The Cayman Islands' Bioluminescent Lagoon Lets You Swim In Dazzling Neon Blue Water

Since the Earth's creation, Mother Nature has come up with some pretty crazy natural phenomena for travelers to experience. From the mysterious Blood Falls in Antarctica to the pink lakes found around the world, these wonders continue to amaze and confound those who come across them. One such phenomenon has people glowing, quite literally. Set within the Cayman Islands is a place where the waters around you burst into shimmering light, glowing with a soft, ethereal blue. Bioluminescent Bay (or Bio Bay), as it is so aptly named, is one of the few places on Earth where nature puts on this unforgettable, natural light show.

Most travelers associate the Cayman Islands with images of white-sandy beaches, luxurious resorts, and crystal clear waters. While these ideas are correct, there is also something unique and scarce awaiting those looking to venture out after dark. In a secluded bay on Grand Cayman, shielded from the elements, millions of microscopic organisms known as dinoflagellates (or bioluminescent plankton) have found the perfect conditions to thrive. When disturbed, they emit a burst of light as a defense mechanism — one that just so happens to create one of the most captivating natural sights in the world — bioluminescence. Dip your paddle or hand in the water and watch as a glowing electric blue trail follows behind. While this striking phenomenon happens in a few places around the world, those lucky enough to visit Grand Cayman will get to experience bioluminescence in an incredibly beautiful destination.

Like most things in life, timing is everything when witnessing this incredible occurrence here in the Cayman Islands. To make sure you have the best visibility, it's best to plan your trip around the cycle of the moon, specifically, a new moon or when the moon is below the horizon. It sounds quite mystic, however, it's just science! The darker the night, the brighter the bioluminescent organisms will appear. You can see this phenomenon in Bioluminescent Bay year-round, but May to October is the best time to visit. The warm weather promotes growth, leading to a higher concentration of plankton and more abundant and impressive display.

While the public bay is free to access, and some companies rent out kayaks and paddleboards, visitors must be mindful of the fact that many of the launch spots are found on private property. A recommended public launch point is Rum Point, where you can push your kayak or paddleboard out and work your way from there to Bio Bay. Adventurers can skip the hassle of a self-guided visit by opting for one of the many tours offering kayak (including glass bottom), boat, or snorkeling experiences. Make sure you bring appropriate clothing like a swimsuit (you will get wet), bug spray, water shoes, and a waterproof case for your phone. Guided tours can also be a great option, as the guides can provide scientific information about the bioluminescence. Although it is possible to take photos, it's quite challenging to capture without a long exposure camera, so most recommend leaving with simply memories. The closest airport to Bioluminescence Bay is Owen Roberts International (GCM), about an hour by car. It is also the islands' major transport hub and services direct flights to several cities in the U.S.

Though lodging options are a bit more limited in this area of Grand Cayman, those looking to make the most of their Bio Bay experience should consider staying nearby in Rum Point or Cayman Kai. This makes for an easily accessible night tour without the longer drive from the hotel and resort hub of the island, Seven Mile Beach. However, if you do stay in Seven Mile Beach, there is a small ferry that leaves from Camana Bay and heads towards Kaibo Beach at Rum Point. Note that it doesn't operate on Mondays, and the last boat back to Camana Bay is at 10 p.m., so make sure you double-check your tour schedule and give yourself enough time to make it to the dock.

Other popular activities to do in the area include snorkeling with stingrays at Stingray City, visiting the Crystal Caves (only accessible via guided tour), and visiting Starfish Point to see a plethora of starfish scattered throughout the shallow waters. You can also explore the Cayman Islands' very own "Hell," a uniquely interesting destination with a geological phenomenon where limestone spikes protrude from the ground, like something straight from Hell itself. While all of these activities are must-dos when it comes to spending your time in the Cayman Islands, there is nothing quite like experiencing a surreal night on Bioluminescent Bay in Grand Cayman. It's the kind of once-in-a-lifetime experience that reminds you just how strange and beautiful our planet can be.