Are you ready for the first supermoon of 2022?
What if I told you there will be more than one supermoon this year, with names like the“super blood moon” or the “super flower moon?” You heard right. And, depending on who you ask, we are set to have up to three consecutive supermoons this year! That’s because the way we define a “supermoon” is a bit ambiguous. So, what exactly is a supermoon?
What is a Supermoon?
Supermoons generally happen once every 14 lunar cycles when a full moon coincides with its closest orbit to Earth, called the perigee. The term supermoon, coined by astrologer Richard Nolle, refers to a new or full moon at or near 90% of its perigee in a given orbit. That last bit is where the confusion stems from. The moon’s perigee distance varies throughout the year. The bottom line? We will have the opportunity to stare hypnotically at the big, beautiful moon come May 15 (which also coincides with a lunar eclipse!), June 14, and July 13. These are the three closest full moons of 2022!
How to See the Supermoon
The best way to get the real supermoon experience is to head somewhere with a good vantage point. You want to be able to get somewhere with a bit of elevation or with an unobstructed view to the east to see the massive full moon rising. Fortunately for us, we have plenty of options here on the Peninsula and in the South Bay. But which ones can you visit after nightfall?
Where to Go Moon Gazing
We chose these spots (listed below) because they are accessible after nightfall and have clear views to the east where you will be able to see the moon rise. Now the only question you need to answer is “which supermoon are you most excited to see?” The “super pink moon” or the “super flower moon?!”
Decisions, decisions…
Here are my go-to spots for moon gazing:
Monte Bello Open Space Preserve Parking Lot
Overview: Located just off Skyline Boulevard on Page Mill Road, this location is an ideal option for moongazing. The parking area has a bit of elevation and has amazing views of the Santa Clara Valley and the Mt. Hamilton range. It’s managed by Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and the parking area is open from dusk to 2 a.m. A no-fee permit is required for after-hours use, and camping and use of the surrounding trails during these hours is prohibited. Visit this link to apply for an after-hours astronomy permit.
Silicon Valley Vista Point
Overview: Here is another great option located off of Skyline Boulevard. Located next to the Russian Ridge Preserve, this is a popular scenic outlook that provides an amazing view of the Peninsula looking east. Be sure to bring some warm clothes as this area can get chilly in the winter months.
Coyote Point Recreation Area
Overview: If you are doing some moongazing with the kiddos, Coyote Point is a great option. It has a really cool playground and is easily accessible off the 101 freeway. It also looks out over the Bay so you can watch the supermoon rise above the Diablo Mountain Range.
The Foot of the Dumbarton Bridge
Overview: The southernmost bridge crossing the Bay is the Dumbarton Bridge. Unbeknownst to many, there is a pedestrian walkway that is accessible from the Shoreline Trail parking area. This scenic area is a great place to get some truly amazing shots of the supermoon rising over the Bay. It can get chilly while walking along the footpath, so bundle up!
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Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) protects open space on the Peninsula and in the South Bay for the benefit of all. Since its founding in 1977, POST has been responsible for saving more than 87,000 acres as permanently protected land in San Mateo, Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties. Learn more