Looking to glow this summer? You’re in luck.
Bioluminescence season is upon us. The season can start as early as late May or June, but the best time to see bioluminescent waters in Florida are the months of July and August, due to the warmer water temperatures, says Bioluminescence In Florida.
Bioluminescence results when a chemical reaction within a living thing produces light, creating a glow effect. Bioluminescent organisms are found in the ocean and on land. For instance, certain bioluminescent fish, bacteria, jellyfish and algae are marine life, while fireflies and certain fungi are land organisms.
Here’s where you can observe these creatures firsthand near Jacksonville, and throughout Florida.
What time of year is best to see bioluminescence in Florida?
Nicky and Keith Quick from Bradenton, took their kids, Braxton, 10, Quinnleigh, 9 months, and Everleigh, 7, to Crescent Beach on Siesta Key Monday night, Sept. 23, 2024, to check out the bioluminescence in the water.
The peak months to see bioluminescence in Florida are July and August, according to Bioluminescence In Florida.
Though it is still visible from May to October, summer is the best time due to the warmer water temperatures, which enhance visibility.
Where can you see bioluminescence in Florida?
There are several places you can see bioluminescence in Florida, especially on the state’s Space Coast.
Popular places to see bioluminescence from in Florida include:
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Brevard County
Indian River Lagoon, Titusville (Mosquito Lagoon)
Banana River, Brevard County
Guana Lake, Ponte Vedra Beach
Safety Harbor near Tampa Bay
Fort De Soto County Park, Pinellas County
Shell Key Preserve, Pinellas County
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park, St. Lucie County
Is there bioluminescence in St. Augustine, Florida?
Guana Lake in Ponte Vedra Beach, located just north of St. Augustine on A1A, offers bioluminescence sights all year long, according to GeoTrippin’.
You can see these bioluminescent sea creatures via kayak tours:
Seasonally:
Dinoflagellates (typically seen only in summer, but may also bloom in the winter)
Fireflies (starting in late spring to summer)
Can you swim in bioluminescent water in Florida?
“Some bioluminescent algae produce toxins that are harmful to marine wildlife, humans, and anything that comes in contact with them, so it may not be safe to touch the algae or swim in bioluminescent water,” according to WebMD.
What is bioluminescence?
Bioluminescence is the light produced by a chemical reaction from within certain organisms, including fireflies, jellies and dinoflagellates, which are similar to plankton.
The reaction that makes bioluminescence needs two chemicals : luciferin (which produces light) and either luciferase or photoprotein. The bioluminescent color comes from the arrangement of luciferin molecules, according to National Geographic.
Tips before you go on a a bioluminescence tour
Here are some tips before booking a bioluminescence tour in Florida, as outlined by Visit Space Coast.
Bring and wear insect repellent.
Expect to get wet, dress accordingly and bring a change of clothes for the ride back.
Eat before you go, most restaurants will be closed by the time your tour is over.
Your camera may not be able to capture the beauty of bioluminescence. It’s ok to put your phone down and enjoy the moment.
For most tours, children must be five years or older to participate – when booking ask your tour operator for exceptions.
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Bioluminescence in Florida best time of year to see, best places