Santa Monica.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Santa Monica, CA. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Santa Monica
- Top Community Pick: Santa Monica Boardwalk Hollister (~0.6 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 7 at Tuna Canyon Park
- Local Experts: Los Angeles Sidewalk Astronomers
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Santa Monica, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at Santa Monica Boardwalk Hollister for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Tuna Canyon Park provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 7. The local landscape of Santa Monica offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Santa Monica
Since Santa Monica sits in a transitional light zone, viewing is best during the New Moon or after midnight when some commercial lighting is reduced.
Expert Tips for Santa Monica Observers
Before heading out to Santa Monica Boardwalk Hollister, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. Binoculars are a favorite for regulars this location for sweeping views of the Moon’s craters and larger constellations. Local enthusiasts often frequent this spot, making it a great place to meet experienced observers. Regardless of your gear, allow 30 minutes for your eyes to fully dark-adapt.
California Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Santa Monica Boardwalk Hollister
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Griffith Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Mount Wilson Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Garvey Ranch Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Sunset Triangle Plaza
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Tuna Canyon Park
Santa Monica Mountains NRA
"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Tuna Canyon Park in Santa Monica Mountains NRA on 2/8/2011. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 19.37 SQM."
Schueren Rd
Santa Monica Mountains NRA
"Very clear and dry night"
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.