Experience the Breathtaking Bioluminescence of Florida’s Coast

Florida Insider Guides Beaches and Islands
by Eben Diskin Aug 28, 2018

There are few natural phenomena more breathtaking than bioluminescence and with A Day Away’s range of kayak tours, there are several ways for you and your family to experience it off the coast of Florida. And it’s not just the glowing blue water swirls that’ll make you want to stop and stare; Dolphins, manatees, herons, and even the occasional gator are frequent visitors to the wildlife refuge. Here are a few unique ways you can experience Florida’s bioluminescence.

  • On the Clear Kayak Bioluminescence Tour, you’ll be able to float across the sparling blue water from your clear-bottomed kayak. The kayak’s momentum creates the illusion of millions of shooting stars streaking the waters beneath you. Some describe the experience as gliding through a field of fairy dust. The summer months — June through October — are the best time for this tour.
  • If you’re planning a winter trip, check out the Comb Jelly Bioluminescence Tour. Running from November to May, this tour takes you through the Indian River where Lagoon Comb Jellies congregate during the cooler months, and allows you to get an up-close view of the glob-like creatures, with the chance to catch and hold them (they don’t sting).
  • During the Moonlight Bioluminescence Tour, the full moon will illuminate your path. You’ll paddle along the shores of Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, the most biodiverse estuary in North America. Gliding through mazes and canals, you might even see a sleeping manatee or jumping schools of mullet fish, all under a starry sky. This tour is available year round.
  • If you can’t decide on a tour, but want as full of an experience as possible, the Mondo Combo Bioluminescence Tour is what you need. This three-hour tour is designed to showcase all of what Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge has to offer in a highly-focused time slot and is available all year round.

Visit the official website to inquire about the fees and book any of A Day Away’s bioluminescence tours.

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