Once-in-a-lifetime astronomical event ·
Solar eclipse of 12 August 2026 from the Costa Blanca
On 12 August 2026, El Campello and the province of Alicante will witness a 99% solar eclipse at sunset. Book the apartment with pool, jacuzzi and Mediterranean views to not miss the most anticipated astronomical event of the decade.
What is the solar eclipse of 12 August 2026?
The total solar eclipse of 12 August 2026 will be the first total solar eclipse visible in mainland Spain since 1905, over 120 years ago. The path of totality crosses northern Spain (Galicia, Asturias, Castilla y León, La Rioja, Aragón, Castellón) with 1 minute 49 seconds of complete darkness. In the Valencian Community, totality only occurs in Castellón; Valencia and Alicante lie just south of the path, experiencing a deep partial eclipse.
How will the eclipse look from Alicante and El Campello?
From central Alicante, El Campello, Villajoyosa and Benidorm, a partial eclipse with 99.17% of the Sun covered will be visible at maximum. It is practically a total eclipse: for several minutes only a thin arc of light remains. Ambient light drops dramatically, animals react and temperatures fall. To experience true totality (Sun completely covered, corona visible, stars in the sky), you need to drive 1-2 hours north (Castellón is closest from El Campello).
Exact eclipse timing in El Campello
| 19:30 - 19:40 | Partial eclipse begins (first contact) | The Moon starts covering the Sun from the upper right edge. |
|---|---|---|
| 20:35 | Eclipse maximum (99.17% covered) | Only a thin arc of light visible. Sudden dusk feeling. Temperature drops. |
| 21:00 | Sunset with eclipse still in progress | Coincides with Mediterranean sunset. Intense orange-pink horizon colours. |
| 21:22 - 21:26 | Eclipse ends (last contact) | In El Campello the Sun will have set already; end not observable from the coast. |
Where to watch from El Campello: best spots
The eclipse happens at sunset, so a clear west-northwest view is essential (sunset direction in August). The apartment terrace faces east towards the Mediterranean, so we recommend going to one of these nearby spots:
- Torre de la Illeta de l'Horta 15 min walk
High point of the town with 360° clear view. Arrive at least 1 hour early, it will be popular.
- Carrer la Mar promenade 5 min walk
Clear west view over the fishing port. Bars and restaurants with terraces.
- Cerro de la Penyeta 10 min walk
Natural viewpoint over both beaches. Quiet, ideal for photography.
- Santa Bárbara Castle (Alicante) 30 min by TRAM + 15 walk
Most spectacular option if you want the eclipse over Alicante city. Limited capacity, check in advance.
Recommended plan: 11+ nights around the eclipse
We recommend arriving several days early and staying a few days after. Reasons: 1) arriving on 12 August itself will be chaos, roads will be jammed. 2) Experience the pre-event atmosphere (markets, observatory talks, local festivals). 3) If you decide to drive to Castellón for true totality, you need the flexibility of several days to pick the day with best weather. Minimum stay at the apartment is 11 nights, perfect for this window.
Why book NOW?
Total solar eclipses move massive tourism numbers. The 2017 US eclipse generated over 5 million domestic travellers. The 2024 (Mexico-US-Canada) saturated accommodation 18 months in advance. In Spain, vacation rental platforms report bookings for August 2026 since 2024. Prices rise every passing month. Booking early secures availability and base price.