Solar Eclipse on August 12 in Málaga: Best Spots to Watch and What Time

Málaga is gearing up for the first solar eclipse of the so-called "Iberian trio" this Wednesday, a series of three consecutive eclipses that will be visible from Spain between 2026 and 2028.

For this first one, Málaga sits outside the path of totality, but the event will still be spectacular: the Moon will cover around 95% of the solar disk at the moment of maximum eclipse in the province.

What Time Will the Solar Eclipse Be Visible in Málaga?

The eclipse will begin in Málaga at around 7:43 PM and reach its peak between 8:30 and 8:38 PM, according to Rosa López, president of the Málaga Astronomical Society.

Málaga won't see the full eclipse, since the path of totality falls further north this time, and the sun will set before the event ends. Even so, "we'll be able to see the maximum point, which is the most spectacular part," the expert notes, stressing the importance of using certified eclipse glasses to properly protect your eyes.

What to Keep in Mind When Choosing the Best Spot in Málaga

There are plenty of options for where to watch this event in Málaga, but the key isn't so much a specific location as having a completely clear view of the western horizon.

That's because, according to López, at the moment of maximum eclipse the sun will be very low in the sky, barely five degrees above the horizon. That makes elevated spots around the city, such as the Montes de Málaga or nearby mountain ranges, good options — as long as there are no buildings, hills, or trees blocking the view toward the west.

As for the beach, the expert warns it might not offer the best view: "The sun doesn't set over the sea here, so what really matters is having a clear low horizon toward the west, not the coastline itself," she points out.

That's why she emphasizes that any viewpoint, hillside, or terrace with an unobstructed view in that direction will work well, while areas surrounded by tall buildings or dense vegetation will make it harder to see.

The Dolmens of Antequera: A Standout Option

One of the reference points for following the eclipse in the province is the Antequera Dolmens Archaeological Site, where the Málaga Astronomical Society has organized a special activity in collaboration with the site itself.

The event includes a talk on the phenomenon and observation through telescopes fitted with solar filters, which will allow attendees to spot details like sunspots or the Moon's progress across the solar disk. The activity is limited to the 100 people who have already reserved a spot, and it's now fully booked. It will begin with the partial phase of the eclipse at 7:42 PM, reaching maximum eclipse at an estimated 8:37 PM.

Source: El Español