The moon appeared 14 percent larger and 30 percent brighter than an average full moon, earning the nickname "supermoon."
The event happens when the moon is making its closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit.
Astronomers predicted the moon would come within 222,000 miles of Earth and turn full around 4:30 a.m. PT, making it the best time to view. According to NASA, that's about 17,000 miles closer than the typical full moon.
The moon was expected to look even larger if spotted over the horizon.
High tides were forecast because of the moon's proximity, but the effect was expected to be small.
The moon won't be this close again until August of next year.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
