The Haulover Canal North is the most popular launching site, used by numerous tour companies offering daytime and nighttime adventures. Their Guided Kayak Sunset Bird Watching-Bioluminescence Tour starts with an intriguing journey into Rookery Bay, where approximately an hour before sunset birds from all over the area fly in from every direction to a particular island where they like to spend the night. Option & Pricing: Select Package & Pricing Option. Though Jimmy himself is no longer with us, his son continues to run the joint. This is one of the spots where bioluminescence can be seen year-round like we showed you earlier, thats plankton in the summer months and those beautiful comb jellies in the winter. Reservations are required. 30 Best Resorts in Florida for Couples for a Romantic Getaway, 20 Best Places to Retire in Florida For Your Golden Years. If you want to have a fulfilling bioluminescence kayaking adventure here, come during the warmer months. You will be heading to the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge which is an area of protected wetlands. As these dinoflagellates detect the gentle motion of your kayak through the water, the sea will start to light up around you. Cocoa Kayaking is a popular choice, and Get Up and Go Kayaking is known around town for their multiple . Privacy Notice: We use cookies on our website to enhance your experience. Florida's Bioluminescent Kayaking in Clear Kayaks - Bioluminescent Bay Get Up And Go Kayaking 1.11K subscribers Subscribe 590 Share Save 75K views 3 years ago Footage taken in the Merritt. You will be with a local guide who knows exactly where to go. Designed to simulate scenes from the magically fictional planet of Pandora, the setting of the highest grossing motion picture of all timeJames Camerons blockbuster hit Avatar. Kayak tours launch from Salt River Marina, and ages 8 and up are welcome. Discovered on the south western tip of Puerto Rico, La Parguera is just a two-hour drive from San Juan. So, we can rest assured that when we go bioluminescent kayaking in Florida, we will be perfectly safe. Those beautiful Dinos (plankton) in the IRL create an amazingly surrealistic kayaking experience, the likes of which you will never see anyplace else. But when the sun goes down, its time to jump in your kayak and coast into one of the seductively secluded areas and take in their amazing bioluminescent glory. So you can expect to have the time of your life. Make a stop at a mangrove island to bird watch. Even in Central Florida, always check with a guide or with local kayakers for current conditions, as they can vary. Day or Night Guided Kayak and Ecotour Adventures in St Augustine, Crescent Beach, and Ponte Vedra Beach in St Johns County, FL. These bioluminescent kayaking tours in Florida are 2 hours from Tampa; 3 hours from Miami Sunset Bioluminescence 75 Florida sunsets are amazing on the Indian River Lagoon. per adult. The Salish Sea is one of Seattle's best spots for bioluminescence kayaking. This first particular species of aquatic bioluminescent life pictured above are called Dinoflagellates, more commonly referred to as plankton. It offers bioluminescent toursrated as excellent --as well as stand up paddleboard and kayak rentals and sales, guided eco tours, SUP Yoga, fishing charters by kayak and paddleboard, and full moon paddles. Chances are youll see the Milky Way more clearly than you ever have before. the tours in St. Petersburg top my list too -- especially Peterhof Palace, Spilled Blood . Bioluminescence happens through a chemical process inside these organisms that produces light energy within their bodies. Some species, like these algae, called Blue Tears located in the East China Sea, while stunning in appearance, are highly toxic. Immerse yourself in nature and experience the beauty of Tampa Bay on a guided kayak tour. These lights illuminate the water all around you, creating an ideal "window into the sea." Don't miss out. . Prices range from $65 $135 per person depending on destination (Indian River or Thousand Island Mangrove Tunnel or Thousand Island waterways) and kayak choice (glass bottom or regular, tandem or single) with Cocoa Kayaking as your guide. Back down south a little on the East coast of the peninsula is Merritt Island and the National Wildlife Refuge. You can also choose whether you prefer a solo or a tandem kayak. While this is the case, its not the only time of the year that you can admire the phenomenon. Make sure you carry your camera with you so that you can immortalize the experience. In the warm and dark lagoon waters on the Space Coast of Florida lies a natural phenomenon of glowing blue waters alive with activity called bioluminescence. While youre there, be sure to keep an eye out and keep your cameras at the ready as encounters with otters, mullets, pelicans, and other wandering wildlife is always possible in this part of Florida. Bioluminescence is the scientific word for living organisms (bio) that light up (luminesce) the way fireflies do. 14 Best Florida Bachelorette Party Destinations! Privacy Policy Then, after dark, when things like waves, boats, swimmers, rocks, and you guessed it, kayaks, disturb the water around them, these little animals activate their luciferins as defense mechanism. Dip your hand into the river and when you take it out youll see dancing blue water spots slip away from your hand, as if youre holding magic. Back down south a little on the East coast of the peninsula is Merritt Island and the National Wildlife Refuge. That are Worthwhile to Visit, 16 Best Beaches in Tampa Florida to Visit. Learn more in ourCookie Noticeand ourPrivacy Policy. In Florida, the species that live and that we encounter when we go bioluminescent kayaking are: dinoflagellates (plankton), snapping shrimp, red squid, fireflies, and comb jellies. The "milky sea" is real here, where there is a high enough concentration of dinoflagellates that whole sections of the ocean glow as the waves break on moonlit sand. You are assured of seeing manatees, stingrays or mullets as they speed beneath your boat. This incredibly beautiful stretch of river takes you through a delightful wilderness where all sorts of birds and wildlife can easily be seen, so dont forget to keep that camera handy. The kitchen is open until 10pm and the bar is open until 11pm. Location: North Shore, Salt River. Tour Date: 19 November 2022, Saturday. These are tiny marine life forms that are capable of producing light through a chemical reaction, often in response to movement or stress. Some of the most famous bioluminescent kayaking in Florida is done at Merritt Island NWR. By Bahia Rica Adventures. Book one of the oceanfront suites for the most romantic view. READ MORE: 14 Incredible Hidden Gems in St Petersburg (FL), Clearwater & Tampa. Outfitted with only a glow stick or a small battery-operated flashlight attached to your life vest, the first stroke of your paddle that lights up the water will undoubtedly elicit a feeling of glee. Like most other things, theres a reason for this sites popularity though. Its still very possible to see some comb jellies malingering around, but they just arent as abundant as they are in January-March. Imagine the dolphins swimming with their fins cutting through the water, creating a blue line coming straight toward you. Just over two hours from Tampa on the Space Coast is one of the best places in the world to witness bioluminescence. We want to help you tell the story of the multiple listing service and how access to impartial. Extremely amazing sightseeing, Fyn trivia and an experience you Will never forget. During peak season, from July to August, the dinoflagellates are so bright that almost any night is fabulous. . Trip Host: Carol Elwood. Dinoflagellates (Plankton in case you forgot) are abundant in Tampa Bay. Bioluminescence Kayaking in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. These vary by animal. Be sure to check out the other entertainment options inside this place while you are here. Planktons are unusually many during June through October. St Pete Pier Glow Nights. Looking for a magical and unique experience? A Day Away Kayak Tours, 321-268-2655 ( website) BK Adventure, 407-519-8711 ( website) Get Up and Go Kayaking, 407-212-7306 ( website) Category: Articles, Conservation, Paddling Tag: Cocoa, Featured Articles, Florida's Space Coast, Indian River Lagoon, Merritt Island NWR, Mosquito Lagoon, Titusville. Contact us Almost equidistant between Titusville to the north and Melbourne to the south, Merritt Island is conveniently located between many other bioluminescent hot spots. If you do, youll be rewarded with the opportunity to watch the stunningly luminescent planktons as they are flustered and roused by other marine wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, or even alligators. Many will activate their luciferins while trying to attract a meal or a mate, but almost all of them can use their bioluminescent abilities as a defense mechanism against potential predators. It is safe and secured by the federal and quite near the NASA space programme's launch site. Bioluminescence is mother nature at its spectacular best. Once the sun plunges down past the horizon and the sky darkens, the bioluminescent show begins. For either kind of bioluminescence, the darker the night the better, so check the moon calendar before you book. Best Caribbean was St. Lucia Land & Sea to Soufrierre (spelling might be wrong). The Sunshine State is one of the rare places in the world where you can admire that incredible phenomenon. In this case, it would be more even more recommended to book a guided tour as the guides will make sure to bring you to spots that are better during the full moon. Be sure to look up. Mosquito lagoon, together with Indian River Lagoon and Banana Lagoon make up Floridas Space Coast. It lies between Cocoa Beach and Titusville which is particularly convenient. Bioluminescence kayaking in Florida. These brilliant, oval-shaped animals use their rows of minuscule, comb-like plates to propel themselves through the water, creating a shimmering rainbow effect. Its also a great thing to do in summer and at night! End your evening in a hammock or chaise lounge under the stars before retreating to your room. Florida is an attraction for all walks of where is best place for seniors to live. During the warmer months (closest to the new moon), you can see dinoflagellates glowing beautifully around your kayak, and during the cooler months, comb jellies are plenty. November December: By this time of the year, the dino have wafted away and comb jelly season is in full swing. There are local guides to direct you to where you can see the glowing fish and believe us, they are in abundance! Thats because those incredible dino planktons are ridiculously plentiful, particularly from June through October. Sultry Florida nights that are ideal for bioluminescence are also a favorite with bugs, so wear lightweight long pants and a long-sleeved shirt for protection, and remember to bring insect repellent. For a blockbuster bioluminescent experience, you need to go at the best time of year and on a night when conditions are right. Discover bioluminescent kayaking in Florida! Summer months (May to October) are best for plankton bioluminescence. Launch times vary as this is a private tour. Thats because each species of bioluminescent life has their own seasonal cycle for when they are most active, and each geographic area of Florida has its own indigenous species that call it home. Recommended by 96% of travellers. There are a total of five islands that make up the Fort De Soto Park chain. Heres a list of Space Coast kayak and canoe launches from Space Coast Paddling. Not to mention the seemingly backlit wake your kayak will make as it parts the water (and the dinoflagellates) around you. There, you can start your adventure and head east, under the drawbridge and past the Manatee Observation deck. People call this tour "breath-taking!" Try magnificent all see-through clear kayaking with us. Be sure to bring your cameras! It usually occurs mid-May to October. Laguna Grande isn't so much a bioluminescent bay but a lagoon where you can rent a glass-bottomed kayak, paddle through an eerie canal, and enjoy the light show through the bottom of your boat. How to see the bioluminescence in Florida? Its also used by numerous tour companies and offers both day and night excursions. Each kayaking site offers a distinctively unique experience. Suppose you are afraid of darkness or have a history of anxiety, claustrophobia or something else, sorry to break your heart. The really fun part of bioluminescent clear kayaking is when the wildlife passes by and activated the glowing water. Each one of them boasts a fantastic beach from which you can launch your kayak to enjoy a bioluminescence excursion. Kayak launching is done at the Haulover Canal in Merritt Wildlife Refuge. If you have a see-through kayak, you will have a magnificent experience. This location is called Mosquito lagoon for good reason, so ensure you carry a mosquito spray with you. Whether you choose oceanfront or oceanside, youre only steps away from putting your toes in the water. Obviously, you need as little light as possible to see the bioluminescence so your adventure will have to be at night. Florida is home to several species of bioluminescent sea creatures including dinoflagellates (plankton), comb jellyfish, snapping shrimps and fireflies. 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This tour starts at the Haulover canal but will take a different direction compared to the first one mentioned. The locals and guides will offer you more information on where to head for the best bioluminescent experience on the lagoon. Right here in our back yard. Bioluminescence in Florida happens pretty much all year round, just with different species. Reservations are highly recommended. This section of the river takes you through a delightful wilderness where all sorts of birds and wildlife reside. Orange County Near LA & San Diego, California, USA. Dinoflagellates. This tour must be booked in advance. Florida Vacationers is the #1 place to find everything exciting to do in the Sunshine State from the incredible beaches to the beautiful springs, campgrounds and road trips - we are constantly on the lookout for hidden gems and secret spots! This is a man-made feature and your kids will still enjoy the experience of kayaking on a water mass where the fish illuminate when they are disturbed- as if on cue. Also, the added safety of night boating in a group, with experienced people is almost invaluable. There is a stunning 8-mile stretch of the Econlockhatchee River that passes through the Little Big Econ State Forest, providing excellent grounds for kayaking, paddling, and swimming. Book Now Ocean Kayak One Ticket Per Person $ 50 Clear Kayak One Ticket Per Person $ 60 Quick Details Duration: 2 hours Occupancy: 2 people Come join us on St Pete's best guided kayak tour to Shell Key! 50$ pr person, And you get kayak, west and 2-3 hours of fantastic memories. In the movie, the world of Pandora is nothing short of breathtaking, and the theme park attraction based upon its concept doesnt disappoint. St Pete Beach Glass Bottom Mangroves, St Petersburg; Sugarloaf Key, Florida Keys; Shell Key Preserve, Tampa - GLOW TOUR . The shoals of planktons in the Indian River lagoon glow at night, offering you one of the most surreal kayaking experiences you will ever have. Why 3 times? Even dressing defensively isnt going to protect every part of your body from those pesky flying critters that call us dinner. Anyone can do it though since it is a gentle exercise. Not to be outdone, north-central Brevard Countys Banana River Aquatic Preserve, bordered between Merritt Island on the west and the beach barrier island on the east, features a surface water area of roughly 30,000 acres. 98 reviews. Part of the allure of this location is that even though the river is winding, it forms another beautifully large, powdery sand beach every time it makes a turn. Off-street parking is an added bonus. We are located about an hour from Universal Studios and The Walt Disney world area theme parks. MOST POPULAR TOUR! Certified Visitor Information Centers North Central Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Northeast Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central West Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central East Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Southwest Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Southeast Florida, Florida Travel and Vacation Guides - United States, Exchange Rates, Conversions, And Processes, a list of Space Coast kayak and canoe launches, Guided Kayak Sunset Bird Watching-Bioluminescence Tour. We are so happy to have you as part of our Florida Vacationers community! See manatees, dolphins, and much more as you paddle into the sunset. For a truly unique night-paddling experience, you won't . As one of the more popular bioluminescence locations in Cocoa Beach, Banana River is also one of the most crowded. READ MORE: 21 Best places to go kayaking in Florida. The Naples Kayak Company offers the only bioluminescent paddling tour in southwest Florida, and its a doozy. While kayaking there (particularly in the summer season), you can expect to encounter algae, seaweed, and several types of underwater life. Also, he will explain everything about it. Its due to chemical reactions in their bodies. Photos of exciting kayaking adventures around Tampa, St Pete, & Clearwater Beach. When this happens, the show is nothing less than spectacular. Unlike many other species of jellyfish, comb jellies do not sting. Merritt Island is a large barrier island and is home to thousands of unique species of birds, fish and mammals. Its important to keep that in mind while planning your excursion. You will find planktons, and at night when they are disturbed by other marine life (dolphins, manatees, or alligators) they glow beautifully. Next, the areas where you will go to see the bioluminescent light show, also happen to be notorious mosquito havens. They dont need to be made from any kind of warming or protective material unless youre scheduling your outing for the wintertime, which can still get quite cold out on the water, even in Florida. During the day, whitewater rafting is a popular activity here. Be sure to apply it generously before even getting out of the car. The organisms are too small to see, but with some 200,000 to 300,000 in a single liter of water they can cause the water to glow the color of a fluorescent blue-green glow stick. Secondly, the areas where you will go are all known for being home to many mosquitoes. That being said, here are the best places to go bioluminescent kayaking in Florida. La Parguera, Lajas - the only place in Puerto Rico where you can swim in the bioluminescent bay.. The horizon and the dinoflagellates are so happy to have you as part of clear. Even dressing defensively isnt going to protect every part of bioluminescent sea creatures including dinoflagellates ( plankton,! 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