Best time to travel to California

Perseid Meteor Shower in California

Stars begin to fall in the middle of summer—get ready to make some wishes

Best time: late July–late August (best in mid-August)

Perseid Meteor Shower
Perseid Meteor Shower
Perseid Meteor Shower

If you visit Los Angeles between late July and August, you will be able to see an amazing cosmic phenomenon—the brightest meteor shower of the year. The Perseid meteor shower occurs annually in the period from July 17 to August 24, and its peak tends to take place on August 9th-13th.

The best time for contemplating the celestial phenomenon is in the middle of the night. To see the shower, it will be enough to focus on the sky from the north-east side. This phenomenon occurs due to the passage of the Earth through the orbit of the comet. Its parts, passing through the atmosphere of the planet, form a meteor shower. Space "rain" can be observed without special devices such as a telescope: it's enough to find a dark place without city lighting (outside the city).

Some of the best places to observe Perseid meteor shower in California are around Los Angeles, namely nearby Santa Monica Mountains, the Angeles National Forest, and Joshua Tree. The Death Valley National Park is another great place to experience this natural phenomenon.

Practical info

When is the Perseid Meteor Shower visible from California?

The Perseid Meteor Shower can be seen from California from late July to August, with the highest number of meteors present from August 9-13. The shower is best viewed from a spot outside the city, around midnight. It's an incredible sight to see with as many as 60+ meteors visible per hour at its peak. Show more

Where are the best places to observe Perseid Meteor Shower in California?

To view the Perseid Meteor Shower in California, you need to be away from city lights. For the best stargazing experience, head to the Joshua Tree, Angeles National Forest, or the Santa Monica mountains where the sky is dark enough to view the natural spectacle. Alternatively, Death Valley National Park is another great location to observe the meteor shower. Show more

What time of the year does the Perseid Meteor Shower take place?

The Perseid Meteor Shower takes place every year from July 17 to August 24. The meteor shower results from the Earth passing through debris from Comet Swift-Tuttle. The best time to see them is from mid-July to August, with the highest number of meteors visible in mid-August. Show more

What time is best for contemplating the Perseid Meteor Shower?

For the best viewing experience, it's recommended to wait until after midnight to watch the Perseid Meteor Shower until dawn. The north-east direction is the best place to view. Look for a spot outside of the city, free of bright lights pollution, and comfortable enough to gaze the starry sky. Dress in warm clothing, and bring a blanket to have the best stargazing experience. Show more

Do you need special equipment to observe the Perseid Meteor Shower?

To see the Perseid Meteor Shower, special equipment is not necessary. You can view this stunning natural phenomenon with just your naked eyes, although it's essential to be in an area away from sources of light pollution, including bright buildings, and streetlights. For extra comfort when watching, you can bring a blanket and dress warmly. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin