bioluminescent tour vieques

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Welcome To Mosquito Bio Bay Tours

Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Vieques Bio Bay with our guided tours. Glide through the bioluminescent waters of Mosquito Bay by kayak or boat and witness the mesmerizing glow created by millions of microscopic organisms. This enchanting spectacle transforms the bay into a magical display of sparkling blue light. Ensure a safe and enjoyable experience by arriving on time for the safety meeting before your tour. Join us for an unforgettable adventure and connect with the wonders of nature in Vieques Bio Bay.

Discover Vieques Bio Bay Tours

At Discover Vieques Mosquito Bio Bay Tours, we are passionate about showcasing the natural wonders of Vieques, Puerto Rico. Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, Vieques is home to one of the most spectacular bio-luminescent bays in the world – Mosquito Bay.

Our mission is to provide an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the mesmerizing beauty of the bio-luminescent phenomenon. With our expert guides and top-quality equipment, we ensure a safe and enlightening journey through the glowing waters of Mosquito Bay.

As stewards of the environment, we are committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices and preserving the delicate ecosystem of the bio bay. Through education and awareness, we strive to foster a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of Vieques.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, our team is dedicated to providing exceptional service and creating memories that last a lifetime. Join us on a magical adventure and discover the enchanting allure of Vieques' bio bay with Mosquiyo Bio Bay Tours.

The Vieques Bio Bay tour offers a unique and captivating experience as you venture into the bioluminescent waters of Mosquito Bay. Witness the mesmerizing glow created by millions of microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates, which emit light when disturbed. As you kayak or boat through the bay, every movement creates a trail of sparkling blue light, turning the water into a magical spectacle.

Treasure hunts, this natural phenomenon is a must-see, providing an unforgettable adventure and a deeper connection to the wonders of nature. join a guided tour to explore the vieques bio bay and immerse yourself in this enchanting experience..

Experience the mesmerizing beauty of Vieques Bio Bay on our guided tours. Glide through the bio-luminescent waters and witness the magical glow created by microscopic organisms. Arrive on time for the safety meeting and join us for an unforgettable adventure in nature.

What is a bio bay tour?

A bio bay tour takes visitors on a guided kayaking adventure through bio-luminescent waters, where microorganisms emit a natural glow, creating a stunning luminescent effect in the water.

Where is the Vieques bio bay located?

The Vieques bio bay, known as Mosquito Bay, is located on the southern coast of Vieques Island, Puerto Rico. It is one of the brightest bioluminescent bays in the world.

When is the best time to take a bio bay tour?

The best time to experience the full bioluminescent effect is during moonless nights, typically around the new moon phase. However, tours are available throughout the month, weather permitting.

Are bio bay tours suitable for all ages and experience levels?Your Title Here

Yes, bio bay tours are generally suitable for all ages and experience levels. Most tour operators provide beginner-friendly kayaks and experienced guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

How long does a bio bay tour last?Your Title Here

Bio bay tours usually last around 2 to 3 hours, including kayaking time and a guided exploration of the bio bay. Tour durations may vary depending on the operator and specific tour package.

Is swimming allowed in the bio bay?

Swimming is typically not allowed in the bio bay to protect the fragile ecosystem and ensure visitor safety.

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Experience the Magic of Mosquito Bay…The Brightest Bioluminescent Bay in the World

Puerto Mosquito   (Mosquito Bay) is located on the southern shore of the island of Vieques, one of the islands of Puerto Rico.  This bay is often referred to as “magical”, those blessed with the opportunity to experience it always agree.  The bioluminescent bay in Vieques was officially declared the brightest in the world by Guinness Book of World Records in 2008.  Hurricane Maria caused much destruction on the island, it sadly disrupted the delicate balance of the bay, the beloved Mosquito Bay went dark.  To everyone’s surprise the bioluminescent bay not only recovered, but it is also brighter than it ever was in the past.

Don’t leave Isla de Vieques without   taking a tour   of this magnificent and magical natural wonder. It will be a magical, priceless memory to remember for a lifetime.    The bio bay is best experienced during a “New Moon” phase, so we’ve included an interactive moon phase calendar below to help you plan your trip accordingly.   In the waters of   Mosquito Bay , there are organisms named   Pyrodinium bahamense ,   Dinoflagellates   (dinos).  These “dinos” are responsible for this amazing natural phenomenon.  When the “dinos” come into contact with another organism or shaken they produce a bright burst of blue light.

Bioluminescent Bay Tours

Vieques, puerto rico, bioluminescent bay tours – updated september 2019.

Friendly and knowledgeable tour guides await to give you an unforgettable experience at the Bio Bay, you can explore it on a kayak tour or an electrically powered   boat .

• Abe’s Snorkeling & Bio Bay Tours    –  (787) 741-2134 or (939) 224-2095
• Bieque Eco Trips   – (787) 922-2701
• Black Beard Sports   – (787) 300-0155 or (787) 966-7540
• Blue Waters Caribbean Adventures – (844) 210-2922
• Din Din’s Bio Bay Tours – (787) 448-5931
• Fun Brothers   (787) 435-9372 or (787) 741-0151
• JAK Water Sports   – (787) 644-7112
• Melaya’s Tours   – (787) 222-7055
• Taino Aqua Adventures   – (787) 349-6964
• Travesias Isleñas – (787) 447-4104
• Vieques Kayaks – (787) 905-6782

What the World says of Bioluminescent Bay

"brightest bio bay in the world" by guinness world records, brightest bio bay in the world.

August 4, 2008 / Guinness Book of World Records 2008 –   Living Light

“The Mosquito Bioluminscent Bay on the Island of Vieques, Puerto Rico is the most bioluminescent in the World.  It contains up to 160,000 microscopic dinoflagelates per liter of water.

When agitated, these microscopic organisms (Pyrodinium bahamense or swirling fire) reacts emitting a blue-green light for about a decimal of a second. There are other bioluminescent bays around the island, but the Mosquito Bio Bay is the one that shines with the most intensity, its shallow and small entrance from the sea impedes the waves from washing away the dinoflagellates; and the mangrove trees, with their decomposition process, provides abundant food for the micro-organisms.”

One of the most 50 Most Romantic Places on Earth

One of the most 50 most romantic places on earth .

by Travel & Leisure

“Illuminated Vieques A guided tour on a motorboat isn’t the way most romantic evenings begin, but once you slip your body into Mosquito Bay, a bioluminescent lagoon off the island of Vieques, you’ll have forgotten the exhaust fumes. Millions of “stars” (actually, they’re microscopic organisms in the water) light up with a stunning blue-white glow, and scatter with every splash you make. Spielberg couldn’t ask for better special effects.”

Go With the Glow!! Is it Magic? by   National Geographic   (new window)

No, it’s not magic. With each paddle stroke, the girls stir up millions of tiny dinoflagellates (dy-no-FLAH-juh-luhts). When stirred at night, these plantlike life-forms glow beautifully. Each gallon of Mosquito Bay water holds some 750,000 dinoflagellates. Their combined light creates spectacular evening shows.

On the island of Vieques off the coast of Puerto Rico, Mosquito Bay’s dinoflagellates give off their bioluminescent (by-oh-loo-mih-NESS-ent) light from dusk until dawn. “In other parts of the world, bioluminescence is seasonal,” explains Sharon Grasso, a tour guide on Vieques. “But here, the water glows brightly year-round.”

Each night Grasso shows off the natural beauty of the bay. Passengers stare in awe as the tour boat leaves a glittering trail. They dip their hands in the water, leaving greenish-blue trails of their own.

Mosquito Bay’s displays are threatened, however. Bright artificial light from nearby developments can outshine the natural glow. Pollution, destruction of mangrove trees, dredging, land development, and overuse of the bay’s water can kill the fragile dinoflagellates. “We can’t let the lights go out,” says Grasso. “The magic of Mosquito Bay should live on forever.” 

Planning your Visit to the Bio Bay

What you can do to helps us preserve the bioluminescent bay.

Every one of us can do a little to ensure that our children and the next generations can enjoy this natural wonder.

• Do not swim in the bio bay.  It is against the law, responsible tour guides will not allow you to swim.  Any chemicals you apply to your skin such as bug repellent, lotions, etc. could cause harm to the delicate balance of the bio bay.
• Only book tours with licensed tour operators.  Tour guides that allow you to swim are breaking the law and not showing respect or love for the island.  If you’re on a kayak, you can touch the water to see the “starry lights” come to life against your skin.
• Please refrain from throwing any type of objects, food or trash on the water during your tour.  The smallest object, can or piece of trash can kill thousands of the precious little “dinos” that create the night show.

Interactive Moon Phase Calendar

Below you can see the current moon phases for this month. To best plan your trip to the bio bay, try to book a tour around new moon phases, when it is darkest at night, so you can maximize your bioluminescent bay experience. Click the calendar image to link the  full moon calendar  to see what the moon phases will be around your trip dates.

Bioluminescent Bay Videos

Following are a few videos to give you an idea of the phenomenon…but you have to be here to experience it, it is magic! It is truly hard to capture on a camera and to see it first hand is an experience like no other.

Puerto Rico   was blessed with 3 bioluminescent bays, the brightest is in Vieques.  Commonly known as Mosquito Bay by tourists, its formal is   Caño Hondo , commonly known as   Puerto Mosquito .  The Vieques Bio Bay is the perfect environment for these dinos to thrive and multiply, it is shallow and the mouth of the bay is small, so the bright tiny organisms are trapped and protected in the bay, making it very, very bright.  The mangroves surrounding the bay provide the perfect nutrition for the Pyrodinium bahamense.  Any changes in the delicate ecosystem can diminish the healthy balance of the bay.

The second brightest is   Laguna Grande   in   Fajardo , and the least bright is in   La Parguera in the town of Lajas   due to tourist exploitation and poor conservation efforts.  If you make it to Porta del Sol (west coast), we do encourage you to visit   La Parguera’s   Bio Bay, but instead of taking the boat trip, book a kayaking trip, they will take you to spots where boats can reach and the bioluminescence is brighter.

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🇵🇷  Puerto Rico Things to Do ⎮  Puerto Rico Bioluminescent Bays ⎮ Vieques Bioluminescent Bay – Mosquito Bay

Mosquito Bay is the most brilliant of the bioluminescent bays in the world, recognized as such by Guinness World Records in 2006 as The Brightest Bioluminescent bay in the World .

Top Rated Boat Tour – Mosquito Bay Bioluminescent Bay

Mosquito Bay, the brightest Bahia Bioluminiscente (Bioluminescent Bay) , is located on the gorgeous island of Vieques, a beach lover’s wonderland, part of the Puerto Rico archipelago.  This natural wonder was spooky, unfamiliar, and exotic to the first European explorers.  We can only imagine how bright it was centuries ago, but we can assure you that today, it still is a magical experience that no pictures or video can truly capture.  Don’t let the common name, Mosquito Bay , prevent you from experiencing this wonder of nature, although natural insect repellent is recommended, your journey will be pleasant.

Content – Mosquito Bay Visiting Guide

Brightness of mosquito bay, ways to experience mosquito bay.

• Need to Know Facts
• Tours to Mosquito Bay
• Best Places to Stay Nearby
• Map of Vieques Bioluminescent Bay

Getting to Mosquito Bay

• Itinerary Suggestions for Vieques
• Mosquito Bay on the Media

Tours to Mosquito Bay (Local)

Again, Mosquito Bay is the most brilliant of the bioluminescent bays in the world, recognized as such by Guinness World Records in 2006 as The Brightest Bioluminescent bay in the World .

The color of bioluminescence in Vieques is truly a bright blue .  Actually, we’ve seen many locations around the world using photos taken in Vieques.  The video below truly captured the real color and magic.  

Mosquito Bay has the largest concentration of dinoflagellates, and when combined with the low light pollution on the island, it is a spectacle on a Moonless / New Moon night.  Residents of Vieques and those blessed to have experienced the magical brightness of Mosquito Bay were concerned for the bioluminescent bay after Hurricane Maria.  To everyone’s surprise, it recovered quickly, and it became brighter than ever.   

In Vieques, you can experience Mosquito Bay by booking an electric pontoon boat or kayak tour.  Tours are led by passionate and educated guides who discuss the biology of bioluminescence at Mosquito Bay. 

Please Note: Kayak tours have weight limits.  

Need To know Facts

Pros of visiting vieques bioluminescent bay.

• Everything… the entire experience is wonderful… if you have the time to spend a night in Vieques .  Being in Vieques… exploring the undeveloped coastline , having dinner in Esperanza to the glow of the sunset, and ending the day at the bioluminescent day is such a special experience.
• Another benefit is that there are no crowds on tour.  If you can’t stay the night in Vieques, we highly recommend you go to the Lajas Bioluminescent Bay, fewer crowds, you are allowed to swim, great sunsets, great food and you can return to your hotel that night.

Cons of  Visiting Vieques Bioluminescent Bay

• You’ll have to stay overnight in Vieques , but we don’t see that as a negative if you have the time and budget.  We recommend you stay one or two nights, explore the beaches, and experience the magic of Mosquito Bay.  You’ll fall in love with Vieques, we certainly do every time we go.  See top-rated tours below.

Best Hotels / Small Inns to Stay Near Mosquito Bay

The following are top-rated hotels and small inns within walking distance of Esperanza, the point of departure for tours in Vieques.

• Esperanza Inn Guesthouse

Map - Mosquito Bay / Vieques Bioluminescent Bay

From esperanza, vieques.

Your adventure begins in Esperanza, located on the south side of Vieques, where most tours depart from.  If you’re staying one night, Esperanza is a good place to stay , there are a few small inns and restaurants.

Best Ways of Getting to Vieques

• By air – You may fly from San Juan Airport , Isla Grande , or Ceiba Airport .
• By ferry – You may get to Vieques by taking the ferry in Ceiba – You may drive there or take a taxi or private transfer (see transfers below).

+ See private transfers from San Juan to Ceiba Ferry & Airport

From san juan.

• Drive: It takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to drive from San Juan to Ceiba Airport / Ferry – Google Map Directions

From Fajardo

• Drive: It takes about 20 minutes to drive to Ceiba Ferry / Airport – Google Map Directions

From Rio Grande

• Drive: It takes about 45 minutes to drive to Ceiba Ferry / Airport . – Google Map Directions

Itinerary Suggestions

Vieques, one of the islands of Puerto Rico, fondly known as Isla Nena by Puerto Ricans, has a tumultuous history.   For six decades, two-thirds of the island of Vieques was under the control of the United States Navy and used for bombing practices.  In May of 2003, the Navy ceased the use of the island; although much damage was done to the land and water, ironically, it kept the island undeveloped.

Beaches – If you’re a beach lover, prepare for an unforgettable adventure.  Renting a jeep and beach hopping all day in Vieques is one of the most pleasurable and fun experiences in the Caribbean.  Each beach is different than the next; the waters are clear since no rivers are flowing into the waters.  If you only have one or two nights in Vieques, we recommend you go to the beaches on the south side inside the nature reserve, start at Playa Caracas, and go to the end, to Playa La Plata.  On the way, stop by Pata Prieta, a small beach cove with good snorkeling.  Stop to take a peak at Playa Escondida, perhaps the tiniest beach cove in the Caribbean.  You may want to spend the most time swimming and snorkeling in La Chiva.

Go snorkeling in Vieques – Bring your own snorkel gear.  The snorkeling is good in Vieques, not as good as Culebra, but very fun to do since no tours or boats are needed to access the best snorkeling spots.  La Chiva, Punta Arenas, Pata Prieta, the piers at Esperanza and Mosquito Pier are also popular spots.

Watch the Sunset – Head to Esperanza to have dinner to the glow of the sunset. 

Mosquito Bay in the Media

One of the most romantic places on earth by travel & leisure - by travel & leisure.

“Illuminated Vieques A guided tour on a motorboat isn’t the way most romantic evenings begin, but once you slip your body into Mosquito Bay, a bioluminescent lagoon off the island of Vieques, you’ll have forgotten the exhaust fumes. Millions of “stars” (actually, they’re microscopic organisms in the water) light up with a stunning blue-white glow, and scatter with every splash you make. Spielberg couldn’t ask for better special effects.”

Go With the Glow!! Is it Magic? by  National Geographic  (new window)

No, it’s not magic. With each paddle stroke, the girls stir up millions of tiny dinoflagellates (dy-no-FLAH-juh-luhts). When stirred at night, these plantlike life-forms glow beautifully. Each gallon of Mosquito Bay water holds some 750,000 dinoflagellates. Their combined light creates spectacular evening shows.

On the island of Vieques off the coast of Puerto Rico, Mosquito Bay’s dinoflagellates give off their bioluminescent (by-oh-loo-mih-NESS-ent) light from dusk until dawn. “In other parts of the world, bioluminescence is seasonal,” explains Sharon Grasso, a tour guide on Vieques. “But here, the water glows brightly year-round.”

Each night Grasso shows off the natural beauty of the bay. Passengers stare in awe as the tour boat leaves a glittering trail. They dip their hands in the water, leaving greenish-blue trails of their own.

Mosquito Bay’s displays are threatened, however. Bright artificial light from nearby developments can outshine the natural glow. Pollution, destruction of mangrove trees, dredging, land development, and overuse of the bay’s water can kill the fragile dinoflagellates. “We can’t let the lights go out,” says Grasso. “The magic of Mosquito Bay should live on forever.”

Living Light

August 4, 2008 / Guinness Book of World Records 2008

“The Mosquito Bioluminescent Bay on the Island of Vieques, Puerto Rico is the most bioluminescent in the World.  It contains up to 160,000 microscopic dinoflagelates per liter of water.

When agitated, these microscopic organisms (Pyrodinium bahamense or swirling fire) reacts emitting a blue-green light for about a decimal of a second. There are other bioluminescent bays around the island, but the Mosquito Bio Bay is the one that shines with the most intensity, its shallow and small entrance from the sea impedes the waves from washing away the dinoflagellates; and the mangrove trees, with their decomposition process, provides abundant food for the micro-organisms.”

Other Tours to Vieques You May Like

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Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay

Top ways to experience Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

The Pirate Bio Bay Tours 

787-436-6082

Vieques Puerto Rico

Locally owned and operated tour guide company.

We know Vieques better!

Allow us to introduce you to the magical sight of our bioluminescent bay in our clear kayaks, and with our knowledgable and fun tour guides 

A once in a lifetime  experience

Vieques has the brightest bio bay in the world! Our clear kayaks make your time in the bay just magical. 

We limit our tours, which makes it more open for conversation and enjoyment.

Bio Bay Kayak Tour

Experience our nighttime  Bioluminescent Bay tour in our clear kayaks, with our educational and super fun guides.

Surround yourself with the magic!

to book your chosen date and time for the Bio Bay Tour, click the link below

Snorkel tour.

Guided Snorkel Tours to the best spots in  Vieques . Imagine  the possibility of marking that

"swim with  turtles" off of your bucket list! 

for more information on our Snorkel Tours, click the link below, or contact us at 787-671-3862

[email protected]

Read here for information regarding our COVID-19 response

ABE'S SNORKELING & BIOBAY TOURS

Tours on vieques island in puerto rico, experience vieques island with abe's, biobay tours, snorkeling tours.

• Most Popular!
• Key Hole All experience levels
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Biobay Tour

Discover the beauty and science of bioluminescence, along with the life of the Pyrodinium Bahamense, the single-celled organism responsible for this amazing glow. Hop in your kayak and let’s go!

• Featured tour!
• Key Hole Intermediate/Advanced
• Hour Glass 3.5 hours

Tres Palmitas Snorkeling Tour

Take a paddle around a mangrove forest, kayak to a completely remote beach and snorkel from the shore, then head into the Caribbean Sea and paddle near sea caves on this four-hour elite journey.

Paddle With The Pirate!

Once you get to Vieques, you need to paddle with the pirate! A local islander raised in St. Croix, Abe grew up on the water. He made it his mission to teach people about the biobay and our local Vieques ecology while having a great time. Abe has been doing tours in Vieques for 20 years – longer than any other tour company in Vieques!

The Most Recommended Tour Company in Vieques!

I recommend taking the BioBay Tour with Abe's, everything was perfect, they answered all our questions and it was a very safe Tour. Our guide Serina was very friendly and was always aware of the group. It was an unforgettable experience.

First time we visited the bioluminescent bay in Vieques! We had a great time with our guide David and his assistant Charlene. They offered us a lot of interesting information about the marine life in the Mosquito Bay and we had no problems in seeing the dinoflagellates, even though there was a full moon.

The tour guide was fantastic! We thoroughly enjoyed his commentary and guide through the bio bay! We met Abe and he is great! His store is awesome too. It has everything you need and may have left behind!

It was a magical experience, something you'll never forget. Our tour guide, Steve, was very friendly, humorous and entertaining, who made the tour full of fun. I have even played guitar and sang two songs while we were exploring the bay on our own. Strongly recommended Abe's.

This was the highlight of our trip to San Juan, Culebra and Vieques! Our guide Cally was knowledgeable, entertaining and very cool. We did the all day tour with kayaking, snorkeling and then the bio bay. It was worth every penny.

Abe went step by step in getting us the information we needed. He did great with recognizing our abilities and tailored his approaches to my wife and I. He went at our pace and gave us the fundamental we needed to enjoy our week in the ocean. I would recommend him to anyone who has never snorkeled before.

My family has been coming to the island for 6 years and we have been on a number of bio bay tours. Abe's is the best by far. Their guides are knowledgeable, professional, and very helpful. Abe's also has great snorkeling and kayaking trips.

I have been all over the world and have been in luminescent waters before but nothing like this. Truly amazing!! Our guide really explained so much about the bay itself, what has been done, what is being done to conserve it going forward. It is amazing and totally recommend this tour.

Why is it Important to Snorkel with One of our Guides?

Guides help keep you safe by avoiding natural hazards

Guides keep the coral reefs and sea life safe from accidental harm

Guides educate you on the natural species you may find while snorkeling

Guides are there to help you identify sea life you may not notice without a guide

Guides teach you important techniques for using all the equipment

It’s more fun, educational, and safe to go with Abe’s guides!

How to Visit the Bioluminescent Bay in Mosquito Bay in Vieques, Puerto Rico

Most things that sound too good to be true usually are. When we first heard about the bioluminescent bay in Vieques, we weren’t sure what to expect. The whole concept sounded unreal. A glowing bay? What makes it glow? Is it radio active or something? Is it really as bright as it is in the pictures?

While most people who visit Puerto Rico tend to stick around San Juan, we’ve found that most opportunities for adventure happen outside of the the capital. Keep reading to find out how you can experience this magical place too.

THE BIO BAY AT MOSQUITO BAY IN VIEQUES, PUERTO RICO IS A TRULY INCREDIBLE SIGHT TO SEE.

Vieques and Mosquito Bay

Vieques, also known as “Isla Nena” (Little Girl Island) is just east of the main island of Puerto. Here you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches, wild horses, and the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.

As it turns out, Mosquito bay in Vieques, Puerto Rico is the brightest bio bay in the world. And there are three bio bays on the island, but only a five more in the whole world. We took a tour with Bieque Ecotrips to get a closer look at this natural phenomenon.

The name “Mosquito Bay” comes from the sea of bloodthirsty insects surrounding the bay. But it’s nothing that a long-sleeve shirt can’t protect you from. Resist covering yourself in bug spray so that we can protect and enjoy this place for years to come.

Once we were in the water we didn’t see much at first, but as we got a little further into the bay we saw it. A neon-blue flash of light surrounding the oars as we paddled along.

When we looked a little closer we could see thousands of tiny organisms giving off light when moved. These are dinoflagellates, and they’re so small that three of them can fit on the tip of a needle. They luminescence with movement like tiny lightening bugs in water.

It takes a special combination of factors for these organisms to thrive, and Mosquito Bay has them all: Reg mangrove trees, cool water, and a small opening to the ocean.

In fact, when the Spanish discovered this area, they thought the glowing water was the work of El diablo and tried to cut off the bay from the ocean by making the opening even smaller. But this only trapped more of these tiny creatures and made the bio bay brighter.

How to Get to Vieques

By uber and ferry.

IMPORTANT: Our trip was before hurricane Maria! All the old ferries from Fajardo now run through Ceiba .

We took an Uber from Carolina (near San Juan) to Fajardo where we awaited the ferry to Vieques. Ubers are readily available through the San Juan area, and the one-way trip cost us $50.58 before tip. You could take a taxi, but why pay more?

At the Fajardo Ferry Terminal we paid $2 each for a one way ticket to Vieques. The ride itself takes about 45-minutes. Click here for ferry schedules .

Another option for getting to Vieques is to fly there from San Juan. This might be a better option for you if you’re traveling solo. Cape Air has daily flights to Vieques and Culebra island . We met up with our friend Jen from Jen on a Jetplane in Vieques, and she opted to fly because she’s awesome at finding super cheap flights.

Vieques Transportation

From the vieques ferry terminal.

Once in Vieques you’ll see a swath of vans and van drivers waiting to transport new arrivals to their final destinations near the ferry terminal. We hopped in a van with a couple who just so happened to be visiting from my hometown in Minnesota (weird, right?). The van driver took us straight to the hotel where we all happened to be staying at as well. It’s a small world after-all.

From the Vieques Airport

Much like the at the Ferry Terminal, you can find van drivers and taxis awaiting new arrivals outside of the airport. Here you’ll find some Vieques taxi contact information if you’d like to setup your ride before your arrival.

Where to Stay

We stayed a cozy guesthouse called Villa Coral . We stayed there because our friend Jen had booked her room there already, but we were really satisfied with how helpful the staff was there and how comfortable the rooms are. Airbnb is usually our go-to when looking for accommodations, but if you want a comfy place to stay with a shared second floor balcony and chilled out rooftop, check out Villa Coral!

Bio Bays in the World

• Number of Bio Bays

Did you know there are only five bio bays in the world? And three of them are in Puerto Rico. You can find them in Laguna Grande in the north-east in Fajardo, La Parguera, and at Mosquito Bay in Vieques.

Booking a Bio Bay Tour

There are multiple tour companies that will show you the Bio Bay. We went with Bieque Eco Trips . They have clear-bottomed kayaks to give you that extra level of coolness while yours paddling your way through the brightest Bio Bay on the planet. Here’s the contact info for a number of different bio bay tour companies:

• Bieque Eco-Trips – (787) 922-2701
• Melaya’s Tours – (787) 222-7055
• Abe’s Biobay Kayak Tour – (787) 741-2134
• Taino Aqua Adventures – (787) 349-6964
• Island Adventures – (787) 741-0720 (boat tour)
• Jak Water Sports – (787) 644-7112
• Vieques Adventure Company – (787) 692-9162

Bio Bay Tours generally cost $45-60 USD per person.

When to See the Bioluminescence

In order to truly appreciate this natural phenomenon you have to see it when it’s pitch-black out. Unless you have a very special camera for nighttime photography, you can forget about capturing the bioluminescence on film. In fact, most bio bay ads you see online include some super fake photoshopped photos for this very reason. Cameras just can’t do it justice. So make sure you plan your trip for a night when there is a new moon, or at least within a day or two of a new moon to see the glow in all it’s glory. This resource here will help you do just that.

How to Photograph the Biobay

“But Jim, you just said to forget about photographing it.” Yes, I did. But I’m stubborn and went well out of my way risking thousands of dollars of camera equipment to the murky waters of the bio bay to show you what it kind of looks like. Nobody tells Jim Fricker what he can or cannot do. 😅

So, if you want to the same and try to get a photo or video of the bioluminescent bay, you’re going to need a special camera, a lot of will power, and some patience. This is not a tutorial for beginners. If you don’t understand the terms like “ISO” or “fast lens” you might want to hold off on attempting this until you have a bit more experience. Here’s the quick version of how to photograph the bio bay.

Photography

Most cameras that have manual settings can pull this off. You’ll just be limited to using a tripod on the side of the bay and hope that it’s either raining (the bay lights up like crazy when it rains according to our guide) or that you have a good zoom lens and can see people on a tour kayaking. Of course you’re going to get a ton of blur because of the long exposure you’ll need to see anything. But with some luck and patience, you can get a blurry glimpse of what the glow looks like to show your friends.

Video of the Bio Bay

Sony a7S II ILCE7SM2/B 12.2 MP E-mount Camera with Full-Frame Sensor, Black

To capture video of the bay, you’re going to need the best low-light camera you can find and afford to pull this off. And probably some decent equipment insurance since you’ll be using the camera in a kayak at night. When we went to the bio bay the best camera available for this job was the Sony A7s II .

You’re going to want to couple this the fastest lens you can afford and get ready to crank the ISO all the way up to 409600 (or possibly higher if you are reading this years after publication and the Sony A7s IV or something is out.) Will it be noisy? Yes. Will it be worth it? Maybe.

Shoot in 4k so you can do some stabilization in post and hopefully have some semi-stable footage when you export to 1080p. When kayaking, focus on your hand when it’s just touching the water, then hit record.

With any luck, you’ll have not fallen into the water with all of your camera gear, and have captured the bioluminescence. Now de-noise that footage to the best of your ability using Neat Video or something similar. And ta dah! You now hopefully have some decent footage of the bio bay. Not a very common thing to have in 2019.

Further Reading

We went on this tour with our friend Jen from Jen on a Jet Plane. Learn more about this incredible place on her blog here !

You might also be interested in:

• Things to Do in Culebra, Puerto Rico
• Understanding Puerto Rican Spanish
• 7 Tips for Renting a Car Abroad

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How to Visit Mosquito Bay, the Vieques Bioluminescent Bay in Puerto Rico

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Thinking about visiting the Vieques bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico?

You should — it’s well worth the trip. Vieques is a small island off the coast of Puerto Rico that is comparatively untouched and offers a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of San Juan, the first stop for most tourists visiting Puerto Rico.

The Vieques Bio Bay, also known as Mosquito Bay, is a bucket list destination.

There are only five bioluminescent bays around the world, with Vieques’ being the brightest and most magical.

In recent years, preservation efforts have been kicked up a notch since tourism was affecting the sensitive makeup of the water.

Today, it’s beautifully restored and visitors can do their part to make sure it stays that way.

If you’re able to fit it in to your schedule, I highly recommend a visit.

Note that seeing the BioBay in its full splendor requires an overnight trip.

You can visit it during the day, but you won’t see it light up.

This means you’ll need to stay at least one night in Vieques since ferries or planes won’t be running by the time you’re finished.

Here’s everything you need to know to visit Vieques’ bioluminescent bay.

RELATED POST: VISITING CUEVA DEL INDIO ON A DAY TRIP FROM SAN JUAN

Where to see bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico

There are actually  three bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico.

Can you believe it? Five in the whole world and three of those are in Puerto Rico!

If that’s not reason enough to book your next trip to the  Isla de Encanto , I don’t know what is. The two other locations are Jamaica and Vietnam.

Of the three in Puerto Rico, Mosquito Bay in Vieques is the largest and most impressive.

Those who aren’t able to make their way over to Vieques, however, can also find bio bays in Fajardo (Laguna Grande) and Lajas (La Parguera).

The bioluminescent bay in Lajas is the only one that allows swimming.

If snorkeling in the glowing waters sounds appealing to you, you can head there but be aware that chemicals on your skin, from sunscreen to lotion, all affect the fragile ecosystem and composition of the water.

For those reasons, the bio bay in Lajas is the least bright of the three and may not even glow for much longer.

RELATED POST: IS PUERTO RICO SAFE?

What makes the bays glow?

The glowing phenomenon is caused by single-celled microorganisms called dinoflagellates.

These organisms glow whenever they are touched or disturbed in any way.

There are billions of them in the water, with the number of organisms having a directly correlation to how brightly the bay will shine.

Through photosynthesis, the dinoflagallates capture light with their chlorophyll, which has a blue-green hue.

The chlorophyll them becomes luminescent when agitated.

While you cannot see the individual organisms with the naked eye, the presence of billions of dinoflagallates in one place give the water a bright, blue-green glow.

RELATED POST: THINGS TO DO IN CULEBRA

How to get to Vieques from Puerto Rico

You can get to Vieques in one of two ways — fly or take the ferry.

I recommend flying for ease of transport. It’s a 25 minute flight on a small propeller plane out of San Juan International Airport (SJU) and if you book far enough in advance the prices are very reasonable, usually less than $50 each way.

You can also fly from San Juan’s Isla Grande Airport (SIG) for a little less.

Airlines that have flights to Vieques include JetBlue, Cape Air and Seaborne Airlines. Flights leave multiple times a day.

In the alternative, you can take a ferry from Fajardo or Ceiba.

Note, the ferry is touch and go. Locals get priority and the schedule can fluctuate, so you’d need to get there first thing in the morning and hope you maybe willl be allowed on, if it’s running at all.

The ferry itself takes about 45 minutes and costs less than $5 roundtrip. However, the port is about an hour’s drive from San Juan if you have your own vehicle and can take up to 4 hours on shared transport.

Taking a taxi to the ferry port is an option but will run you about $100 so you’re better off paying for the flight at that point and saving yourself the trouble.

RELATED POST: 12 FUN THINGS TO DO IN VIEQUES

Best bio bay tour in Vieques

I went on a glass bottom kayaking tour with Bieque Eco Trips and had a phenomenal experience.

They picked me up from a meeting point in Vieques city center and took us to the beach where we would embark on our late-night kayaking adventure.

Almost all of the tours will pick you up from the same place — the Malecon — across from the El Blok Hotel. It’s convenient to stay in the area. 

You leave when it’s pitch black as that’s when the bioluminescence is best seen.

They had glass bottom boats so we could see the organisms light up as the kayaks passed through the water.

It was like rowing through the stars.

We could also reach down into the water and touch the organisms, which lit up our hands.

Our guide gave us background about the surrounding environment, showing us the mangrove forest immediately adjacent to the water.

The highlight of our tour was when he began stood on the kayak and rocked it from side to side, causing a rippling effect of color amongst the dark waters.

RELATED POST: FINDING PINK LAKES IN CABO ROJO, PUERTO RICO 

Know before you go

Did you see the wishy-washy dance at the 2:15 mark? Incredible.

You need special equipment to capture the bioluminescence. It will not show up on your iPhone.

I went with my friends Jim and May from Spanish and Go, professional videographers committed to getting footage of the scene.

They came with enough equipment to shoot their own Netflix documentary.

In the event of capsizing, Jim made sure to note that he would be going down while holding the equipment up for someone to rescue. 

Don’t worry, the odds of you going overboard are slim to none if you follow directions.

Their effort was well worth it, check out their video above! As you can see, the glow is alive and well in Mosquito Bay. This footage is from August 2017.

Some other things to note — I did not get wet in the kayak and felt safe with our guides.

It is not recommended that you attempt to visit the Bio Bay on your own. The road there is perilous, windy and thin and doesn’t have any sort of street lights to help you see.

Most importantly, you should  plan your visit during a new moon and not a full moon because the light from the moon dims out the organisms.

I’ve read reviews from people who were disappointed it didn’t shine as brightly as they’d hoped — these people didn’t plan accordingly.

Aim for 2-3 days on either side of the new moon for the best viewing. You can access a lunar calendar here if you’re unsure if the new moon will coincide with your visit.

Till next time, safe travels!

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Liked this post? Pin me below:

Michelle Rice

Saturday 19th of March 2022

Add another to the list of bioluminescence - Maldives - Mudhdhoo Island - the new moon bioluminescence. Thank you for the informative article!

Sunday 6th of September 2020

This was such a helpful read — thank you for sharing! For the tour you chose, what time does the tour group meet/leave for the beach? I want to make sure I arrive to the island with enough time to catch a tour!

Jen on a Jet Plane

I recall it being around 6-7pm so I would take an afternoon flight at the latest, like 1-3pm or otherwise try for the ferry super early in the morning. So glad you found the post helpful!

Richard B Turnbow

Sunday 12th of January 2020

How did you get around on the island and did you stay the night before and the rest of the night after the tour? or only one night? How did you get from the kayak tour back to your accommodations?

You will need to stay overnight as neither ferries or planes will be departing from the island after the tour is finished, late at night. I stayed two nights but you can do it with one. I also stayed near the Malecon, which was the meeting area for the shuttle to and from the kayaking experience, included in the price of the tour. I walked to the Malecon, otherwise I used a taxi to get to and from the hotel and the airport.

Christia Candler

Friday 22nd of November 2019

I really loved that one, because it is full of fascinating facts and it is a kind of easygoing article. I spent only a few minutes studying, and due to well-structured text, so I know it totally.

Saturday 17th of August 2019

Your blog has been so helpful for me as I plan my trip to PR in September! How much did it cost you to do the BioBay tour with the company you chose? Their website doesn't list any prices?

Wednesday 21st of August 2019

It was around $50, you can call them at 787-922-2701 to confirm. Bring cash for a tip and remember to plan for the weekend with the least ambient lighting (new moon). It's a bucket list experience, you'll never forget it!

​ Full Transparent Kayak

Bio Bay Tours on Vieques Island on a Full Transparent Kayak

Come enjoy the World's brightest Bioluminescent Bay,in our Transparent Kayaks an unforgettable Caribbean experience.

[email protected]

(787) 644-7112

Hours of Operation Monday — Sunday, 9:00 a.m. — 11:00 p.m.

Biobay Tour

Once-in-a-Lifetime Bioluminescent Experience!

At the prescribed time, we meet on the dirt parking lot close to the fisherman dock in Esperanza on road 996 .  Your Eco interpretive guides call the group of kayakers together for a briefing session covering basic kayak handling, rules of the road and the importance of keeping to a minimum any disturbance of the pristine environment of the bioluminescent bay.

Explore these amazing organisms up close in our  group excursions led by knowledgeable interpretive guides. Learn how this fragile and unique ecosystem maintains a perfect balance of life, and what we all can do to protect and preserve such a special place on planet earth!

Our approx. 2-hour and 15 minutes (including check-in) guided bio bay CLEAR BOTTOM KAYAK  excursion  includes interesting interpretations about the reserve’s fragile ecological system, star constellations, and a fascinating encounter with millions of bioluminescent organisms. As you glide along in your kayak, experiencing this unusual nighttime phenomenon and seeing how fish light up their path like shooting stars in the water, you might get the feeling that the dark Caribbean sky is jealous of the glowing water below as it tries to catch up with streaking meteors and impressive constellations!

“Bienvenidos” to a unique and rare Bioluminescent Experience, an adventure not to be missed while on Vieques Island! Join JAK’s fully guided night trip into one of the most amazing natural phenomena of the world with our tandem  CLEAR BOTTOM KAYAK ! This pristine ecosystem teems with astonishing marine life, inhabiting a secluded bay protected by mangrove forests. You will meet our glowing friends, the Pyrodinium bahamense , a microscopic plankton capable of producing natural light at the touch of your hand!

Reservations

We love to talk directly with our clients! For availability, trip times and reservations, please call us at (787) 644-7112 . 

We don’t book thru TripAdvisor, VIATOR or other Third- Party Site.

Please be prepared with the following information:

• Number of people in your group, email address
• The name of your lodgings in Vieques (see Things to Know). 
• A Visa, MasterCard or Discover number to guarantee your reservation. SPACES WILL NOT BE RESERVED WITHOUT A CREDIT CARD. (See Cancellation Policy).
• You should receive an email confirmation of your reservation with directions. If it didn’t arrive, check your SPAM folder, then give us a call and we will resend it. Please see our cancellation policy FAQs for more details.

Cancellation Policy FAQs

• Cancel or change your reservation prior to 10am the day of your tour at no charge!
• Arrive by your check in time to depart with your tour group.
• Fill all your reserved spaces. We will charge the card on file for all unused reserved spaces at the full rate.
• We charge the card on file for all large groups 48 hrs. prior to your tour.
• Need to change or cancel your group reservation? Call before 48 hours and we will happily make changes at no charge!

Groups of 4 or less persons will pay at check-in. If you are paying with the CC on file, please bring it with you for both your and our fiscal safety. You may optionally pay with cash.

Groups of 5+, we charge the card on file 48 hours prior to your tour date and time.

It is the client’s responsibility to arrive to Vieques island on time for their reserved activities or Bio bay tour. Travel delays to Vieques do not constitute a reason for refunds. 

Our recommendation is to fly into Vieques and/or to travel one day prior to reduce your stress and enjoy an extra Vieques activity or beach time! If you are a stress junkie and will travel to Vieques the same day of your tour by the Puerto Rico Ferry, we highly recommend traveling in the morning to avoid delays especially during the high season of December through April.

You may check ferry departure times and purchase tickets at PuertoRicoFerry.com . Please note, PR Ferry only sells ~20% of the tickets online. All other tickets must be purchased at the terminal window. Please read their cancellation policy as we provide this information as a courtesy.

The tour is not cancelled on rainy days, as Puerto Mosquito is almost completely enclosed by a mangrove forest so it is still safe and the water is still glowing under the rain. We make all the determinations about weather cancellations however, so please call us according to your applicable courtesy period  if you decide the weather might not be acceptable, as you will be charged if the trip goes out and you do not cancel your reservation according to our cancelation policy. 

JAK Water Sports and Rental reserves the right to cancel or reroute any tour due to acts of nature or unforeseen circumstances that would hinder our ability to safely run a trip. If we are unable to provide you with another trip, any money paid will be fully refunded. 

Things to Know About Your Tour

On the south side of Vieques Island, in Esperanza, off of State Rd 996 ( Google Map)  on the dirt parking lot near the fisherman’s dock.

Insect repellant is optional. If you use one, please select a Deet-free kind to minimize bay contamination and harm to the bioluminescent dinoflagellates.

Clothes that can get wet : Long sleeve top (temps drop at night certain months of the year) and shorts.

Flip-flops or Crocs. To help keep our clear bottom kayaks clear and scratch free, you will remove your shoes on the shoreline. We will help you to store them in the kayak.

Please leave large bags at your lodgings as there is not storage on the kayaks or the meeting place. If you bring a small bag, please take precautions to keep it dry as this is a water activity.

• Vieques Insider Magazine for guesthouses and hotels
• local real estate agents who are also property managers

First time kayakers are welcome and as most of our clients are first timers, we provide a kayak briefing and paddling instruction before every excursion.

Our kayaks have a combined weight limit of 385 lbs.  If you need special accommodations, please inform us at the time of your booking so that we can provide them. JAK Water Sports reserves the right to assign kayaks as needed.

JAK Water Sports operates in compliance with PR DNER regulations. There are no tours of the Vieques bio bay the day before the full moon, the day of the full moon, and the day after the full moon each month. Some months have two full moons.

This tour takes place in a natural environment. The bioluminescent phenomenon, although rare elsewhere, can be seen year-round in Vieques, however, all natural ecosystems are dynamic and their conditions can vary. Puerto Mosquito is known as a bright and stable bioluminescent bay , but the intensity of the glow may fluctuate due to unpredictable natural changes beyond our control. Most important – the glow is always there! ENJOY THE SHOW!  

Safety and Physical Condition Restrictions

• children under 4 years of age
• women pregnant 6 or more months
• those who have epilepsy, back problems, heart conditions, dizziness, recent surgery
• any other condition that may put life (yours, our guides, or other guests) at risk

Water sports, especially those involving motorboats, offer a thrilling combination of speed and adrenaline.

BiOBAY TOUR

ADVENTURE TOURS

Call us today to make a reservation.

An unforgettable experience. Come and see the wonders of the Island of Vieques. 

Explore the greatness of Vieques Island with us.

We offer snorkeling tours and the unforgettable experience of visiting the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.

Cancellation Policy - Once the reservation is completed, you must provide us 24 hour notice prior to your tour to cancel and receive a full refund.  If a cancellation is made within 24 hours of the tour a full charge for the activity will be made.  In the event that we cancel the activity, you will receive a full refund. Same day reservations can't be cancelled, if a guest does not show up for their tour we will charge the total amount of the reservation. We don't cancel activities for rain.    Reschedules with 24 hour or less notice, has an extra charge of $30 per person. 

Puerto Rico Bioluminescent Bay Guide

The best bioluminiscent bays in puerto rico.

Updated June 2024 ⋅ Written by Laura Schulthies ⋅ Edited by Daniel Mode

The Bioluminescent Bays Of Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico bioluminescent bays are a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed. There are five known bioluminescent bays in the world, three of which are in Puerto Rico. They are a unique attraction that shouldn’t be missed, and visiting them is the perfect nighttime adventure. Pictures can’t do them justice as they are truly a sight to see.

Puerto Rico Map

What is a Bioluminescent Bay?

The water in bioluminescent bays can be as bright as stars and light up thanks to millions of single-celled microorganisms called dinoflagellates. Whenever these microorganisms are disturbed in the water from a paddle, a swimmer’s arms, or a boat motor coming by, they glow a neon blue!

Dinoflagellates can also be found in oceans, but they are more concentrated in the bays, so the glow is far more noticeable. Going to a bay with minimum light pollution is essential.

When to Visit a Bioluminescent Bay

The three bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico light up year round. However, the best time of year to see the bioluminescence is during the country’s dry season, from December to April.

Rain can make the waters murky and challenging for the light to shine through, so its advised not to go during or after a shower.

The dry season is also the most popular time to visit the island of Puerto Rico, so there are high numbers of tourists around. Be sure to book your bioluminescent bay tour early!

What are the Three Bioluminescent Bays in Puerto Rico

Which of the three bioluminescent bays should you visit on your next trip to Puerto Rico? Here is a little more information to help you decide.

Vieques is a beautiful island off the east coast of Puerto Rico, accessible by ferry from the mainland. The brightest bay in Puerto Rico, Mosquito Bay on Vieques, has some of the best views for dinoflagellates.

Known as the “brightest bay in the world,” it is truly a magical place to visit and experience on the island of Vieques. The tours here are less crowded, the island is lovely, and you’re sure to make some great memories.

  Check out this excellent Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Trip From Vieques .

    Or take a look at all of the other Bioluminescent Tours of Vieques.

Laguna Grande

Located on Puerto Rico’s east coast near the capital city of San Juan, you can easily book a kayak or small motorboat tour of Laguna Grande and the adjacent mangrove canal.

San Juan is a popular tourist destination, so this may be the most accessible bioluminescent bay to visit if you’re in San Juan or the El Yunque area.

   Bioluminescent Tours abound in Laguna Grande! Check out all of these amazing bioluminescent tour options .

    Take a look at these tours that stand out for excellence in Laguna Grande. Check out this Bio Bay Kayak Tour In Puerto Rico or this Bio Bay Kayak Tour In Fajardo .

La Parguera

On the west coast of Puerto Rico is La Parguera bay, which has been the main attraction of this part of Puerto Rico for a long time.

Unfortunately, it is the least bright of the bays due to hazy water, and there was a restriction on tours coming to the area so it could heal for a couple of years. As a result, tour companies now only take small groups in small boats to the area, with kayaking always being an option as well.

Check out these excellent tours  La Parguera Bio Bay and Hot Springs Tour or La Parguera Glowing Bioluminescent Bay Boat Tour .

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This post has 2 comments.

Which of the bioluminescent bays is the least crowded? My daughter really wants to visit but doesn’t like being around super large crowds. Thanks!

None of them have super large crowds. Your guide will find space for you without a problem. 😊

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• previous post: The Best Puerto Rico All Inclusive Resorts

9 of the best places in the world to see bioluminescence

May 15, 2024 • 7 min read

Some beaches around the world, like Mosquito Bay in Vieques, Puerto Rico experience bioluminescence © Shutterstock

The natural world is full of wonders, but is there anything more mesmerizing than swimming at night in a sea glowing with bioluminescence? Or spying on flickering fireflies in woodland as they dance through the air? 

Bioluminescence is when living organisms – animals, plants and fungi – produce and emit light, and Mother Nature adds this touch of whimsy to the environment in many different forms and in many different places. You just have to know where to look.

You could be closer to some of these sparklers than you realize. Here are our favorite places to go for the glow.

1. San Juan Island, Washington, USA

The still waters of Garrison and Westcott Bays, just off San Juan Island , are the setting for a spectacular light show in Washington State . These nutrient-rich bodies of water create an environment that fosters bioluminescent microorganisms – a natural attraction that travelers flock to once the sun has set. 

San Juan Island Outfitters offers tours timed with the new moon in summer for peak visibility. 

Post-glow activities: Grab a pint at San Juan Brewing Company . The next day, check out the wildlife and the lighthouse in nearby Lime Kiln Point State Park .

Planning a trip to the San Juan Islands? Here's everything you need to know before you go

2. Koh Rong, Cambodia

When most people think of Cambodia , Angkor Wat springs to mind. In the southern part of the country near Sihanoukville is another epic experience: Koh Rong , an island where you can snorkel in sparkling bioluminescent waters. Book a boat tour that will take you out on the water, and be sure to swirl your hand through the water to see the plankton at their brightest.

Stay at Long Set Resort , which gives guests a shoreline view of the twinkling colors lighting up the sea. 

Post-glow activities: Mountain bike through the forest or take an ocean dive to view marine wildlife. 

Explore beyond Koh Rong with our guide to Cambodia's other best experience

3. Manialtepec Lagoon, Mexico

In Mexico , Oaxaca’s Manialtepec Lagoon is known for its bioluminescent light show. While you can stay in the boat, jumping in is encouraged. In ancient times, the locals believed in the youthful magic of bathing in the phosphorescent lagoon. Just be sure to time your nighttime dip with the new moon, as light makes it challenging to see the bioluminescence.

Stay in Puerto Escondido and book a tour from there — they are offered most nights. The lagoon is less than 30 minutes from Puerto Escondido.

Post-glow activities: Bird-watching is a must in Manialtepec Lagoon. Parrots, pelicans, falcons, ospreys, herons, kingfishers and hawks call the area home.

Going to Mexico for the first time? Here's what you need to know  

4. Waitomo Caves, New Zealand

One of the most iconic examples of bioluminescence, the otherworldly glowworms of New Zealand ’s Waitomo Caves make even the most experienced naturalists stop in their tracks. In a striking display, the worms dangle from stalactites reaching down from the caves’ ceiling, blanketing the surface in a bright blue glow.

Visitors can book a number of tours, including the main Glowworm Cave , at the nearby visitor center .

Post-glow activities: Once you get your fill of the glittery critters, head over to the Ruakuri Caves and Bush Scenic Reserve and walk the trail loop, taking in views of the rocky gorge and limestone formations.

Find your way around New Zealand with our guide to transportation options

5. Vieques, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is home to three bioluminescent bays, the most spectacular of which is Mosquito Bay on  Vieques , a small island off the east coast. Mosquito Bay has long held the title of the brightest bioluminescent spot in the world, and for good reason – millions of single-celled organisms called dinoflagellates glow bright blue when disturbed, creating a mind-blowing spectacle for those who venture out on the water via kayak. Watch fish jet out from under your boat like shooting stars, and elect for a glass-bottomed kayak to pretend you are in warp drive as you glide across the surface.

Note that the phenomenon is notoriously difficult to capture on camera, so just enjoy the magic instead. For the best view, book your trip on a new moon.

Post-glow activities: After soaking up the night-time magic of the bay, take advantage of the Caribbean sun – head to the mile-long golden arc of sand at Sun Bay to take in some vitamin D and admire the turquoise sea.

Plan your trip to Puerto Rico with our seasonal guide to what's happening through the year

6. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

You can spot fireflies in humid regions around the world. However, the Great Smoky Mountains are home to 19 different species of them, including the synchronous firefly. As one would expect given the name, these blinking bugs have a little trick up their sleeves ­– for a two-week period from late May to mid-June, they flick on and off in unison.

Evening access to this region of the park during prime firefly season is a hot ticket, and the park runs a lottery to avoid overcrowding.

Post-glow activities: Stick around the national park for another day and head south on the winding mountain roads to nearby Clingman’s Dome , the highest point in the Smoky Mountains at 6643ft (2024m). On a clear day, the peak offers views that stretch nearly 100 miles.

Didn't win the firefly lottery? Here are 11 other great things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains

7.  Luminous Lagoon, Jamaica

This lagoon, which stretches along the marshlands near Falmouth, has a captivating history: during the 18th century, it was a vital port for the sugar trade between England and Jamaica . Today, the lagoon is a key location for one of the most spectacular sites in the Caribbean: microscopic organisms that glow in the shallow, warm waters.

There are a number of tours you can book in Falmouth or with hotels in Montego Bay , about 30 minutes away. The tours encourage visitors to swim in the lagoon for the best effect: The microscopic organisms produce a blue glow when disturbed. 

Post-glow activities: Devour traditional Jamaican cuisine at the Glistening Waters Restaurant , located right in the marina.

Traveling to Jamaica as a family? Here are the island's best things to do with kids

8. Hachijō-jima, Japan

Glowing animals aren’t the only ones to shine – the bioluminescent mushrooms on Japan’s island Hachijō-jima make you feel like you are Alice in Wonderland. During the rainy season (which lasts from May to September), over seven different species light up the island’s forest floor. Hit the hiking trails or head to the botanical gardens to get a closer look at the fluorescent fungi.

Post-glow activities: Hachijō-jima is also home to two dormant volcanoes, photogenic beaches, and the top-notch Urami-ga-taki Onsen, a decadent spot with free entry that overlooks a waterfall.

Be ready for your trip to Japan with these insider tips for first-time travelers

9. Dismals Canyon, Alabama

Tucked away in a rural corner of Northern Alabama you’ll find Dismals Canyon, a National Natural Landmark home to the oldest accessible primeval forest east of the Mississippi River (ie a forest that has existed without any significant event, such as a fire or storm, affecting its growth). The canyon is a twisting ravine full of majestic flora and an array of wildlife, including the quirkily named Dismalites – glowworms.

These tiny worms line the moss-covered rocks of the canyon, and when night falls, they glitter blue in the darkness. The best time to catch the Dismalites is May through September, and you can book a guided tour with the canyon’s conservatory .

Post-glow activities: Spend the evening at one of the canyon’s cabins, and drive about an hour east the next morning to the Sipsey Wilderness, a section of the Bankhead National Forest that contains waterfalls, walking trails, horseback riding trails and canoeing routes. Motorized vehicles aren’t allowed within the wilderness boundaries, so sit back and enjoy nature at its purest.

This article was first published Sep 17, 2018 and updated May 15, 2024.

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