Credit: The Griffith Observatory

Shield Your Eyes! 6 Places to Experience the Solar Eclipse in SoCal on August 21

From the Desert to the Ocean You Won’t Want to Miss This Event

Written By: Elizabeth Morris Solar Eclipse California

For those who have forgotten what a solar eclipse is via your middle school science class, here is a quick refresher. During a solar eclipse, the moon lines up exactly between the sun and the earth. Since the moon blocks the sun’s rays, the moon casts a shadow onto the earth. In a total solar eclipse, the moon will almost completely cover the sun and darken the daytime sky.

Happening on Aug. 21, the path of the total eclipse follows a diagonal across the country, beginning in Oregon and ending in South Carolina. If you don’t live within the radius of the total path, never fear. Those closest to the total path will have the best sighting, but everyone in the continental US will have a view of the partial eclipse. It will cross the United States in about 90 minutes, starting on the West Coast around 10:15 a.m. PST. At any location, the eclipse will last for less than three minutes. So you don’t miss this brief yet breathtaking spectacle, we have compiled a list of the best places to spot the solar eclipse.

 Solar Eclipse California

The Griffith Observatory

What better way to view the eclipse than from an actual observatory? The Griffith Observatory will be hosting an event on their front lawn from 9 a.m. until noon for visitors to witness the partial eclipse. In Los Angeles, you will be able to see a 70 percent partial solar eclipse, meaning that 70 percent of the sun’s diameter will be covered by the moon. Bring your friends or family and enjoy the sight of a solar eclipse over Downtown.

 Solar Eclipse California

Top of the World Laguna Beach

Take in all that California has to offer from Top of the World. From canyons to mountains to the ocean, you can see it all from one of Laguna Beach’s most popular parks. You can drive your car to the hill’s summit to watch the eclipse then spend the morning hiking or biking through the park’s trails. Top of the World’s panoramic view will give you one of the best seats in Orange County to catch the eclipse.

 

Newport Beach Marina Park

If you favor water over land, check out the Newport Marina Park. Start your day off with a refreshing paddle boarding trip through the Newport Marina and watch the eclipse pass over the ocean. Even if you come prepared with sunglasses, do not look straight at the eclipse because a direct glance can damage your eyes. Instead, take advantage of your ocean look-out to appreciate the extra stars and planets that could be exposed because of the sky’s darker hue.

Skyline Trail: Cactus to Clouds Palm Springs

Looking for a quiet way to enjoy the eclipse? The tranquility of the wilderness and the clean mountain air gives visitors the opportunity to reconnect with nature. Hike up to reach this incredible viewpoint in Southern California and watch the eclipse in the peacefulness of the mountains.

 

Joshua Tree National Park

Take a break from the noise and pollution of the city by traveling to Joshua Tree. At this desert park, you will be treated to awe-inspiring sunsets and crystal clear views of the stars. The serene desert environment creates an ideal backdrop for nature lovers to experience the solar eclipse. Camp out the night before, then wake up to the moon instead of the sun.

 

La Jolla Cove

If you are in the San Diego area and are hoping to capture photos of the eclipse, head over to one of the most photographed beaches in Southern California. With a picturesque ocean scene, La Jolla Cove is the perfect destination for photographers. After the eclipse, you can spend the day at the beach. Those seeking adventure come to La Jolla Cove for its excellent climbing, snorkeling, kayaking and diving.

Check Out These Incredible Spots in SoCal to Watch the Solar Eclipse

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