If you’re a fan of unique experiences you’re in luck. Puerto Rico’s bio bays are an extremely rare, year-round phenomenon that has only been documented in 5 bays around the world. There are 3 of them right here on the Island; La Parguera in Lajas, Laguna Grande in Fajardo and Mosquito Bay in Vieques. The unique conditions in each of these bays; mangroves, shallow water and a small access channel to the sea are what make them ideal to experience this phenomenon. These conditions create a high concentration of the tiny dinoflagellates that produce bioluminescence. This glow is the result of both biological, chemical and physical processes that are not yet fully understood.
Year-round viewing
There are other areas of the world where bioluminescence can be experienced but very few places offer year-round viewing like those in Puerto Rico. Since the glow produced by the dinoflagellates is low energy, the perfect viewing night would be moonless and with little cloud cover that could reflect any nearby light pollution. But do not fear, on other nights the glow will be visible, it just won’t be as bright. Mosquito Bay in Vieques is considered the brightest bay on the island, but both La Parguera and Fajardo will leave you in awe. There are certain environmental conditions that also affect the glow such as storms and excessive rain. Always check with your tour operator for a conditions update.
Seeing it for yourself
It’s best to get up-close and personal with your dinoflagellates (they don’t bite). This makes kayaks the ideal way to experience the bays. There are various tour operators that guide people on this unique experience. The most popular spot for tours is Laguna Grande in Fajardo followed by Mosquito Bay in Vieques. La Parguera, three hours away from San Juan, is the least frequented. There are also less operators there. In Fajardo and Vieques there are usually two tours per night and the cost ranges from $50 to $70 per person on a two seater kayak. The first one will leave after sunset and the second two hours, more or less, after. Tours during high season fill up fast so it’s best to make arrangements a couple of days ahead.
What’s included
Be sure to check your tour operator website for what’s included and what you have to bring. Some include mosquito repellent (highly recommended in the mangroves), snacks afterward and more and some don’t. All of them suggest you bring a towel and a change of clothes since you will get wet in the kayak. Strap on sandals (not flip flops) are also recommended by most. The only bay where swimming is allowed is La Parguera.
Vieques is special
In Vieques, JAK Watersports offers a unique experience, glass bottom kayaks where you can see the glow all around your boat as you paddle along. You’ll also get to see the trails of any fish that dart around. To book this special experience call them at (787) 644-7112 or jakwatersports.com.
Since you have to take a ferry to Vieques it’s best to arrange at least an overnight stay on the island or ideally, a couple of days. This way you can explore the amazing beaches and unique offerings of this small offshore haven. Below you’ll find a link to the many reasons you should visit.
What’s unique about Laguna Grande
Part of the magic of the Laguna Grande tour in Fajardo is getting to the lagoon itself. You board your kayak in Las Croabas Bay and then snake your way through a long mangrove channel in the dark. Then at the end you are greeted with a large expanse of water. Here’s where the magic happens. As you paddle you activate millions of dinoflagellates that glow like small stars in the water.
Las Croabas Bay is also a hot spot for seafood restaurants. Before or after your tour you can experience the culinary delights of the sea and a cold beer at places like El Pescaito, Patria Mía and just a little bit down the road towards Fajardo, the exquisite Okeah.
Go!
Bio bays are a natural wonder that can only be experienced in person. You can try to take pictures but common cameras and cellphones aren’t sensitive enough to capture the glow. This is an experience that no selfie can capture except in your memories.
