The date for the 2026 Ibiza eclipse has been set: on 12 August, the island’s skies will be the setting for a phenomenon not seen since 1905 – a total solar eclipse. It will also be the first total eclipse visible from the Iberian Peninsula in over a century, and the next one won’t occur in Spain again until 2053. If you’re in Ibiza on that day, you’ll have the chance to experience a truly once-in-a-lifetime moment.
What is a total solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes exactly between the Earth and the Sun, casting its shadow onto our planet. When the alignment is perfect, the Moon completely covers the Sun’s disc for a few seconds or minutes: this is known as totality. During that brief moment, daylight turns into a kind of sudden twilight, the temperature drops, and it is possible to observe the solar corona – that luminous halo which is normally hidden by the Sun’s brilliance.
Why the 2026 Ibiza eclipse is so special
What makes the eclipse in Ibiza unique is not only its historical rarity, but also the time of day at which it will occur: at sunset. As Spain lies at the edge of the path of totality, the Sun will already be very low, almost touching the horizon, when the Moon completely covers it. This means that not only will the sky darken, but this will blend with the orange and pink hues typical of a sunset, creating a visual spectacle that is very rare for an eclipse.
Eclipse times in Ibiza
These are the expected times (local time, with a margin of a few minutes depending on the exact location within the municipality):
- Start of the partial eclipse: approximately 19:39
- Start of totality: around 8.33 pm
- Duration of totality: around 1 minute
- End of the eclipse: around 8.50 pm, almost as the sun sets
As it will occur so close to the horizon, it is essential to choose a viewing spot with an unobstructed view to the west, free from mountains, buildings or vegetation that might block the final minutes of the event.
Where to watch the eclipse in Ibiza: the best spots in San Antonio
If there’s one area of the island that’s perfect for experiencing this eclipse, for us it’s undoubtedly San Antonio or Sant Antoni de Portmany. And we’re not just saying that because that’s where our hotels and apartments are located, but because we’ve spent years watching sunset after sunset from here and we know exactly what it feels like. The entire coastline faces west, with open sea horizons that allow you to see the sun right up until the very last second before it touches the water – exactly what you need to ensure you don’t miss a single moment of an eclipse that will take place practically right on the water’s edge. Add to that the fact that San Antonio is considered one of the best places in the world to watch sunsets, with that August light that paints the sky in shades of orange and pink that are almost impossible to describe in words. When that legendary sunset combines with a total solar eclipse that won’t happen again for generations, you’ll understand why this is the spot where we want you to experience it.
The Cap Negret viewpoint
Just 3 km from the centre of San Antonio, the Cap Negret viewpoint offers unobstructed views of the sea and the island of Conillera, with far fewer crowds than the Sunset Strip. It’s the ideal choice if you’re looking to experience the eclipse in a more peaceful setting with plenty of space.
From the beach
The beaches of Cala Gració and Cala Gracioneta face directly west, perfect for those who prefer to have their feet in the sand whilst watching the phenomenon. If you’re looking for something even quieter, a little further north you’ll find Cala Salada, Cala Saladeta and Punta Galera – less crowded coves surrounded by pine trees, with the same unobstructed view of the western horizon. And if you’d rather stay close to the centre, S’Arenal beach itself, right on San Antonio’s seafront promenade, also offers a direct, unobstructed view.
Caló des Moro
Right next to the Sunset Strip but a little further away from the terraces and the hustle and bustle, the rocky stretch of coastline at Caló des Moro offers the same sunset views with far fewer people. A great alternative if you want to be close to the liveliest part of town without the crowds on the main promenade.
Terraces and rooftop bars in San Antonio Bay
If you’d prefer a more relaxed experience, several terraces and rooftop bars around the bay offer panoramic views to the west – ideal for enjoying the eclipse without missing out on a drink or a dinner with a view.
In our case, you can come to the Red Hotel, the Blue Apartments or the White Apartments to enjoy the eclipse from the comfort of your room, as they all have west-facing views of the bay. It’s a more intimate experience, but also a very special one. Can you imagine sipping a drink in peace whilst gazing at the horizon and watching this natural spectacle? You don’t have to imagine it any longer – you can experience it at Ibiza Feeling Group. Click here to check our availability for those dates.
How to watch the eclipse safely
Looking directly at the Sun without protection can cause permanent damage to your eyesight, even during an eclipse. Please bear in mind these recommendations:
- Always use approved solar eclipse glasses (ordinary sunglasses are not suitable).
- It is only safe to view the eclipse with the naked eye during the exact seconds of totality — when the Sun is completely obscured —; as soon as even the slightest glimmer reappears, protect your eyes again.
- If you are going to photograph the eclipse with your mobile phone or a camera, also use a solar filter suitable for the lens.
Will it be visible as a total or partial eclipse from Ibiza?
As a total eclipse. Ibiza lies within the path of totality for the eclipse on 12 August 2026, along with Palma and Mahón.
How long will the totality phase last?
Around one minute – a very brief time, but long enough to witness one of the most spectacular astronomical phenomena in existence.
Do I need special glasses?
Yes, they are essential during all the partial phases of the eclipse. Only during the exact few seconds of totality can you look at it without protection.
What if it’s cloudy at dawn?
August usually brings clear skies in Ibiza, although there’s always a slight risk of occasional cloud cover. Even so, even with light cloud, the drop in light and temperature during totality is still noticeable.
Can you imagine experiencing it from your hotel or holiday flat in Ibiza? ☀️
