Key Highlights:
- Summer: Sunrise is around 5:25 AM, while sunset reaches approximately 8:00 PM, providing more than 14 hours of daylight.
- Winter: Days are shorter, with sunrise around 6:45 AM and sunset as early as 4:30 PM.
- Daylight Saving Time: Las Vegas changes its clocks in March and November, shifting sunrise and sunset times by one hour.
- Best Sunrise Spot: Red Rock Canyon’s Calico Basin offers beautiful morning views of the red sandstone formations.
- Best Sunset Spot: The High Roller, Skyfall Rooftop Bar & Lounge, and STRAT observation deck offer elevated views of the evening sky.
Las Vegas sunrise and sunset times change throughout the year, with daylight lasting nearly 15 hours in June and less than 10 hours in December. These changes can affect when you visit outdoor attractions, schedule desert hikes, or take photos along the Strip. Summer evenings stay bright until around 8:00 PM, while winter sunsets arrive before 5:00 PM. Knowing the monthly sunrise and sunset schedule can help you plan outdoor activities, avoid extreme heat, and find the best time to enjoy Las Vegas skyline views.
Las Vegas Sunrise & Sunset Times by Month
Las Vegas follows Pacific Time and observes Daylight Saving Time. The table below shows approximate sunrise and sunset times around the middle of each month.
| Month | Sunrise | Sunset | Daylight Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 6:50 AM | 4:49 PM | 9h 59m |
| February | 6:28 AM | 5:21 PM | 10h 54m |
| March | 6:51 AM | 6:47 PM | 11h 56m |
| April | 6:07 AM | 7:14 PM | 13h 7m |
| May | 5:34 AM | 7:39 PM | 14h 5m |
| June | 5:22 AM | 7:59 PM | 14h 37m |
| July | 5:34 AM | 7:57 PM | 14h 23m |
| August | 5:58 AM | 7:30 PM | 13h 32m |
| September | 6:22 AM | 6:47 PM | 12h 25m |
| October | 6:47 AM | 6:04 PM | 11h 17m |
| November | 6:17 AM | 4:32 PM | 10h 15m |
| December | 6:44 AM | 4:27 PM | 9h 43m |
Note: All times are approximate and follow local Las Vegas time. Exact times change daily. March and November are affected by Daylight Saving Time.
For exact daily timings, check the Time and Date Las Vegas Sun Calculator.
Las Vegas Sunrise & Sunset Times by Season
Spring: March, April & May
Spring offers comfortable temperatures and increasingly longer days. Sunrise shifts earlier as the season progresses, while sunsets extend from approximately 6:45 PM in March to nearly 8:00 PM by late May.
March is also when Daylight Saving Time begins, moving sunset times approximately one hour later on the clock.
These months are particularly suitable for outdoor dining, golf, sightseeing, and visiting Red Rock Canyon. Evening temperatures are generally more comfortable than during summer.
Summer: June, July & August
Summer has the longest daylight hours in Las Vegas. Around the June solstice, sunrise occurs near 5:23 AM, and sunset is approximately 8:01 PM.
However, longer days also bring extreme desert heat. Temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making afternoon hiking dangerous.
Outdoor activities are better scheduled for cooler periods, and strenuous hiking may need to be avoided entirely during excessive heat warnings.
Late sunsets make summer a good season for evening pool activities, observation decks, and photography along the Strip.
Fall: September, October & November
Autumn brings shorter days and gradually cooler temperatures. September sunsets occur around 6:45 PM in the middle of the month, while November sunsets arrive around 4:30 PM.
Daylight Saving Time ends in early November, moving sunset approximately one hour earlier.
These earlier evenings are convenient for visitors who want to photograph the Strip’s illuminated hotels, watch the Bellagio Fountains after dark, or enjoy nighttime sightseeing without staying out late.
Winter: December, January & February
Winter has the shortest daylight hours in Las Vegas. Around the December solstice, sunrise occurs near 6:47 AM, with sunset around 4:29 PM.
Visitors planning afternoon activities should account for the early darkness, especially when visiting outdoor attractions outside the city.
Winter also offers opportunities for sunset photography because the sun sets before dinner hours. However, desert temperatures can drop quickly after sunset, making a jacket useful for outdoor observation decks and evening walks.
Best Places to Watch the Sunrise in Las Vegas
Red Rock Canyon and Calico Basin
Red Rock Canyon is approximately 25–35 minutes west of the Strip, depending on traffic. Morning sunlight illuminates the sandstone cliffs, creating beautiful red and orange colors.
Calico Basin’s Red Spring area is a convenient option for sunrise photography without entering the paid Scenic Drive. Check access hours before visiting, as facilities and parking areas have operating restrictions.
Valley of Fire State Park
Located roughly one hour northeast of Las Vegas, Valley of Fire features red sandstone formations and open desert landscapes.
Early morning light creates striking colors across the rocks, particularly during cooler months. Summer visitors should check trail restrictions and extreme heat advisories before planning a visit.
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Rides
Hot air balloon experiences provide elevated desert views during the early morning hours.
Flights generally depend on weather conditions, especially wind speeds. Operators may adjust launch locations or cancel flights when conditions are unsuitable.
Best Places to Watch the Sunset on the Las Vegas Strip
High Roller Observation Wheel
The High Roller at the LINQ Promenade stands 550 feet tall and offers panoramic views of the Las Vegas Valley.
A complete rotation takes approximately 30 minutes, making sunset a popular time to ride. Booking a departure close to sunset allows visitors to experience daylight and the illuminated skyline during the same rotation.
Skyfall Rooftop Bar & Lounge
Located on the 64th floor of W Las Vegas, formerly Delano, Skyfall offers elevated views of the Strip and surrounding mountains.
The lounge reopened following renovations in October 2026 and operates from 5:00 PM, making it a suitable option for winter sunsets. Guests must be at least 21 years old.
Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck
The Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck at Paris Las Vegas offers views of the Bellagio Fountains, surrounding resorts, and the evening skyline.
Its central Strip location makes it convenient for visitors who want sunset photographs without traveling far from their hotel.
STRAT Observation Deck
The STRAT observation deck provides some of the highest public viewing areas in Las Vegas.
Its indoor and outdoor observation areas offer broad views of the valley, surrounding mountains, and Strip. Sunset is particularly popular because visitors can watch the city lights become visible as daylight fades.
Full Info: Best Places to Watch Sunrise & Sunset in Las Vegas
Best Time for Sunrise and Sunset Photography
For sunrise photography, arrive approximately 20–30 minutes before the official sunrise. The sky often begins changing colors before the sun becomes visible.
For sunset photography, arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset to capture the warmer light of golden hour.
The best evening colors may continue after the sun has dropped below the horizon. This period, commonly called blue hour, is particularly useful for photographing illuminated hotels against a darker blue sky.
Keep in mind that mountains and tall buildings can block direct sunlight before the official sunset time.
Conclusion
Las Vegas sunrise and sunset times vary significantly between summer and winter, making daylight an important part of trip planning. June offers the longest days, while December brings sunsets before 5:00 PM. Checking the daily schedule helps with hiking, outdoor sightseeing, dinner reservations, and photography. For the best views, consider Red Rock Canyon at sunrise or one of the Strip’s elevated observation decks at sunset.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does it get dark in Las Vegas during winter?
During December and January, sunset generally occurs between 4:25 PM and 5:00 PM. The sky usually becomes noticeably darker about 25–35 minutes after sunset, depending on weather conditions.
What is the longest day of the year in Las Vegas?
The longest day occurs around June 20–21, during the summer solstice. Las Vegas receives approximately 14 hours and 37 minutes of daylight.
Does Las Vegas observe daylight saving time?
Yes. Las Vegas observes Daylight Saving Time, moving clocks forward in March and backward in November. In 2026, these changes occur on March 8 and November 1.
Where can I watch the sunset for free in Las Vegas?
Pedestrian bridges along the Strip provide free elevated views of the skyline. Some locations near Bellagio and Caesars Palace are particularly useful for evening photography, although surrounding buildings may block the direct sunset.
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