BIOLUMINESCENCE BAY IN PUERTO RICO: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
Puerto Rico’s three bioluminescent bays are Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques, Laguna Grande in Fajardo, and La Parguera in Lajas. Visiting a bioluminescent bay is a truly unique experience you shouldn’t miss in Puerto Rico.
Luckily, these natural wonders are accessible from several of the most popular cities in Puerto Rico and the USA for visitors. Here’s what you need to know to plan your trip!
What does a bioluminescence tour include?
Island Journeys has teamed up with Puerto Rico’s top bio bay operators to provide a full-day package. It includes:
- Fully guided tours of El Yunque National Rainforest and Bio Bay (Laguna Grande).
- Pickup and drop-off from your accommodation.
- Eco interpretations at both locations.
- Pictures from throughout the combo tour.
- Light snacks and refreshments during the day.
- Training and safety instructions before both activities.
- All necessary gear for the kayaking trip, including life jackets, low-intensity navigation lights, and insect repellent.
- Professional and licensed tour guides throughout both activities with lifeguard, CPR, and first aid certifications.
The tour is a beautiful experience, all along the way you are surrounded by protected life, and at night, the stars fill the sky! You can only find this experience in Laguna Grande.
So book with the perfect guides and bring your friends.
What is Bioluminescence?
Bioluminescence is the term used to describe when a living organism emits light. In bioluminescent bays or ‘bio bays’, microscopical organisms called dinoflagellates grow in large quantities to produce a ‘glow-in-the-dark’ effect called bioluminescence.
This emission of light is a type of chemiluminescence, a chemical reaction where a living organism produces light.
Puerto Rico has three of the five ecosystems in the world with a high concentration of these dinoflagellates, making it one of only five bioluminescent bays! If you haven’t done a bioluminescence kayak tour, the Laguna Grande Bio Bay is your best option.
Top Bioluminescent Bays in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is home to three extraordinary bioluminescent bays: Mosquito Bay in Vieques, Laguna Grande in Fajardo, and La Parguera in Lajas. These natural wonders are among the few in the world where microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates create a mesmerizing glow when disturbed. Each bay offers a unique experience:
- Laguna Grande Bio Bay: Concentrations of Bioluminescence as found in Laguna Grande, Fajardo, are difficult to find on the planet. It is the brightest bioluminescent bay on the main island. Its bioluminescence is among the best in the world. The Laguna Grande Bio Bay is inside a natural reserve. Its entrance is a beautiful mangrove forest. You will see a great natural scenery on your way to the main show.
- Mosquito Bay: located in Vieques, is only about three feet deep in most of the bay, with the deepest section being around thirteen feet.
- La Parguera Bio Bay: is in the southwest corner of the main island in Lajas. It takes around two hours and thirty minutes to drive to La Parguera from San Juan.
You cannot visit Puerto Rico’s bio bays without a permit, meaning that you must go with a licensed tour operator.
We offer bioluminescent kayak tours in Laguna Grande.
Best Time to Visit
The bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico are visible year-round, but as we discussed above things like weather and phases of the moon can impact the bio bay’s radiance. At Island Journeys we recommend that the best time to go to a bio bay would be between December – February. These months fall outside of the rainy season, which means the water will be more clear, and you’re less likely to get rained on during the tour itself.
Typically, March attracts more tourists, particularly those on spring break. While the weather remains favorable, it tends to be slightly busier and tours sell out faster.
With the time of year in mind, it’s also important to look at the phases of the moon. New moons offer the darkest nights, which can help make the bioluminescence look especially bright. Avoid full moon nights.
What to Expect During a Tour
A bioluminescent bay tour in Puerto Rico offers a magical experience filled with adventure and natural beauty. Here’s what you can expect during this unforgettable journey:
- Safety First: Begin with a detailed safety briefing from expert guides who ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Eco-Friendly Boats: Travel in clear-bottom kayaks or eco-friendly vessels designed to protect the delicate ecosystem of the bioluminescent bay.
- Paddle Through Mangroves: Navigate serene mangrove tunnels under a starlit sky, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature.
- Witness the Glow: Upon reaching the bay, marvel as your paddle strokes activate the glowing microorganisms, creating a spectacular underwater light show.
- Expert Guidance: Learn fascinating facts about the bay’s ecosystem, the dinoflagellates, and the significance of preserving this rare natural phenomenon.
What to Bring:
- Comfortable, quick-dry clothing
- Cell phone (if we need to contact you or you need to contact us before the excursion)
- Closed-toe shoes that can get wet/dirty, have good grip for hiking on wet surfaces and provide comfort and support (no sandals, water shoes, or flip flops)
- Comfortable hiking clothes that can get completely wet/dirty
- Towel and change of clothes
- Water bottle to refill throughout the day (provided if you do not have one)
- Money for dinner
Prepare for an evening filled with wonder as you glide through the glowing waters. The combination of adventure, education, and awe makes this tour a must-do experience in Puerto Rico, creating memories to cherish forever.
How to Book a Bioluminescence Bay Tour
Follow these simple steps to secure your adventure:
- Visit the Website: Go to the official tour page.
- Choose Your Date: Use the calendar feature to select your preferred tour date. Available dates will be highlighted.
- Check Availability: Once you select a date, the system will display available slots.
- Enter Group Details: Input the number of participants and provide accurate information for each person (e.g., age, any specific requirements).
- Review the Itinerary: Ensure you’re familiar with the tour details, such as pick-up times, included activities, and duration.
- Add Extras (Optional): If applicable, select any additional services, such as equipment rentals or upgrades.
- Proceed to Payment: Click “Book Now” and fill in your payment details securely.
- Confirmation Email: After completing the payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your booking details and instructions.
- Prepare for the Tour: Review the items to bring, safety guidelines, and pick-up instructions.
- Enjoy the Experience: Get ready for an unforgettable adventure combining El Yunque Rainforest and the glowing Bio Bay!
Tips for Capturing the Experience
Now that you know the essentials about the Bio Bay Laguna Grande tour, here are some additional tips to help you make the most of your experience. From capturing the magical glow to staying comfortable throughout the adventure, these suggestions will ensure an unforgettable journey in Bioluminescent Bay in Puerto Rico:
- Try to avoid full-moon nights. Note that if it is a full moon, the water will still glow, but the darker it is, the more you’ll witness the effect of these single-celled organisms.
- Tides and water temperatures affect the brightness of the bays as well. Consult with an Island Journeys advisor to find out the best time to schedule your tour.
- Most of these eco-adventures are made in kayaks, so wear comfortable clothing for paddling.
- Avoid using hand creams and any other lotions that can harm the organisms.
- Motorboats are strictly prohibited. The Department of Natural Resources has a list of over 13 tour operators authorized to carry on guided tours (Island Journeys has teamed up with Puerto Rico’s top bio bay operators to provide you with a full-day package)
- The earlier tour gives you the chance to see the mangroves and absorb the environment as you kayak toward nightfall. Later trips fully guarantee the darkness needed to see the dinoflagellates glow throughout your adventure.
Booking the Bio Bay and Rainforest Combo Tour is your gateway to experiencing two of Puerto Rico’s most iconic natural wonders in one unforgettable day. From the lush trails and refreshing pools of El Yunque Rainforest to the magical glow of Laguna Grande’s bioluminescent waters, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, education, and awe. With expert guides, eco-friendly practices, and carefully planned itineraries, you’ll enjoy a seamless and enriching experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to create lasting memories—reserve your spot today and get ready to explore the best of Puerto Rico’s breathtaking beauty!