If you’re looking for a reason to wake up early this September, the fall equinox might be it. On Sunday, September 22, Floridians and visitors alike will have the rare opportunity to witness a perfectly balanced sunrise—and there are few places better than the Sunshine State to do it.
The fall equinox marks the astronomical beginning of autumn, and with it comes a sunrise that’s unlike any other time of year. Why? Because on this day, the sun rises exactly due east and sets precisely due west—something that only happens twice a year. It’s a moment of cosmic symmetry, when day and night are nearly equal in length, and many nature lovers see it as a symbolic time of transition and reflection.
In Florida, the experience is made even more magical with the state’s panoramic east-facing coastlines, wildlife-rich parks, and iconic beaches that offer unobstructed sunrise views. Plus, as late summer transitions to fall, the quality of light tends to soften, adding a golden glow to the early morning skies—especially in areas where humidity begins to drop.
So where should you go to catch the best show?
Top Spots to Watch the Fall Equinox Sunrise in Florida
1. Canaveral National Seashore – Titusville/New Smyrna Beach
Canaveral National Seashore, located between Titusville and New Smyrna Beach, is one of the most untouched and awe-inspiring locations in Florida to witness a sunrise. As one of the last stretches of undeveloped coastline in the state, the park features 24 miles of protected beaches, dunes, and coastal ecosystems without the interference of high-rise buildings or commercial development. This setting allows visitors to experience the sunrise in its purest form—just as it would have looked to Florida’s earliest inhabitants. The seashore is also a wildlife haven, home to more than 1,000 plant species and 300 bird species, as well as a critical nesting area for sea turtles. Visitors might even spot turtle tracks in the sand at dawn. With limited access and no urban distractions, the park offers a peaceful, almost spiritual experience. From some vantage points, you can even catch a glimpse of the Kennedy Space Center’s launch pads, blending natural wonder with space-age history. The western side of the park borders the Indian River Lagoon, a biodiverse estuary perfect for kayaking or wildlife spotting, making Canaveral not just a sunrise destination, but a full-on natural escape.
TL;DR: This lesser-traveled stretch of beach offers raw, undeveloped beauty, perfect for a peaceful equinox sunrise. Arrive early and bring binoculars—you might spot sea turtles or migratory birds heading south for the season.
2. Anastasia State Park – St. Augustine
Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine stands out as a unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm. Nestled along Florida’s northeast coast, the park boasts over 1,600 acres of unspoiled beaches, tidal salt marshes, and coastal hammocks. Its east-facing shoreline provides unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it an ideal location to watch the sun rise. The soft, white sands and rolling dunes create a peaceful backdrop, while the rhythmic sound of crashing waves enhances the experience. Visitors often arrive early to walk along the shore or set up a quiet picnic as the sky transitions from deep blue to golden hues. Beyond the beach, Anastasia is home to a variety of wildlife, including gopher tortoises, ospreys, and dolphins that occasionally break the water’s surface at dawn. The park is just minutes from the historic city of St. Augustine, so you can combine your sunrise visit with a day of exploring centuries-old streets, local cafés, and Spanish-era landmarks. With both natural splendor and rich culture at your fingertips, Anastasia State Park offers a sunrise experience that’s both breathtaking and unforgettable.
TL;DR: Just minutes from the historic city, Anastasia State Park has a broad, clean beachfront and early access for sunrise seekers. Bonus: You’ll be in position to explore local trails or grab brunch in St. Augustine afterward.
3. South Pointe Park – Miami Beach
South Pointe Park in Miami Beach is a dazzling and distinctly urban setting for watching the fall equinox sunrise. Located at the southern tip of Miami Beach, this beautifully landscaped park delivers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Government Cut, and the iconic Miami skyline. What makes this spot particularly special is its blend of natural beauty and high-energy city vibes—you can watch cruise ships glide by as the sun rises directly in the east, casting golden reflections across the ocean and glassy high-rises. The park features a winding, palm-lined pathway perfect for an early morning stroll or bike ride, plus grassy areas and benches ideal for relaxing as the sky shifts through vibrant pastel shades. Locals and visitors alike flock here for its Instagram-worthy scenery and peaceful yet lively ambiance. After taking in the sunrise, you’re steps away from some of Miami’s best cafés and beaches, making it easy to roll sunrise viewing into a full morning adventure. South Pointe Park’s fusion of tropical tranquility and metropolitan energy makes it one of the most exciting places in Florida to experience the magic of the fall equinox.
TL;DR: For those in South Florida, South Pointe offers eastern views over the Atlantic, framed by the Miami skyline. It’s a blend of natural beauty and urban edge, and you might even spot cruise ships drifting by.
4. Blowing Rocks Preserve – Jupiter Island
Blowing Rocks Preserve on Jupiter Island offers one of the most dramatic and unique sunrise experiences in all of Florida. This coastal sanctuary, managed by The Nature Conservancy, is named for its awe-inspiring limestone shoreline, where waves crash against the rocks and shoot seawater up to 50 feet into the air through natural blowholes. During the equinox, when the sun rises almost perfectly due east, the light illuminates the craggy coast in a stunning golden hue, adding a surreal glow to an already otherworldly scene. The preserve is a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike, offering a rare blend of rugged beauty, quiet beaches, and diverse coastal ecosystems, including mangroves and sea turtle nesting areas. It’s less crowded than many tourist hotspots, which makes it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful, awe-inspiring moment to mark the seasonal shift. From the sound of the crashing surf to the spectacle of water jets catching the morning sun, Blowing Rocks Preserve is an unforgettable place any time of the year, but especially so to greet the fall equinox.
TL;DR: Martin County features several beaches including Blowing Rocks Preserve with limestone rock formations that shoot sea spray into the air when waves crash—making it one of the most photogenic sunrise destinations in the state.
5. Amelia Island – Fort Clinch State Park
Amelia Island’s Fort Clinch State Park is a serene and historically rich destination to witness the fall equinox sunrise. Located at the northeastern tip of Florida, the park features expansive beaches, towering dunes, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The park is home to a historic 19th-century brick fortress that gives the park its name. The combination of natural beauty and preserved history makes this spot especially unique. Visitors can enjoy the sunrise with the added charm of spotting dolphins just offshore or watching seabirds glide through the morning mist. With fewer crowds than other beach locations and a tranquil atmosphere, Fort Clinch State Park offers a peaceful and unforgettable setting to reflect on the changing seasons.
TL;DR: Up north, Amelia Island gives visitors a tranquil, forest-meets-beach experience. The park opens early, and the secluded beaches are ideal for a quiet, reflective sunrise.
Tips for Sunrise Watchers
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before official sunrise time to watch the color show begin.
- Face due east if possible—this is your once-a-year chance to see the sun align perfectly with the cardinal direction.
- Bring a camera, a warm drink, and a blanket. This is more than a sunrise—it’s a moment of balance, a marker of seasonal change, and a reminder of nature’s quiet precision.
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a nature lover, or just looking for a serene way to start your day, the fall equinox sunrise in Florida is an experience worth waking up for.
Great post! Very well written. Thanks for sharing 🙂