La Parguera Glowing Bioluminescent Bay Boat Tour from San Juan: Experience the Magic
4.5
208 Ratings
Lajas
Embark on a magical boat tour from San Juan to La Parguera, where you can witness the incredible bioluminescence in its glowing bay. Swim in the crystal-clear waters and learn about the fascinating dinoflagellates that create this mesmerizing natural phenomenon.
Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • La Parguera - La Parguera, a small fishing village in Lajas has reborn as a local and international destination.
    Because of its geographical location it offers one of the best preserved coral reef systems and mangrove forests in the Caribbean. Various restaurants and bars add to the local attractions.
    We will drive for 2:15 hrs each way (bathroom stops offered along the way), as you enjoy the panoramic and lush views of the Central area that then changes to a semi-desert landscape.
    Upon arrival downtown we will stop for appetizers.
    Watch the sunset as we head out for a 25 minute ride thru the mangrove channels.
    You will have the opportunity to swim at one of it’s cays, before we head out to the area where the bioluminescence happens.
    Your guide will explain everything you need to know about these microscopic dinoflagelates that give off heat in the form of light when disturbed.
    Once we reach the bay you will have the opportunity to swim (optional) and experience this phenomenon first hand.
What's Included
  • Complimentary local beer and water on the boat
  • Appetizers at La Parguera, including vegetarian choices (advance notice required)
  • Free pickup and drop-off in San Juan’s key areas (Old San Juan, Condado, Isla Verde)
  • Expert guidance by a certified guide
What's Not Included
  • Additional food and drinks
  • Gratuity
Additional Information

La Parguera, a quaint fishing hamlet in Lajas, has experienced a renaissance in recent times. Thanks to its location, it boasts one of the Caribbean’s most unspoiled coral reef systems and mangrove forests. A variety of eateries and bars contribute to the local delights. We’ll journey for roughly 2.5 hours (restroom breaks provided), drinking in the verdant vistas of the Central region as they transform into a semi-arid scenery. Upon reaching our destination, we’ll pause for some light bites (additional food & beverage expenses are separate).
As we sail out for a 25-minute voyage through the mangrove canals, you’ll get to witness the sunset (depending on the season). There’s a chance to take a dip in one of its cays, after which we venture to where the spectacle of bioluminescence takes place. Your guide will elucidate about the microscopic dinoflagellates that emit light when agitated. When we arrive at the bay, you’ll get to encounter this magical light show firsthand.

  • Minimum amount of 4 participants is required in order to operate. There is a possibility of cancellation after receiving instant confirmation if the minimum is not met. IN the event of this happening you will be offered an alternate date or full refund.
  • It is an approximately 2:20 hour drive from San Juan to La Parguera each way, depending on the time of day and traffic.
  • The bio bay is an unpredictable natural phenomenon that may be influenced by multiple factors. Bioluminoscity level can vary from very visible to minimum or none without any previous notice.
  • Tour not suitable for persons with mobility issues, using wheelchair, walker or cane as you must climb into the boat from a narrow pier. If you get in the water, you must be able to climb a small boat ladder.
  • Children must weight 50 lbs or more in order to participate on tour, and must be notified with anticipation in order to assign a car seat.
  • Complimentary car seats or booster seats available upon request (subject to availability).
  • You are more than welcome to bring your own snorkeling equipment.
  • Published starting time is only an estimate. Exact pick up time will be provided the DAY PRIOR to your tour.
  • Total activity duration of 8 hours includes: 2:20 hr driving time each way, 2 hour tour, and stop for appetizers.
  • Bespoke LM Reserves the Right of Admission - If a person appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, not following instructions or causing disruptions the Guide has the right to Cancel their reservation at any moment, and No Refunds will be issued due to this.
Location
La Parguera
Southwestern Coast
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.5
(208 Ratings)
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Meander689695
May 15, 2024
Great experience! - We visited PR because the bioluminescence experience was at the top of our bucket list! Hector and Louis did not disappoint! Hector was hilarious. I loved that he shared information about PR history and the areas we drove through. We were fortunate to be able to see and experience the bioluminescent plankton - we were able to spend plenty of time in the water. I would absolutely recommend this tour. If you can make the request, ask for Hector! He made our trip more memorable!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Karla
May 14, 2024
Excellent day trip. - It started with a long drive that allows us to see more of the island. Then we visited an area where we went for swimming and the water and views were fantastic! . We ended with life time experience of the bioluminescence. It ended late but it was very worth the day trip. Our tour guide was Hector and he was knowledgeable and polite.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Katherine_m
May 12, 2024
Amazing experience! - The experience is amazing! The guía was so nice and friendly and helped with absolutely everything we needed. Going to the other side of the island is a must!
Review provided by Viator
Susan_b
May 10, 2024
So worth it - George our guide was exceptional. The boat and captain were great. In our bucket list and was not disappointed.
Review provided by Viator
Cassandra
May 9, 2024
Bucket list trip for sure! - Big thanks to our guide George and our captain Luis for such a wonderful day! The food was delicious, service was top notch, loved the snorkeling with the Tarpons, and swimming in the bioluminescent bay was amazing. Experience of a lifetime, highly recommend. Thank you!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Simmie_k
May 5, 2024
Wonderful experience! - An amazing experience! Jorge and Hector were amazing guides, they were funny, knowledgeable and despite the weather we had such a great time. Swimming in the bioluminescent bay was breathtaking and we were so so so glad that we didn't skip this on our trip!
Review provided by Viator
Teresa_c
Apr 27, 2024
Once in a lifetime, magical experience - George, our tour guide, was amazing! Very knowledgeable and engaging throughout the drive and boat tour. Hector, our boat guide, was also exceptional. The bay itself is a once in a lifetime experience. It can not be described in words or pictures - it’s simply magical. Be sure to bring a change of clothes and towels. There are jelly fish in the bay, but Hector provided acetone for the stings. The appetizers that are included is more like a full meal, but definitely have lunch before pick up so you’re not hungry during the drive.
Review provided by Viator
975brookel
Apr 8, 2024
Don’t hesitate. It’s worth it. - This trip is NOT to be missed. My family and I had the distinct pleasure of spending the day with Hector. He was funny and kind, patient with the kids and so knowledgeable! The trip was hands down our favorite part of our week in Puerto Rico. We had great coffee on the trip and great food at a beachside restaurant before heading to the boat. I was nervous about my mobility (sprained ankle) but Hector made sure I could get on and off the boat to enjoy every moment with my boys. The timing for the bio bay was perfect. And although it’s impossible to take good pictures of the experience, the boys cannot stop talking about their superhero experience. It’s better than we expected and we got such a long time there too! This trip is not to be missed and so far superior to the kayaks. The laughter and fantastic playlist made the whole day one of a kind. Hector made us feel like familia, and we will be sure to request him next time we come back.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
U645hsjoelf
Apr 15, 2024
Well organized trip, knowledgeable guide, underwhelming bio-luminescent experience - The tour was well organized, they called me to confirm pickup location and pickup was on time. The guide was knowledgeable and friendly. They provided us with dinner which was good (mostly fried chicken/fish and other fried foods). Going in the bay water was nice and refreshing. My only issue was with the bio-luminescent bay experience itself. It just seemed... underwhelming. Yeah you could see the water light up a little bit when moving around in total darkness, but I just felt like for the time and money, and the fact that this was the selling point of the event, it didn't feel like it was all that impressive. That's not really the fault of the of Bespoke Lifestyle Management, but I don't know that I would recommend this to others on account of that experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Wandacp7993cv
Apr 5, 2024
jellyfish in water - I just went with my kids. The oldest is 10. it was very cool. not like the big photos with the whole bay lit up. the guide said that's all been photo shopped. nonetheless it was cool to see the water light up like sparkles. you can't actually take any photos or videos cause it won't come out. but the experience was cool. until someone started screaming. a bunch of jellyfish swam into us. the kids all got frightened and we rushed out. the stings were painful but subsided after about 30 min. def wear a full sleeve rash guard. the kids were frightened at the end but until then it was good. I don't know if I'd do it again but happy I did it once.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 13 guests
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June 2024
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