Mother Nature has always found ways to astonish us, however nothing quite beats the bioluminescence aesthetic of the ocean coming alive at night. This absurd-sounding spectacle can be seen on a select few beaches worldwide and is the result of micro-organisms such as bioluminescent algae moving in the water. If you have never seen it before, this phenomenon is like watching an organic underwater fireworks display.
There is something truly incredible about watching the ocean come alive with these neon blue, green and red bioluminescence displays. These nocturnal light shows primarily comprise of bioluminescent algae, plankton and jellyfish emitting a stunning array of light when in motion or when they are disturbed.
These incredible light displays are created when these organisms gather to feed on fertile ocean waters, fuelled by nutrient-rich currents and upwellings. However, to capture them at their most impressive, you must visit a sea night beach around the ‘New Moon’ phase of the lunar cycle when the nights are at their darkest.
So, if you’re looking for ideas for a fun-filled romantic getaway or a way to entertain the kids this year, we would definitely recommend seeing nature in all its glory. With so few locations globally, we have highlighted four great locations where you can observe these bioluminescent beaches come to life in the United States.
Our first recommendation where you can observe the bioluminescence aesthetic on display is at Indian River Lagoon. This phenomenon benefits from two local species creating a light show, as bioluminescent algae and comb jellyfish combine to create an impressive marine light display here on Florida’s Atlantic coast.
Indian River Lagoon is not only blessed with these nocturnal bioluminescent displays, but it’s also famous for being incredibly ecologically diverse. While you are visiting, take a Swampland Boat Tours day trip to see the other local inhabitants, including sea turtles, dolphins and manatees, not to mention over 370 species of bird seen across the lagoon.
Book your stay at the Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites.
San Juan Island is another perfect spot to witness a dazzling display of the sea bursting into life. The best way to catch the brilliant organic green light spectacle is on a San Juan Outfitters bioluminescent kayaking tour. The tours leave Roche Harbor before heading to Westcott and Garrison bays, taking in the stunning Pacific Ocean sunset before the seas light up beneath you.
While you’re on the San Juan Island, why not also spend a few days exploring the Whale Trail as you enjoy some whale watching from the shores of Lime Kiln Point State Park.
Book your stay at the Best Western Plus Oak Harbor Hotel & Conference Center.
Some of the most impressive bioluminescence sights in the country can be found on a San Diego sea night beach at night. The area is regularly blessed with Red Tides, a phenomenon caused by algal blooms, where the waves regularly turn a deep red by day and stunning neon blue at night.
Surfers often ride these bioluminescent waves to create a fantastic light exhibition as they break offshore and crash onto the beach. Torrey Pines Beach and Mission Bay are two great locations to see this bioluminescence aesthetic in full effect, both located just outside downtown San Diego.
Book your stay at the Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar.
Another incredible sea night beach can be found in Manasquan in New Jersey, where family-friendly bioluminescence kayaking and paddle board tours immerse you in the light show experience. Marvel as the bioluminescent algae lights up to create dazzling electric blue as your paddle disturbs the water beneath you.
Manasquan Beach is also famous for its surfing and sports fishing. However, if you want to stretch your legs before each evening’s bioluminescence display, then why not also hit the Edgar Felix Memorial Bikeway while you’re in town.
Book your stay at the The Westfield Inn, BW Signature Collection.
For the optimum bioluminescence aesthetic of these locations, it’s best to visit during the New Moon. However, these organic light shows can usually be seen for a week on either side of the New Moon.
The New Moon falls on the following dates in 2023: