Florida's Stunning Lagoon Features Magical, Glowing Bioluminescence During Summer

Along Florida's east coast lies a lagoon with magical, glowing creatures that have absolutely nothing to do with the special effects of the state's theme parks. Indian River Lagoon on Florida's Space Coast is home to a colony of dinoflagellates, single-celled organisms that emit a glow when the conditions are right. A passing fish, dolphin, or even a kayak paddle can activate the phenomenon, and tours each summer are designed specifically around the experience.

The brackish waters of the Space Coast's intracoastal waterways are ideal for the natural phenomenon, thanks to their warm temperature and surplus of nutrients. While there are also bioluminescent events on Florida's west coast, like in Safety Harbor, Florida's "Jewel of Tampa Bay," they're more common along the Space Coast. Indian River Lagoon, especially, offers up-close-and-personal experiences with the organisms with kayak tours, including clear kayaking, which offers a direct view into the water beneath you. There's even a shallow waterfront where visitors can wade into the waters for a truly personal experience.

Those looking to fully experience the bioluminescence of the lagoon are encouraged to visit during a new moon, when the sky is darkest and the water has minimal reflection upon it. Weather conditions have an impact on viewing as well. Rainfall can decrease the bioluminescent activity and visibility in the lagoon, so it's important to keep up with the forecast. Bioluminescent season in Indian River Lagoon is from June to September, with peak conditions taking place from July.

To fully appreciate and enjoy the bioluminescent organisms thriving within Indian River Lagoon — sitting about 42 miles east of Orlando International Airport and 150 miles north of a major airport now named for President Donald Trump – it's best to plan. Bring insect repellent for time spent on the lagoon at night, since Florida's heat and humidity place it among the worst states for mosquitoes. Bringing a backpack with a water bottle is also recommended. And, since you will likely need to at least step into the water when boarding and disembarking your kayak, water shoes should be part of your explorer arsenal as well. One thing you likely won't need while on the water is a flashlight, since darkness is key to seeing the organisms. So, leave flashlights and cell phones in a waterproof bag in your kayak. Photography is rarely successful in these conditions, so guides recommend putting the phone down and simply enjoying the views.

The season ideal for exploring the bioluminescence of Indian River Lagoon is brief, and tours fill up fast, especially on Saturdays. Secure a slot well in advance, and arrive early to have a chance to interact with your guide and get comfortable with any equipment included in the experience.

Indian River Lagoon is popular in the summer months. But other than booking tickets well in advance or securing accommodations in nearby Titusville, just a 30-minute drive to popular launch points, travelers should also know that not all tours are alike. Indian River Lagoon stretches for more than 150 miles and covers 350 square miles, and there are plenty of tour options to choose from along the body of water, each offering a different perspective.

Florida Adventurer near Titusville, for example, offers more than the traditional one-seat kayaks for explorers. Its bioluminescent group rafting tour can accommodate up to 10 people per raft. The company describes the experience as a great way for families or groups of friends to "share the magic together." Tours meander through the Indian River Lagoon and other parts of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Nearby, A Day Away Kayak Tours has a 4.8-out-of-five-bubble review on Tripadvisor and adds a unique feature to the bioluminescent experience by providing clear kayaks that allow users to peer directly down into the biodiversity beneath them. The sturdy kayaks are made of plastic composite, similar to what is used in the cockpit covering of fighter jets. The unique design also allows the bioluminescent organisms to float around you, and not just beneath you, the company says. If you take a tour and get hooked on the experience, visit the California coast next for more glowing bioluminescence.