Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. For more details, refer to our disclosure.

Bioluminescent bay

Bioluminescent Bay

Puerto Rico Bioluminescent Bay Locations

Did you know that Puerto Rico is home to three of five bioluminescent bays on the planet?

A bioluminescent bay tour is one of the most unique and most captivating experiences you can have in Puerto Rico.

First time in Puerto Rico? Our round-up of the top 10 things to do in Puerto Rico is a great place to start fleshing out your itinerary! From exploring offshore islands and El Yunque to wandering Old San Juan, these experiences are a must. 🇵🇷 🌴 🌊

What exactly is a bio bay or bioluminescent bay?

A bio bay refers to a body of water where tiny organisms called dinoflagellates are present in high enough numbers such that when you use your hand or paddle to disturb the surface, you get a blue glow or luminescence.

While you can experience bioluminescence at the shore, most visitors take a tour.

Bio bays are best experienced on new moon nights.

Where can you find a bio bay in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico’s three bioluminescent bays are: Mosquito Bay on the offshore island of Vieques, Laguna Grande in Fajardo (east side of Puerto Rico), and La Parguera in Lajas (southwest coast of Puerto Rico). 

Mosquito Bay, Vieques

Considered the brightest bioluminescent bay on the planet, Mosquito Bay in Vieques has a stunning setting. It is on the south shore of Vieques and accessed via kayak.

Many companies offer guided excursions to Mosquito Bay.

To get to Vieques from the main island, you have to fly or take the ferry. Bio bay tours usually depart from the town of Esperanza on Vieques.

Laguna Grande, Fajardo

If you are based in San Juan, Laguna Grande in Fajardo is the easiest bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico to visit.

You will find many bio bay tours to Laguna Grande, some that offer transport from San Juan and back. You can also drive to Fajardo and back if you have a rental car, and even spend a night or two in Fajardo.

La Parguera, Lajas

La Parguera, in the southwest corner of Puerto Rico, is a unique bio bay in that you can swim in the waters here!

You can also visit the bay in a motorized boat, so if you’d rather not paddle, this is the Puerto Rico bio bay for you! Opt for a glass-bottomed boat tour, to be able to better see the bluish glow.

You can drive to La Parguera, or take a guided tour that includes transport from San Juan and back.