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March 13, 2025 | 09:07 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - When thinking about the most mesmerizing sights on Earth, nature's glowing spectacle—bioluminescence—often comes to mind first. This ethereal, neon-blue glow is produced by various living organisms, including insects, plants, marine animals, and fungi, through a chemical reaction that generates light.
Though sightings are never guaranteed, going to the best places to see bioluminescence can significantly increase your chances of witnessing this stunning natural phenomenon. From glowing shores to illuminated caves, let’s explore the places known for bioluminescence.
List of the Best Places to See Bioluminescence
Lonely Planet and The Times highlight Koh Rong in Cambodia as one of the best places to see bioluminescence. Other sites to experience this glowing wonder include:
1. Koh Rong, Cambodia
Beneath the ocean of Koh Rong, microscopic plankton sparkle at the brightest with a brilliant blue glow at night. Known as one of the best places to see , this tropical paradise off the coast of Cambodia lets you experience the natural wonder with minimal light pollution—a perfect setting to snorkel and be surrounded by nature's light show.
2. Mosquito Bay, Puerto Rico
According to Vieques, Mosquito Bay in Puerto Rico is renowned as the world’s brightest bioluminescent bay by the Guinness Book of World Records in 2008. The bay is home to more than 700,000 microscopic organisms per gallon of water which remains preserved, thanks to the no swimming policy. Therefore, the best way to appreciate the dazzling display is by taking a kayak tour.
3. San Juan Islands, Washington, USA
As the sun sets and the moon rises, the natural light show underneath the water in the San Juan Islands begins to unfold. The nutrient-rich waters here support plankton that produce gleaming lights. Explore by kayak to immerse yourself in this enchanting spectacle up close. As with any bioluminescent experience, be sure to plan your visit during a dark new moon night for the best possible sighting.
4. Mudhdhoo Island, Maldives
The Maldives is famous for its beaches, but Mudhdhoo Island offers a unique and special appeal to many. Dubbed the “Sea of Stars,” this island is one of the best places to see bioluminescence, where the waters glow as if the stars graced the ocean.
To fully cherish the translucent blue shine is simple; you can swim in the water and become one with the wonder or walk along the beach and witness it with a wider perspective.
5. Manialtepec Lagoon, Mexico
Tucked away near Puerto Escondido in Mexico, Manialtepec Lagoon is a nature haven brimming with unique flora, fauna, and stunning phenomena. Several times a year, visitors are treated to the otherworldly sight of bioluminescent plankton, which illuminates the waters. Visitors are welcome to observe the natural light show from a boat or dive into the glow-in-the-dark lagoon—any of which promises an unforgettable experience.
6. Toyama Bay, Japan
Between March and June, Toyama Bay welcomes not only the spring season but also the hotaru-ika (firefly squid) season. These tiny, 3-inch-long squids live at great depths but ascend to the surface in the evening to mate, transforming the water into a gleaming light show. This once-in-a-lifetime experience can be enjoyed by boarding a sightseeing boat from the Namerikawa fishing port around 3 AM.
7. Waitomo Caves, New Zealand
Instead of underwater lights, Waitomo Caves offers a unique experience with constellations of glowworms lighting up the cave’s walls and ceilings. Despite their name, these glowing creatures aren’t worms at all; they’re actually Arachnocampa luminosa, a species of gnat native to New Zealand. Known among the places that don’t look real, Waitomo Caves lets visitors witness this magical spectacle firsthand as they glide through the caves on a boat.
8. Matakatia Bay, New Zealand
Matakatia Bay rounds out the list of the best places to see bioluminescence, and it’s easy to see why. The serene bay is home to bioluminescent plankton that glow in response to movement in the water.
Consider visiting after rainfall, followed by a warm evening, for the most possible time to encounter this magical phenomenon. Feel free to swim with these magical creatures, but remember that the water is part of the open ocean.
Whenever you have the chance to witness this once-in-a-lifetime experience, don’t hesitate for a second. For nature enthusiasts, let’s take a look at the highest mountains in Asia.
LONELY PLANET | THE TIMES
Editor’s Choice: 10 Best Places to Travel Alone 2025, from Canada to Indonesia
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