Where to See the Total Solar Eclipse on August 12, 2026, in Valencia and Castellón (Best Places and Tips)

On August 12, 2026, one of the most spectacular natural phenomena observable from Earth will take place: a total solar eclipse visible from much of Spain. This is not just any eclipse. The path of totality will cross the Valencian Community and offer an experience that, for most people, happens only once in a lifetime.

For a few moments, day will turn to night, the temperature will drop, stars will appear at sunset, and the landscape will change completely. But to truly experience it, there's one fundamental thing: being in the right place.

To better understand what we'll see and how to prepare, we spoke with Germán Peris, Cultural Manager and Activities Coordinator at the Castellón Planetarium, who helps us understand why this eclipse will be so special.

Photo by Hailey Tong on Unsplash

Although the path of totality will cross several regions of Spain, this article focuses on how to observe from the Valencian Community, especially in the Valencia and Castellón areas, where thousands of visitors will be on vacation during August.

What Exactly Is a Total Solar Eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon positions itself between the Earth and the Sun. However, they're not all the same. The key is the path of totality, a relatively narrow band where the Sun is completely hidden.

As Peris explains, the Moon's shadow is only 200 to 250 kilometers wide, so outside of it the eclipse will only be partial. And the difference is enormous.

Outside the path, we'll only see how the Moon "bites" the Sun using special glasses. Inside it, something completely different happens: the solar corona appears, the sky darkens, and stars and bright planets become visible.

99% is not the same as 100%

What Time Will the Eclipse Be in Valencia and Castellón?

The eclipse will begin at approximately 7:37 PM, when the Moon starts to cover the Sun. Totality will arrive at sunset.

• In Castellón, around 8:31 PM approximately, it will last 90 seconds.
• In Valencia, the total eclipse will last about one minute.

This makes Castellón a slightly more privileged location within the path.

You can explore the path of totality for the August 12, 2026 eclipse on the interactive map. The zone includes cities like Castellón, Valencia, Palma de Mallorca, Oviedo, and Bilbao, where the Sun will be completely hidden by the Moon for several minutes.

Is It Worth Traveling a Few Kilometers?

Absolutely. Although it may seem incredible, 99% coverage is nothing like 100%.

During totality:

• It becomes practically night
• The solar corona can be observed
• Stars appear
• Temperature drops
• Animal and human behavior changes

Peris sums it up clearly: it's a unique spectacle that deserves to be fully experienced.

Best Places to See It in the Valencian Community

Cities are not the best place. Buildings can block the western horizon and make observation difficult.

The Castellón Planetarium, for example, will organize a large public observation on the beach, an especially suitable environment due to its expanse and clear horizon.

In reality, the Planetarium acts mainly as a reference point and event organizer. The observation won't take place next to the building, but rather along the stretch of beaches and open spaces in the area, which provide a clean view to the west, essential for witnessing the totality of the eclipse at sunset.

Recommendations:

• Wide, open beaches
• Elevated inland areas with clear horizons
• Avoid urban environments
• Arrive early

Additionally, it will be a massive tourist event with many people traveling that same day.

In the image, Pinar beach in Castellón, next to the Planetarium. Juan Emilio Prades Bel.

Practical Tips to Not Miss the Eclipse

• Use certified glasses until totality
• Find a clear western horizon
• Arrive with time to spare
• Avoid improvising on the same day
• Check the weather forecast

If you're visiting the Valencian Community in summer, having a vehicle will allow you to choose the best observation point and avoid crowds.

Observers during totality of a solar eclipse — Photo: Kevin Baird (CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons)

An Unrepeatable Event

A total solar eclipse is not just an astronomical phenomenon: it's an emotional experience that tends to be remembered for a lifetime.

As explained by the Castellón Planetarium itself, it's been more than a century since one like this has been observed from Spain.

What If I'm in Another Part of Spain?

The total eclipse won't be limited to the Valencian Community. The path of totality will cross several areas of northern and northeastern Spain. If you're traveling in Spain during summer, the most important thing is to make sure you're within the path of totality on August 12, 2026, and choose an open environment where you can witness the complete phenomenon.