Florida’s Best Spots For Bioluminescent Kayaking

Bioluminescence is one of the most stunning phenomena on Earth and is something you should see at least once in your life. For this, you’ll have to travel to caves and the most profound depths of the ocean. Bioluminescent kayaking is quite rare and isn’t easily accessible all over the world. However, if you happen to be in Florida, you’re fortunate as this state is a hot-spot for bioluminescent kayaking. This article presents to you the must-visit spots in Florida for spectacular bioluminescent kayaking.

Indian River Lagoon

From June up until October, Indian River Lagoon is the home of dinoflagellates, making it a fantastic spot to observe the beauty of bioluminescence. These microscopic creatures glow and emit cold light whenever they’re disturbed. From your kayak, they’ll look like underwater fireflies.

If you have missed the June to October period, you can also visit from October to May when the lagoon is jam-packed with comb jellyfish. These creatures produce bright neon light in the water, and you can even catch them as they don’t sting. This is a truly magnificent spot.

The Old Town Loon 126 Kayak is incredibly comfortable and designed for long hours of kayaking

Mosquito Lagoon

Mosquito lagoon is another hot spot for the stunning eerie glow of bioluminescence. During the summer, billions of dinoflagellates emit a unique blueish white glow, flooding the Mosquito lagoon’s waters.

Every paddle of your kayak will set off a wave of glowing light, which is undoubtedly a sight to behold. This spot is also devoid of most outside light sources, making it an exceptional location for bioluminescent kayaking. As the name suggests, mosquitoes are quite common, so you must carry a mosquito repellent with you.

If you want to set up camp after kayaking in Mosquito lagoon, you should have a high protection mosquito net like the ENO Guardian BugNet Mosquito Net

Banana River

If you want to witness bright blue-green glowing algae, summer is the right season, and Banana River is the best spot for this kind of bioluminescent kayaking. By the height of summer, these algae will start to sparkle and shine when you stir the water with your hand or kayak paddle.

By July and August, the glowing plankton will be exceptionally bright. Banana River is also famous for its pods of dolphins, so you can consider kayaking with these friendly creatures.

Whenever you hit the waters, a life jacket is a must. The Astral V Eight Life Jacket is ultra-breathable and constructed with premium materials.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Merritt Island is Florida’s largest barrier island and is one of America’s most popular bioluminescent kayaking spots. This location offers an unparalleled view of Florida’s ecosystems. It also houses billions of bioluminescent plankton that glow in the dark when disturbed.

Additionally, these intercoastal waters are also famous for manatees, dolphins, and alligators. If you want to view the bioluminescent spectacle, you must visit it in the darkest hours of the night.

A high-performance paddle is a necessity if you want the best kayaking experience. Incorporating a lightweight foam core and carbon fiber resin, the AquaBond Whiskey Carbon Kayak Paddle is a must-have.

Gulf Of Mexico

For a unique bioluminescent kayaking experience, you can also consider the Gulf of Mexico. Karenia Brevis, a species of dinoflagellates, is responsible for the gulf’s trademark red tides, creating a stunning and one-of-a-kind scene. At night, the dinoflagellates are pushed towards the shoreline emitting a bright glow whenever they’re agitated. The radiant glow in the Gulf Of Mexico is a sight to behold.

If you’re going on a lengthy kayaking session, carry a bag like the Yeti Camino Carryall Bag to store all your essentials in one place.

Travel Tips

• For the best results, you must visit during the darkest nights. Use a lunar calendar to decide on the best night for your bioluminescent tour.
• Wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and bring an insect repellent to protect yourself against bugs and mosquitoes.
• You should also carry a water bottle and some snacks. Additionally, you’ll likely get wet so you should bring some spare clothes as well.
• It’s best if you go for bioluminescent kayaking as part of a tour group. There are various services in Florida that offer bioluminescent kayaking trips.

Conclusion

You can’t miss out on bioluminescent kayaking if you are one of those people who love exploring the wonders of nature. Make sure that you have all the essential equipment and launch from any of the hot-spots mentioned above.