If you are a sucker for aquatic life, the bright colourful light show put up every night by our marine friends at these bioluminescent beaches will leave you stunned. By Smrithi Suresh
1. Glistening Waters, Jamaica
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Also known as Luminous Lagoon, the Glistening Waters in Jamaica make for one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world. It is located east of Falmouth where Martha Brae River meets the Caribbean saltwater. The high phosphorous level of the water allows microorganisms such as dinoflagellates illuminate bright blue light, leaving swimmers with an eerie glow on their bodies.
2. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
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Ha Long Bay in Vietnam is known for its limestone islands and is covered with jungle and deep green waters. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers an experience of midnight boat tour in the bioluminescence bay. As you move through the waters, the planktons emit blue-green lights, which even calls for a swim. Moreover, during the day, you can also visit the nearby caves, or indulge in activities such as scuba diving or rock climbing.
3. Indian River Lagoon, Florida
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Between May and September, the waters of Indian River Lagoon in Florida have the perfect temperature to produce the lustre of a blue hue. Surrounded by rich wildlife, a great way to relish the beauty of this lagoon is to go on boat tours. You can also try kayaking or paddleboarding for an unforgettable experience, and notice the increase in the brightness level of the water with every stroke of the paddle.
4. Mosquito Bay – Vieques, Puerto Rico
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There are three bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico, but the small island of Vieques is globally known for its extreme bioluminescence effect. A kayak tour to the middle of the Mosquito bay gives a gorgeous view of the surrounding scenery. Although one is not allowed to swim or go into the waters without the guidance of licensed instructors, the sight of blue waves reaching the shoreline is truly amusing.
5. Toyama Bay, Japan
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The coastline of Japan’s Toyama bay is covered by thousands of enope/firefly squids, who flash an electric-blue light from underneath the water. A visit here, anytime between March and June will land you a beautiful sight of these squids turning the bay into a gleaming froth. You can also hop on to one of the sightseeing boats or visit the Hotaruika Museum, which is entirely dedicated to these firefly squids. Before you leave, don’t forget to try delicacies made from these squids in the nearby restaurants.
6. Vaadhoo Island, Maldives
With a population of just 500 individuals, the Vaadhoo islands is an undisturbed destination in the Maldives. Apart from the white sand beaches and lush green forests, the sea glows with shimmering effects resembling the stars. The phytoplankton (marine algae) in the water illuminates light for longer periods, which offers tourists a great photo opportunity.
7. Koh Rong, Cambodia
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Koh Rong is an offbeat location in Cambodia that claims to have untouched beaches and thick tropical jungles. There are some quieter parts of the beaches that have abundant planktons radiating glittery light. You can enjoy the view either from the shore with your feet graced by the glowing waves, or hop on a boat and enjoy a panoramic view of the beaches. But, be careful when you’re in the water as other sea creatures like jellyfish and octopuses come out in the dark to hunt.
Related: Mexico’s Acapulco Beach Lit Up With Beautiful Neon-Blue Waves
