There are just a few spots on our beautiful planet where one can witness bioluminescence, and Puerto Rico is blessed with three.
Bioluminescent Bays are a natural phenomenon where the water glows a bright blue hue at the touch of your hand. Why?
The bays contain bacteria – half-plant, half-animal organisms – which emit a flash of blue light when agitated at night. People travel from all over the world to witness the Bioluminescent Bays in Puerto Rico, and it’s easy to see why.
3 Must-Visit Bioluminescent Bays in Puerto Rico
There are three great spots in Puerto Rico that travelers can check out, two which are particular must-sees.
Located in the small fishing village of Las Croabas you’ll find the bioluminescent bay that is most accessible to tourists coming from the metropolitan of San Juan. Many tour providers will set-up a kayaking excursion for a couple of hours right at sunset where kayakers and water enthusiasts can roam through the mangroves and experience this phenomenon together. No swimming is allowed, however, but the experience of paddling through water which lights up with your touch is worth every penny.
The second and arguably best Bioluminescent Bay in Puerto Rico is located in Vieques Island. Vieques Island is one of Puerto Rico’s greatest treasures, and although a little remote, it offers travelers excellent world-class beaches and less disturbances. When coming to Vieques, do plan a day or two here coupled with the fluorescent bay experience. Vieques can be reached by plane from San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marin International Airport or by ferry from Fajardo on the Eastern coast.
The third and less exciting bay is located to the South in the small town of La Parguera. Expect to board a ferry-like boat, where professional swimmers will dive into the water and swim around for your amusement.
Either way… the experience of watching glowing ocean water is an experience worth doing!
