clear kayak bioluminescence tour puerto rico

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Bio Bay Tours on Vieques Island on a Full Transparent Kayak

Come enjoy the World's brightest Bioluminescent Bay,in our Transparent Kayaks an unforgettable Caribbean experience.

Bioluminescent Bay Kayaking Tours

Discover the glowing waters of fajardo, puerto rico today. book your tour now.

• Users Ages 6+
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• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Bioluminescent Night Kayaking

Eco action tours.

Explore one of nature’s most impressive phenomenons! Kayak the mangrove channels to Laguna Grande. Bioluminescent water is like a mosaic of light resembling fireflies.

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Bio Bay Kayak Tour

Puerto rico access tours.

Bring some excitement to your vacation with a night kayaking tour in the Laguna Grande Reserve Bio Bay. See the water light up as you paddle on this tour for kayakers of all skill levels!

Fajardo Bio Bay Tour

Pure adventure.

Prepare yourself for an experience of a lifetime! Your eyes won’t believe what they are seeing; you will wonder… Is it magic? Then you realize that these are truly enchanted waters of Puerto Rico!

Bio Bay Kayak Tours in Puerto Rico sell out very quickly!

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Explore More Bio Bays in Puerto Rico

Mosquito bay, vieques.

The most conserved bio bay

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La Parguera, Lajas

Boat rides and swimming available

• Chevron down Q. Are you open?

A. Yes, our trusted tour operators are currently offering kayaking tours in Puerto Rico. To see real-time availabilities, click any “Book Now” button on the site.

• Chevron down Q: Can I make a custom group reservation?

A: Live availability is reflected on the website. If you have questions about private tours or tour details, please contact the tour operator.

• Chevron down Q: How do I see when a tour is available?

A: If you click “book now” on the tour of your choice, and start the booking process you will be able to see how many spots are available on each tour. If there is limited availability, the number of spots left will appear after you select your preferred date.

• Chevron down Q: Which tour options include transportation?

A: Experiences with a Bus icon provide transportation.

• Chevron down Q: Is there availability on Saturdays?

A: Kayaking Puerto Rico offers Bio Bay Kayak Tours Sunday through Friday. Click here to book .

• Chevron down Q. Is there a weight limit?

A. Yes, for the Fajardo Bio Bay Tour , the weight limit is 200 lbs. The Bioluminescent Bay with Transportation from San Juan tour has a weight limit of 290 lbs.

• Chevron down Q: Do you offer tours of Mosquito Bay in Vieques?

A: Yes, click here to learn more and book a Vieques bio bay tour.

• Chevron down Q: Are there boat tours available?

A: Yes boat tours are only available out of La Parguera. Click here to book your boat tour.

• Chevron down Q: How do I get to the Laguna Grande Bio Bay if I’m not staying in Fajardo?

A: Depending on where you are staying, you are able to take a taxi or Uber to Fajardo for your tour. If you are staying in the San Juan area and would prefer transportation provided by the tour operator, you can book a tour with transportation .

Experience the Magic of Puerto Rico’s Bioluminescent Bays

There are only five bioluminescent bays in the world and Puerto Rico is home to three of them! Located in Fajardo, Vieques, and Lajas, Puerto Rico’s bio bays are the most incredible destinations on the island. You just can’t miss an opportunity to kayak at night and watch the water twinkle and glow in shades of white, blue, and green. Described as a smattering of pixie dust, or tiny lights floating in the water, bioluminescence is a phenomenon you have to see in person to truly understand – photos just don’t do it justice! 

So what makes the water in Puerto Rico’s bio bays sparkle and glow? The bays are populated by millions of microorganisms called dinoflagellates who make their food by photosynthesis, a process that creates a glowing effect in the dark. All it takes is the stroke of a paddle, the wake of a boat, or even your hand to set the water aglow. Bioluminescence is a somewhat fragile phenomenon. Pollution, excess wind, and the full moon can impact the light concentration in the bays, which is why it’s important to time your visit accordingly. No matter which of the three bays you choose, you won’t forget your night kayak adventure.

Explore The Bio Bay in Laguna Grande!

For the brightest bio bay experience on the main island make sure to visit Laguna Grande in Fajardo. Fajardo is only 45 minutes away from the San Juan metro area making it a great option for a quick day trip from your city vacation. All tours will take you through the lagoon where you can experience the glowing water and mangroves on a 2 hour kayak adventure. Enjoy the trip with a small group and expert local guide. You can also opt to turn your trip to Fajardo into a full day adventure, with a variety of combo tours that will take you beyond the Bio Bay and through the tropical El Yunque Rainforest.

All tour operators bring something unique to your tour and know how to deliver a safe, fun, and informative experience to their guests. Discover the best option for you and your group to make sure you guarantee yourself a spot on a bio bay tour while in Puerto Rico. Plan your tour in advance as trips do tend to fill up quickly.

More Things to Do in Puerto Rico

While visiting Puerto Rico there is so much to do and explore. Browse through other popular activity choices available for your vacation.

Snorkeling Tours

Zipline tours, cooking classes.

(787) 710-1477 (787) 899-5891

Parguera Glassbottom Kayaking

The Original Glassbottom Kayak Experience!

Explore The Parguera Cays In 100% Transparent Kayaks

Welcome to parguera glassbottom kayaking.

Your gateway to a world of aquatic wonders. We are proud to offer you an unparalleled experience that takes you to see the beautiful islands in La Parguera, Puerto Rico with our transparent kayak tours and the bioluminescent bay. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters and discover unparalleled underwater beauty as you navigate with our glass bottom kayaks. Whether you want to explore the vibrant reefs and marine life in the La Parguera cays or marvel at the magical glow of the bioluminescent bay, we are here to make your dreams of adventure come true. Join us and let yourself be carried away by the magic of Parguera Glassbottom Kayaking.

We make your adventure dreams come true

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of aquatic wonders!

Glassbottom Kayak Eco-Tour

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the La Parguera keys with our transparent kayak eco-tour. Discover the rich diversity of marine life, colorful reefs and fascinating mangroves as you glide over crystal clear waters. Our trained guides will guide you through this unique ecosystem, providing you with information about the local flora and fauna, as well as the importance of their conservation.

Glassbottom Kayak Private Boat Adventure

We have the first and only true completely transparent kayak with boat tour that takes you to the islands and mangrove channels in La Parguera, Puerto Rico! Observe the underwater world beneath you! Our 100% see-through kayaks are the ideal way to explore the pristine clear waters of the islands and mangrove channels. View a vast array of sea creatures, fish & wildlife.

Glassbottom Kayak Rental

Explore on your own in a 100% transparent glass bottom kayak in one of the most beautiful places to explore in the Caribbean! Our kayak rentals allow guests to paddle in a designated area in the safety of the mangrove canals of La Parguera.

Bioluminescent Bay Swimming Tour

Live a magical experience with our swimming tour in the bioluminescent bay. Swim over illuminated waters and admire the amazing light show produced by bioluminescent organisms. Our expert guides will accompany you on this unique journey, sharing knowledge about the phenomenon and ensuring that you enjoy this natural wonder to the fullest.

Bioluminescent Bay Boat / Kayak Tour

This tour takes you on a boat ride to the bioluminescent bay where you will be able to kayak in the calm, shallow, bioluminescent waters.

Sunset PRIVATE Boat Tour + Biobay Swimming Tour

On this tour the captain takes you to see the beautiful sunset of La Parguera, the tour makes a stop in one of the islands where you can go for a swim. You can bring your drinks and food, there is a minimum of 4 people per tour. Tour departs at 5:00 p.m. and returns to the dock at 7:00 p.m.

La Parguera Sunset PRIVATE Boat Cruise

On this tour we take you to the beautiful island of Mata la Gata to watch the best sunset in Puerto Rico. This tour is a 2 hour guided private boat tour with a captain. You are able watch the sunset while relaxing from the boat or you can swim in the crystal clear waters while gazing at the beautiful sunset.

Private Boat Charter

On this private Boat Charter the captain will take you in a 21-24 foot boat to the beautiful island of Caracoles. He can also take you to Mata La Gata and Cayo Enrique, ask the captain and he will recommend the best spots to spend your day out in the water.

Join us on these amazing water adventures!

At Parguera Glassbottom Kayaking we are proud to offer a variety of services that allow you to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of Puerto Rico in a unique and exciting way.

Join our community and be part of the exclusive parguera glassbottom kayaking experience!

Subscribe to receive updates, promotions and special content about our transparent kayak tours to La Parguera Keys and Bioluminescent Bay.

We are proud to offer a variety of services that allow you to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of Puerto Rico in a unique and exciting way. Join us on these amazing water adventures!

An unforgettable experience. Come and see the wonders of the Island of Vieques. 

Explore the greatness of Vieques Island with us.

We offer snorkeling tours and the unforgettable experience of visiting the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.

Cancellation Policy - Once the reservation is completed, you must provide us 24 hour notice prior to your tour to cancel and receive a full refund.  If a cancellation is made within 24 hours of the tour a full charge for the activity will be made.  In the event that we cancel the activity, you will receive a full refund. Same day reservations can't be cancelled, if a guest does not show up for their tour we will charge the total amount of the reservation. We don't cancel activities for rain.    Reschedules with 24 hour or less notice, has an extra charge of $30 per person. 

For limited time!!! Enjoy a $5pp discount coupon valid for our Rainforest Night Adventure Walk

Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Tours in Fajardo, Puerto Rico

The Original Outfitter Operating for over 20 Years!

Bio Bay's Featured Activities

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• Bus Not Included
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• Users Ages 6 and Up

Bioluminescent Bay Night Kayak Adventure

Join us for a night kayaking tour in the Bio Bay! Enjoy the bioluminescent organisms or reflection of the full moon on our beautiful lagoon.

• MOONLIGHT TOUR

Full Moon Kayak Adventure

Our Full Moon Fajardo Bio Bay Kayak Adventure is the perfect nature adventure under a full moon, and if your stay in Puerto Rico happens to fall during the full moon stage you don’t have to miss out on our Night Kayaking Tours!

Welcome to Puerto Rico Bio Bay Tours

Discover the bioluminescent waters of Laguna Grande with the original kayak tour outfitter since 1997. At Puerto Rico Bio Bay Tours, we have been bringing guests into this one-of-a-kind ecosystem and are proud to share more than 20 years of experience and knowledge with each of our guests! We offer the smallest groups in the industry, the best guide to guest ratios, high-quality equipment, annual Coast Guard safety inspections, one-of-a-kind navigation lighting system and a full two hours in water timeline that allows you to relax and see all of Laguna Grande and its glowing waters! We are truly driven to make sure that each guest not only sees the glowing waters but learns about its inner workings while never losing sight of our promise to deliver a Fun, Safe, Memorable, Experience Every Time. Come join us and discover the natural wonders of Laguna Grande with our award-winning guide team, offering day and night guided Puerto Rico Bio Bay kayaking tours!

Experience Fajardo Bio Bay with Our Knowledgeable Staff!

This group goes the extra mile to introduce guests to Laguna Grande and the bioluminescent experience, and keep you extra safe. I highly recommend this group if you're a beginner kayaker and are interested in experiencing the bio bay. I also recommend going during a New Moon.

The bay is so beautiful in the dark, and kayaking there through the mangrove channel is unforgettable. These guys are very professional, focused on safety, helpful and nice. They are very knowledgable about wildlife and about bioluminescence of the laguna. Highly recommend Puerto Rico Bio Bay Tours!

As inexperienced kayakers, we felt confident getting into the water, that if anything were to go wrong, it would easily be fixed! It was a clear night, we saw so many stars, and although we visited at a time when the glow wasn't as bright as it can be, we still got to see some definite glow!

Michael and his crew were very knowledgeable, professional and organized. They taught us basic kayak skills so we could maneuver the narrow channel safely. We were informed beforehand that the bioluminescent effect may not be as vibrant as the summer months and unfortunately this was the case but the experience was still very enjoyable. We were never rushed and were encouraged to take our time and enjoy the evening.

All the guys were informative and helpful. Considerate of beginner and advanced kayakers. Highly recommend this company over the others in the area due to their organization and professionalism. Eric was our tour guide he was great and informative of the bioluminescent algae. The bay at night is beautiful and peaceful and the stars were great to gaze. Do not wear sneakers they will get wet!

Eco-Friendly Tour Operator

8 Best Bioluminescent Kayak Tours In Mosquito Bay, Vieques (2024)

• Mosquito Bay
• Bioluminescence Tours

Vieques is an island in Puerto Rico that is home to a bio bay.

This bio bay is called “ Mosquito Bay “, and you can experience it by taking a night kayak tour.

I lived in Vieques for 4 years, and I’ve seen the glowing waters of Mosquito Bay many times.

In this article, I will cover the 8 best bioluminescence tours in Mosquito Bay:

1. Glass bottom kayak tour

Exploring Mosquito Bay in Vieques on a glass-bottom kayak tour is an unforgettable experience.

This tour combines the excitement of kayaking with the experience of viewing the bioluminescent organisms in the water below while you paddle through the bioluminescent waters.

With a glass bottom kayak, you can see the bioluminescence more clearly without disturbing the organisms. 

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Dayna Davidson Collins (@daynalovesart)

Get ready to be surprised when you are surrounded by the magical glow of the bioluminescent water. 

This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Mosquito Bay’s bio bay in a unique and eco-friendly way. 

Experienced guides will provide information about the organisms that create the bioluminescence and will ensure your safety throughout the tour, and give you a backstory about the constellations above. 

Check out the video of glass bottom kayaking below:

A glass-bottom kayak tour of Mosquito Bay is a must-do activity for nature lovers and adventure seekers visiting Vieques, you can book with Taino Aqua Adventures .

You will want to understand the logistics of reaching Vieques from the main island of Puerto Rico, so check out our article How To Get To Vieques From San Juan for all the details.

2. Group kayaking tour

It’s a once in a lifetime experience to paddle through the water with a group of other people and see all the glowing organisms lighting up the bay. 

And don’t worry, it will be dark but you’re in good hands with a guide who knows the ins and outs of the area. 

You’ll get the chance to learn about the science behind bioluminescence and how important it is to the ecosystem.

The mangroves that surround the bay are one of the reasons why this is the brightest bio bay in the world; the roots of the mangroves protect the organisms, creating a nursery for them that keeps them safe from predators.

Learn more about Mosquito Bay in the video below:

Taking a nighttime kayak tour is one of the most amazing things you can do on Vieques, and you can book with Black Beard Sports . 

If you are looking for more ideas, check out our article covering the 30 Best Things To Do On Vieques .

3. Borikua Tours

If you prefer not to kayak through the bio bay at night, this tour is ideal for you. 

You’ll be taken on an electric boat that will cruise around the brightest spots of the bay, giving you a comfortable view of the bioluminescence.

You can leave your phone and other important items worry-free as this tour ensures they will stay dry.

Please be aware that this tour requires a minimum of four people, including your group, to be booked for it to take place.

Book this tour by contacting Borikua Tours and if you want to experience Vieques and other surrounding islands by catamaran, check out our guide to the 10 Best Catamaran Tours In Puerto Rico .

4. Island Adventures Bio Bay Tour

Island Adventures is a small eco-tour company that offers an educational experience to its guests about the bio bay.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Vieques – Ready When You Are (@discovervieques)

Despite being a common misunderstanding, the primary factor that affects the visibility of bioluminescence is not the moon phase. Instead, it is the moon rise and set times that play the most important role in determining the visibility of the glow. 

While many people believe that the phase of the moon is the crucial factor, this is not usually the case.

Understanding this distinction can be crucial for those planning to witness bioluminescence, as it enables them to time their visit more accurately and increase their chances of seeing the stunning natural phenomenon in all its glory.

Read all about it in our article discussing When Is The Best Time To See The Bio Bay ?

You can learn more about booking with Island Adventures Bio Bay Tour on their Facebook page.

5. Wai Vie Bio Bay Tours

Vieques is well known for having beautiful, secluded beaches.

If you asked me, I would tell you that beach hopping, snorkeling, and bio bay are the top things to do on the island.

Wai Vie Bio Bay Tours offers different tour options where you can visit beaches during the day and explore the bio bay at night. 

Check out options on Wai Vie or dive in to our guide to the 17 Best Beaches On Vieques , including the famous Black Sand Beach.

6. Melaya’s Tours

Melaya’s Tours recommends bringing a bathing suit, towel and water shoes and sandals that can get wet.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by AVIAN COFFEE (@aviancoffee)

These kayak tours are suitable for individuals under 250 lbs.

This tour meets on the boardwalk in Esperanza, providing an easy to access option if you are staying on the south side of the island.

Check out Malayas Tours , and to make sure you get the most out of your stay on Vieques, read our guide on Where To Stay In Vieques – 12 Best Places And Areas .

7. Fun Brothers

Fun Brothers have been on Vieques since the early 2000’s.

In addition to their bio bay tours, they also offer scooter rentals if you are looking to take an excursion around the island.

Vieques is well known for having tons of free roaming horses, which could make for a great adventure as well.

Book a bio bay tour with Fun Brothers or learn more about the different tour options outside of the bay (like horseback riding!)  in our article featuring the 13 Best Tours In Vieques .

8. Bieque Eco Trips

You can rest assured knowing that all tour operators from Bieque Eco Trips have gone through safety training procedures before they take you into the water at night on your kayak to witness the beauty of the bio bay.

Before your trip to the bay, your guide will explain to you exactly what you need to do to remain safe while your tour is underway.

Vieques is known for being a very safe place to visit and so is the bio bay.

Book your tour with Bieke Eco Trips or for more detailed information, check out our article Is Vieques Safe For Tourists ?

FAQ section:

Do you need a tour for mosquito bay.

Yes. The government regulates the tour companies that operate in the bay to help conserve this natural phenomenon. There is no access to the bay without a guided tour.

How do you get to Mosquito Bay?

From San Juan, you will need to drive about one and a half hours to Ceiba, where you can take a ferry to Vieques. Once you arrive on Vieques, you will take a public bus or taxi to the town of Esperanza, which is where most of the bio bay tour companies meet with their guests for the tour.

Final thoughts

Mosquito Bay is a unique experience, but it’s very hard to get to.

I recommend that you go to Laguna Grande Bio Bay in Fajardo instead, since it’s located only an hour from San Juan.

If you want to learn more about Puerto Rico’s Bio Bays, then check out my article Bioluminescent Bays Puerto Rico – All You Need To Know .

Additionally, if you want to learn when the best time is to visit a bio bay in Puerto Rico, then check out my other article When Is The Best Time To See Bioluminescence In Puerto Rico .

Brittany Ashford

Writer at PuertoRico.com. After living in Puerto Rico for seven years, I opened a guesthouse in Rincón and welcomed over 400 guests to the island from around the world. When I’m not writing about travel or spending time with my dog, I’m working towards becoming a pilot with dreams of flying around the islands.

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VIEQUES KAYAKS BIO BAY

787-905-6782

BIO BAY TRIPS

Vieques Kayaks offers guided bio bay trips in clear bottom kayaks to Mosquito Bay in Vieques, Puerto Rico. The bio bay in Vieques is known as the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world!

In order to participate in our tour, an overnight stay on Vieques is required . Vieques is a separate island off of the main island of Puerto Rico. You will need to take a plane or ferry (ferry schedule can be found at www.puertoricoferry.com) from the main island of Puerto Rico to reach Vieques, and you will need to arrange separate ground transportation because you will not be able to bring a rental car on the ferry with you. If you contact us, we are happy to provide a list of rental agencies or a list of taxi and publico drivers who may be able to assist you with ground transportation. Because we only offer tours at night so that our clients can experience the glow of the bay, even if you take our earliest tour, you will not be back to our meeting point (on the south side of the island) with enough time to get on a ferry or a plane back to the main island on the same day .

Our Bio Bay trips are at 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm most days of the year, except the three days each month surrounding the full moon. The trip is two hours roundtrip from the meeting point, so you’ll be with us for two hours, and on the bay for about an hour and a half, weather and conditions permitting. We meet for the trips at 277 Calle Flamboyan in Esperanza, in the lot directly across from Rainbow Realty. Esperanza is located on the south side of the island of Vieques. All trips are in clear bottom kayaks. Each kayak seats two people. We provide life jackets and paddles for each guest.

Click here to book your trip today, or call 787-905-6782. Please note that if you are trying to book a trip within 24 hours of departure, you may get an error trying to book online. Please give us a call, because we may still be able to accommodate your trip!

The 4 Best Puerto Rico Bioluminescent Kayak Tours [2024 Reviews]

See the beautiful bioluminescent lagoon of laguna grande or fajardo with one of the top rated kayak tours.

Puerto Rico is a country known around the world for its pristine natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly locals. If you want to see all of Puerto Rico’s nature, there are plenty of tours to choose from.

However, if you want to see a part of Mother Nature that the majority of people don’t get to see, you need to check out one of the top Puerto Rico kayaking tours.

These tours will take you through the beautiful waters with bioluminescent organisms, assuring breathtaking sights and a great way to have fun in the fresh air. Let’s get started!

Be sure to see our reviews of Puerto Rico ATV tours ,  El Yunque Rainforest Tours and Puerto Rico Ziplining Adventures .

Best Bio-Luminescent Bay Puerto Rico Kayaking Tours

Quick answer: the 4 best bioluminescent lagoon kayak tours from san juan.

• Bio Bay Night Kayaking with Transportation from San Juan
• Fajardo Puerto Rico Bio Bay Kayak Tour
• Fajardo Puerto Rico Bioluminescent Lagoon Kayak or Full Moon Kayak Tour
• Bio Bay Kayak Tour in Fajardo Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico Kayak Tour Reviews

1. bio bay night kayaking with transportation from san juan.

• Duration: 4 hours
• Departure: Pickup is included
• Departure Time: 5:30 PM
• Includes: Round-trip transportation, guided tour, 101 kayaking lesson, life jacket, use of kayaks

The Bio Bay Night Kayaking with Transportation from San Juan is a great time for everyone – no matter the age or experience level of the participant! With patient, friendly, and knowledgeable staff, you can expect a great time. Not only that, but you’re going to be paddling about at night, where you’ll get a completely different perspective of San Juan.

This tour takes place in the Cabezas de San Juan, which is a bioluminescent lagoon, mangroves, coral reefs, dry forests, and beaches, all surrounded by headlands. This reserve is great for all kinds of outdoor activities, though the nighttime kayaking tours are a unique experience we highly recommend.

In fact, if you’re looking for some fun activities for kids, we know you’ll love this one as it’s very interactive and will keep their minds stimulated.

With hotel pickup and drop-off services offered, the 4 hours will be focused on making sure you’re well-prepared for the tour, and spend time valuably exploring the area by kayak. The “captains” will guide your small group of kayakers, ensuring they answer any questions and fill you in with any information you may want to know.

Now, kayaking through the mangrove forest at night, is cool. However, with the bioluminescent organisms that live in the water, it’s elevated to an out-of-this-world experience you’re sure to want to do again!

Each splash of your paddle looks like an eruption of stars in the water, and is a phenomenon most people don’t have the chance of seeing.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other puerto rico experiences you may enjoy:, 2. fajardo puerto rico bio bay kayak tour.

• Duration: 2 hours
• Departure:  Las Croabas Park, Fajardo, Puerto Rico
• Departure Time:  8:30 PM
• Includes:   Kayak and paddles,  US coastguard-approved life jackets, l ow-intensity nighttime navigation lights, t raining and safety instructions,  insect repellent, KPR’s eco-interpretive guide, f irst aid and kayak towing equipment, s torage for valuables, s nacks at the tent,  tour photos

Next up, we have the Fajardo: Bio Bay Kayak Tour . This 2-hour tour is a load of fun, and includes 4 guides to make sure everyone gets a personalized experience. In fact, you’ll be provided with information even before your trip to ensure everyone has a great time, too.

If you’ve never kayaked before, there’s no need to be worried as the guides will offer you instruction, safety precautions, and are there to answer any questions you may have. Of course, not everyone will 100% have the same exact experience as sky conditions will vary.

For example, if the moon is particularly bright on the night of your tour, you may not have the best visibility. However, they do a great job at making sure you still see them by using massive tarps and other tools.

You’ll start at the entrance of the bay, which is a red mangrove channel. This is a beautiful way to start out the tour, and as the water is shallow, it’s perfect for beginners to get their “sea legs”. You’ll follow the guides into the Laguna Grande, where you’ll paddle as the sun sets and the starts appear in the sky and in the water!

Once you’ve all been able to explore the glowing water and surrounding area, you’ll follow the guide back through the mangroves through the clicks and chirps of nature at night.

Search For San Juan Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. fajardo bioluminescent lagoon kayak or full moon kayak tour.

• Duration: 3 hours
• Departure:  Road 987, Cabezas de San Juan, Fajardo
• Departure Time:  6:00 PM
• Includes:   Kayaks, paddles and leashes, life-jackets (PFD’s),  insect repellent,  CPR and First Aid certified guides, c ommentary of the area,  snacks and bottled water

The Fajardo: Bioluminescent Lagoon Kayak or Full Moon Kayak Tour is an excellent experience. This tour will start in Las Croabas, which is a park used in both the day and night, and is a small fishing village as well. You’ll first meet up with your guide(s), where they’ll give you all necessary gear such as your double kayaks, paddles with leashes, lifejackets, and more.

We really appreciated how thorough and helpful the guides were, not only before, but throughout the entire tour. They provide a complete pre-tour training which goes through everything you may encounter and how to use their kayaks. Once everyone is on the same page, you’ll head through the mangrove channel and into the Laguna Grande.

This channel paddle lasts around 15 minutes, and you’ll make various stops so your guide can tell you about the ecosystem there, as well as any other interesting stories or commentary. If you’d like, you can select the full moon kayak eco-adventure, which is available only when a full moon is out. This tour is a bit more exclusive, with very few people partaking in them at one time.

The double kayaks are nice, because you’ll have a partner to experience everything with, and someone who will help with the paddling portion.

You’ll see the water naturally illuminated by the moon, along with the “stars” of the show: the bioluminescent organisms. Combine all that, with the sounds of the animals in the ecosystems surrounding you, and you have a fairytale-like adventure you’re sure to do again.

4. Bio Bay Kayak Tour in Fajardo Puerto Rico

• Departure: Carr. 987, Km 5.4, Fajardo
• Departure Time: Evening
• Includes: Life jacket, low-intensity night time navigation lights, snacks, insect repellent

Last but certainly not least, is the 2-hour Bio Bay Kayak Tour in Fajardo Puerto Rico . With the double kayaks including backrests, you can rest assured that you’ll be comfy and casual while exploring this amazing area. As you’re going to be covering quite a good distance, the double kayaks are a massive help and make this possible for those who aren’t already experienced kayakers.

Before you get started, your professional eco guides will offer a kayaking lesson and instructions on how to remain safe always. The water is quite shallow in most areas, which makes it more appealing for those a bit nervous about deep water.

Make sure you take advantage of their complimentary, eco-friendly insect repellent because you’ll certainly need it on the water at this time of night.

Paddle through the beautiful mangrove channels while heading to Laguna Grande. There, you’ll get to see the Pyrodinium Bahamense. These tiny plankton are able to produce natural light, especially when touched. It’s absolutely fascinating to experience this up close and personal!

Meanwhile, your guides will tell you all about them, the reserve’s history and current state, constellations, and much more.

Oh, and they do include some complimentary snacks so you’ll be fully taken care of and satisfied while you’re out adventuring around! You almost definitely are going to break a sweat, so you may get hungry from burning all those calories!

FAQs About Bioluminescent Kayak Tours in Puerto Rico

Q: what are bioluminescent kayak tours and why are they so amazing.

A: Bioluminescent kayak tours are night-time adventures that take you to the glowing waters of Puerto Rico’s bio bays. These are rare natural phenomena where tiny organisms called dinoflagellates produce light when they are disturbed by movement. Imagine paddling through a sea of stars and creating sparkling trails with every stroke of your paddle. That’s what bioluminescent kayak tours are all about!

Q: Where can I find bioluminescent kayak tours in Puerto Rico?

A: Puerto Rico is blessed with three bioluminescent bays:

Laguna Grande in Fajardo: This is the most accessible and popular bio bay in Puerto Rico, located on the east coast of the island. You will kayak through a mangrove forest that feeds into a lagoon where the bioluminescence is more visible.

Mosquito Bay in Vieques: This is the brightest and most conserved bio bay in Puerto Rico, located on the island of Vieques, off the main island. You can kayak or boat on the bay and see the water sparkle like diamonds with every movement.

La Parguera in Lajas: While this is the least bright bio bay in Puerto Rico it is the most diverse. Located on the southwest coast of the island the green, blue and red bioluminescence here is amazing!

Q: How do I choose the best bioluminescent kayak tour for me?

A: If you are staying in San Juan, the easiest option is Laguna Grande in Fajardo. It’s a short drive away, an hour or less. You can also opt for a guided tour that includes transportation from San Juan for an extra fee.

If you are looking for the most spectacular bio bay in the world, you should visit Mosquito Bay in Vieques. This island off the east coast of Puerto Rico can only be reached by ferry and you will need to stay overnight.

If you want to swim in the bioluminescent water, you should go to La Parguera in Lajas. It’s located in the southwest of Puerto Rico. It’s about two hours from San Juan by car.

If you want to combine your bioluminescent kayak tour with other activities and attractions, you should check out the options available in each destination. For example, you can visit El Yunque National Forest or Luquillo Beach before or after your tour in Fajardo, explore the beaches and wildlife of Vieques Island.

Q: When should I do a bioluminescent kayak tour?

A: The darker the better so when the moon is not too bright. You can check the moon phases and weather forecast before booking your tour to make sure you get the best conditions possible. Generally, the best nights are around the new moon and the last quarter moon.

Q: What should I wear and bring for a bioluminescent kayak tour?

A: You should wear water shoes, swimsuit a dry type t-shirt or rash guard. I would also advise bringing a towel, insect repellent, a change of clothes and a waterproof camera. Most tours will provide you with life jackets, paddles, kayaks, and water bottles.

Q: How long does a bioluminescent kayak tour last?

A: Most tours are about two hours. There is a short safety briefing, and if need be a kayaking lesson. Tours are generally $55 to $65 per person.

Q: Do I need any experience or skills to go on a bioluminescent kayak tour?

A: No, you don’t need any experience or skills to go on a bioluminescent kayak tour. You will receive a short kayaking lesson from your guide before launching. The beginner kayaks are stable and easy to maneuver.

Q: Is there an age or weight limit for bioluminescent kayak tours?

A: Yes, there is an age limit and a weight limit for bioluminescent kayak tours. The minimum age is 6 years old, and the maximum weight is 200 lbs for the Fajardo Bio Bay Tour, and 290 lbs for the Bioluminescent Bay with Transportation from San Juan.

Tour Guides

The Bio Bay Night Kayaking from San Juan is our Editor's Choice for the best Puerto Rico kayaking tour

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 7 best el yunque rainforest tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best puerto rico ziplines [2024 reviews], the 6 best puerto rico atv tours [2024 reviews], 🌅the 6 best puerto rico sunset sailing [2024 reviews].

Parguera Watersports

Biobay kayaking adventures and tours in puerto rico, boat and kayaking tours of la parguera, puerto rico.

• Most Popular Tour!
• Hour Glass 2 Hours | 2.5 Hours
• Tags All Ages

Bioluminescent Bay Kayak & Swim Tour

Enjoy this nighttime kayak tour and get a close look at the unique bioluminescence. Learn more about the bioluminescent bay on this memorable tour!

• Great for Families!
• Hour Glass 4 Hours

Private Island Adventure Boat Tour

Enjoy a day on Cayo Enrique Island! We provide everything you need for a fun day at the beach, including kayak, and snorkeling gear.

• Hour Glass 3 Hours

SUNSET SWIM AND KAYAK BIOLUMINESCENT BAY

Enjoy a sunset swim in the clear warm waters of a beautiful cay before you head out to the bio bay for an incredible bioluminescent kayaking experience.

• Tags 7+ y/o

VIP Snorkeling

Our VIP snorkeling offers a unique experience! You will snorkel and explore in one of our beautiful keys. La Parguera , Puerto Rico is a world class location for water sports and snorkeling is indeed one of them.

ABOUT PARGUERA WATER SPORTS IN PUERTO RICO

Parguera Water Sports took its first baby steps in the summer of 2007. Master Captain Mendoza, founder of PWS, comes from two very important and influential backgrounds in his life: he worked as a Senior Sales executive for FedEx and the most important influence was his beloved father. He is also known as “Captain Uchy Mendoza”.

The summer of 1977 marked the start of his learning process. Going with his father as deckhand on unaccountable Marine Science Research Expeditions and Commercial Fishing Trips. Love and fascination for one of God’s amazing creations – the ocean – were the elements that ignited this small company. At Parguera Water Sports, services are provided day & night. We offer everything from supervised kayak tours in the bioluminescent Puerto Rico waters to boat charters around the island.

A PUERTO RICO KAYAKING EXPERIENCE YOU’LL NEVER FORGET!

Hi from Texas! A group of 5 of us went on vacation to Puerto Rico last week and had the most amazing time! Our tour guides were phenomenal! They took us out via boat onto kayaks where we then got to jump into the bay and swim in the bioluminescent bay! They even provided us with snorkels to use while in the water! It was the best experience ever and they were so amazing! 💯 customer satisfaction!! Thank y’all for an amazing night!

The gentlemen at Parguera Water Sports were skilled, thoughtful, and kind. They treated every passenger with respect and even gave us all extra time to put on the bio bay to make up for lost time that they had no control over. The views are once in a life time and the guides will make you laugh and feel safe the entire way. Could not recommend highly enough.

This experience was something that my family and I will never forget! We had such an amazing time, first snorkeling, canoeing and a nice night swim at the bioluminescent bay! Our captain Irwin was the best!!! He was super knowledgeable, patient with my son (7 year old), and just such a positive vibe. We will for sure book again. For any families booking make sure to bring food as the experience is four hours long. We look forward to more adventures in the future.

The bioluminescent were sparkling in the bay and even brighter in the mangroves were we kayaked. We were the only ones in the bay for most of the tour. Captain Mendoza was a great guide and very knowledgeable on the surrounding areas and the bioluminescent. We highly recommend using him for your next tour in the bay.

• Most Popular!

Bio Bay Kayaking Tour

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 1.5 - 2 Aprox.
• Users Ages: Ages 5+
• Bus Please Note: Transportation is not included. See below for more info
• Info NIGHT KAYAKING TOUR: Please be advised that this tour takes place at night. It will be DARK and other companies operate at the same time. Tours do NOT have a personal guides. Tours will have from 2 to 4 guides per trip depending on amount of guest and will be there to assist but can not do the kayaking for you.

Witness the Beauty of the Bioluminescent Bay Up Close!

A truly unforgettable experience awaits, as you witness hundreds of tiny star-like bioluminescent plankton scintillating like a starry sky as you move through the bay.

Wave your paddle through the water in front of you, and be mesmerized by the tiny glowing specs of plankton or Dinoflagellates which are tiny unicellular marine plankton also known as fire plants.

Adventure Details

At the prescribed time, meet for your Bio Bay Bioluminescent Kayaking Tour on the beach of Las Croabas, a small fishing village located on the extreme northeastern tip of Puerto Rico.

Your Eco Adventures guides call the group of kayakers together for a briefing session covering basic kayak handling, rules of the road, and the importance of keeping to a minimum any disturbance of the pristine environment of the bioluminescent lagoon.

Then we launch our kayaks and head for a hidden opening in the mangroves at the northern end of the beach. Upon entering the mangroves, we follow a channel for a mile that leads to the Laguna Grande.

Leaving the channel and entering the lagoon by itself is a breathtaking experience! A wide expanse of gentle, rippling water surrounded by mangrove forests greets the adventurer, the mountains of the El Yunque Rainforest tower in the distance – profound tranquility envelopes all who enter!

But the best is yet to come! Your guides call the flotilla together for an informative talk about several topics: This unique ecosystem, the flora, fauna, and sea life that inhabits the lagoon, and historical notes of interest.

Discuss the Fajardo Lighthouse, built by the Spanish in the 19th century, and of course, the incredible natural phenomenon that we’re here for – the shimmering glow of bioluminescence as you dip your paddles and glide through the sparkling water – an amazingly unique experience only found in four other places on earth!

• Chevron down Restrictions
• Pregnant women
• People with either heart, back, neck, wrist, or any type of medical condition
• Minimum age is 5 years old.
• Weight limits: 425 lbs combined per double kayak, 250 lbs per single
• All participants must be physically fit to handle a kayak with paddles.
• Chevron down Is transportation included?

Transportation is NOT included, but you can arrange transportation through our recommended shuttle services: Jireh Transport at 787-361-9741 or Mike Rivera (2-25 people) at 787-649-6139. Please let them know your tour time and be sure to appear at your arranged time.

Related Adventures In Fajardo

• Users Ages 5+
• Hour Glass 11 hours

Culebra Power Boat & Bioluminescent Bay Combo

Join us on a fantastic snorkel and beach tour to Culebra Island and Cayo Luis Peña Nature Reserve followed by a kayak tour through the bio bay!

• Hour Glass 12 hours

Catamaran and Bio Bay Combo Tour

Join us for an all-day experience, including a six-hour journey on a catamaran and a two-hour kayak through the bio bay, Laguna Grande.

• Bus Transportation included
• Hour Glass 10 hours

Yunque River, Beach & Bio Bay

Enjoy a day in “Charco La Barrigona”. A beautiful swimming area along the Mameyes River in Río Grande, located in the outskirts of the ” El Yunque National Forest” before kayaking in Fajardo’s famous bio bay!

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

13 Things I Wish I Knew Before Taking the Fajardo Bioluminescent Bay Tour in Puerto Rico

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Mexico and Caribbean
• Puerto Rico
• Sightseeing

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

I sat silently in my kayak, one hand swirling the water outside the boat. With each gentle swish, a miniature constellation of underwater “stars” twinkled around my fingers. In the kayak beside me, a woman spun her paddle in the water and gasped at the tiny explosion of light. Ahead of me, the comet-like streak of green in the water indicated a fish swimming near the surface. That’s the magic of Bio Bay tours.

I’d come to Isla de Vieques, off Puerto Rico’s main island on a kayaktrip in its world-famous bioluminescent bay. The experience was everything I’d hoped for — a stroke of luck, given how poorly I’d arranged my trip. Getting the most out of a bio bay tour requires a lot of advance planning, and, in the case of Vieques, more cash than you might expect.

Here’s what I wish I knew before making the trip.

13 Things I Wish Somebody Told Me Before Taking the Fajardo Bioluminescent Bay Tour in Puerto Rico

1. bioluminescence is surprisingly common.

Much like fireflies do on land, single-celled, water surface–dwelling organisms called dinoflagellates, a type of plankton, can emit light underwater. They aren’t the only marine organisms that glow. Some 1,500 species of fish are known to luminesce, as well as certain types of squid, jellyfish, worms, and crustaceans. Many use bioluminescence as lures for food or mates, or to confuse predators.

Although dinoflagellates are microscopic, they often form large colonies. The human eye doesn’t detect the bioluminescence when a water body is still. But when disturbed, such as by wind that ripples the surface or the slicing of a boat hull through the water, our eyes translate the light wavelengths into glow-in-the-dark sparkles and zigzags of green or blue-green.

2. Puerto Rico Has Three Bioluminescent Bays

The planet currently has five ecosystems where dinoflagellate concentrations are high enough to consistently cause this bioluminescent phenomenon. Puerto Rico claims three of them where Bio Bay tours are organized.

In Fajardo, along the east coast of the main island , Laguna Grande is the most trafficked of the trio. It’s not as bright as the others, but at only an hour by car from San Juan , it’s the easiest to get to. This also makes it the most touristy of the bunch.

A few of the better-known Laguna Grande tour operators include:

• Eco Adventures
• Kayaking Puerto Rico
• Yokahú Kayak Trips
• Puerto Rico Bio Bay Tours

In Lajas, on the opposite corner of the main island, La Parguera is the least visited of the three bays. At about 2.5 hours from San Juan, it’s a much longer drive than Laguna Grande, but a worthwhile stop if you’re visiting the western side of Puerto Rico.

Some Bio Bay tours allow swimming in La Parguera. Because chemicals in bug repellents, sunscreens, and body lotions can kill the phytoplankton, you’ll need to shower before joining a tour that includes swimming or diving through the bio bay.

Try one of these La Parguera tour operators:

• Parguera Eco Tours
• Bio Bay Tours
• Kayaking Parguera
• Alelí Tours

The granddaddy of all bioluminescent bays, and the brightest in the world, is Mosquito Bay in Vieques. Although Hurricane Maria devastated the island in 2017, Mosquito Bay’s dinoflagellate population has, miraculously, doubled since then. On a dark night, you’re almost guaranteed to see something spectacular.   

Tour operators on Vieques include:

• Abe’s Snorkeling
• Black Beard Sports
• Vieques Kayaks Bio Bay
• Jak Water Sports

3. Booking A Tour Can Lead To Unexpected Expenses

You can rent a car and drive to Laguna Grande or La Parguera. Mosquito Bay isn’t connected to the main island, so you’ll need to take a ferry (about $40 per person) or small plane (about $120 per person) from Ceiba, or fly directly from San Juan (about $130 per person), to get there. Depending on the time of year, ferry and flight service may or may not be available after 7 p.m. Residents of Laguna Grande are given preference on the ferry, which means you could get bumped from an especially full voyage.

In addition, many bio bay kayaking tour operators require an address where you’ll be staying on the island in order to complete booking. Since cars aren’t allowed on the ferry to Vieques, you must rent a car or line up a taxi ride once on the island.

The short story: It’s best to plan an overnight stay on the island.

Between our flights, taxi, accommodations in the least expensive Airbnb we could find, and the tour itself, my husband and I spent about $450 on this portion of our kayak trip. Allow for more costs if you plan a day trip to El Yunque National Forest – the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System.

We chose Abe’s Snorkeling for our excursion. The sea life kayaking experience was very good overall, although the tour operator, like an airline, oversold their 7 p.m. tour. About a dozen of us were bumped, with no notice, to the 9 p.m. slot. For our trouble, our guide offered each pairing of people a refund on one ticket.

4. Almost Anyone Can Do It

Bio bay kayaking is appropriate for most levels of ability. The water is usually calm, and paddling is done at a laid-back pace, mostly in two-person boats. Because you’re kayaking in the dark, it’s important to follow your tour guide and his instructions and stick close to your tour group. This could be tricky for travelers with vision or hearing impairments. If you’ve got grandkids in tow, ask about age restrictions.

5. Know Your Moon Cycles, And Book In Advance

You might be able to book a tour on the fly, but I wouldn’t risk it. Most fill up several months in advance, especially during the high season.

Although Puerto Rico’s bays luminesce year round, you’ll have the best experience on a dark night. Kayaking during a new moon is preferable because the glow percentage is usually higher. Using a moon phases calendar will help you chart out the best time to go.

Most operators don’t even run tours 3 days before or after a full moon. We didn’t realize this when we booked our Puerto Rican vacation. Fortunately, the final night was just beyond the full-moon window.  

The day before or the morning of your excursion, call your tour operator to check on the bay’s brightness; it should be a minimum of 30 percent. In addition to the moon, tides and water temperature affect how much color you see.

6. Ask About Clear-Bottomed Boats

Some tour companies offer clear-bottomed boats, which allow for a unique look at the bioluminescence directly underneath you. This isn’t the default option, so be sure to ask if it’s important to you.

7. Dress To Get Wet

Wear comfortable clothing, such as shorts and a T-shirt, preferably made of tech or quick-drying fabrics; some splashing is normal during any kayaking outing. Pants and shorts with zipper pockets are useful for storing a credit card, in case you want to stop at a restaurant or bar on the way back to your hotel or Airbnb (no need to take a full wallet or cash). Sturdy walking sandals, knit sneakers, or aqua shoes are all good choices for footwear.

Don’t count on being able to stash extra clothing or shoes with the tour operator; take only what you need.

8. Skip The Sunscreens And Skin Lotions

Wash your hands and feet before the trip, and don’t apply any moisturizer, serums, or lotions. You’ll be allowed to dip toes and fingers in the water, but chemicals from common skin products can kill the dinoflagellates.

9. It’s Okay To Take Your Phone

Your bio bay tour guide will tell you to leave your cell phone behind, ostensibly because its camera won’t be able to capture the glow. This may be true, or it may be an effort to reduce the sharing of images, which might, in turn, lead to a reduction in tour purchases. I regretted listening to this advice. I think I could have used my cell phone camera in manual mode and gotten sufficiently long exposures to get quality and free photos of some of the luminescence.

Bottom line: There’s no harm in taking your phone, as long as you seal it in a floating dry bag, and wear it on a lanyard around your neck. Just be aware that if you accidentally overturn your kayak, you might have trouble retrieving the phone in the dark. And don’t spend all your time taking pictures. The best part of the experience is staying in the moment and enjoying the display.

10. Be Prepared For A Wild Ride

The drive out to the bio bay is a bit like riding a roller coaster without a seat belt. Our bus driver clearly had been making this drive for years, and he knew every pothole and curve in the road — and took most of them at a robust clip. In the dark. I had to pry my fingers out of the seat upholstery after he swerved through small herds of the island’s free-roaming horses. Fortunately, he didn’t hit any.

Pro Tip: About those Viequense horses: They’re not wild, even if tourism brochures and resorts market them as such. All are owned by residents and are set free to browse the island’s grasses when not being used as transportation. Sadly, these beautiful animals are frequently killed in road accidents. If you rent a car, drive slowly and cautiously.

11. Keep Your Expectations In Check

Nature is fickle, and an evening of 100 percent glow might be followed by one of less than 30 percent. To make matters worse, all promotional images of Bio Bay tours are Photoshopped. While it is a breathtaking sight, you will not be engulfed in a happy blue halo, nor will the water light up on its own. What you’ll see is more akin to an underwater shower of glitter every time you or your tour mates dip an oar or hand into the bay.  

12. Bio Bay Tour Without Kayaks

Is there another means of transportation to get to the bay? Yes, there is now an eco-friendly way to visit Laguna Grande without having to kayak. Bio Island is a company that offers an electric motorboat tour that is both fun and safe for the environment.

They use a really quiet electric motor approved by the DRNA. A low-emission gas motor is used until the boat gets into the channel and then they switch to electric. Being a small Carolina Skiff, the boat has a very low profile, not much deeper than the kayak bottoms.

13. Bio Bay Is Virtually Impossible to Photograph

This is because the illumination is not originating from the water itself, but rather the dinoflagellates in the water. The images that you see online are captured using long exposure techniques, and don’t look anything like the real thing. 

However, the elusive nature of capturing the Bio Bay on film doesn’t mean that it is at all subtle. If you go out when the bay is particularly active you’ll never experience anything so stunningly surreal and beautiful. You should only hope that someday you’ll be lucky enough to see it again.

Is Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Trip Worth The Extra Trouble And Expense?

That’s a big yes. Although I can’t speak for Laguna Grande or La Parguera, kayaking Mosquito Bay was as close to magical as an outdoor experience can get. The bay is wide open and hushed, and even with other groups of kayakers out on the water, it felt like we were the only ones. Paddling was relaxed over the hour and a half we spent out on the water. Even the inexperienced kayakers had a great time.

Because I’d read up in advance and scaled my expectations, I wasn’t disappointed. The bioluminescent glow was actually more pronounced than I figured it would be, with miniature fireworks going off each time a boat pushed through the water. It wasn’t the neon blue radiance shown on tour websites, but it still felt otherworldly, like holding a galaxy of tiny stars in my palms. Aside of Puerto Rico, you can also see bioluminescent water on the Southern California coas t.

When Is the Best Time for a Kayak Trip in Bio Bay in Puerto Rico?

Generally, the best time for a kayak trip is around the new moon when there is less moonlight in the sky to interfere with the glow. Many factors affect how visible the bioluminescence is on any given night, including cloud cover which may help to block the moon and its light.

Why Is the Bio Bay Closed for Three Days Each Month During the Full Moon?

The Department of Natural Resources in Puerto Rico does not allow any tours during those days every month so that Bio Bay can get some  “rest” from human interaction.

Can I Go to See the Bio Bay in Puerto Rico on My Own?

No. Bio Bay is only open to tour companies with DRNA permits, not individuals. It is safest to go with a reputable and insured tour company with a tour guide who will explain the biology of the fragile ecosystem there for you.

Can Small Children Go On Bio Bay Tours in Puerto Rico?

Yes, tour companies take infants and young children on their Bio Bay tours. Infant and child life vests are available and the kids will be seated in a parent’s lap in the kayak. Inexperienced kayakers are advised not to kayak with kids.

What Should I Bring for My Bio Bay, Puerto Rico Tour?

You should bring a towel, natural DEET-free bug spray, and some kind of water shoes. For our day tours, you should also bring sunscreen and protective clothing like rash guards and hats if you like.

A specialist in coastal travel, the northeast U.S., and Spain, Robin is a travel journalist and the writer behind the travel blog Once More to the Shore . Her work has appeared in National Geographic , Travel + Leisure , TIME , Smithsonian , Conde Nast Traveler , AFAR , Hemispheres , and a range of other publications, both national and regional.

A New Englander by birth now living in the Hudson Valley, Robin understands the call of the sea, and the allure of rock-strewn beaches and shrouded forests. She also knows that a Maine-style lobster roll — the one true lobster roll — is best paired with a crisp hard cider, and that nothing beats a Rhode Island clam cake.

An honorary Spaniard by marriage, Robin visits Spain at least once a year, and has never met a town or tapa she didn’t like. When she’s not writing about travel, she can usually be found exploring regional lakes in her inflatable kayak, hiking the Taconics, or attempting to snap the perfect photo of the wildlife around her home.

• Most Popular!

Biobay Tour

Quick Details

• Info Important Note: Guests must stay overnight in Vieques to see the biobay

Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours

Users Ages: All ages welcome!

Key Hole Recommended Experience Level: All levels

Clock Start Time:  6:00 pm AST | 7:00 pm AST | 8:00 pm AST | 9:00 pm AST

Clock Meeting time: 10 minutes prior to start time.

We meet across from Rainbow Realty (278 Calle Flamboyan, near the Green Store)

Explore the Vieques Bioluminescent Bay

The biobay in Vieques is the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world!

Discover the beauty and science of bioluminescence as you paddle through the bay and learn about the life of Pyrodinium Bahamense, the single-celled organism responsible for this incredible glow.

We meet in Esperanza across from Rainbow Realty. Here’s a map with our meeting location for your reference:

We then drive you to the bay and provide you with kayak, paddle, vest, and instruction. After a short paddle, we give you a very informative session explaining the bioluminescent bay’s unique ecology and the science behind the bright glow.

When the night is dark, and the stars are out, it is time to see the magic! Watch falling stars and witness Vieques’ bioluminescent bay shine like an aqua blue glowing cloud in this once-in-a-lifetime experience. The biobay must be seen to be believed!

• Come enjoy a kayak tour of the beautiful bioluminescent bay
• We provide kayaks, paddles, and life vests
• Total weight limit per kayak is 450 pounds
• Minimum age to participate: one

If we can’t accommodate you online, feel free to reach out to our main office. We may still be able to place you on a tour.

Important Note

In compliance with DRNA regulations, there are no tours of the biobay in Vieques the day before the full moon, the day of the full moon, and the day after the full moon each month.

Please click below to help plan your biobay tour dates.

Related Tours

• Featured tour!
• Key Hole Intermediate/Advanced
• Hour Glass 3.5 hours

Tres Palmitas Snorkeling Tour

Take a paddle around a mangrove forest, kayak to a completely remote beach and snorkel from the shore, then head into the Caribbean Sea and paddle near sea caves on this four-hour elite journey.

• Most Popular!

Fajardo Bio Bay Night Kayaking Tour

Explore Nature's Hidden Gem: Bioluminescent Kayaking in Puerto Rico's Mangrove Forest Reserve!

Quick Details

Hour Glass Duration:  2 hours

Clock Available times:  6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Calendar Availability:  Sunday – Friday

Location: PR-987 Km. 6.8 Kayak Village Fajardo, PR 00738

Bio Bay Night Kayaking Tour in Fajardo Puerto Rico!

Bring a little excitement to your vacation with our night kayaking tour in the Bio Bay of Laguna Grande Reserve in Fajardo. The Bio Bay has microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates that produce a glowing effect when they are stirred by our paddles. Kayaking in Laguna Grande Reserve at night is a must-do activity you don’t want to miss!

Our Adaptive Paddling Program provides ample opportunity for creativity for anyone who would like to try kayaking for the first time. Also, if you have some special challenges, we can address these issues so that you too can enjoy the freedom that kayaking affords. Water is the ultimate equalizer. Join us for a tour today!

Highlights:

• An Eco-Adventure in the Mangrove Forest– For outdoor enthusiast and nature lovers only.
• Bio Bay Night Kayaking – Through the mangrove forest of Laguna Grande in Las Cabezas de San Juan Reserve.
• Chance to experience the glow of bioluminescent water.
• Wheelchair Accessible – Attainable Adaptations for guest with special needs and disabilities.

Inclusions:

• Guided Night Kayaking Eco-Adventure at the Bioluminescent Bay of Laguna Grande Mangrove Reserve.
• Live-commentary and interpretations about the Ecosystem in English or Spanish – Fully guided by certified tour guides.
• 101 kayaking lesson – First time in a kayak! no problem.
• Adaptive Paddling Program with our experienced tour guides.
• Transportation Upgrade – available.
• Big and Tall Participants, no problem! – weight up to 250 pounds per person.
• Life jacket – US Coast Guard Approved.
• Two person sit-on-top kayaks
• Chevron down Frequently Asked Questions:
• Transportation Available? Yes, if you haven’t book the tour with transportation you can always upgrade your reservation for roundtrip transportation.
• Where are you located? PR-987 Km 6.8 Kayaking Village Fajardo, PR 00738 GPS Coordinates 18.3654071,-65.6251796 https://g.page/accesstourspr?share
• What should I wear? Come prepared to get wet from your waist down. Lightweight, synthetic clothing or a swimsuit is the best. Do not walk bare foot on the beach for safety reasons.
• What to bring? Change of clothes, towel and mosquito repellent (just in case!). You can bring cameras only with water proof bag or water proof case.
• What not to bring or wear? We suggest that you try to avoid wearing jeans or sweats. Don’t bring any valuables you don’t want to get wet, lose or damage.
• Storage available? In case you want to leave any article, you can leave it at the registration table. Anything you bring on the water has the potential to get wet, damage or lost.
• What’s the cancellation policy? To reserve a space, a credit card number is required. All cancellations are subject to a $10 per person cancellation fee. We require a 24 hour cancellation notice to be eligible for a full refund less $ 10 per person cancellation fee, otherwise your credit card will be charged. PR Access Tours cancels due to unsafe weather conditions or any recommendation from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA. A full refund will be given if we cancel for safety reasons.
• Do you still take out trips if it is raining? If it is a heavy rain we may offer you the option of rescheduling or canceling without being charged. If there is lightning close by we will cancel the trip but you should always assume the trip is going out and show up for your trip unless we have said otherwise. The rain and/or lightning may be moving away quickly and may only make for a short delay in our departure time even if it looks bad at the moment.
• What is the minimum age to participate in the kayaking tour? Participants must be at least 7 years old to join the tour.
• Is the tour suitable for pregnant women? NO, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women due to safety reasons.
• How long does the Night Kayaking tour last? The tour typically lasts around 2 hours, allowing participants to enjoy the bioluminescent experience.
• Is there a maximum weight limit for participants? Yes, the maximum weight limit per person is 250 pounds.
• Do I need to know how to swim? Participants must be able to swim on their own in the rare case of capsizing. The tour does not have any lifeguards.
• Is parking available? Free parking is available but limited, so it’s advisable to arrive early.
• Should I expect to get wet during the tour? Yes, participants should come prepared to get wet from their waist down. Lightweight, synthetic clothing or a swimsuit is recommended.
• Can I walk barefoot on the beach? For safety reasons, please do not walk barefoot on the beach.
• Should I bring valuables on the tour? NO, It’s advisable not to bring any valuables you don’t want to get wet, lose, or damage during the tour.
• Are there any restrictions regarding alcohol or drugs? Anyone visibly under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be allowed to participate and will still be charged.
• Do I need to sign a waiver? Yes, participants are required to sign a waiver before the tour begins.
• What type of kayaks are used? The tour uses two-person double kayaks for a shared paddling experience. Groups with an odd number of participants will pair up with someone from another group to accommodate the uneven numbers.
• What affects the bioluminescent intensity? Weather, the intensity of bioluminescence depends on natural factors such as rain, tide, moon phase, sunlight, and other elements not under our control. We do not modify images using software.
• I have other questions not answered in this FAQ what shall I do? Call us at (787) 463-1940 or email us at [email protected]
• Chevron down Exclusions:
• Mosquito repellent is not provided.
• Waterproof cell phone pouches are not provided.
• Must be able to swim, swimming is a requirement for this tour. In the event that you capsize, you must be able to swim alone.
• Chevron down Know Before You Book:
• Minimum age is 6 years.
• Not for pregnant women.
• Not for travelers with back problems.
• Not recommended for travelers with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.
• This Night Kayaking tour operates even if it rain, except in the case of extreme weather events or any warnings by the local weather authorities or the U.S. Coast Guard.
• The night Kayaking tour lasts around 2 hours.
• The maximum weight is 240 pounds per person.
• Parking available but limited.
• Come prepared to get wet from your waist down.
• Lightweight, synthetic clothing or a swimsuit is the best.
• Do not walk bare foot on the beach for safety reasons.
• Don’t bring any valuables, you don’t want to get wet, lose or damage.
• Anyone who is visibly under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be allowed to participate and will still be charged.
• We reserved the right of admission.
• You must sign a waiver, as requested.
• Two persons double kayaks.
• Nature at it is – The bioluminescent intensity depends on weather conditions such as rain, tide, moon phase, Sun light and many other Nature factors that are not in control of Puerto Rico Access Tours. We do not photoshop.
• Chevron down Don't Bring:
• Don’t bring anything you don’t want to get wet, lost or damage.
• No electronics, No cameras or cell phone unless you have a waterproof case.
• For your convenience you can leave the car keys with us at the registration desk.
• Chevron down Essential Eligibility Criteria
• Age and Accompaniment: Participants must be at least 7 years old, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Weight Limit: Participants must weigh below 250 lbs. to ensure their safety and the stability of the kayak.
• Comprehension and Independence: Participants should be able to comprehend and follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently or with the assistance of a companion.
• Physical Ability: Participants must be able to remain balanced, seated, and hold their head upright without neck/head support for 2 hours in a touring kayak.
• Personal Care: Participants should be capable of managing all personal care independently or with the assistance of a friend or family member.
• Mobility: Participants must be able to manage personal mobility independently or with a reasonable amount of assistance.
• Water Skills: Participants should be able to independently turn from face-down to face-up and remain floating face up while wearing a properly fitted life jacket. In the event of a capsize, they should be able to get out from under a capsized kayak independently and re-enter the kayak with the assistance of one other boat and their paddling partner.
• Water Comfort: Participants must be comfortable in the water, including floating on their back independently with a properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD), turning from facedown to face up independently while wearing a properly fitted PFD, and holding their breath while underwater.
• Endurance: Participants should be able to go kayaking for more than 3 miles independently or with a reasonable amount of assistance.

These criteria ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants during kayaking activities.

• Chevron down Waiver and Release of Liability and Express Assumption of Risk

Peniel Alphas, Corp. | DBA Peniel Access Eco Tours | PR Access Tours Waiver and Release of Liability and Express Assumption of Risk. Participant Agreement Terms And Conditions .

Read Before You Signing

NOTICE: This is a legally binding agreement. By signing this agreement you give up your right to bring a court action to recover compensation or obtain any other remedy for any injury to yourself, your property or for your death however caused including but not limited to negligence arising out of your use of PENIEL Alphas Corp, Peniel Access Eco Tours, accesstours.com (“PENIEL”)  / PR Access Tours now or at any time in the future. Activities covered by this document include hiking, canoeing, kayaking, night kayaking and transportation.

IN CONSIDERATION of being permitted to participate in any way in Peniel Alphas Corp. tours / PR Access Tours LLC, transportation and recreation program and related activities I, for myself, my personal representatives assign, heirs, and next of kin:

• ACKNOWLEDGE agree and represent that I understand the nature of paddle sports and related activities. Outdoors activities like hiking, or night kayaking are not risk free. We do not want to heighten or reduce your enthusiasm for the experience, but we do want you to know in advance what to expect, and to be informed of some of the possible risks. All manner of injury resulting from sea kayaking, sea night kayaking and kayaking in general entails known and unanticipated risks that could result in physical or emotional injury, paralysis, or to third parties. I willingly agree to comply with the stated and customary terms and conditions of participation. I understand that such risks simply cannot be eliminated without jeopardizing the essential qualities of the activity.
• FULLY UNDERSTAND that: (a) The same elements that contribute to the unique character and fun of outdoors activities involve risks and dangers of damage to personal property and serious bodily injury, including permanent disability, paralysis, and death (“risks”); (b) these risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating in the activity, the condition in which the activity takes place, or the negligence of the “releasees” named below; (c) there may be other risks and social and economic losses either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time; and i fully accept and assume all such risks and all responsibility for losses, costs, and damages I incur as a result of my participation or that of the minor in the Activity.
• HEREBY RELEASE, DISCHARGE, AND COVENANT NOT TO SUE Peniel Alphas Corp., affiliated clubs and organizational affiliates, their respective Tour Guides, Guides, Drivers, Staff, directors, agents, officers, members, volunteers, employees and other participants, any sponsors, advertisers, and, if applicable, owners and lessors of premises on which the activity takes place, (each considered one of the “releasees” herein) from all liability, claims, demands, losses, injuries, damage to property, or other damages on my account caused or alleged to be caused in whole or in part by the negligence of the “releasees” or otherwise, including negligent rescue operations; and i further agree that if, despite this release and waiver of liability, assumption of risk, and indemnity agreement i, or anyone on my behalf, makes a claim against any of the releasees, i will indemnify, save, and hold harmless each of the releasees from any litigation expenses, attorney fees, loss, liability, damage, or cost which any may incur as the result of such claim.
• ACKNOWLEDGE that I have been advised to wear an approved personal floatation device while sea kayaking and to fallow safety instructions and rules by PENIEL Alphas Corp. I am familiar with the proper use of the Equipment, including how to self-rescue, and of the ocean environment including tides, currents and weather effects. I am aware that there are guides available to answer any questions that I may have as to the proper use of the Equipment. Read and understand the safety rules stipulated by Peniel Alphas Corp.
• WILLINGLY agree to comply with terms, conditions and safety rules for participation. If I observe any unusual significant hazard during my presence or participation, I will remove myself from participation and bring such to the attention of the nearest guide immediately.
• LEGAL FEES – The customer, guest, riders, renters, participants, clients or kayakers agrees to pay all attorney and all related court expenses and fees made incurred by the Company Peniel Alphas Corp and its owners in enforcing the terms of this Contract or collecting any payment due under this Contract. The court of jurisdictions shall be in Puerto Rico.
• HEALTH STATEMENT – I will notify in writing by letter, text, or email before I make the reservation and the day of the event before the tour start to Peniel Alphas Corp. ownership or employees if I suffer from any medical or health condition that may cause injury to myself, others, or may require emergency care during my participation. Also, if I am reserving online, I will notify it in the note’s box in the online webpage.
• MEDIA STATEMENT – By signing below, I hereby grant and convey to Peniel Alphas, Corp. all right, title and interest in and to record and publish in the media and internet my name, image, voice, or statements including any and all photographic images and video or audio recordings made by Peniel Alphas, Corp.
• FOR PARENTS/GUARDIANS OF PARTICIPANT OF MINOR AGE (UNDER AGE 18 AT TIME OF REGISTRATION) – Parent or guardian: i, the minor’s parent and/or legal guardian, understand the nature of paddle sports, night kayaking tours, hiking, nature walk and related activities and the minor’s experience and capabilities and believe the minor to be qualified, in good health, and in proper physical condition to participate in such activity.
• LIMITATION OF WARRANTY AND LIABILITY; INDEMNITY – participant releases Peniel Alphas Corp from any liability for consequential, incidental, special or indirect damages arising out of or related to this agreement, even if Peniel alphas Corp has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Participant will hold harmless, indemnify and defend Peniel alphas Corp, and its respective employees, directors, officers and agents (the “ Indemnified Parties ”) against any and all actions, claims, suits, demands, judgments, losses, costs, expenses and/or damages, including attorneys’ fees, arising out of or resulting from (a) any Product, (b) a breach by Supplier of this Agreement or any representation or warranty.
• NATURE AT IT IS – The bioluminescent intensity depends on weather conditions such as rain, tide, moon phase, Sun and many other Nature factors that are not in control of Peniel Access Eco Tours. We do not sell bioluminescence; we sell a Night Kayaking Tour.

Thank you for choosing Puerto Rico Access Tours. We look forward to welcoming you as our guest!

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Experience Puerto Rico’s Bioluminescent Bay

Your visit to Puerto Rico isn’t complete until you discover the natural wonders of one of our bioluminescent bays. Join us on an unforgettable tour to see this unique phenomenon.

Las Cabezas de San Juan National Park, set aside by the Department for Natural and Environmental Resources, is recognized as a world-class treasure. Within it is found one of the world’s few ‘Bio Bays’ where there are sufficient microscopic bioluminescent organisms to produce light visible to plain eyesight. Just agitate the water to activate the show.

We start our journey with a pickup at your hotel lobby. It’s an hour and a half drive from San Juan to Fajardo. The highway east drives you past the mountains that are the tropical rainforest. Immerse yourself in the perspective of the north east side of Puerto Rico. Once in Fajardo, you will receive a briefing on the use of tandem kayaks, with additional rules to follow on entering the bio bay.

After dusk, our tour guide will lead you and paddle out towards a mangrove lined canal that connects to the bio bay. Scientific reasons for the effect will be provided. Once at Laguna Grande an amount of time is given to frolic about kayaking and splashing water. (approx. 30 min.)

Guide, life vests, and Kayaks are provided. We drop you off at your hotel around 11 p.m.

What to Bring/Attire

• Dry fit clothes or bathing suit
• Change of clothes
• Camera (waterproof is best)

What Does the Experience Include?

• Professional Licensed Tour Guides
• Transportation

Notes/Precautions

This tour departs from San Juan. To account for transportation, participants should allow up to 6 hours for the entire experience.

• The bio bay is an unpredictable natural phenomenon that may be influenced by multiple factors. Bioluminosity level can vary from very visible to a minimum or none without any previous notice.
• Full Moon phase may also affect the visibility of the bioluminescence. In the event of this happening alternate methods such as the use of a tarp will be incorporated to appreciate it.

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WELCOME to Kayaking Puerto Rico! We are a group of young people in love with our island. We know Puerto Rico and we like to share it with the world! That’s why we offer the best selection of award-winning Puerto Rico tours.

Bioluminescent Bay

El yunque national forest, snorkeling in puerto rico, snorkeling in culebra island, boat tour to icacos island, puerto rico rainforest tour, discover the magic of bioluminescence in puerto rico with our guided tours and excursions (near san juan).

Puerto Rico is one of the few places on the planet where bioluminescence occurs. In the island, the best option to see it is in the Fajardo Bio Bay through our guided tours. First of all, it is close to the old San Juan Metro Area in Puerto Rico. In fact, the driving distance is about one hour from San Juan . Plus, we have transportation options available if you happen to be in San Juan or Farjado!

Also, our Puerto Rico Bio Bay Adventure Tour is eco-conscious. Motor boats harm the Bio Bay environment near San Juan . With us, you go on a kayak! Paddling through the Bio Bay lets you be in closer contact with nature and truly enjoy the adventure tour. You can trigger, see and touch the glow yourself. But most of all , you will be going with the pioneers of the Puerto Rico Bio Bay. Make the most out of your vacation with our Bio Bay Adventure Tour and Excursion. Let us show you!

Explore El Yunque Rainforest Adventure Tour & An Unforgettable Sightseeing Excursion Vacation Packages

Kayaking Puerto Rico takes you to the top attractions in our islands so you can enjoy your vacation. For instance, check out our El Yunque & Bio Bay Tour vacation packages. It combines the bioluminescent bay with a hike to El Yunque Rainforest, Puerto Rico. This amazing sightseeing excursion is a full day trip. There’s a reason why it’s one of our best vacation packages from our online reviews.

First, walk the trails and visit the waterfalls. Next, enjoy a Puerto Rico style lunch. Finally, end your day trip at the bioluminescent bay eco adventure tour. All with transportation included! Learn more.

Go on a REAL Snorkeling Excursion – We Offer The Best Adventure and Travel Tours

If you are in Puerto Rico, snorkeling must be on your list! But, don’t just grab a snorkel and go to some beach. Snorkeling in Puerto Rico is our specialty. Let us show you how we do snorkeling in Puerto Rico!

Kayaking Puerto Rico snorkeling tours are unique in the island. On our Mini Boats Adventure and sightseeing tours , you go snorkeling like never before! First, you go out riding your own mini speedboat. No captain’s license is required. Next, follow our convoy through a string of secluded cays here in Puerto Rico. On each stop, find a perfect white sand beach to chill. Underwater, a colorful world awaits. You Mini Boat comes packed with snacks and refreshments. So just hop in, start the engine and go!   Check out these eco tours!

Looking for a stunning snorkeling adventure in Puerto Rico ? Go snorkeling in style on our Motor Vessel, Innovation Snorkel & Beach Tour . Trip includes food, drinks, and all you need to travel in comfort.  Learn more!  

Culebra Island is a true paradise in the Caribbean. Arguably, snorkeling in Culebra is a lifetime experience.  Our Culebra island snorkeling day trip tour has no competition, PERIOD! Explore the underwater marine reserve and discover some of the most amazing marine life in the Caribbean! Swim with green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles at Tamarindo Beach. Watch the coral gardens and the fish below. There is no other place in Puerto Rico where you can enjoy this experience!

The Innovation Snorkel Adventure Tour – Top Rated Excursion and Vacation Packages

Join us on a day trip Snorkel & Beach Safari aboard the motor vessel ‘Innovation’ as we cruise to the best snorkeling spots and beautiful beaches, on uninhabited Islands that Puerto Rico has to offer! Sway to the sound of island music as we navigate through clear blue water in Puerto Rico . Snorkel among vibrant marine ecosystems. A true sightseeing adventure tour and vacation excursion you’ll never forget. Explore the secluded Icacos Island, Puerto Rico. Be sure to read the Icacos island tour faq’s . If you are in San Juan, be sure to get in touch with us so we can help you find transportation. You’ll be glad you joined this day trip on your vacation. Sunbathe and swim on a white sand beach. All while enjoying an unlimited buffet with guava coladas, soft drinks and rum drinks! Bring the kids for a beach and snorkeling excursion and experience they will never forget. View this vacation package .

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Testimonials

Recent guest reviews.

There is always a reason to go back to Kayaking Puerto Rico!!! As I have done it for the pass years… Its an adventure whether you know how to kayak or not!! Knowledgeable staff from reservations to kayaking guides!!!! Recommended highly. Five stars!!!!!

This company is awesome. They are friendly, fun, knowledgeable and have a few goofballs. They provide snacks after the trip and a picture.

 Memories we will never forget, snorkeling with sea turtles, a great reef full of sea life, and the beautiful Flamenco Beach. Our whole family with kids 9-15 had an incredible time.

Its an adventure whether you know how to kayak or not!! Knowledgeable staff from reservations to guides!!!! Recommended highly. Five stars!!!!!

Incredible views. Great guides. Perfect Service. 100% worth the money!!!

  We were able to see turtles, sting rays, starfish and the coral reefs!

The staff was very friendly. The experience was enjoyable for the whole family. They worked with the children on board to help teach them about sailing and snorkeling.

We have done many snorkeling tour in various places, this tour tops our list. Most “sailing” tours only go to the snorkeling site with the engine running. This tour sailed to and from the beach. We snorkeled at two places and had a two-hour stay on a great beach. Lunch was great and we had plenty to enjoy. I highly recommend Fun Cat Catamaran if you are in Puerto Rico.

We have had a great trip to Puerto Rico and by far, the best thing we’ve done is spent a day on the Fun Cat Catamaran with Capt. Jim and his crew. They were all outstanding!!! The ship was beautiful. The equipment was top notch. The lunch buffet, snacks, and drinks were all delicious. The Pina Coladas were awesome!!! And all of the places we stopped were amazing. Do this tour – you will not be sorry!!!

We had an awesome time at this tour, our guides Noel and Jamil were super friendly and knowledgable, we hope to come again and do it again soon! A+ to this company and all it’s staff!

What a wonderful day we had mini boating and snorkeling the conditions were perfect on our day crystal clear waters for snorkeling and nice calm seas. Being able to drive your own boat was great . The staff and the guides were awesome we would highly recommend this tour and company

Everything was well organized and most importantly FUN! Our tour guides were awesome, friendly and knowledgeable. My kids (12,9) had a blast! Would definitely do it again.

I took Lonely Planet’s suggestion of a surfing lesson from Brian and his crew at Surfing Puerto Rico. Such an amazing experience that now I’m hooked and looking for lessons back home in Maryland. Brian and his super professional and safe team helped me learn the ins-and-outs and get a bunch of stand-up rides. I’m 55 and had never surfed before. Would do it again in a minute!

Brian is an excellent teacher and we had a great time. We went with my 73 yo father, my 15 and 13 year old sons, my brother and his 11 year old son. All 3 generations got up a time or two and road a wave in. 🙂

I went for the 3-hour surfing lesson101 and it was amazing for someone who has no idea about surfing whatsoever!! Brian was an amazing instructor overall!! Wanted to go for the 3 days lesson but didn’t have that time. I would definitely come back if I ever have that chance. Highly recommend it!

They give you the full experience from snorkeling with turtles, to kayaking and then relaxing on the beautiful Flamenco Beach and eating great food.

Puerto Rico’s southern coast is the island’s best-kept secret

Take it from a guayama native: the caribbean coast is worth exploring from end to end.

The scenery starts to change when you leave the tall hotels and tapón (traffic jam) of San Juan behind.

Head south on Route 52, and you will start seeing the lush green mountains of Cordillera Central. As you approach the southern coast, the dense vegetation transforms into clusters of cactuses and shrubs, painting an arid landscape against the distant view of the Caribbean Sea.

Ranging east to west from the town of Yabucoa to Cabo Rojo, the southern coast of Puerto Rico is rich in culture, food, beaches and nature. But beyond all the tangible attractions, locals say the spirit of hospitality makes the place unique. “Our greatest asset is the people, who make people feel at home,” says Milexys Rosado Romero, the owner of Hacienda Tres Casitas , a farm stay in Cabo Rojo.

I learned this growing up in Guayama, where neighbors traded mangoes for papayas. My parents were always inviting people for coffee, or my dad might arrive home with a bagful of fresh seafood he got from a friend he ran into at the beach.

Unfortunately, no reliable public transport options exist, so renting a car is the best bet to reach the smaller towns and unspoiled beaches. Highway 52 traverses the island from north to south, taking you from San Juan to Guayama in around 90 minutes, depending on traffic, and to Ponce in two hours or less. Highway 2 takes you west to Cabo Rojo and up the western coast, and Route 3 takes you along the eastern coast with scenic ocean views of Patillas and Maunabo.

If traveling during the fall, you may catch surfers in Guardarraya Beach in Patillas. It’s hard to get lost as you can easily find lesser-known beaches via Google Maps, with good cell coverage throughout the region.

Many of the lodgings offered on the southern coast, from the luxury Copamarina Beach Resort to the kid-friendly Combate Beach Resort , have been owned by local families for generations. Farm stays, small inns known as paradors and vacation rentals dominate the accommodations, making for a relaxed scene.

I recommend visiting from Wednesdays to Sundays for a livelier scene and more dining options; earlier in the week is perfect for having the beaches all to yourself.

Low-key beaches in Cabo Rojo

Even the Caribbean Sea beaches on the southern coast of Puerto Rico are in chill mode, more relaxed than their choppy Atlantic Ocean counterparts in the north.

With small waves and shallow waters, Combate Beach, on the southwest corner, is ideal for families. Make it a day-long affair with a passion fruit mojito at Annie’s Place with picturesque sunset views.

For a more rustic beach experience, go to Playa Sucia, one of Puerto Rico’s southernmost beaches. While there, hike the trails leading to El Faro de Cabo Rojo and Puente de Piedra for 360-degree views of a colorful mix of Caribbean blues, sandy-colored rocky enclaves and green mangroves along the coast. Walk a mile and a half north of Playa Sucia, and you will encounter the Salinas de Cabo Rojo, with colorful yellow-shouldered blackbirds flying over the pink salt flats.

Boquerón is a neighborhood known for its stands of local fish, oysters and clams. You can also take a dip at its small sandy strip. The neighborhood is vibrant, with music blaring throughout the many kiosks and beachside restaurants, most specializing in seafood. You don’t have to go far inland to find roasted pork at Camino Los Charros. Rosado also recommends La Catumba Lechonera among the many restaurants that specialize in pork.

Restaurants on the rise in Guayama

“Guayama esta pegao” — in style, according to what I’ve heard from many friends across the island.

A coastal city on the southeastern side, it is known for having a charming plaza (town square) with homes and buildings dating from the 1800s. One of these historical homes houses Gallo Pinto , a restaurant by chef Ángel David Moreno Zayas that has become a destination with dishes like grilled oysters, bone marrow with beef tartare, and fried red snapper.

“I’ve worked in many kitchens in San Juan and the mainland United States, but I wanted to open my restaurant in Guayama,” says Moreno Zayas of his hometown. “It started as a casual place because we were recovering from the pandemic, but now we’ve incorporated more fine-dining elements, and the reception has been spectacular.”

After a feast at Gallo Pinto, one must save room for ice cream at one of Guayama’s classic spots, Rex Cream. Owned by Chinese-Cuban immigrants, the Louke Chang family, it’s a mandatory stop. A scoop of salty-sweet corn ice cream with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon is perfect for a walk along the plaza.

At Pozuelo, a fishermen’s neighborhood beyond the city center, go to El Arcoiris for one of my childhood favorites, the octopus salad with a side of tostones. Or bite into a crispy alcapurria — a fritter made of banana and root vegetables — at El Fogón de Susa as you stroll along the beach.

You can find one of the most impressive wine lists in the south at Prime Market , where local couple Laury Cordero Sabater and Antonio Palau transformed an old home along Route 3 into an ample outdoor patio with a menu specializing in steaks.

Art and culture in Ponce

It’s hard to find Puerto Ricans prouder of their hometown than Ponceños. I’m not disputing their pride, because the city has so much to offer, especially in terms of arts and culture.

“Start with a walking tour of the city center of Ponce to learn about the history of Ponce and gain an orientation of the city,” says Melina Aguilar Colón, the founder of Isla Caribe tours. “One of the sights not to be missed is the Parque de Bombas de Ponce,” she said. Initially built in 1882 for the Exhibition Trade Fair, the Ponce firehouse is a symbol of the city; the distinct red-and-black-striped facade was an inspiration for the Ponce flag.

After walking through the city center, go for cocktails along Paseo de la Salsa Cheo Feliciano, named after the pioneering salsa singer José Feliciano. At El Marlin 107, William Collazo, a big name in Puerto Rico’s cocktail community, mixes drinks with tropical infusions like coconut water, guava and mangoes. On the weekends, expect live music along the street where you can test your salsa skills. For dinner, head to Chef’s Creations, where you catch chef Jorge Rivera cooking over a wood-fired grill in his restaurant’s patio.

Although the city has suffered structural damage during Hurricane Maria in 2017, followed by an earthquake in 2020, Ponce has focused on reconstruction and updates to many of its cultural institutions. The Teatro La Perla, a cultural hub for performance art, is set to reopen in 2025 with plays and musical performances. The Art Museum of Ponce , home of the iconic “Flaming June” by Sir Frederic Leighton (which is currently on loan to the Royal Academy of Arts in London), recently reopened its doors after extensive repairs.

Ponce is also considered the birthplace of plena music, one of the traditional sounds of Puerto Rico. Deeply infused with African beats, plena tells the story of the Puerto Rican people from the early 1900s. You can learn more about plena and other Puerto Rican music like bomba and danza at the Museo de la Música Puertorriqueña, a small museum in the city center.

El Bosque dry forest and bioluminescent bays

According to Aguilar Colón, “everybody knows about El Yunque rainforest, but nobody talks about El Bosque Seco de Guánica, the dry forest on the island’s southwest coast.” I agree.

One of the things that makes Puerto Rico unique is the contrast of ecosystems in a relatively small island. Walking along the trails, you will notice the different varieties of cactuses, Guayacán trees and mangroves as you get closer to the shoreline. Birdwatchers will rejoice with the sights of sparrow hawks, hummingbirds and brown pelicans. The dry forest is one of the island’s hottest places, so ensure you bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Next to Guánica, in the neighboring town of Lajas, there’s another natural phenomenon. La Parguera is home to one of the three bioluminescent bays of Puerto Rico. Because of overpopulation, it’s not as bright as in Vieques, but it’s still worth a trip if you’re in the area.

The local dock offers boat rides, and you can also find kayak tours taking you deeper into the bay for better views. Beyond the bay, the Parguera is known for its bustling scene on the weekends with plenty of bars, restaurants and bands.

Jessica van Dop DeJesus is a travel and food writer, digital content creator and the author of “ The Dining Traveler Guide to Puerto Rico .” She divides her time between Brussels, D.C. and western New York. Follow her on Instagram @diningtraveler .

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Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Tour Costa Rica

M y heart was in my throat as we headed down to the beach with our life jackets. I’m not easily scared, but I had never been on a kayaking trip before. Now, I was about to embark on an ocean kayak tour, at night, in a double kayak with my 4-year-old. While I am a strong swimmer, she can’t swim and I didn’t have a light with me.

Our guide Luis got my daughter and me situated in our kayak and pushed us away from the shore. “Just practice rowing a bit while I get the others ready.” As we started floating out to sea, I was FREAKED out. (And if you know me at all, you know that it takes quite a bit to rattle me!)

We paddled around a bit and suddenly I saw just what we came for. A bright flash of blue-green glowing waters lit up right when my paddle hit the water.

It was the permanent bioluminescence that we were seeking and we had found it. Both my daughter and I started laughing and yelling in delight- and the night only got better from there.

RELATED POST: Costa Rica With Kids- The Complete Guide

I had no idea until recently that there is a bioluminescent bay right here in Costa Rica. I had found it after researching accommodations near Playa Quesera (still on my bucket list!) in the Curu Natural Reserve. Playa Quesera was blowing up my Instagram feed and I was anxious to check it out… but I found something even better!

Glow in the dark fish aren’t the only reason to visit Costa Rica! 10 awesome reasons to travel to Costa Rica with your family .

What Is A Bioluminescent Bay?

In short, a bioluminescent bay is an area of the ocean that has exactly the right temperatures and eco-structure that allows a type of single-celled marine plankton called dinoflagellates to thrive.

This dinoflagellate, or algae, has evolved to give off glowing light energy (varying from white to green to blue) when it feels threatened. 

This means that when we move the water rapidly using our hand, or a kayak paddle, or when marine life swims through the area where the algae congregate, the chemical energy causes algae emit a glow-in-the-dark or bioluminescent light.

There are several of these bioluminescent areas in the world in areas such as Puerto Rico (near San Juan), Thailand, and Tasmania, and the Holbox Bioluminescence in Mexico. Now, we have the opportunity to visit the bioluminescent bay here in Costa Rica as well.

What Is The Best Way To See The Bioluminescence?

Our family chose to see the bioluminescence kayak tour in Costa Rica at Bahia Rica, which I highly recommend as the best option. Full disclosure- in 2019 this was the only kayak tour available and now there are more. I still stand by Bahia Rica as the best option. Here’s why:

• Bahia Rica offers accommodations right on site, which we will talk about more in-depth below. This meant we could experience the tour and then sleep right there- perfect for young children.
• The owners Thomas and Vigdis offer their Costa Rica kayak tour for families with young children- but only in very small groups. The focus on safety was huge, so I felt super comfortable taking my 4 and 6-year-olds with me.
• They are the original tour company to have discovered that the bioluminescent bay is a permanent phenomenon in Costa Rica. Bahia Rica has a very low ecological footprint and they hire local Costa Ricans to guide the tours. I wanted to give them our money.

Seeing the bioluminescence by kayak is the best because the kayaks don’t make any noise— this way, fish and other marine life aren’t scared away and it’s easier to see their effect on the algae that they light up.

Also; it’s a super intimate experience when you can put your hand in the water and make it glow- something you can’t do on a boat tour. We just found we could enjoy the experience more from our own kayak.

Finally- a boat trip means gas, pollution, and engine noise. Since the bioluminescence appears close to shore, it’s just more eco-friendly to go by kayak. 

Obviously, you can only see the bioluminescence at night. We checked the moon phases in order to avoid a full moon.

We saw that the absolute best time to see the bioluminescence is on a night with no moon- because the dinoflagellate glow is even brighter without any extra light.

If you can’t plan your trip to Costa Rica around the moon phases, any time is a good time to go, but on a darker night is ideal.

Need help planning the perfect itinerary? Let me, Christa, help you plan your trip to Costa Rica.

What To Expect On The Bioluminescent Kayak Tour At Bahia Rica

We absolutely loved our night kayak tour to see the bio bay in Costa Rica- and a huge part of that is because Bahia Rica does such a great job with theirs. The evening starts out with a quick explanation of how bioluminescence works.

The owners have a great visual, and our guide did a wonderful job putting everything in kid-friendly terms. He answered endless questions from the kids and had lots of analogies about how the glowing occurs.

Then we grabbed our life jackets and headed down to the beach for our guided tour. Our guide Luis got us situated in our kayaks. For kids who can’t swim- each child goes in a double kayak with a parent or the guide. Otherwise, you can request a single or double kayak depending on your preference.

We were given quick instructions on how to manage the kayak, and we literally started kayaking into the bay immediately. Like I said in the intro- I was totally freaked out about losing a kid. (Admittedly, I do have a thing about kids and boats- I have to feel really really safe before I get a kid on a boat.)

My fears were assuaged by three main things:

• My paddle could touch the ocean floor for 95% of the tour. The water was never more than about 5 feet deep. This means I could stand up if something happened.
• The bay experience was so calming- the water barely had any waves it was so calm. 
• Our kayak tour guide was amazing. He had this very calming presence and voice, and whenever I got nervous he gently talked me through exactly what I needed to do in order to have a great experience. 

We spent about an hour paddling around the bay looking at the bioluminescence from various angles. My favorite part of the tour was an area near the mangrove trees where there are tons of manta rays.

When we lightly disturbed the water where the manta rays live they would wake up and swim around. It looked like the manta rays were glowing as they swam.

Once we headed back to shore, there were drinks and snacks for us. We headed back to the guest house up above and enjoyed a perfect night’s sleep.

Accommodations For Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Tour

Bahia Rica has very reasonable accommodations right on site, and we stayed there. (Accommodations are generally less than $80 USD per night).

We thought it was easier to do the tour and then put the kids right to bed. Our kids get up at the same time every day (6 am) regardless of the time of night we put them down. Also, we wanted to visit Playa Quesera and Isla Tortuga in the same area so we planned to stay several days.

Bahia Rica has one small cabin with a double bed and a private bath that accommodates two people. They also have a large, two-story guest house with three rooms, a shared bathroom (hot water shower), and a communal kitchen.

Breakfast is included with your stay- and it’s delicious. We chose to cook the rest of our meals in the kitchen and it was super well-equipped.

There is wireless internet all over the property, and s pectacular opportunities for animal sightings. The howler monkeys come swinging through the trees throughout the day. The sunsets over the bay are phenomenal- enjoy a cold beer while sitting in the lounge chairs or swinging in the hammocks. It’s so relaxing.

Bahia Rica offers kayak tours, fishing tours, and tours to Turtle Island. They can also hook you up with tours to the Curu Reserve to see Playa Quesera. All their prices are super reasonable the tour guides are local, bilingual, and super knowledgeable.

The guesthouse has several colorfully painted Adirondack chairs for lounging, and the second floor has a huge library. The girls found tons of bilingual books in Swedish, French, English, and Spanish and had so much fun deciphering the meaning of the words they have never seen.

That said- the accommodations at Bahia Rica are very rustic. There is no air conditioning on site, and the guest house is constructed from driftwood. The guest house is several hundred steps up from the breakfast/beach area, and you need to be in pretty good shape to go up and down it every day.

There isn’t a pool at Bahia Rica, and at high tide, there isn’t a beach either as the water goes all the way up to the rocks next to land.

The walls in the guest house are paper-thin, and the bathroom is shared and located on the first floor. We were the only people staying in the guest house during our visit. Had there been other guests arriving late, or as our kids get up super early, things could have gotten awkward. We also got eaten alive by mosquitoes on our trip.

So if rustic isn’t for you, the area has other options. You could stay in Paquera, or at another nearby beach such as Tambor.

You could also stay in the Central Valley or in Puntarenas and just take the ferry over and back on the same day.

Just make sure to let the owners know that you would like to do the first kayak tour of the night so that you have time to get to the dock to head back home.

We were able to visit the Bioluminescent Bay in Costa Rica by heading to the hotel Bahia Rica, located near the town of Paquera, and more specifically in the region of Punta Cuchillos on the Gulf of Nicoya. 

The area is about 30 minutes from Tambor beach, and about an hour from Montezuma and Santa Teresa beaches. It’s located at the very southernmost tip of the Nicoya Peninsula.

From San Jose, or from the Juan Santamaria Airport in Alajuela , the area is only about a 90-minute drive, as you can take a ferry across the bay from Puntarenas.  It’s super centrally located and easy to get to from the Central Valley and could reasonably be a good day trip from San Jose .

If you went right on the 6:30 pm tour and grabbed the 8:30 pm ferry (the last one of the day) to Puntarenas, you would be fine.

The tour is only about a 5-minute drive from the port.

In this case, the consistently warm temperatures, perfect ocean currents, and the right geographic structure (a bay) create the perfect environment for bioluminescent life.

What To Bring

Here’s what you need for the tour:

• A bathing suit or other clothes that can get wet. (Water is warm. Really only your bottom gets a bit wet, and your legs when you get in and out of the kayak.)
• Shoes (optional).  I generally wear my Chaco sandals when I am in boats, but the kids went barefoot. 
• Bug spray (optional). There are lots of mosquitos at Bahia Rica, and during the pre-tour chat, you might get bitten. The owners did burn a mosquito coil during this time which was fairly effective.
• Cell phone/camera (optional.) We chose not to take any electronics on the kayak tour and I don’t regret it. Capturing the bioluminescence on camera or video is pretty tough. I was glad to just be in the moment enjoying the magic with my kids.
• Cash tip for your guide. (Also optional but recommended in case the guide is excellent- like ours was!)

What is provided on the tour:

• Kayak and paddle
• Life jacket
• Fruit juice and water
• Light snacks (cookies) when you return

Check out our 20 favorite Pacific Coast Beaches in Costa Rica.

Additional Resources

For more details and booking information for tours and accommodations at Bahia Rica, visit their website .

Other Costa Rica Travel Articles from Pura Vida Moms

• 20+ Amazing San Jos é Costa Rica Day Trips
• A Foodie’s Restaurant Guide to La Fortuna, Costa Rica
• Planning a Trip to Costa Rica– Start Here!
• Basic Spanish Phrases for Travel 

Disclosure: I was provided free accommodations and kayak tour in exchange for this review. As always, all opinions are my own.

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