The lunar eclipse on April 8 inspired millions of North Americans to put on eclipse glasses and look into the sun. Many surfers along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts even got to experience the eclipse on the water.
From Mazatlán, Mexico, to the coast of Maine, and even the Waco Surf pool in Texas, surfers hit the water for an experience of a lifetime. Although the waves were small in most viewing locations, people still got out on the water to enjoy the spectacle.
Although rare, many people enjoy several solar and lunar eclipses during their lifetimes. Below are places where surfers can enjoy future solar and lunar eclipses.
Where to Surf During the Next Eclipses
Fortunately, surfers don’t have to wait too long before the next total eclipse, especially if traveling is an option.
In August, 2026, surfers in Iceland, Ireland, northern Portugal, and the Mediterranean coast of Spain will see a total solar eclipse. Then again, in 2027, coastlines in southern Portugal and Spain, North Africa, and the Maldives will see the spectacle.
The southern hemisphere will also experience eclipses this decade. In February 2027, surfers in Argentina and Uruguay will see the spectacle. In July, 2028, the event will darken the skies over coastal northwest Australia and Queensland.
Then, in November 2030, Namibia and the Indian Ocean side of South Africa will see the first total solar eclipse during the new decade.
The next total lunar eclipse will be visible from North American beaches on March 25, 2025.
Although these events are predictable, the surf and local weather won’t be. If you have waves and clear skies during your local eclipse, then you’re in for the experience of a lifetime.
What are Eclipses?
There are two types of total eclipses: solar and lunar. Solar eclipses, like the eclipse on April 8, occur when the moon moves between the earth and the sun. For a few minutes, the moon will completely block out the sun, turning the sky into dusk.
A lunar eclipse is when the earth moves between the sun and the moon. The earth blocks sunlight from reaching the moon, creating the famous crimson shadow effect known as the blood moon.
Solar eclipses happen during the new moon. Lunar eclipses, on the other hand, occur during the full moon.
Regardless of which type of eclipse you see, each astronomical event is worth dropping what you’re doing and heading outside for.