Get ready, because in 2026 Spain will experience something historic: a total solar eclipse visible from much of the country. It will be the first one visible from the peninsula in over a century. Yes, you read that right. For a few minutes, the sun will completely disappear behind the moon, and day will turn into night. Incredible, right?
And best of all, the phenomenon will be seen spectacularly from Benicàssim, one of the places with the best climate and views to enjoy this astronomical event.
Would you like us to tell you all the details to experience the solar eclipse in Spain in 2026 in the front row?
When and how the solar eclipse will occur in Spain
The solar eclipse in Spain in 2026 will happen on Wednesday, August 12, right at the end of the afternoon. In Benicàssim, it will begin to be noticeable from 7:30 PM, when the moon begins to “bite” the solar disk. The total phase will arrive around 8:30 PM, and for about 90 seconds the sun will disappear completely.
At that moment, the sky will darken, the temperature will drop a few degrees, and, for an instant, you will see the solar corona shine around the moon. It will be an image that you will hardly forget.
And if that were not enough, this eclipse will coincide with the sunset, so the spectacle will be double: the colors of the sunset will mix with its temporary occlusion. This is a natural phenomenon that can rarely be enjoyed with such a spectacular backdrop as the Mediterranean at dusk.
Total Solar Eclipse in Spain (2026)
📅 Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2026
📍 Featured location: Benicàssim (Castellón, Spain)
Approximate schedule in Benicàssim
🕓 7:30 PM: Start of the partial eclipse (the Moon begins to cover the Sun).
🕓 8:30 PM: Total phase of the eclipse (approximate duration: 90 seconds).
🕓 8:32 PM: End of totality; the Sun gradually reappears.
Why Benicàssim is one of the best places to see the solar eclipse in Spain
Benicàssim has all the ingredients to experience this event in the best possible way. It is within the path of totality of the eclipse, which means that the sun can be seen completely covered. In other parts of the country, only a part will be seen.
The climate in Benicàssim in August is typically Mediterranean and is characterized by its stability, with an average of more than 28 °C during the day and minimums that rarely drop below 22 °C at night. It is one of the months with the highest number of hours of sunshine per year—around 11 daily—, and the chances of rain are almost nil, which guarantees a clear sky and optimal conditions to observe the solar eclipse in Spain in 2026.
Its surroundings could not be better: here you will be able to enjoy this spectacle from the best beach in Benicàssim, walking along its promenade full of palm trees or with the mountains of the Desert de les Palmes in the background.
Where to see the 2026 eclipse in Benicàssim
To enjoy the solar eclipse in 2026, choose a place with clear views to the west. Some of the best spots in Benicàssim are:
- Torre Sant Vicent Beach, the most emblematic of Benicàssim, with its 16th-century watchtower. From here, the view of the eclipsed sunset will be magical.
- Heliópolis Beach, wider and quieter, perfect for relaxing until the big moment.
- Desert de les Palmes, especially the Bartolo viewpoint, from where you can see the sun hide over the sea with a completely clear horizon.
- And if you are looking for a different perspective, a boat trip at sunset will give you an unforgettable view of the eclipse.
Whatever you choose, arrive with time: it is a moment of great expectation! And then the plan continues in the sky, since that night will coincide with the maximum of the Perseids meteor shower.
Tips and precautions
Seeing the solar eclipse in Spain in 2026 will be an impressive experience, but you have to do it carefully. Never look directly at the sun without protection, not even when it is partially covered. Always use approved solar eclipse glasses —those recognized with the ISO 12312-2 standard—.
During the total phase—when the sun is completely hidden—you can look at it without glasses, but only in that brief instant. When it starts to reappear, put them back on.
If you go with children, teach them how to use the glasses and watch them closely. And if you bring a camera, binoculars, or telescope, remember that they also need a solar filter.
Another tip is to do a rehearsal the day before the eclipse; go to the point you choose at the same time to check that the sun does not hide behind a building or mountain. On August 12, you don’t want anything to go wrong.
What to do in Benicàssim before and after the eclipse
In addition to experiencing the solar eclipse in Spain in 2026 from the best perspective, Benicàssim offers you everything you need to enjoy a ten-out-of-ten vacation.
One of the most recommended activities is to walk the Vía Verde del Mar, a beautiful path that connects Benicàssim with Oropesa del Mar following the old railway line. It is about six kilometers of flat road between tunnels, cliffs, and spectacular views of the Mediterranean. You can do it walking or by bike.
If you prefer to stay in the center, that is also a good option. There is a lot to see in Benicàssim! Its old town preserves the charm of the Mediterranean villages, with narrow streets, squares, and a lively offer of shops, ice cream parlors, and terraces. Very close you have a must-see stop: the Torre de San Vicente, an old 16th-century watchtower that today is part of the promenade and gives you an unbeatable panoramic view of the coast.
And when hunger strikes, you have to sit at the table. The gastronomy of Benicàssim is another of its strengths. In the restaurants on the promenade and in the center you will find everything from paellas and fideuàs to signature cuisine with local products.
If you fancy something different, go into the Desierto de las Palmas, a natural park that combines trails, viewpoints, and a tranquility difficult to match.
And if you have more days, don’t miss the surroundings; there are charming places such as the Peñíscola Castle, the Sierra de Irta Natural Park, or the city of Castellón to complete the trip.
Experience the 2026 solar eclipse from Benicàssim
Seeing how the day goes out in the middle of the afternoon, with the sea in the background and the sky turning dark, will be something you will remember for a lifetime. And, as you can see, Benicàssim is the perfect setting to experience it. Because in addition to enjoying the eclipse, you can get to know its beaches, take advantage of the good weather, and soak up its summer atmosphere.
Do you have the desire and already know how to get to Benicàssim? Then you just need to get accommodation. At Orange Costa you will find apartments, houses, and villas a few steps from the beach and the best spots in the city, with all the comforts so you only have to worry about looking at the sky and enjoying.
Book yours now, prepare your sunglasses, and come and experience the solar eclipse of the century in Benicàssim.
