Credit: Ken Cheung

8 Places in SoCal To Watch the Perseid Meteor Shower

Get Ready to Witness One of the Wonders of the Universe

 

Anza Borrego Desert State Park, San Diego

Anza Borrego Desert State
Credit: Robby McCullough

As the largest state park in California, Anza Borrego Desert State Park offers over 600,000 acres of unobstructed sky, perfect for meteor shower viewing. Explore rocky hills, scenic streams, and perhaps even spot wildlife like bighorn sheep or mountain lions while you wait for the night show. This location is a prime spot for those searching for the best places to watch the Perseid Meteor Shower in California.

 

Crescent Bay, Laguna Beach

Crescent Bay
Credit: Shane Stagner

This quarter-mile cove in Laguna Beach provides a romantic and picturesque setting for a beachside stargazing experience. Crescent Bay, with its classic beauty, is ideal for those looking to enjoy the Perseid Meteor Shower with the soothing sound of waves in the background. Remember to wear comfortable shoes to navigate the beach rocks and bring a blanket for a cozy night under the stars.

Top Of The World, Laguna Beach

Top Of The World
Credit: Derek Liang

If you didn’t know about this local secret spot, now you do. The name says it all! Top of the World in Laguna Beach is offers a panoramic view of the night sky, making it one of the top meteor shower viewing spots in Southern California. The name says it all! This location is perfect for those seeking a breathtaking vantage point to witness the Perseid Meteor Shower. Wear your favorite hiking shoes and active gear, as the trek is a definitely not flip-flop friendly.

 

Newport Beach Marina and Harbor, Newport Beach

Newport Beach Marina
Credit: JT

Go paddle boarding via Pirate Coast Paddle Company, rent a electric boat or snuggle up on the shore in front of the Lighthouse Cafe on the Newport Beach Marina to have a view next to the calm and quiet waters of the marina. The calm waters and serene environment make this an excellent choice for a more peaceful viewing of the Perseid Meteor Shower.


Joshua Tree National Park, Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree National Park
Credit: Austin Human

A favorite among desert campers, Joshua Tree National Park is a sprawling national park that attracts stargazers and photographers alike. Set up camp, snap some Insta-worthy photos during the day, and prepare for a stunning display of the Perseid Meteor Shower at night. The dark skies here provide a perfect backdrop for viewing the meteor shower without interference.

Palomar Mountain, San Diego

Palomar Mountain
Credit: David Tostado

Although the gorgeous observatory is most likely to be closed by the time you are ready for the meteor shower, the Palomar Mountain area will be a great spot for San Diegans to view the clear skies. Hike up before the sun goes down to get some snaps of the domed building, then watch the sunset and the spectacle that the nighttime sky has in store for you!

 

Santa Monica Mountains, Los Angeles

Santa Monica Mountains
Credit: Ron Atory

Angelenos can escape from the millions of lights in the city, too! The Santa Monica Mountains are within reach if you don’t want to drive too far from home, and the meteors will seem as though they are performing just for you. The area offers great camping opportunities, allowing you to enjoy the meteor shower for as long as you can stay awake. Challenge accepted!

Angeles National Forest, Los Angeles

Angeles National Forest
Credit: Jeffrey Keenan

Another popular destination for stargazing near Los Angeles, Angeles National Forest provides a serene environment away from the city’s hustle and bustle. . Navigate this quintessential California landscape and set up camp in a prime spot. If you have a good enough camera, get there early enough to lay out your  gear so you can get some National Geographic style pics to share with all your followers.

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Charlotte is a fan of all things beauty, health, food, wellness, travel and a touch of nerdy fandom. She graduated with honors from the University of California, San Diego in Communications and English Literature and enjoys writing, looking at puppies on Instagram and drinking all the tea.

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