Nicoya Peninsula: Bioluminescent Kayak Tour & Night Paddle

Summary

Kayak through glowing waters in nicoya as fish dart beneath you and algae light up the night

You’ll paddle through Nicoya’s glowing waters with a local guide, watching fish leave trails of light beneath your kayak. Includes all gear, snacks, and a gentle intro for beginners. Expect laughter, maybe a little awe — and that rare hush when everyone sees the bioluminescence for themselves.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really believe the water would actually glow until we were standing there, paddles in hand, listening to Luis explain what was about to happen. The Nicoya Peninsula is famous for its bioluminescent kayak tour — I’d read that somewhere — but seeing it in person is something else. We started just after sunset, under these palm trees where you could still smell coffee from the thermos they’d set out. Luis handed out life jackets and cracked a joke about how even locals get nervous their first time in the dark water. I laughed — but honestly, I was a little nervous too.

The first few minutes were quiet except for the sound of paddles dipping into the gulf. Then someone gasped (not me this time) when their paddle left a trail of blue-green sparkles. It’s hard to describe — like fairy dust, but wetter? Every stroke stirred up these tiny lights, and when we drifted over shallow spots, fish would dart away leaving streaks behind them. Luis called it “underwater fireworks.” I tried to say it in Spanish and totally butchered it; he just grinned. There was this moment where I dipped my hand in and watched it glow for a few seconds after. Still think about that feeling.

We stopped halfway so Luis could talk more about the algae and why some nights are brighter than others (apparently moonless nights are best). He pointed out how even floating leaves would catch the light if you nudged them. The whole thing felt strangely peaceful — no city noise, just water lapping and someone quietly munching on a snack behind me (I never found out who). After an hour or so we paddled back to Bahia Rica beach where they had towels ready and fresh water if you needed to rinse off. I kind of wanted to stay out longer, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bioluminescent kayak tour experience

• Gather at palm trees at sunset
• Enjoy welcome refreshments
• Receive tour briefing from guide Luis
• Get life jackets and kayak instructions
• Launch kayaks near Paquera ferry landing
• Kayak for one hour on calm gulf waters
• Stop to learn about bioluminescence and marine life
• Return to Bahia Rica beach
• Use fresh water, towels, and bathroom facilities

Top questions

Where does the bioluminescent kayak tour start?

The launch area is near the Paquera ferry landing on the Nicoya Peninsula.

How long does the kayak tour last?

The tour lasts about one hour on the water.

Is kayaking experience required?

No experience is needed; guides provide instructions before starting.

What is included in the bioluminescent kayak tour?

The tour includes kayaks, paddles, life jackets, snacks, coffee or tea, fresh water, towels, bathroom facilities, and insurance.

Are there age restrictions for this tour?

The minimum age is 10 years old.

Is this activity suitable for people afraid of water or darkness?

No; it's not recommended for travelers who fear water or darkness.

Can service animals join the tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your evening includes pickup near Paquera ferry landing, all kayaking equipment with life jackets provided by your guide Luis, complimentary snacks plus coffee or tea at launch under palm trees, fresh water and towels after your paddle back at Bahia Rica beach—and bathroom facilities if you need them before heading home.