The Rare Magic of Spain’s ‘Sunset Eclipse’—And How to See It in August

The expansive skies and west-northwest views across the water make El Puntal beach in Cantabria, an exposed sandbar near the capital city of Santander, an ideal viewing spot as well. Playa de Langre beach is another great option in Cantabria.

On the Mediterranean side, eclipse sighting by boat is your best bet, given the need to be facing west-northwest. In Valencia, a number of boating outfitters are offering eclipse-viewing charters since La Malvarrosa beach, the city’s official viewing spot, faces east, meaning viewers will need to look inland to see the eclipse.

Of the four Balearic islands, Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza all fall within the true path of totality, while Formentera will experience a still-dramatic partial eclipse instead. Again, being on a boat guarantees the best chances of a clear horizon for unobstructed views to the west-northwest.

Formentera is the only of the four Balearic Islands that will not fall in the path of totality—but it will still experience a partial eclipse (and, likely, thinner crowds) at destinations like the lighthouse of La Mola, pictured above.

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Upcoming eclipses in Spain

If you miss this year’s solar eclipse, you’ll have another chance in August 2027 and January 2028, in what astronomers are calling the “Iberian Trio.” With eclipses passing over the country three years in a row, Spain is well on its way to cementing its reputation as a premier astrotourism destination.

This year’s eclipse also coincides with the annual Perseids meteor shower. With the eclipse leaving the sky darker after sunset, the conditions for viewing the meteor shower are expected to be even better than usual.

Essential tips for eclipse viewing

Wherever you end up seeing the eclipse, there are a few things to remember: ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses are essential for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays while looking up at the sun. This is not the time to pack your usual Ray-Bans and hope for the best.

Destinations all over Spain are expecting a huge influx of visitors, so come prepared and be responsible. Especially in more rural destinations, be mindful of the tenets of Leave No Trace and respect local rules that are put in place to manage crowds.

Spain is accustomed to welcoming visitors from around the world, but as always, learning a few phrases in the local language will go a long way. Good day (“Buenas tardes” or simply “Buenas”), please (“por favor”), and thank you (“gracias”) can transform your interactions.