Tonight, residents of Pacific County have an opportunity to enjoy one of the most beautiful sights nature has to offer—a Blue Moon rising above the Washington coast. While the Moon will not actually appear blue, the term “Blue Moon” refers to the second full moon occurring within the same calendar month, a relatively rare event that gave rise to the expression “once in a blue moon.”

The wide-open skies, beaches, bays, and coastal landscapes of Pacific County provide excellent locations for viewing the full moon. Residents in Ocean Park, Surfside, Long Beach, Ilwaco, and surrounding communities can watch the Moon rise above the eastern horizon shortly after sunset. As it first appears, the Moon may glow orange, gold, or even reddish in color as its light passes through more of Earth’s atmosphere.

Some of the best viewing locations include the beaches along the Long Beach Peninsula, the shores of Willapa Bay, and open areas around Seabreeze Lake and local canals. Reflections from calm water can create spectacular photographic opportunities, while the silhouette of shore pine trees against the moonlit sky adds to the beauty of the scene.

This year’s Blue Moon is also a micromoon, meaning it occurs when the Moon is near its farthest point from Earth. Although it may appear slightly smaller than an average full moon, most observers will simply enjoy a bright and beautiful moon illuminating the coastal landscape.

For photographers, the best images are often captured shortly after moonrise when the Moon appears largest near the horizon. Coastal fog, marine haze, and scattered clouds common to Pacific County can add dramatic colors and textures to moonrise photographs.

Whether viewed from a beach, backyard, marina, or lakeside trail, tonight’s Blue Moon offers a reminder of the natural beauty that makes Pacific County such a special place to live. Take a few moments to step outside, look east after sunset, and enjoy a celestial event that won’t occur again for several years.