Hawaii is a great place to see the fabled Green Flash.

The flash is a somewhat rare optical phenomena which may occur just before sunset, sometimes before sunrise.

Flashes of green can be observed from sea level or in the air, usually with an unobstructed horizon. Sunset or sunrise in Hawaii presents a clear view of the sun across the ocean, hence plenty of Green Flash Watchers in Hawaii.

Since 1974, I’ve only seen five green flash episodes in Hawaii; all at sunset. Just after the sun dips below the unobstructed horizon of the ocean, a “flash” occurs, sometimes large and bright, sometimes only a brief glimmer.

The flash is not stunning, though some photos have captured rather large flares of green.  The reason for the green flash is a bit complicated, dealing with light refraction through the atmosphere.

What is common in every case is the aforementioned unobstructed horizon, the sun (coming up or going down), some patience, and no blinking.

Some green flash episodes last a couple of seconds, the rare episode may go for 15 seconds, but I think you need your own jet plane to view that one.

I’ve heard of a “blue flash” but never saw one; never met anyone who did. At least, anyone sober.

In Jules Verne’s book, The Green Ray, the science fiction writer has the heroine Helena Campbell chasing a green flash. Supposedly, those who see the green flash will not choose a wrong love.

There are few green flashes these days. Maybe that is why there are so many wrong loves in life. Either that, or a lack of patience. Remember, you need patience to see the green flash.