Watching Shooting Stars on La Palma – Perseid Highlight & Astronomical Events in August

Shooting Stars over La Palma – The Perseids and Other Astronomical Events in August

August is a special month on La Palma for sky watchers. The island, known for its clear night skies and low light pollution, offers ideal conditions to enjoy one of the most beautiful natural phenomena of the year: the Perseid meteor shower.

Perseid Peak

The peak will occur on the night of 12 August, when between 50 and 100 meteors per hour may be seen. The best time to watch is between 10:00 pm and 11:00 pm, before the almost full moon rises and brightens the sky. To enjoy the show at its best, head to a dark location – La Palma offers perfect spots both along the coast and at higher elevations. The key is a clear, unobstructed view of the sky, away from artificial light.

Viewing Tips

Even after the peak, many shooting stars can still be seen, especially by looking toward areas of the sky opposite the moon. Warm summer nights and La Palma’s exceptionally clear air create the perfect setting to enjoy the Perseids at their most impressive – whether on your own, with friends, or as part of a guided stargazing tour.

Other Sky Highlights in August

23 August – New Moon: Total darkness for a stunning view of the summer Milky Way. Its bright structures can often be seen with the naked eye on La Palma from locations far from artificial light.

19 & 20 August – Planet Watching: Venus, Jupiter, and Mercury will be visible. Mercury will be particularly noteworthy, as on these dates it reaches its greatest distance from the Sun and can be seen easily just after sunset.

La Palma – A Paradise for Stargazing

La Palma is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Thanks to its clear climate, spectacular landscapes, and legally protected night sky, the island is a paradise for astrophotographers, amateur astronomers, and anyone wishing to spend an unforgettable night under the stars. Visitors to La Palma in August should not miss these celestial events – they are a magical experience that few places can offer so impressively.