Cherishing magical bioluminescence at San Clemente Beach, California
magic is real
“Every drop of knowledge sparks a light, illuminating an ocean of darkness teeming on the edge of brilliance.”
One of the many things that travel brings to you is “surprise”. Nature is so romantic, it shows love to you in new magical ways. All these years I was never familiar with anything like “bioluminescence “. While being stuck in the most beautiful place on earth - California, during the COVID crisis, bioluminescence made me cry out of wonder.
Bioluminescence in California, 2020 got nationwide media attention. It seemed like a magical light show performance by the ocean as it celebrates healing and happiness because of COVID. It felt like nature truly feels blessed and is rejuvenating, sparkling with euphoria. My cousins grew up on the beaches of California but never had they seen something like this. They were equally in awe of this, just like many other Californians. Let me share a little bit more about this neon bloom in the pacific ocean as I wipe my tears of joy.
what is bioluminescence?
“The biochemical emission of light from living organisms (such as fireflies, dinoflagellates, and bacteria) as the result of internal, typically oxidative chemical reactions.”
The organisms: The bioluminescent waves owe their glow to blooming microscopic plants called phytoplankton. In the morning, the organisms collect on the water’s surface to give the water a reddish-brown color, known as the red tide. By night, the algae put on a sparkling neon light show.
The glow: If water quality and nutrient supply are just right, this glow shows. If colonies reach 100,000 single cells per liter of water and the sun is strong throughout the day, the phytoplankton can be charged - just like a solar lamp - and glow the night away.
The chemical reaction: The light is produced through a very simple chemical reaction. When oxygen and the biological substances luciferin and luciferase (an enzyme) come together, energy is generated, which is released as light.
The hues: The light can be different depending on the bioluminescent species present. Various colors are possible. Most aquatic species often glow blue or blue-green - because this color can be seen best underwater and create dazzling bright turbulent water.
Where was it seen in California?
Venice Beach | San Clemente Beach | Marina Del Rey | Playa Del Rey | Hermosa Beach | Huntington Beach | New port beach
Bioluminescent beaches around the world
Waitomo, New Zealand: Here you will get a different experience. Here bioluminescence doesn’t just exist in the sea. The glow lives in caves of Waitomo. It's magical!
Reethi Beach, Maldives : Bioluminescence is noticeable when the moon is not bright; no moon nights are the best time.
Ton Sai, Krabi, Thailand: Away from the crowd, it is peaceful and really pretty. The best way to enjoy bioluminescence at this place is by doing a hike, which takes about 90 minutes.
Halong Bay, Vietnam: Not kidding, this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay has plenty to explore, ranging from the caves to the wilderness to the limestones islands. The best time to witness bioluminescence at Halong Bay is the late night after the boats turn off their lights.
Springbrook Park, Australia: Hike the way for best experience . Go for a night hike through the National Park forest, the little glowworms illuminate.
Best months are: Dec to Mar - if you prefer rain OR May to Oct for drier months.
Puerto Mosquito, Vieques, Puerto Rico: The kayak cruise is perfect to experience this up close in the Bio bay. People say this experience is like like rowing on a tapestry of stars.
Luminous Lagoon, Jamaica: Glowing beaches or the Glistening Waters : This lagoon is very rich in containing the most amazing bioluminescent sea creatures in the world. Here, you are free to swim, take boat rides, kayaking, and take photos with sea creatures.
Manasquan Beach, NJ: Surf or Raft the way for this spectacular bioluminescent beach. Best months mid-July to September.
Toyama Bay, Japan: The sightseeing boats depart from the Namerikawa fishing port at 3 in the morning. If you want to see this delightful glow, you need to wake up early and leave.
Torrey Pines Beach, San Diego, CA : It is recommended that you visit this place only after nightfall to see the best glow.
San Juan Island, Washington, U.S.: Kayak the way through this electrifying silver and blueish glow. Opt for a guided tour to feel the charm.
Big South Fork, TN/KY: The best way to enjoy this place is by planning an overnight stay here. The best time to go on this trail is between July and August. See numerous fireflies adorning the dark skies. Feel magic of unique patterns and sequences they create to indicate gender, territory, and mating. omfg. Take me there. Now!
