E very year in the month of August, nature puts on an amazing celestial firework show know as the Perseid Metor Shower.

The annual show of “shooting-stars” has been observed for about 2,000 years. This year, Perseids peaks on the night of August 12, with as many as 60 meteors per hour.

Splash! wants to encourage you to join the ancient tradition; and do it from a great location. Any dark place will do, but some are better than others. Hence, here are five great locations (in no particular order) to view the Perseids along the Gulf Coast:

1. Pensacola Beach Gulfside Pavilion: Located in the heart of Pensacola Beach, the pavilion has benches for seated, relaxed viewing. Also, the Escambia Amateur Astronomers Association will host a Perseids Watch on August 13 and 14 – complete with high-powered telescopes for viewing the meteors and other celestial objects. 2. On a boat: The key to viewing celestial events is to get away from city lights. Chart a course for the nearest bay, sound or even the Gulf and enjoy the show from the starboard side.

3. On the beach: Find a secluded spot, tucked away from the disturbances of condos, restaurants and night clubs. Great locations include: Gulf Islands National Seashore-Fort Pickens (Pensacola Beach) and Henderson Beach State Park (Destin).

4. From the pier: If you can’t find a beach location far enough away from commotion, perhaps a stroll to the end of the pier will cure this ill. Area piers include: Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier, Navarre Beach Fishing Pier and Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier.

5. Pensacola Scenic Bluffs: Located along Scenic Highway 90 on the north edge of Pensacola Bay, the bluffs offer a great vantage point for viewing meteors.

Now go grab a blanket, binoculars, and whatever else you need to enjoy one of the most exciting heavenly events of the year.