Bioluminescent kayaking is trending! If you've seen enchanting videos of glowing waters on social media or heard tales from friends, you might be wondering about this captivating natural phenomenon. Bioluminescence occurs when organisms like jellyfish, fireflies, and plankton emit light. In the context of kayaking, this means a mesmerizing blue glow with every paddle stroke, ripple, or passing fish.

Ready to try it yourself? Here are six incredible bioluminescent kayaking tours to consider:

WaterTreks Eco Tours Bioluminiscent Night Tours - Jenner, California

Where the Russian River meets the Pacific Ocean, WaterTreks offers a seasonal (June-November) bioluminescent night paddle through Tomales Bay. Each paddle stroke creates a radiant glow, and you might spot harbor seals and herons while learning about the area's ecosystems.

Shore Excursions Group El Yunque Rainforest and Bio Bay Kayaking - San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a bioluminescence hotspot. This tour combines the beauty of El Yunque Rainforest (the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System) with a magical kayaking experience in Laguna Grande. Hike to a waterfall, enjoy a local lunch, and then paddle through mangrove channels as twilight descends. Tours run year-round, weather permitting.

Monterey Bay Kayaks Bioluminescence Guided Tour - Moss Landing, California

This 2.5-hour tour takes you through Elkhorn Slough, a National Estuarine Research Reserve, at night. Certified wildlife stewards guide you through the illuminated waters, pointing out native wildlife like sea otters, harbor seals, and birds. Warm gear and hot chocolate are provided for your comfort.

Napa Valley Paddle Tomales Bay Bioluminescence Kayaking Tour - Marshall, California

Share a two-person kayak with a friend or family member and experience the magic of Tomales Bay. This tour, offered on the darkest nights from July to October, starts before sunset so you can witness the transition from day to night and enjoy both the sunset and the bioluminescent show.

Glow Row in Texas (various locations)

With locations in 10 Texas cities, including Austin, San Antonio, and Galveston, Glow Row offers a unique experience in translucent kayaks illuminated by LED lights. Tours are available March through November. Guides share stories about local landmarks, wildlife, and history as you paddle under the Texan stars. You might even spot submerged objects! Those 21 and older can bring an alcoholic beverage.

Yak N Sup Full Moon Glow Paddle - Scottsdale, Arizona

While not strictly bioluminescence, Yak N Sup offers a captivating “light up the night” experience on Canyon Lake. Paddle to the Boulder Recreation Site, a fish habitat, on Saturdays evenings. Kayaks and paddleboards are equipped with LED lights, and glow necklaces add to the ambiance.