A Guide To Puerto Rico's Magical Glow-in-the-Dark Beaches

Kayaking through water that glows in the dark may seem like something out of a fairytale, but it’s possible in Puerto Rico. For a relatively small nation geographically, Puerto Rico has a wealth of natural treasures and this includes three bio-luminescent bays. A natural phenomenon caused by living organisms, a visit to a bio bay makes for an unforgettable experience.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

La Parguera

Near the southwestern town of Guanica, in Lajas, La Parguera is an area of shops and restaurants that is also home to a bio-luminescent bay. To reach the bio-lagoon, visitors take a 20 minute boat ride to the area, according to Paradise Scuba Snorkeling Puerto Rico, this is the only “bio-lagoon that allows swimming and snorkeling”.

Its history as a fishing community dates back to the 19th century, and some descendants of those early families that settled in the area, have helped develop tourism at La Parguera.

Laguna Grande

Fajardo is an eastern coastal town, where the popular Seven Seas beach and marina can be found. Various kayaking companies, such as Bio Bay Kayak Tours, offer nighttime kayaking tours at Fajardo Bay that can last up to an hour or two. The amazing glow is created simply by moving a kayak paddle gently through the water. It’s important to be aware that swimming isn’t allowed in the bio-luminescent water in order to preserve and minimize the impact on the ecosystem, since pollution is bad for the environment and the organisms that cause the water to glow require very clean water conditions.

Mosquito Bay

Vieques is one of the islands that make up the archipelago of Puerto Rico, and the bio-luminescent waters at Mosquito Bay are accessible via kayak or boat. No swimming is allowed here, to protect the environment. The water is especially bright due to the high concentration of the organisms responsible for the phenomenon. Whether making plans to explore this, or the other bio bays, remember that the weather may affect visibility and that tours should always be carried out by credible companies.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.