Imagine the blackness of the sea on a moonless night. Now watch it sparkle with the darting lights of a million fireflies. Nature lovers will not want to miss the phenomenal experience of visiting a tropical phosphorescent bay!
The phosphorescence is actually bioluminescence generated by microscopic organisms in the water. It is believed to be part of a natural defense system triggered by the movement of predators. Many scientists believe the tiny organisms light up so their predators can see more desirable prey – and thus leave them alone.
The phenomenon occurs sporadically in warm seas around the world, but Puerto Rico is one of the only places on the planet where you can depend on it every evening at two different protected bays. The best known is at La Parguera, between Mayagüez and Ponce in the southwest of the island. A cottage industry in the village is based on showing the bay to visitors.
The more spectacular phosphorescent bay is in Vieques, the island municipality off of the main island’s northeastern shore. The experience of seeing—and being surrounded by—this eerie light is nothing less than magical!
NOTE:
If you are on the south area of Puerto Rico, you cannot miss this trip. Once you arrive at La Parguera, you will see countless boating services offering excursions to see the phosphorecent bay. You can take any of these, as long as you follow these precautions: It is reccommended that you go as part of a group. If you are going alone, DO NOT take a small boat or charter that will get you alone pitch-dark on the middle of the ocean. Use one of the bigger boats that accommodate a big group, even if it means paying a bit more. These are often crowded and offer less trips in and out the bay, but the general experience will be more satisfying. Also, try to go to on the early hours of the night, between 7 and 8 pm.
Additional Pictures in our Gallery
SimpleViewer requires JavaScript and the Flash Player. Get Flash.
All images, except where noted, are property of their respective owners. PuertoRicoExplore.com does not claim any ownership of any pictures, and are available in lieu of fair use terms on the web.
Click here to learn more.
Tags:
Special Deals and Offers at La Parguera Bioluminescent Bay
Fees and Rates:
Anywhere from $3 to $15 or more depending on the charter you choose.
"Spectacular!" Posted on 4/2/2008 4:58:51 PM (IP Address Saved) "This is an amazing location you can't miss!!! "
Review This Location
Note: all reviews are welcome. However, all spam and malicious code will be deleted. All reviews must be relevant and un biased. IP addresses are stored.
Buy Lajas
Merchandise!
Visit our shop today for unique gifts and merchandise about
the town of Lajas, only available on the
PuertoRicoExplore.com Shop!
Click here!
Help us spread the Word!
If you are the owner of this listing, please help us spread the word. Simply link back to our site from yours.
Click here for more information.
