Banana River Lagoon Kayaking Bioluminescence Tour

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Free cancellationTravelers' pick

1/10

Duration1h 30m–2h

GroupUp to 20

LanguagesEN

Mobile ticketAccepted

Watch the water light up as you paddle through it

Kayak or paddle board on a 1.5 to 2 hour evening tour of Banana River Lagoon Nature Preserve, where bioluminescent comb jellies glow year-round and summer months bring phytoplankton that ignite with every paddle stroke. The tour launches from one of two parks depending on where the bioluminescence is strongest, includes all equipment and an expert guide, and keeps groups small to stay away from the crowds.

1h 30m–2h

Step-by-step itinerary

Sunset kayak and paddle board tour

Meet at Oars And Paddles Park
Or meet at Brevard Veteran's Memorial Park
Receive expert instruction and equipment
Explore Banana River Lagoon by kayak or paddle board
See dolphins and sunset
Observe bioluminescent comb jellies year round
Experience bioluminescent phytoplankton in summer
Enjoy photos and parking included

The Experience

A 1.5 to 2 hour paddle starts at sunset, either from Oars And Paddles Park on Banana River Drive in Indian Harbour Beach or from Brevard Veteran's Memorial Park in Merritt Island—the guide picks the launch based on where the bioluminescence is best that night. You choose between a kayak or a stand-up paddle board, and if you need coaching on the board, the guide handles it. All equipment comes with you; most people paddle barefoot, though water shoes work fine.

The comb jellies spark in the water year-round, creating a glow wherever you move. From June through September, the bioluminescent phytoplankton called Dinoflagellates turn the lagoon into something else entirely—the water lights up around your paddle, your hands, anything that breaks the surface. You'll see dolphins at sunset, and the small group size means you stay in the quiet part of the lagoon, away from the tour operators running bigger boats elsewhere.

Parking is free at whichever launch point you use. An expert paddler leads the group and takes photos during the tour. Bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses if you want them; you're welcome to bring your own food and drinks along. Public transportation options exist nearby if you're not driving.

What’s included

All kayak or paddle board equipment.
expert guide instruction and coaching on the paddle board if needed.
photos taken during the tour.
free parking.
all taxes, fees and handling charges.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by SOBESURF INC

Is this one for you?The tour launches from two different parks depending on conditions that evening, so if you're staying without a car, confirm which location works for your arrival time—either way, parking is free and the guide meets you there. Small groups and a quiet stretch of the lagoon mean you're not competing with the bigger tour operators running the same water.