What is the moon phase in Hawaii?

Gazing Up: What’s the Moon Doing in Hawaii Tonight?

Ever look up at the Hawaiian night sky and wonder what phase the moon is in? It’s more than just a pretty sight; the moon has been a guiding force in Hawaiian culture for ages, influencing everything from fishing trips to planting seasons. So, let’s dive in and see what the moon’s up to in Hawaii right now.

Right Now, the Moon’s Playing Hide-and-Seek

As of today, July 24, 2025, the moon in Hawaii is in its “New Moon” phase. Think of it as the moon taking a little break from shining. The New Moon actually happened earlier this morning, around 9:11 AM Hawaiian time. That means it’s hanging out between the Earth and the Sun, with its bright side facing away from us. So, it’s basically invisible from here.

Catching a Glimpse: When Will We See It Again?

Even though you can’t see it tonight, the New Moon is like the starting gun for a whole new lunar cycle. Keep an eye out over the next few evenings, and you’ll start to see a tiny sliver of light – that’s the Waxing Crescent moon making its debut. It’ll gradually grow bigger and bigger until we reach the First Quarter phase around August 1st.

Want the best view? Here’s the lowdown:

• Find the Dark: Get away from those city lights! The further you are from places like Honolulu, the better your chances of seeing a really clear moon.
• Timing is Everything: A lunar calendar is your friend. Check it out to find the exact times the moon will rise and set. That way, you can plan your moon-gazing adventure perfectly.
• Photographer’s Secret: If you’re into taking pictures of the full moon, try snapping them the night before. You’ll often get a great shot with some nice light on the land.

The Ancient Wisdom of the Hawaiian Lunar Calendar

The ancient Hawaiians were seriously in tune with the moon. They even created their own lunar calendar, called the ‘anahonua, with special names for each phase. This calendar wasn’t just for show; it guided their daily lives. It told them the best times to fish, plant crops, and even hold ceremonies.

Each phase had its own name and rules, or kapu. For instance, Hilo was the name for the new moon. And those Ole phases? They were considered bad luck for fishing because of rough seas. Then there was Hua, the almost-full moon, which was sacred to the god Lono and a great time for planting and fishing.

Mark Your Calendars: Lunar Events in 2025

2025 has some cool lunar events coming up that you won’t want to miss:

• Total Lunar Eclipse (March 13-14): Get ready for a show! We’ll be able to see different parts of the eclipse, with the main event happening between 8:24 and 9:32 p.m. HST on March 13. The moon will even turn a cool reddish color.
• Super Full Moon (November 5): This is when the moon looks extra big and bright. It’s definitely a sight to see!

The Moon’s Enduring Magic

The moon still has a hold on Hawaii, even today. You’ll find fishermen using moon phases to plan their trips, and many locals still feel a deep connection to its power. So, whether you’re an astronomy geek or just curious, understanding the moon phase in Hawaii gives you a special peek into the islands’ natural rhythms and rich traditions. Next time you’re under the Hawaiian sky, take a moment to appreciate the moon and its timeless influence.