One of the most amazing natural phenomena in the oceans of our world is the presence of what is known as bioluminescence. Caused by tiny microorganisms, known as dinoflagellates, water glows blue, green, or white when disturbed. The result is a supernatural experience, a unique gift for the visitor.
Although bioluminescence itself is not incredibly rare, the effect is usually transient, coming and going at certain times of the year or times of the night in areas that cannot be identified. Some fish or small ocean organisms like squid emit a type of luminescence. Sailors often report seeing bioluminescence in the wake of a ship or on top of an ocean wave at night.
The world has seven known bioluminescent bays throughout the year, three of which are located in Puerto Rico. These three incredible bioluminescent bays are located throughout the island in Fajardo, Vieques, and La Parguera. Each of these bays has a high concentration of dinoflagellates in a unique marine environment that allows for year-round observation.
The bioluminescent bay of La Parguera is located in the southwest corner of the island of Puerto Rico. La Parguera Bay is the closest bioluminescent bay to the west coast cities of Aguadilla, Rincón, Mayagüez, and Ponce. La Parguera is a small, picturesque fishing village surrounded by calm waters and protected from the ocean with a bay created by mangrove islands. Easily accessible from Rincon’s main tourist destination, a visit to La Parguera is an excellent day trip for guests looking to explore more of Puerto Rico’s west coast.
Tours of the bioluminescent bay depart from the La Parguera marina. The bay is approximately 20 minutes by boat from the main marina. Many tour operators offer a diving experience that is unique in many bioluminescent bays. Snorkel underwater at night to experience the glowing organisms for a truly unforgettable experience.
Puerto Rico is known as the jewel of the Caribbean travel experience and with three bioluminescent bays, as well as hundreds of miles of white sand beaches, warm ocean waters, and blue skies with ideal weather, it’s no wonder why. Puerto Rico is located east of the islands of Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic, and can be reached via many international flights. Visitors from the United States do not need a passport to visit Puerto Rico, as the island is a territory of the United States. The high season for tourism on the island is from mid-December to April.