Holidaymakers visiting Benalmadena and the Costa del Sol in August 2026 are in for a real treat! On Wednesday 12th August 2026, one of the most remarkable astronomical events of the decade will be visible from Benalmádena: a solar eclipse. While the path of totality will pass further north across parts of Spain, we’ll still enjoy an impressive partial eclipse with around 94-95% of the Sun covered by the Moon.
Here’s everything you need to know about experiencing this unforgettable event during your stay at Sunset Beach Club.
What is a Solar Eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily blocking the Sun’s light. Depending on your location, you may see a total, annular or partial eclipse.
From Benalmádena, the eclipse will be seen as a deep partial solar eclipse, with the Moon covering approximately 94% of the Sun at maximum eclipse.
Even though the Sun won’t be completely covered here, daylight levels will noticeably decrease, creating a unique atmosphere as the afternoon gradually takes on an unusual twilight feel.
Solar Eclipse Timings for Benalmádena
If you’re planning to watch the eclipse, these are the key times to remember:
| Event | Time (CEST) |
| Eclipse Begins | 19:43 |
| Maximum Eclipse | 20:38 |
| Eclipse Ends* | Around 21:10 |
*The Sun will be very low on the horizon and may set before the eclipse has fully ended, depending on your exact viewing location.
At maximum eclipse, the Sun will be only around 6° above the horizon, making it perfect for viewing from an unobstructed west-facing location.
Best Places to Watch the Eclipse in Benalmádena
Because the eclipse occurs close to sunset, choosing a location with clear views towards the west is essential.
1. Benalmádena Marina
Puerto Marina is a fantastic option. Make your way to the end of the far pier for one of the best spots to watch the eclipse.
2. Torrequebrada Coastline
The coastal paths near Torrequebrada offer clear and uninterrupted views towards the western horizon. (Just walk past our Salitos Bar and head towards the pier just in front of the Torrequebrada Hotel)
3. La Paloma Park
The higher parts of Parque de la Paloma (near the large flag) should offer a good view towards the western horizon.
NOTE: If you’re staying at Sunset Beach Club during the Eclipse and have a Mountain view apartment booked, you may get a fantastic view from your terrace!
Important Safety Tips
- Never Look Directly at the Sun: Even when most of the Sun is covered, it is never safe to look directly at a solar eclipse without proper eye protection. Serious eye damage can occur without pain or warning.
- Use Certified Eclipse Glasses: Only use eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. Regular sunglasses are not safe for eclipse viewing.
- Be Careful with Cameras and Binoculars: Binoculars, telescopes and camera lenses require special solar filters. Looking through them without proper protection can cause immediate eye injury and damage to the lenses.
- Try a Pinhole Projector: Travelling without eclipse glasses? A simple pinhole projector allows you to safely project the Sun’s image onto a nearby surface and observe the eclipse indirectly.
Will the Weather Be Good?
August is typically one of the sunniest months on the Costa del Sol, which gives us excellent chances of clear skies for eclipse viewing. Historical data suggests relatively low average cloud cover during this period in the Benalmádena area.
Of course, as with any outdoor event, weather conditions can vary, so it’s worth checking local forecasts closer to the date. You can see the weather forecast on our website HERE
A Historic Time for Eclipse Lovers
The 2026 eclipse is especially significant because it forms part of an extraordinary run of solar eclipses visible from Spain. In fact, Spain will experience another major eclipse on 2nd August 2027, with totality passing through parts of Andalucía, making the coming years a dream period for astronomy enthusiasts.
For many visitors, however, the 2026 event may be their first opportunity to witness a solar eclipse from such a beautiful Mediterranean location.
Make the Most of Solar Eclipse Experience
Our recommendation? Spend the day relaxing by the pool or beach, enjoy dinner with family and friends, then head outside with your eclipse glasses ready before 7:45 pm.
With the Sun slowly setting over the Mediterranean and the Moon covering almost the entire solar disc, this promises to be one of the most memorable evenings of the summer.
We look forward to welcoming guests to Sunset Beach Club for this rare celestial event. Don’t forget your camera, your eclipse glasses and, most importantly, your sense of wonder!
Quick Eclipse Facts
- Date: Wednesday, 12th August 2026
- Type in Benalmádena: Partial Solar Eclipse
- Maximum Coverage: Approximately 94-95% of the Sun covered
- Start Time: 19:43
- Maximum Eclipse: 20:38
- Viewing Direction: West / Northwest
- Eye Protection Required: Yes, certified eclipse glasses only.
See you under the eclipsed sun! 🌞🌙✨
