As summer settles over Melbourne, one special day stands out: the summer solstice on Saturday, December 21. This celestial event marks the longest day of the year, giving us 14 hours and 47 minutes of glorious daylight—the perfect excuse to embrace Melbourne’s outdoor lifestyle to the fullest.
Whether you’re a sunrise chaser or a sunset admirer, this is your chance to revel in everything the city has to offer, bathed in the brilliance of summer’s peak.
What Is the Summer Solstice?
The summer solstice happens when the Southern Hemisphere tilts closest to the sun, creating the year’s most extended daylight hours. This tilt also gives the sun its highest position in the sky, making its rays more direct and the days feel brighter and longer.
At the same time, the Northern Hemisphere experiences its winter solstice, where the days are shortest. But down here in Melbourne, it’s all about soaking up the sun and enjoying every minute of this natural phenomenon.
When Is the Summer Solstice in Melbourne in 2024?
The summer solstice happens annually in the Southern Hemisphere between December 21 and 23. In 2024, Melbourne’s longest day falls on Saturday, December 21, with the exact moment of the solstice occurring at 8:20 pm. From December 22, the days will gradually grow shorter, leading up to the winter solstice in Australia on Friday, June 21.
How Many Hours of Daylight Will Melbourne Have?
On December 21, Melbourne will bask in 14 hours and 47 minutes of daylight. Key timings for the day include:
- Sunrise: 5:54 am
- Sunset: 8:41 pm
Here’s when the exact moment will fall for your time zone:
- AWST: 5.19pm
- ACST: 6.49pm
- AEST: 7:19pm
- ACDT: 7:49pm
- AEDT: 8:19pm
This day offers an ideal opportunity to make the most of the city’s summer activities. Whether you’re keen to catch the first rays of sunlight or soak in a spectacular sunset, Melbourne provides plenty of stunning vantage points.
Best Spots to Watch the Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise:
- Brighton Beach: The iconic colourful beach boxes make for a picturesque and serene morning backdrop.
- Mount Dandenong Lookout: Perfect for nature lovers, offering sweeping views as the first light graces the landscape.
Sunset:
- St Kilda Beach: Enjoy a relaxed vibe with the sun dipping below the horizon over Port Phillip Bay.
- Melbourne Star Observation Wheel: Get a bird’s-eye view of the city as it transitions from day to night.
Make the Most of Melbourne’s Longest Day
The summer solstice is a celebration of light and a reminder to embrace Melbourne’s warm, vibrant summer days. It’s an ideal chance to connect with nature, explore local landmarks, and enjoy the city’s summer charm. Whether you’re an early riser or a sunset chaser, Saturday, December 21 promises to be a day filled with unforgettable moments under the sun.
