Puerto Rico: La Parguera Sunset Swim & Bioluminescent Bay Tour

Summary

Swim at La Parguera sandbars then light up the night in Puerto Rico’s bio bay

You’ll ride out from La Parguera just before sunset, swim at sandbars as the sky turns gold, then dive into Puerto Rico’s only swimmable bioluminescent bay. Watch your hands spark blue light as you float under the stars—includes floaties and a local captain who knows all the good stories.

What’s the experience like?

The boat left just before sunset from La Parguera, and honestly, I was still trying to untangle my hair from the wind when we pulled up to this sandbar. The water was warm, almost syrupy, and a few locals were already out there laughing with their kids. Our captain, José, handed me a floatie (I pretended not to need it but…yeah). The sun dipped lower and everything went kind of gold — you could smell salt and sunscreen and something sweet drifting from another boat. I tried to say “buenas tardes” to a woman nearby; she grinned back but I think my accent gave her a laugh.

After the sun finally disappeared — everyone clapped, which surprised me — we motored over to the bioluminescent bay. It was darker than I expected. José explained how this is one of only five places in the world where you can actually swim in the glowing water. He called it “pixie dust,” which sounded silly until I jumped in and saw blue sparks swirl around my hands. It felt like swimming through someone else’s dream. My friend tried to catch some of the light in her fist (she couldn’t), and for a minute we just floated there quietly, except for someone giggling nearby.

I didn’t expect to feel so small out there — stars above, tiny lights below, nothing else really mattered for those thirty minutes. Heading back to the dock, everyone was quiet but smiling. If you’re thinking about a day trip to La Parguera or searching for a real bioluminescent bay swim from Puerto Rico, this is it. I still think about that glow sometimes when I close my eyes at night.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset swim and Biobay tour

• Depart half hour before sunset
• Swim at La Parguera sandbar
• Watch the sunset
• Head to the Biobay
• Swim and play with bioluminescence
• Return to the dock

Top questions

Can you really swim in Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bay?

Yes—La Parguera is one of only five biobays worldwide where swimming is allowed.

How long do you spend swimming in the bio bay?

You get about 30 minutes to swim and play with the glowing water.

Is sunset included on every tour?

No—during high demand season there’s also a late night tour that skips sunset and goes straight to the biobay.

Are floaties provided on this tour?

Yes—floaties are included for everyone who wants them during both swims.

Where does this tour start?

The boat departs from La Parguera in Puerto Rico.

Is lunch or food included?

No food is included on this tour.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes—service animals are allowed on board.

Is this suitable for people with heart conditions?

No—it’s not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

Do you need strong swimming skills?

You should have at least moderate physical fitness; floaties are provided if needed.

What’s included

Your evening includes a boat ride from La Parguera with all floaties provided for both sandbar and bioluminescent bay swims; your captain handles everything so you can just relax and watch your hands light up underwater before heading back after dark.