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Florida is known for its nature. Dolphins, alligators, snakes, and more make this state a natural attraction to nature lovers of all kinds. However, one Florida secret that few people may know about is the Space Coast’s natural bioluminescence. This incredible natural anomaly can make the waters in some areas glow in the dark with an otherworldly green-blue hue.
If you want to see a different side of Florida’s coast, here’s everything you need to know to plan an epic bioluminescence adventure.
How to See Bioluminescence in Florida
Bioluminescence can be seen in some of the local Florida waterways. Microscopic algae organisms called dinoflagellates emit bright, glow-in-the-dark lights as a harmless defense mechanism against predators that you can see at night with the naked eye. The glow comes from a chemical called luciferin and is a response to any movement, such as kayaking, paddling, swimming, or boating.
Some areas also have comb jellyfish, which can be spotted on dark nights. These jellyfish give off a shimmering blue color due to their special comb-like plates that react to movement.
Typically, the best way to see this bioluminescence is by planning a nighttime adventure in the areas where the magic glow is most often seen. It would also make an excellent gift for a nature lover. There are touring companies that’ll take you on boat rides or lead a paddleboarding expedition, making it easy to know exactly where to go and how to see them without all the guesswork. You can also arrange to see them by researching where and when you’ll most likely witness it and setting out on your own expedition.
Another way to see this scientific wonder is to find a campground near high-bioluminescent areas. You can bring your own equipment and enjoy more casual adventures in the water. If your primitive campsite is near the water, you can observe it from afar without being in the water.
What Is the Best Time To See Bioluminescence in Florida?
Bioluminescence has seasonal peaks and valleys, so knowing when to plan your adventure will increase your odds of witnessing it in the wild.
- Winter: Between January and March, bioluminescent comb jellies are at their most active. You may also see fireflies at this time of year, so it can be an excellent time for a night kayaking trip.
- Spring: Between April and May is “off-season” for this natural phenomenon. It’s not that none of it exists, but the plankton are not as densely populated in the water. It’s also still possible to witness comb jellies at this time of year.
- Summer: In the summer months of June, July, August, September, and October, there are high rates of dinoflagellates in the water at night. Because of this, bio-tourism is at its peak, so you may have more traffic out at night on these types of adventures. However, it is likely the time of year that you’ll see the densest blanket of glowing water.
- Fall: The dinoflagellates are primarily gone in November and December, but the comb jelly season is back in high gear.
Knowing this schedule, you’ll have the best luck seeing dinoflagellates during the summer, while comb jellies are most likely to be spotted during the fall and winter. Spring tends to be the worst time to spot bioluminescence in Florida.
Where to See Bioluminescence
Bioluminescence can’t be seen just anywhere in Florida. Unfortunately, only certain parts of the state are lucky enough to have this attraction. The northern parts of the Space Coast, which is the mid-Atlantic coastline of the state, are home to this wonder. The region includes Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island, Cape Canaveral, and Titusville.
Here are some of the best spots to check out to see bioluminescence in Florida firsthand:
Indian River Lagoon
Indian River Lagoon is known for being one of the most biodiverse estuaries on this side of the equator. Countless species seek solace in these brackish waters, which offer safety from the ocean—birds, turtles, and fish, to name a few. Environmental protection is a priority in this region of the state, so there’s a strong presence of eco-friendly infrastructure (like solar greenhouses and power plants) and ecotourism, including bioluminescent kayak excursions. You may find tours that guide you through Mosquito Lagoon, the Banana River, or the Indian River, all of which are part of the Indian River Lagoon.
The best time to visit for bioluminescence is June through October, and popular activities include birding, kayaking, boating, and wildlife spotting.
Location: Off U.S. Highway A1A, Indian River FL 32951
Website: Indian River Lagoon
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Another nearby spot is Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge in Titusville. This area is near the Kennedy Space Center, located just north of Cocoa Beach. The land was initially acquired for the space center, but it remains a 140,000-acre refuge for native flora and fauna today.
Haulover Canal tends to be the best place here to observe bioluminescence because it is made up of thousands of acres of nothing but wildlife. The area is exceptionally dark without light pollution, but the natural bioluminescence creates a wild glow. Dolphins are also common here as they splash and hunt through the lit-up waters, creating an unforgettable view.
If you’re headed here, plan your trip between June and September for the best results. In addition to seeing the natural magic, you can enjoy camping, birding, and boating while there.
Location:1987 Scrub Jay Way #32782, Titusville, FL
Website: Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is famous for its surfing, sharks, pier, and quaint beach town atmosphere. It’s a family-friendly paradise with plenty of relaxation, adventure, and nature. The fact that you can see bioluminescence up close and personal just adds to the attraction of this place.
The daytime may expose friendly manatees, lurking alligators, or perching birds, but it’s an entirely different experience at night. With very little development and light around the area, you can hear and see much more, especially when illuminated by the glowing plankton or jellyfish.
Cocoa Beach is an excellent escape for surfing, boating, sunbathing, birding, kayaking, and more. It’s also a great place to visit much of the year, from July to November.
Location: 1600 Minutemen Causeway, PO Box 322430, Cocoa Beach, FL
Website: Cocoa Beach
Banana River Aquatic Preserve at Thousand Island Nature Preserve
Thousand Island Nature Preserve is another unique natural refuge in the area. It’s home to manatees, horseshoe crabs, dolphins, birds, fish, bioluminescent plankton, and jellyfish. What’s more, these are only a few of the ~5,000 plant and animal species in this preserve, including 25 endangered or threatened species. While a nighttime adventure is perfect for catching the glow in person, you can also enjoy a nature trail, tennis courts, playground, and community garden.
Location: 401 Ramp Rd, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Website: Banana River Aquatic Preserve
How Much Does it Cost?
The cost of experiencing bioluminescence in Florida depends on how you approach the adventure. Many people book specific tours for this purpose, ranging from $55-99 per person. The total will depend on the length of the tour, the location, the type of boat, kayak, or paddleboard you’ll be using, and the group size.
That being said, it’s also possible to see bioluminescence in Florida without paying for it specifically.
How To See Bioluminescence in Florida for Free?
There may still be some incurred costs, such as a kayak, boat, or paddleboard rental, and if camping, you may need to pay for the campsite. However, paying for a bioluminescence tour isn’t necessary to see it.
One tactic is swimming or snorkeling in areas with high bioluminescent organism density, such as Indian River Lagoon, Banana River, or Mosquito Lagoon. That way, no equipment is required except your snorkeling gear.
Otherwise, you can also do a self-guided boat, kayak, or paddleboard tour using research to determine the best areas and times of year. There’s enough free information available online that you can get by without a professional tour guide.
How to Choose A Guided Tour
Not all guided tours for bioluminescence are the same. Before booking, consider aspects like location, time of year, tour duration, and the reputation of the tour provider to choose the best tour for you.
Location and Time
The best times of year are usually summer and fall, although nights close to new moons increase your chances of seeing it even more. June through November are the best months for it, and popular areas include Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach, and Titusville.
Tour Type and Duration
Kayaking, boat, and paddle-boarding tours are the most popular options. There are also sunset tours and night tours. With a sunset tour, you’re less likely to see bioluminescence and more likely to see other wildlife, like manatees or dolphins. During a proper night tour, there’s less light pollution, allowing you to see more bioluminescence. Shorter tours are around 60-90 minutes, while a more extended tour may go on for as much as three hours.
Tour Operator
Who is operating the tour also matters. To find a good company, check out reviews ahead of time for insights into the experience they provide and customer service. Look at who is leading the tours. Are they local experts? Will they have valuable information to offer that you won’t have yourself? Are they science or nature professionals?
Another thing to look at is their safety measures. Do they provide life jackets and basic safety training before the tour? Do they provide any other necessary safety equipment?
How Much Does the Bioluminescent Tour Cost?
The tour depends on its length, the season (peak vs. off-peak prices), the equipment included, and location. Most kayak or paddle-board tours range between $50 and $75 per person, but they may be as much as $100 per person for longer tours or boat tours.
You may be able to take a self-guided tour, but you will still need to pay to rent kayaks, paddle boards, rafts, or a boat.
What to Pack for Your Florida Bioluminescence Trip
- Water Shoes/Clothes: To protect your feet, bring sandals or closed-toed shoes designed for swimming. You should also wear a bathing suit or clothes you don’t mind getting wet.
- Hydration: Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the journey.
- Spare Clothes: Your clothes may get wet, so bring an extra set of dry clothes to keep in the car after the tour.
- Camera: Bring a high-quality camera to capture images of the bioluminescence to remember your trip and show others. The tour may also offer professional photography services.
- Power Solution: You’ll want to ensure your camera, phone, and other electronics stay powered throughout your tour. For a smartphone, pack the EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank. For more extensive power, bring the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus portable power station. For camping trips to see bioluminescence, upgrade to the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Solar Generator.
Frequently Asked Questions
While Cocoa Beach may not glow every night, certain areas during certain times of the year are likely to experience the glow from bioluminescent plankton and comb jellyfish. The summer months of June through September and fall are the most likely to have the glow.
You can see bioluminescence in Florida along the Space Coast. Areas along the Atlantic Ocean, such as Indian River Lagoon, Cocoa Beach, and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, are popular for evening kayak tours.
Final Thoughts
For many, witnessing bioluminescence firsthand is a bucket list experience. It’s not available everywhere in the world, but there are certain areas of Florida where this natural phenomenon occurs up close and personal. By booking a bioluminescence kayaking tour in the Space Coast area, you can see the glowing plankton and jellyfish for yourself and the incredible show they create. Remember to bring a camera to take photos of the sights, and always bring a power supply like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus portable power station to ensure your camera stays charged and ready.