As corny as it may sound, do you ever imagine yourself dancing beneath the stars? Dreams do come true, after all. Nightfall brings magic to some parts of the planet, as demonstrated in the film “Life of Pi.”Some beaches have sparkling waves that resemble tiny blue neon lights submerged in the ocean. The term “bioluminescence” refers to the phenomena that is produced by light-emitting marine microorganisms.
Bioluminescence occurs in many places around the world. If you haven’t witnessed this awe-inspiring phenomena, yet, here is the list of 11 glowing beaches and bioluminescent bays in the world.
1. Puerto Mosquito, Vieques, Puerto Rico
Enjoy the most breathtaking experience at the world’s most brilliant and well-known bioluminescent bay. It resembles rowing on a starry tapestry. It was named for the dazzling plankton that lights up the body of water; it is also known as the Bio Bay.
Tip: The kayak cruise is perfect to experience this up close.
2. Manasquan Beach, NJ
Situated in New Jersey, Manasquan is a quaint little seaside town. All of it, though! Surfing and rafting are both available at this amazing bioluminescent beach. Red tide, which is caused by reddish algae in the sea, is visible around dusk.
Tip: Bioluminescence is best to witness during the summer months, mid-July to September.
3. Springbrook Park, Australia
Nothing compares to a neon flash! Moreover, Springbrook Park is a fantastic place to see bioluminescence. The tiny glowworms light up when you take a nighttime walk in the National Park’s forest. Don’t you think that flashlights are too commonplace?
Tip: You can experience it best during the rains, as the glowworms prefer moisture. The average rainfall is 3000 mm a year, mostly from December to March. If you prefer drier months then you can visit anytime between May and October.
4. San Juan Island, Washington, U.S.
To enjoy some amazing stargazing, head east along the North Bay shoreline from the Jackson beach. Kayaking is the greatest way to explore this stunning bioluminescent coastline. You will see an electric silver and blue glow as you paddle across.
Tip: You can opt for a guided tour with Discovery Sea Kayaking or maybe get your own Kayak!
5. Halong Bay, Vietnam
Halong Bay is one of the most magnificent bioluminescent bays, renowned for its green sea and outstanding natural beauty. Halong Bay, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a plethora of exploration opportunities, from the limestone islands to the caverns and the surrounding nature. It really is the realisation of a traveler’s dream.
Tip: Best time to witness bioluminescence at Halong Bay is late night, after the boats turn off their lights.
6. Big South Fork, TN/KY
Be prepared to hum along with Owl City’s fireflies at the bioluminescence beach in Big South Fork! This is due to the breathtaking bioluminescence spectacles that will astound you. Prepare yourself for an abundance of fireflies decorating the gloomy skies if you decide to spend the night here. The most amazing aspect is the distinctive patterns and sequences they develop to denote mating, territory, and gender. Interesting, isn’t it?
Tip: Summer is the best time to hit the trail, which is between July and August.
7. Torrey Pines Beach, San Diego, CA
California’s Torrey Pines State Beach is a coastal bioluminescent beach that is part of San Diego. As the waves break ashore, they emit a striking blue radiance. Furthermore, it is only visible after dusk.
Tip: Pick a dark spot at nightfall to witness the spectacular neon light.
8. Ton Sai, Krabi, Thailand
Don’t miss this amazing natural celebration at Tonne Sai’s bioluminescence beach if you ever visit Thailand. The planktons in the deep sea sparkle and light up! It is very psychedelic. Your footsteps will shine as you attempt to walk into them. It resembles seeing fairy dust.
Tip: Ton Sai is perfect for the beach bums! Away from the humdrum, it is peaceful and really pretty. Though it isn’t easily accessible, most visitors arrive by boat. You can also hike, which takes about 1.5 hours.
9. Toyama Bay, Japan
One of the world’s most beautiful bioluminescent bays, Toyama Bay, is home to a type of squid known as the Firefly Squid. They reside about 1,200 feet below the surface and are only 3 inches long. In Japan, firefly squids are also prized as delicacies. A spectacular light show results from the fertilisation and egg-dropping event of millions of squid in Toyama Bay!
Tip: The sightseeing boats depart from the Namerikawa fishing port at 3 in the morning. If you want to see this delightful glow, make sure you make your itinerary in a proper way. Also, Namerikawa is home to the world’s only museum dedicated to the firefly squid.
10. Reethi Beach, Maldives
The Indian Ocean also has beaches with bioluminescence! Dives can swim through this bright blue beam of light during night dives on Conrad Maldives Rangali Island in the Maldives. It is breathtakingly lovely and captivating.
Tip: Bioluminescence is noticeable when the moon is not bright; no moon nights are the best time.
11. Waitomo, New Zealand
This one is on our list just due to its originality. Though it might come as a surprise, bioluminescence is not limited to the sea. Not convinced by us? Visit the Waitomo caverns, and prepare to be in wonder. Tiny glowworms cover the cave’s walls, creating a glowing effect. Beautiful, isn’t it?
Tip: The cave tour might be slightly expensive, but the experience will leave you enthralled. Explore various packages to get the best deal.
