Bioluminescent Bay (Mosquito Bay)
Bioluminescent Bay illuminated by bioluminescent plankton, Vieques
Bioluminescent Bay illuminated by bioluminescent plankton, Vieques

Bioluminescent Bay (Mosquito Bay) Tours and Tickets

1,408 reviews

Bioluminescent Bay (aka Mosquito Bay or Puerto Mosquito) is one of Puerto Rico’s three bioluminescent bays, located on the island of Vieques. A popular destination for nighttime boat tours, this bay is by far the brightest. The water is illuminated by dinoflagellates called Pyrodinium bahamense, tiny microorganisms that glow when touched.

  • Puerto Mosquito, Puerto Mosquito, Puerto Rico

Tours and Tickets to Experience Bioluminescent Bay (Mosquito Bay)

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What are people saying about Bioluminescent Bay (Mosquito Bay)

Michelle_M, Sep 2024
An awesome guide makes the experience that much better!
Gian was such an awesome host and guide. He was very mindful of our safety and you could tell he really cares about people enjoying their tour. Thank you for an amazing time.
Edna_S, Dec 2024
Nature at is best!
It was exciting! The fish displayed a great natural show. Definitely a true emotional experience as you come in contact with nature wonders.
StevenW_W, Dec 2024
We have been to two bioluminescent bays this week... this was definitely the best
The bioluminescence was very good. We had to walk a short distance through some mud with a sulfur smell - but it was definitely worthwhile. Guide did a great job answering questions and pointing out objects in the night sky. Two tours in one.
Colleen_G, Dec 2024
Magical experience!
This was a magical experience! Our guides were friendly and professional and I highly recommend this amazing tour.
People Also Ask
Q:How much does it cost to visit the Bioluminescent Bay (Mosquito Bay) in 2024?
A:

Access to the Bioluminescent Bay, also known as Mosquito Bay, on the island of Vieques in Puerto Rico is typically through guided tours. Guided kayaking tours range in price from US$50 to US$60 per person, while electric boat tours are generally priced higher, around US$130 per person.

Q:What is the Bioluminescent Bay (Mosquito Bay) in Puerto Rico?
A:

Puerto Rico is home to three bioluminescent bays, with Bioluminescent Bay believed to be the world’s brightest example of this natural phenomenon. Also known as Mosquito Bay or Puerto Mosquito, the glowing blue is created by organisms—dinoflagellates called Pyrodinium bahamense—that produce a burst of light when they come into contact with other organisms or are disturbed in some way.

Q:When is the best time to visit the Bioluminescent Bay?
A:

The best time to visit Bioluminescent Bay is when it’s darkest. It’s worth considering the phases of the moon when planning your visit, as the glowing effect is better during nights with a new or crescent moon. Also, the glow is most noticeable between June-November, when the water is warmest and the organisms are more active. As tours typically take place at night, you’ll need to book an overnight stay in Vieques, as the ferry stops running in the early evenings.

Q:Can you swim in the Bioluminescent Bay?
A:

No, it is against the law to swim in Bioluminescent Bay—any chemicals you apply to your skin, such as DEET insect repellent and sunscreen, could harm the water’s balance. The bay can be accessed by kayak only. You are allowed to swim in La Parguera Bioluminescent Bay.

Q:Where is the Bioluminescent Bay located in Puerto Rico?
A:

Bioluminescent Bay is located to the east of Puerto Rico's main island on the small island of Vieques. You can reach Vieques by ferry from Ceiba in east Puerto Rico. Alternatively, you can take a small plane from Isla Grande airport in San Juan. Once there, book a kayaking tour of the bay.

Q:Is visiting the Bioluminescent Bay worth it?
A:

Yes, it is worth visiting Bioluminescent Bay—it is a natural phenomenon that you need to see to believe. For the best bioluminescence experience, plan to visit during a new moon and book a glass-bottom kayaking tour. Some travelers do feel that the effort required to reach Vieques isn’t worth it, instead opting to visit Laguna Grande, which is closer to San Juan.

Q:Can you go to the Bioluminescent Bay on your own?
A:

No, you can’t visit Bioluminescent Bay independently. The area is protected by Puerto Rico’s Department of Natural and Environmental Resources and only licensed tour operators are permitted to bring visitors here. This helps maintain a minimal level of disturbance to the organisms in the bay. You are allowed to explore La Parguera Bioluminescent Bay on your own.