Bioluminescent Paddleboarding
Seeing the bioluminescent algae has been on my list for years. It was as magical as I’d hope it would be. We’ll probably make this an annual trip. The photos do not come close to what it was really like.
When and Where?
Peak of bioluminescence season: July - September
It is recommended to go during the New Moon for a more vibrant viewing in the water.
Location: Mosquito Lagoon, Banana River, and Indian River Lagoon
The Glowing Organisms
Dinoflagellates are eukaryotic phytoplankton. There are 2 types that live in and affect our area:
Noctiluca scintillans type that emits blue-green light
Rapid increase of Karenia brevis causes red tide, a harmful algae bloom
Comb Jellies
Are actually Phylum Ctenophora, not a jelly fish
Have gelatenous body and a mouth, no brain and no tentacles
Use oxygen to emit blue light along their ctenes, which resemble the bristles of a hair comb and how they got their name
Equipment
Paddle Board
Drift Inflatable (purchased in 2021)
Paddle
Electric pump
Life Vests
Towels
Waterproof pouch for phone (navigation and pictures)
Waterproof shoes
Filled water bottle
Bug spray (lots and lots of bug spray)
Flashlight
Some things most people had that we didn’t think of and thought were great ideas:
Lights for their vessel
Glow stick necklaces
We wore long sleeves and bug spray to help thwart the mosquitos and they were still overwhelming, especially in the canal. Once we got out into the river and kept our boards facing into the wind, they weren’t bad.
Haulover Canal
NW Haulover Road, Mims, FL 32754
man-made canal connects the Indian River Lagoon and the Mosquito Lagoon
Public Launch Points
Option 1: Bairs Cove Boat Ramp
Bairs Cove Rd, Mims, FL 32754
kayak and paddle board launch with its own parking perpendicular from boat ramp
Requires a Refuge Pass ($9 for day pass, $23 for annual pass)
Option 2: Dummit Cove Road
hand launch only
about four miles north of the intersection of SR-406 and SR-3 on the left (west) you will see a sign for the Sendler Education Outpost and the entrance to Dummit Cove
Tips from VisitSpaceCoast.com
Rainwater can dilute the effects of the bioluminescence
Bring and wear INSECT REPELLANT, the Mosquito Lagoon lives up to its name.
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.