7 Dazzling US Destinations Where Bioluminescent Waters Glow

Picture this: Under a moonless night on a dark beach, every crash of the waves against the sand causes the water itself to light up. It sounds like a scene from science fiction, but this is a very real natural phenomenon known as bioluminescence. This occurs in the ocean when certain conditions cause an increase in phytoplankton, leading to algae blooms or "red tides." These tiny species respond to movement (and thus a perceived threat) by emitting light, and the millions of them present in the water during these blooms means that the tides literally glow at night.

Bioluminescence occurs all over the planet, but there are a few destinations where bioluminescent tides are more prominent. And luckily for those residing in the U.S., many of these places are right on our mainland, near some of the country's most iconic attractions or off the beaten path. These seven dazzling U.S. destinations where bioluminescent waters glow can be found on both coasts, in the north and the south, and even on an offshore island. However, spotting bioluminescence isn't always the easiest. Walk along the calm beach on a moonless night for the best chances to see bioluminescence, and follow local news sources to keep abreast of recent sightings, as this otherworldly glow is notoriously unpredictable.

When it comes to California beaches where you're likely to find glowing bioluminescence, head to San Diego. La Jolla Shores is a great place to spot the glowing tides; it's also the hub of bioluminescence research at Scripps Pier. North of La Jolla, Torrey Pines State Beach, one of the city's darkest spots, is ideal for bioluminescence. Torrey Pines is also a favorite for surfers — although experts recommend caution during a bioluminescent event. Peak time for bioluminescence in San Diego is between 10 p.m. and midnight on a moonless night, from late spring to early fall. 

Many people head to Florida's Space Coast to see rockets taking off toward the stars. However, the Space Coast is also home to another sparkly phenomenon: bioluminescence. One hotspot along the coast is the Indian River Lagoon, Florida's stunning lagoon featuring magical bioluminescence. Located between Orlando and Cape Canaveral, the lagoon stretches for 156 miles, and thanks to its biodiversity, it's considered one of the most reliable places to spot bioluminescence in the U.S., especially in the summer. Book a kayaking tour for the best experience, where each stroke of your paddle will ignite the water.

Outer Banks, a set of barrier islands in North Carolina, is known as a fun summer getaway with miles of beaches. It's also one of the best spots in the U.S. for a bioluminescence sighting, especially during the later summer months. Head to calmer areas of the Outer Banks on a moonless night, like Roanoke Sound or Currituck Sound, for a greater chance of spotting the sparkling waves. To reach the Outer Banks, rent a car at the largest nearby airport in Norfolk, Virginia (82 miles north), and make the scenic drive south to the islands.

It's not just the southern U.S. waters that occasionally light up with these sparkling little microorganisms. The northern reaches of the country are known to have their own bioluminescent blooms, including off the coast of Washington state. The San Juan Islands, an archipelago in Puget Sound, are arguably the best place in Washington for bioluminescence. Consider basing yourself in Friday Harbor on San Juan Island itself, a beautiful coastal town with plenty of scenic outdoor fun. To see bioluminescence from the shore, head to nearby Griffin Bay, or further afield to Garrison Bay or Westcott Bay.

Head to the northern reaches of the East Coast for this next bioluminescent spot: Manasquan Beach, New Jersey, located approximately one to two hours south of New York City. A favorite for surfers and anglers, Manasquan Beach is also known for its red tides, which shine blue in the dark. Consider a paddleboard tour out on the waves to get up close and personal with the glowing waters, also called the "northern lights of the ocean."

Head down south to coastal Georgia, specifically Tybee Island, for another chance to spot the fluorescent seas. Tybee, Georgia's island destination with glowing bioluminescence during the summer, is just 18 miles from Savannah. The ease of access makes up for the fact that bioluminescence on Tybee Island is more rare than at other destinations in the U.S. Visit in July and August, and hit the beach on a warm, calm, and dark night to increase your chances of frolicking in glowing waters.

Newsflash: Americans don't need a passport to visit the world's brightest bioluminescent bay. That's because it's in Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory in the Caribbean. Bays on Puerto Rico's main island are known for bioluminescence, but Mosquito Bay on nearby Vieques takes the crown — literally: It's certified by Guinness World Records as the brightest bioluminescent bay on Earth. The waters have been so reliably luminous for centuries that the Spanish conquistadors considered them cursed by the devil. For an experience you'll never forget at Mosquito Bay, take a tour on a clear-bottomed boat.