If you love stargazing, one of July’s biggest celestial events is almost here. The full Buck Moon brings one of the brightest lunar displays of the summer – and you can’t miss it!
Why is it called the Buck Moon
The name comes from the time of year when male deer (bucks) begin growing their new antlers. Indigenous communities and early North American settlers used these seasonal markers to track the months. The traditional names for full moons are still used today.
However, as every other full moon, is has multiple names from multiple origins: Feather Moulting Moon, Salmon Moon, Berry Moon, Raspberry Moon, Halfway Summer Moon and more.
When to see the full moon in San Diego
Because of what we call the moon illusion, the moon will appear remarkably large when it sits low on the horizon. This is the best time for photo opportunities, especially against the backdrop of the city or the mountains!
The Buck Moon officially reaches peak illumination at 7:35 AM PDT on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.
Because peak fullness happens during the daylight hours here in California, you won’t actually be able to see the exact moment it peaks. Instead, the best times to view the near-perfect full moon are the evenings of Tuesday, July 28, and Wednesday, July 29.
Here’s when to look:
- Tuesday, July 28: The moon will rise in the east at 7:36 PM, just about 15 minutes before the sun sets in the west. This is the perfect window to see the massive full moon.
- Wednesday, July 29: The moon will rise a bit later, at 8:10 PM, giving you a great view against a darker sky shortly after sunset.
Where to get the best view
You won’t need a telescope to enjoy the show, but you will need a clear view of the eastern horizon. Because the coast (like Sunset Cliffs or Pacific Beach) faces west, you’ll want to either gain some elevation or head a bit inland.
Great spots around San Diego include:
- Mt. Soledad (La Jolla): 360-degree views, making it easy to watch the sunset in the west and immediately turn around to watch the moonrise in the east.
- Mount Helix (La Mesa): A fantastic inland vantage point with unobstructed views looking east.
- Cowles Mountain (Mission Trails): Up for a hike? The summit provides sweeping views.
Happy stargazing!
