August 12 @ 10:30 pm – August 13 @ 4:00 am
Hey fellow stargazers, it’s that time again! The Perseid Meteor Shower is ready to light up the skies in 2025, and Vancouver Island is a prime spot.
Note the official peak is overnight on August 12 – 13th, however — the weeks preceding that will likely be a better time because of the moon phase.
This guide will tell you how, when, and where to view the Perseid Meteor Showers on Vancouver Island (including in Campbell River).
A Bit About the Perseids
Every year, Earth drifts through debris left by the comet Swift-Tuttle. This cosmic dust creates an incredible meteor display.
I find it both amazing and a bit humbling. 🌌
Where and How to Watch
After midnight to dawn on August 11th and 12th should be the best times, but any time in August on a clear night is worth looking up for!
As for weather, fingers crossed for clear skies, but we all know how unpredictable that can be this time of year. 🤞
How to Find Perseus in the Night Sky:
Focus your gaze northeast, around the constellation Perseus. This is a good video explaining how to find Perseus:
On Vancouver Island, there are some great spots — but anywhere away from city lights & pollution with a view of the northeast will work.
Here are a few specific locations to look into on Vancouver Island:
- Cattle Point (Victoria) – This is a designated Urban Star Park with dark, starry skies and is a great spot for meteor showers.
- Pipers Lagoon (Nanaimo) – Park outside the yellow gates & walk out to the peninsula. Also try areas in out of the way along Nanaimo Lakes rd.
- Horne Lake (mid-Island) – Great star watching here if you can get a camp spot during the showers.
- Forbidden Plateau (Comox) – Always great for skygazing, check out nearby Kin Beach and Kye Bay.
- Buttle Lake (Strathcona Park): Laying on the beach at Buttle watching the meteor showers is one of my all-time-fav memories.
Best Spots around Campbell River:
- McIvor Lake – Far enough away from the lights for a good view!
- Elk Falls Provincial Park – The playground park in the campsite area is my go-to. It’s got plenty of dark sky.
- Campbell Lake – Find a spot with a view open to the northeast and you are set!
- Rebecca Spit on Quadra Island: A short ferry ride and you’re all set with wide-open sky views.
- Anywhere away from city lights with a clear view to the northeast works too. Keep it simple!
It’s interesting how the meteor shower timing aligns with the salmon runs on the Quinsam & Campbell rivers. This is one of my favorite times of the year.
So, grab a blanket and settle in for the show. And make a wish when you catch a glimpse of those shooting stars! ✨
