You may have watched phytoplankton in nature documentaries like “Our Planet” episode “Deep Seas.” You will love this article if you have not watched such documentaries.
If you should watch the organisms that emit brilliant lights physically, you will need to have a submarine because they live deep down in the ocean.
These microscopic plant organisms create about half of the oxygen on earth.
A similar microscopic organism known as dinoflagellates can be seen along some of our waterways. This algae creates the glowing waters we see with our optical eyes.
It is very easy to see that when it starts to rain, you will see the glow of drops of water as they drop on the ocean’s surface.
Can you see bioluminescence from the beach in Florida? You can find the magical bioluminescence in Brevard County.
On the other hand, we have both dinoflagellates and comb jellies around us.
To defend themselves against predators, both organisms emit brightly colored blue and green hues. You will see them emit this light anytime they feel the water is disturbed.
Anytime you are on the water with your kayak, every paddle stroke will produce light from the water around you.
When a dolphin is moving with speed in the water it produces a wake similar to a lightning strike of blue, but when a manatee is moving slowly in the same water it will produce an eerily, glowing green below the surface of the water.
Where you have a lot of fish around you, you will see a laser light show, under the water. You can get unique and exciting kayak tour services at any time of the year.
For lovers of nighttime adventures, a bioluminescent tour is a right place to be. You can go kayaking on the Banana River or Indian River as the sun gets ready to set. You will be surprised to see glowing, electric blue and green plankton light in the water beneath you.
If you want a first-hand experience of the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence as you paddle your kayak at night, join us as we go kayaking along the shores of Cocoa Beach.
You will have the opportunity to discover Cocoa Beach when the sun has gone down. It is the time you will experience sounds and sights you cannot possibly get in any other place.
Can you see Bioluminescence from the Beach in Florida?
Yes, Brevard County, Florida, is among the best places to see bioluminescence close to Orlando. Brevard County also known as the Space Coast is where you will find Indian River Lagoon, Cocoa Beach, and Merritt Island.
There are plenty of glowing algae better known as dinoflagellates in these three bodies of water because they are salt waters.
There is a thriving ecosystem in the Indian River Lagoon because of its many tributaries. The ecosystem in the Lagoon is diverse. Different kinds of plants and animals in the lagoon make up the ecosystem, of which dinoflagellates are one.
This is the best place to view dinoflagellates in Florida, but it does not include the recently established “Flight of Avatar” ride, located at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
The ride here will take you through an area full of the glowing waters of Pandora.
Top Bioluminescent Beaches in Florida
There are five spots in Indian River Lagoon that are perfect for kayaking across this glowing water.
Most people call these spots Bioluminescent Bay.
Thousand Island Nature Preserve
There are many dolphins, manatees, horseshoe crabs, and different kinds of birds and fish living in this Aquatic Preserve. At the night, the dark waters of the aquatic preserve are lit by the dinoflagellates and comb jellies that inhabit it.
There are nature trails, a playground, tennis courts, and a community gardening area in Ramp Road Park. There are about 5000 species of plants and animals living within the preserve.
About 35 of these species are on the threatened or endangered species list. You will see the best launch sites at Ramp Road Park or the Cocoa Beach Country Club.
Kiwanis Island Park in Merritt Island
This launch site will place you in a wildlife refuge within Sykes Creek.
The Kiwanis Island Park features a playground as well as many indoor and outdoor activities like basketball, tennis, racquetball, softball, and fishing. It also features indoor and outdoor pavilion areas.
Kelly Park on the Banana River in Merritt Island
A trail and dock lead to a pond where you can view wildlife in Kelly Park West. The park also has a playground, tennis courts, fields, and a pavilion.
You will see multiple pavilions, a sand volleyball court, a boat dock, and shoreline fishing at Kelly Park East.
Visiting this launch site will place you in the Banana River, and the Banana River is a tributary of the Indian River.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge on North Indian River
The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is on 140,000 acres of land. It features many recreational activities.
This Refuge is a perfect destination for bedding during the day and viewing the bioluminescence at night.
As you stroll along the sandy shores, you’ll witness the mesmerizing glow of dinoflagellates, a type of bioluminescent plankton.
These tiny organisms emit a celestial blue light, creating a magical spectacle. Imagine the waves crashing, leaving trails of shimmering stars behind.
Mosquito Lagoon on North Indian River
Mosquito Lagoon is located south of Merritt Island Refuge’s Haulover Canal. It is the gateway to the west side of the Mosquito Lagoon.
The launch site is a part of the wildlife refuge, and you must pay some money to enjoy its facilities.
Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge
Experience the captivating beauty of Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, where the waters glow with bioluminescence.
This refuge is home to dinoflagellates and comb jellies, creating a stunning display of shimmering lights. With each step you take along the shore, you’ll leave a trail of luminous magic.
Sebastian Inlet State Park
Discover the mesmerizing bioluminescence at Sebastian Inlet State Park. As the sun sets, the beach comes alive with the radiant glow of bioluminescent plankton.
Watch as each crashing wave illuminates the shoreline with an otherworldly blue-green light.
Canaveral National Seashore
Visit Canaveral National Seashore for a remarkable bioluminescent experience. Here, you’ll find dinoflagellates and ostracods creating a radiant display along the beach.
Walk along the shoreline at night, and witness the magical fusion of celestial and marine beauty.
Sanibel Island
Escape to Sanibel Island for a touch of bioluminescent magic.
As darkness falls, tiny organisms such as dinoflagellates and copepods emit a soft blue light, transforming the shoreline into a dreamlike setting. Take a moonlit walk and be mesmerized by the glimmering enchantment.
St. George Island State Park
Discover the wonder of bioluminescence at St. George Island State Park.
Encounter mesmerizing marine life, including jellyfish and comb jellies, whose ethereal glow turns the beach into a magical realm.
Whether you’re kayaking or strolling along the sand, the glowing waters will captivate your senses.
FAQs
Where can I see bioluminescence in Florida for free?
You will see free bioluminescence off the Atlantic Coast of Florida, the most biodiverse spot in the Northern Hemisphere.
There are over 4,300 species of plants and animals in the Indian ocean. The ocean also has plankton that causes bioluminescence. Many kayaks launch from Mosquito Lagoon.
What beaches have bioluminescence?
The beaches that have bioluminescence are:
– San Juan Island, Washington.
– Torrey Pines Beach, California / Mission Bay, San Diego.
– Manasquan, New Jersey.
Where are all the bioluminescent beaches?
Bioluminescent Bay: The other name for Mosquito Bay is Bioluminescent Bay.
It is a tranquil, warm, shallow bay, located on the southern shore of Puerto Rico island of Vieques. The bay is ranked the brightest in the world and has extreme bioluminescence.