What happens if it's raining?

Our tours rarely cancel due to weather. If it is raining the day of the tour, chances are, with Florida weather, it will clear up by the time your tour starts. Sometimes we will hold the tour by 30 minutes for the weather to clear. In the case of lightning, high winds, or some other reason that we cannot paddle, we will re-schedule all guests to the very next tour available, or at a convenient time for you. Rainchecks are valid for 1 year.

What else is recommended?

We recommend you do the " Sunset Tour " if you have time. That way you get to see dolphins, and possibly manatees and all the amazing birds. Then, take a break, and go out for the Bioluminescent Kayak Tour later. It's just $20 more and it's an amazing tour! Click here to book that .

What is the weight limit?

For our single kayaks, the weight limit is 275 lbs. For the tandem kayaks it is 550 lbs. The night kayaking tours are done on tandem kayaks.

What if I am not a good kayaker?

Some people are naturally athletic, and they pick up any kind of activity easily. If that's you, pick either launch location. If you are a beginner, or not sure about kayaking abilities, or have small children, you may want to choose the Haulover Canal kayaking location. You may also want to ask about our new rafting options where you join others in the raft for an easy paddle in a big boat.

Will there be mosquitos?

Ram, the owner, likes to say, "You bring the spray, we'll bring the mosquitos!" We cannot guarantee there will be mosquitos, but there is a 99% change there will be. Some breezy nights have no mosquitoes. Some nights there are a lot. The other pest is No-See-Ums. The best way to keep them away is with Baby Oil. So, consider slathering on a layer of Baby Oil to any exposed skin. PLEASE BRING MOSQUITO SPRAY.

We can manage groups up to 50 people. We recommend you book weekend nights at least 45 days in advance for large groups. Weekdays is best, as those are easier to find spaces for. Please phone us for details, and we will be happy to get you and ALL your wonderful friends out for the tour! See more about See more about Group Tours.

Will the bioluminescence be bright?

We like to think so, but we cannot guarantee it. Here are the best conditions: hot weather, right after a rain storm, dark night. Sometimes the night is dark even when the moon is supposed to be bright. Sometimes a barely visible moon occurs on such a clear night, that even the slightest shine makes it seem bright. So, there are many factors that make the bioluminescence more/less visible. The BEST TIME for glowing algae (dinoflagellates) brightness is usually July to October. But we see it all year round, and in November, we see amazing flashing comb jellies! So, don't miss out because your vacation does not fall during the summer months.

How close is Bioluminescent Kayaking launch to Orlando or Miami?

This depends on your launch site: either Kelly Park is near Port Canaveral right off of Hwy. 528 (about 45 mins from Orlando), or in peak-season also, Haulover Canal in Titusville, Florida (1 hr; 15 mins from Orlando). Kelly Park near Cocoa Beach is the closer launch site to Miami.

Lots of people who love kayaking with their dog have asked about this tour. We do not recommend this one for dogs, as it is a night kayaking tour. Maybe chose the manatee tour or the monkey tour instead of bioluminescent kayaking if you want to have a great experience with your favorite pooch!

What about kayaking for small children?

Our recommended age for paddling is 5+ years old. Each tandem kayak, has a small middle seat, that a younger child could sit in. Price is per person regardless of age, or number in kayak. We recommend only for small children who are able to sit still for at least 90 minutes.

We use tandem kayaks for this tour.

Because of wildlife and environmental protection we have a limited number of kayaks we can launch at one time. So, we use 2 person tandem kayaks in order to get all of our guests out to see the bioluminescence on the dates they want. That does not mean you will be in a large group. Only 8 boats go out with 2 guide boats at one time.

How close is this tour to Orlando?

BK Adventure's office is about 50 miles from Orlando, and just 15 minutes away from Kennedy Space Center. Guest will meet at our Titusville office and then be driven to the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge (about 10 miles away).

How soon should you book a tour?

Because of the limited availability of our equipment, they tend to book up quickly. Please call us if there is a time/day you would like that is not available for online booking. We may be able to get you on.

What about small children?

This kayaking tour is not recommended for smaller children. 10+ is a good age for this tour.

What type of wildlife will you see?

Though we do not guarantee wildlife on any of our tours (Mother Nature makes no guarantees!), we usually see alligators, ospreys, herons, river otters and deer on this tour.

What about groups for single kayak tours?

We can manage groups up to 15 people for this tour. We recommend you book weekends at least 45 days in advance for large groups. Weekdays is best, as those are easier to find spaces for. Please phone us for details, and we will be happy to get you and ALL your wonderful friends out for the tour! See more about Group Tours here.

What if I am not a good kayaker?

Some people are naturally athletic, and they pick up any kind of activity easily. If that's you, pick either launch location. If you are a beginner, or not sure about kayaking abilities, let your guide know when at the beginning of the tour.

We use whitewater rafts for this tour.

Because of wildlife and environmental protection we have a limited number of boats we can launch at one time. There will be 6-10 people in your raft depending on the size of the boat.

What about small children for the family raft?

This tour is better for small children. We recommend only for small children who are able to sit still for at least 90 minutes. Please bring USCG issued life vest for toddlers to be sure it is a good fit. We do have child size life vests available for 3+.

How close is this Bioluminescent kayaking to Orlando or Miami?

This depends on your launch site: either Kelly Park is near Port Canaveral right off of Hwy. 528 (about 45 mins from Orlando), or in peak-season also, Haulover Canal in Titusville, Florida (1 hr; 15 mins from Orlando). Kelly Park near Cocoa Beach is the closer launch site to Miami.

What about groups for the family rafting?

We can manage groups up to 22 people for rafting. We have 3 rafts to accommodate this. We recommend you book weekend nights at least 45 days in advance for large groups. Weekdays is best, as those are easier to find spaces for. Please phone us for details, and we will be happy to get you and ALL your wonderful friends out for the tour! See more about our Group Tours here.

What is the weight limit for the family raft Bioluminescence tour?

The weight limit for 1 raft is about 2400lbs. We can accommodate people of varying sizes in our rafts. Be sure you can get in and out of the raft on your own.

How soon should you book bioluminescence tours?

Because of the limited availability of our rafts and clear kayaks, they tend to book up quickly. Please call us (407-519-8711) if there is a time/day you would like that is not available for online booking. We may be able to get you on. But, generally for bioluminescence tours it is best to book 30 days in advance for New Moon and Dark Skies weeks, and about 2 weeks in advance for all other tours. This will help ensure you get the time and tour that you want.

Can you see bioluminescence during a full moon?

Yes, especially in the summer months, bioluminescence is visible during the full moon. But on the buffer seasons like spring or early fall, it may be hard to see bioluminescent plankton (dinoflagellates). However, the comb jellies are usually visible during all moon phases. The less light that reflects on the water usually makes the bioluminescence appear brighter, but it is always still there.

2026 Florida Bioluminescence Moon Calendar

December 1, 2025
10 comments
Lauren Garrick-Keyes

Here are the Best Times to See Bioluminescence in Florida

January

The new moon is January 18th. This is the best time to see the bioluminescence. The weeks before and after the new moon, January 11th to January 25th, also have little to no moonlight and are optimal for viewing bioluminescence. The nearest full moon is January 3rd and February 1st. Full moon nights and the few days before and after the full moon are not optimal times, as moonlight is more likely to affect the visibility.

OPTIMAL DATES FOR JANUARY: January 11th – January 25th (new moon on the 18th)

February

The new moon is February 17th. This is the best time to see the bioluminescence. The weeks before and after the new moon, February 10th to February 24th, also have little to no moonlight and are optimal for viewing bioluminescence. The nearest full moons are February 1st and March 3rd. Full moon nights and the few days before and after the full moon are not optimal times, as moonlight is more likely to affect the visibility.

OPTIMAL DATES FOR FEBRUARY: February 10th – February 24th (new moon on the 17th)

March

The new moon is March 18th. This is the best time to see the bioluminescence. The weeks before and after the new moon, March 16th to March 22nd, also have little to no moonlight and are optimal for viewing bioluminescence. The nearest full moons are March 3rd and April 1st. Full moon nights and the few days before and after the full moon are not optimal times, as moonlight is more likely to affect the visibility.

OPTIMAL DATES FOR MARCH: March 6th – March 22nd (new moon on the 18th)

April

The new moon is April 17th. This is the best time to see the bioluminescence. The weeks before and after the new moon, April 5th to April 21st, also have little to no moonlight and are optimal for viewing bioluminescence. The nearest full moons are April 1st and May 1st. Full moon nights and the few days before and after the full moon are not optimal times, as moonlight is more likely to affect the visibility.

OPTIMAL DATES FOR APRIL: April 5th – April 21st (new moon on the 18th)

May

The new moon is May 16th. This is the best time to see the bioluminescence. The weeks before and after the new moon, May 4th to May 20th, also have little to no moonlight and are optimal for viewing bioluminescence. The nearest full moons are May 1st and May 31st. Full moon nights and the few days before and after the full moon are not optimal times, as moonlight is more likely to affect the visibility.

OPTIMAL DATES FOR MAY: May 4th – May 20th (new moon on the 16th)

June

The new moon is June 14th. This is the best time to see the bioluminescence. The weeks before and after the new moon, June 3rd to June 18th, also have little to no moonlight and are optimal for viewing bioluminescence. The nearest full moons are May 31st and June 29th. Full moon nights and the few days before and after the full moon are not optimal times, as moonlight is more likely to affect the visibility.

OPTIMAL DATES FOR JUNE: June 3rd – June 18th (new moon on the 14th)

July

The new moon is July 14th. This is the best time to see the bioluminescence. The weeks before and after the new moon, July 3rd to July 18th, also have little to no moonlight and are optimal for viewing bioluminescence. The nearest full moons are June 29th and July 29th. Full moon nights and the few days before and after the full moon are not optimal times, as moonlight is more likely to affect the visibility.

OPTIMAL DATES FOR JULY: July 3rd – July 18th (new moon on the 14th)

August

The new moon is August 12th. This is the best time to see the bioluminescence. The weeks before and after the new moon, August 3rd to August 16th, also have little to no moonlight and are optimal for viewing bioluminescence. The nearest full moons are July 29th and August 28th. Full moon nights and the few days before and after the full moon are not optimal times, as moonlight is more likely to affect the visibility.

OPTIMAL DATES FOR AUGUST: August 3rd – August 16th (new moon on the 12th)

September

The new moon is September 10th. This is the best time to see the bioluminescence. The weeks before and after the new moon, September 2nd to September 15th, also have little to no moonlight and are optimal for viewing bioluminescence. The nearest full moons are August 28th and September 26th. Full moon nights and the few days before and after the full moon are not optimal times, as moonlight is more likely to affect the visibility.

OPTIMAL DATES FOR SEPTEMBER: September 2nd – September 15th (new moon on the 10th)

October

The new moon is October 10th. This is the best time to see the bioluminescence. The weeks before and after the new moon, October 1st to October 14th, and then October 30th & 31st, also have little to no moonlight and are optimal for viewing bioluminescence. The nearest full moons are September 26th and October 26th. Full moon nights and the few days before and after the full moon are not optimal times, as moonlight is more likely to affect the visibility.

OPTIMAL DATES FOR OCTOBER: October 1st – October 14th (new moon on the 10th); October 30th – October 31st

November

The new moon is November 9th. This is the best time to see the bioluminescence. The weeks before and after the new moon, October 30th to November 14th, and then November 29th & 30th, also have little to no moonlight and are optimal for viewing bioluminescence. The nearest full moons are October 26th and November 24th. Full moon nights and the few days before and after the full moon are not optimal times, as moonlight is more likely to affect the visibility.

OPTIMAL DATES FOR NOVEMBER: October 30th – November 14th (new moon on the 9th); November 29th – 30th

December

The new moon is December 8th. This is the best time to see the bioluminescence. The weeks before and after the new moon, November 30th to December 13th, and then December 28th – December 31st, also have little to no moonlight and are optimal for viewing bioluminescence. The nearest full moons are November 24th and December 23rd. Full moon nights and the few days before and after the full moon are not optimal times, as moonlight is more likely to affect the visibility.

OPTIMAL DATES FOR DECEMBER: November 29th – December 13th (new moon on the 8th); December 28th – December 31st

When Can I See Bioluminescence?

Bioluminescence is a year-long phenomenon. In the summer months (June – September) and into Fall, we see a bioluminescence produced by a plankton called dinoflagellates. In the winter months, we see a bioluminescence produced by comb jellies. During certain months we are able to see both of them at the same time during the transitionary periods.

While we are able to see at least one type of bioluminescence throughout the entire year, the visibility of the bioluminescence can depend on the moon phase, shown on the above calendar.

So, Should I Go See Bioluminescence on the New Moon?

While we typically see the bioluminescence nightly, the optimal time to go is on the days before or after a new moon when there is little to no moon visible. This way, there is no moonlight reflecting on the water disrupting your view of the bioluminescence. We recommend going within a week of the new moon, or on days when the moon is going to be rising late. However, these dates typically fill up fast, so we recommend booking well in advance.

Will I Still See Bioluminescence If I Go On a Full Moon?

While the moonlight can affect the bioluminescence, you can still have a great experience on a full moon night. Our guides are trained to take you to the areas where you are most likely to see the bioluminescence, such as areas where trees are blocking the moon. There are also many nights where the clouds are blocking the moon, making it feel like a new moon night. You can also try to go on a night when the moon rises very late in the evening after your tour. Plus, during the summer months when the dinoflagellate bioluminescence is at its peak, you should see bright bioluminescence every night. Kayaking during the full moon can be a beautiful experience!

Still Need Help Picking A Date?

We are happy to help you pick the perfect day to go that works for you and provides an amazing bioluminescence experience. Call or text us at (407) 519-8711 or email [email protected].

Two people in a see-thru clear kayak paddling through bioluminescence with their BK Adventure tour guide

Clear Kayak Bioluminescence – Cocoa Beach

This is the ONLY Clear Kayaks Bioluminescence Tour near Cocoa Beach. Just minutes away at Kiwanis Island Park, spend an evening with us experiencing the magic of bioluminescence in these amazing glass-like kayaks. See why guests call it a "mystical" moment!
THIS TOUR SELLS OUT FAST - BOOK IN ADVANCE!

Price $79 for Approx. 1.5 hour

Two people paddling in a clear kayak with bioluminescence around the kayak and splashing around the paddles

Clear Kayak Bioluminescence – Wildlife Refuge

MOST POPULAR TOUR! Clear Kayaking (see-through kayaks) is a spectacular way to experience Florida's bioluminescent waters. We take you to the glowing Indian River lagoon where bioluminescence shines bright with each stroke of your paddle.

Price $79 for Approx. 1.5 hour

Two Influencers paddling at sunset on the River Lagoon. POV is the front of the guide’s kayak showing the influencer taking a photo with a Go Pro camera on a stick.

Sunset Kayaking with Bioluminescence

Sunset Kayaking with the Manatees.

On this AMAZING tour, we visit Manatee Central, where you see manatees in their natural habitat. As the sun goes down, the dolphins like to play. In summer you will see bioluminescent sea life glowing after dark. Makes a fun, romantic date!
STAFF PICK - BEST TOUR!

Price $85 for Approx. 3 hours

Two people sitting in tandem kayak on bioluminescence tour with BK Adventure in Florida at the River Lagoon

Florida Bioluminescence Kayaking Tour

Join our Bioluminescent Kayaking Tours just 1 hour from Orlando. Departs nightly throughout the year. See the amazing glowing waters of Florida's own "Bioluminescent Bay" on the Indian River Lagoon. New Moon Tours Sell Out, So Book Early - This is the #1 Bioluminescence Tour in Florida!

Price $67 for Approx. 1.5 hour

Close-up shot of the edge of a blue raft with two paddles off the side, and bioluminescence underneath the raft and splashing in the river.

Bioluminescence Rafting Tour – Wildlife Refuge

Florida Bioluminescence Rafting! The only bioluminescent tour in Florida that is NOT in a kayak. Family friendly and for those who want to see the magic neon glowing waters from the comfort of a paddle raft. Close to Orlando and Cocoa Beach.. This is great adventure for kid or groups of 6-8, Raft guide in each boat.

Price $67 for Approx. 1.5 hour

Clear kayak Sunset tour near Cocoa Beach on the Banana River with one guide in a kayak and two guests in a clear kayak looking at the sunset colors on the river.

Sunset-Bio in Clear Kayaks – Cocoa Beach

Join your expert eco-tour guide for a sunset adventure to remember!

There are many special creatures that call this part of the river home. From the bottom of your see-through clear kayak, look for fish, jellies, crabs, and manatees.

Price $98 for Approx. 3 hours

A group paddles a blue inflatable raft at dusk, surrounded by glowing blue bioluminescent waters.

Bioluminescence Rafting Tour – Cocoa Beach

Join this Family Friendly Bioluminescence tour! This tour launches from Kiwanis Island park just 5 miles from Cocoa Beach. This is a perfect way to spend an evening after your day at the beach. See the magical glow of bioluminescence in one of Florida’s best vacation destinations – world famous Cocoa Beach. BK Adventure is […]

Price $67 for Approx. 1.5 hour

Bioluminescent water glows blue around a paddle at night with text Florida Bioluminescence above.

Bioluminescence Tour near Cocoa Beach

9pm launch time! This NEW MOON Bioluminescence tour is located at Kelly Park East near Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral. This weekend tour is considered our "Bio Fun Tour" with bright bioluminescence that you can see only in Summer! Check out the New Moon week tours.

Price $69 for Approx. 1.5 hour

About the author

Lauren Garrick-Keyes

Say hello to Lauren, a native Floridian and BK Adventure’s local expert on all things bioluminescence and nighttime kayaking tours. Based in Cocoa, Florida, Lauren grew up exploring the Space Coast and knows exactly when and where to experience the brightest bioluminescent tours near Cocoa Beach, Titusville, and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. With a passion for Florida’s natural beauty and a deep understanding of the glowing waters that make our tours so magical, Lauren is here to guide you through every step of your BK Adventure experience. Whether you're booking a clear kayak tour, a family-friendly rafting trip, or just have questions about the bioluminescent bay, Lauren has the insider tips you need to plan an unforgettable adventure.

Kelly Perez says:Reply
3 years ago
Hello, I was trying to book but it is not letting me. I wonder if it is because there is no space available. Which ones do you have available for May 19.2023? I’m interested in Clear Kayak Bioluminescence – Wildlife Refuge
Miriam says:Reply
3 years ago
Hi. I have wanted to do a bioluminescent tour for a long time. I have a bunch of family members with various “issues” and I’m curious if/ how they might be accommodated. My sister is battling cancer and has some good days and some really bad days but it’s a bucket list item for her, so I’d really like to take her and her husband. She’s no sure if she’d be comfortable in a kayak. Can you please explain the # of people and if you have “see through” rafts? Also, I’d consider bringing my 88 yr old Dad and his wife, if they’ll go. Do you ever have folks of that age on your tour?
1. Sandra Krasa BK says:Reply
  3 years ago
  We do not have see-through rafts, but we do have see-through clear kayaks. We have had people in their 80s on the rafting tour, so that might be a good choice. If you go at the Wildlife Refuge – Beacon 42, the rafts and the clear kayaks launch at the same spot, so you could do that if some want to go on the clear kayaks and others do not.
Gene Gasiorkiewicz says:Reply
3 years ago
I would like to go kayaking with my wife on June 30th as late as possible. Could you let me know if you have two person kayaks and what would be the latest excursion on the evening of June 30.
1. Sandra Krasa BK says:Reply
  3 years ago
  The latest tour we have is the Clear Kayaking Tour on the Wildlife Refuge at midnight on June 30, 2023. Here is the link: https://live.tripkee.com/bkadventure/preview-widget/18
  Choose time – 11:44-11:59. It is a 2 hour tour, but our booking system does not allow us to put a time increment into the next day.
Debra Kipp says:Reply
2 years ago
We read that the organisms are harmful to people and shouldn’t be touched. Your video shows someone swimming in the luminous water.
So is it toxic?
1. Sandra Krasa BK says:Reply
  2 years ago
  Thanks for your comment. No, the dinoflagellates are not harmful. There are some types of toxic algae, but the bioluminescent organisms in the Indian River Lagoon are not toxic.
Janet says:Reply
2 years ago
Hi…I’ve always wanted to do this and my nephew will be in town so I think he would love this. It’s hard for me to tell between dark green New Moon and the regular dark green dates. We are open for 3 people the weekend of June 8 or 9. Which do you you recommend?