomed to such changes.
In conclusion, these geographic factors demonstrate how Anna Maria Island experiences unique patterns for sunrise and sunset, influenced by both natural elements and human practices.
Where Are the Best Spots to Enjoy the Sunrise and Sunset on Anna Maria Island?
The best spots to enjoy the sunrise and sunset on Anna Maria Island include several picturesque locations. For sunrise, visit the eastern beaches, especially Manatee Public Beach or Bean Point. These locations provide unobstructed views of the horizon. For sunset, head to the western beaches, such as the Anna Maria City Pier or Coquina Beach. These areas capture the vibrant colors as the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico. Each spot offers a unique atmosphere and scenery, making them ideal for experiencing the natural beauty of Anna Maria Island.
What is the Importance of Sunrise and Sunset Times for Visitors to Anna Maria Island?
The importance of sunrise and sunset times for visitors to Anna Maria Island lies in their influence on natural light, outdoor activities, and scenic experiences. Sunrise marks the beginning of the day, while sunset signals its conclusion, creating opportunities for various leisure activities like beach walks, photography, and dining.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides valuable data on sunrise and sunset times, helping tourists plan their day efficiently. This guidance ensures that visitors can maximize their experience by aligning activities with daylight hours.
Understanding sunrise and sunset times allows visitors to engage in activities when natural light is abundant. Early risers can enjoy tranquil mornings, while evening visitors can witness breathtaking sunsets. Additionally, these times help in planning wildlife observation and fishing trips.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, varying geographical locations, seasonal changes, and weather conditions impact daylight hours significantly. Visitors to Anna Maria Island should keep in mind these factors when scheduling their activities.
Statistics indicate that sunset times can vary by over an hour throughout the year, affecting visitor turnout for evening events. An analysis by the Florida Tourism Department shows that sunrise and sunset viewing spots attract more tourists, particularly during peak seasons.
Consequently, sunrise and sunset times contribute to an enhanced visitor experience, promoting tourism on Anna Maria Island. These aspects influence local businesses, recreational usage, and even community interactions.
From a health perspective, spending time outdoors during daylight promotes well-being. Economically, it supports local businesses as tourists often dine and shop later in the day when sunset draws them out.
To maximize enjoyment, visitors should utilize apps or local resources that provide real-time sunrise and sunset information. This approach enables them to plan activities effectively and not miss signature experiences.
Specific practices include checking daily coastal forecasts and using mobile applications to track the changing times. These strategies enhance the overall experience for tourists visiting Anna Maria Island.
How Can I Find Exact Sunrise and Sunset Times for Specific Dates on Anna Maria Island?
To find exact sunrise and sunset times for specific dates on Anna Maria Island, you can use reliable online resources, mobile applications, or local weather services that provide this information.
Several methods allow you to accurately determine sunrise and sunset times:
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Online Sunrise/Sunset Calculators: Websites like timeanddate.com allow users to input specific dates and locations to find exact sunrise and sunset times. The user simply selects “Anna Maria Island” and the desired date.
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Mobile Applications: Apps such as “Sun Surveyor” or “Almanac” can provide real-time data on sunrise and sunset times. Users enter their location and date, and the apps return precise timings.
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Local Weather Services: Local news websites and weather channels, such as the National Weather Service, often list sunrise and sunset times. They provide this data alongside daily weather forecasts.
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Observational Methods: If you are on Anna Maria Island, simply observing the horizon and using known averages can give a rough estimate. General sunrise around the equator occurs between approximately 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM throughout the year.
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Astronomical Information: Resources like the U.S. Naval Observatory provide detailed astronomical data, including solar position information. They offer a reliable source for accurate timings based on precise geographical coordinates.
Using these methods, you can easily determine the exact sunrise and sunset times for your chosen date on Anna Maria Island.
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