Best Places for Bioluminescent Kayaking in Florida
Bioluminescence is the natural production of light by living organisms. In the case of bioluminescent kayaking in Florida, the glowing effect is mainly caused by dinoflagellates—microscopic marine plankton that emit light when disturbed. This creates a magical, glowing blue-green trail in the water as you paddle.
During cooler months, comb jellies (a different type of bioluminescent marine life) can also be found, producing a beautiful shimmering effect when touched.
The best time to experience bioluminescence in Florida is June through October, especially on new moon nights when the sky is darkest.
Central Florida offers several exceptional locations for bioluminescent kayaking, primarily along the Space Coast. Below are some top spots, including specific launch points, addresses, recommended tour companies, and their contact information:
1. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (Near Titusville)
- Launch Point: Haulover Canal Kayak Launch
- Address: Haulover Canal, Mims, FL 32754
- Recommended Tour Company: Florida Adventurer
- Contact: 321-735-9400
- Website: florida-adventurer.com
2. Indian River Lagoon (Titusville & Cocoa Beach)
- Launch Point: Parrish Park
- Address: 1 A. Max Brewer Memorial Pkwy, Titusville, FL 32796
- Recommended Tour Company: BK Adventure
- Contact: 407-519-8711
- Website: bkadventure.com
3. Mosquito Lagoon (New Smyrna Beach)
- Launch Point: River Breeze Park
- Address: 250 H H Burch Rd, Oak Hill, FL 32759
- Recommended Tour Company: Viking EcoTours
- Contact: Not specified; booking available online
- Website: vikingecotours.com
4. Banana River (Cocoa Beach)
- Launch Point: Kiwanis Island Park
- Address: 951 Kiwanis Island Park Rd, Merritt Island, FL 32952
- Recommended Tour Company: Florida Bioluminescence Tours (by BK Adventure)
- Contact: 407-519-8711
- Website: bioluminescencetours.com
5. Haulover Canal (Between Merritt Island & Mosquito Lagoon)
- Launch Point: Haulover Canal Kayak Launch
- Address: Haulover Canal, Mims, FL 32754
- Recommended Tour Company: A Day Away Kayak Tours
- Contact: 321-268-2655
- Website: adayawaykayaktours.com
Additional Recommendations:
- Get Up and Go Kayaking
- Location: Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
- Contact: Not specified; booking available online
- Website: getupandgokayaking.com
- Cocoa Kayaking
- Locations: Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island, and Titusville
- Contact: 808-798-6630 or 321-415-9183
- Website: cocoakayaking.com
- Central Florida Kayaking
- Locations: Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach, Melbourne
- Contact: 828-808-7897
- Website: centralfloridakayaking.com
For the best bioluminescent experience, plan your trip during the summer months (June to October) when dinoflagellates are most active. Booking a guided tour is highly recommended to ensure safety and to enhance your experience with expert knowledge.
