Florida: Bioluminescent Comb Jelly Kayak Night Tour

Summary

Florida’s Indian River Lagoon lights up at night with glowing comb jellies and gentle paddling through mangroves

You’ll paddle calm waters under Florida’s night sky with a small group and local guide, searching for glowing comb jellies in Indian River Lagoon. Hold one gently as it lights up your hands, listen to stories about local wildlife, and soak up that strange mix of quiet and excitement only a bioluminescent kayak tour can give.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to laugh so much trying to scoop up a glowing comb jelly in the dark. Our guide, Jamie, had this way of making everyone relax — she called out, “Don’t worry, they don’t sting!” just as I hesitated with my paddle over the water. The Indian River Lagoon was quieter than I imagined, almost muffled except for the soft slap of water against our kayaks and someone’s nervous giggle every now and then. It smelled faintly salty and green, like wet leaves after rain.

It was colder than I thought it’d be for Florida, but that’s when the bioluminescent comb jellies show up (I guess they’re picky about their seasons). Jamie explained how these little creatures drift in from deeper waters each winter — she even let us gently cup one in our hands. It felt like holding a living marble, cool and slippery, pulsing with this weird blue-green light when you moved your fingers. At some point she flashed her torch just right and the cilia on their sides shimmered all rainbowy — kind of hypnotic, honestly.

The mangroves looked like shadows stitched along the edge of the lagoon. Sometimes you’d hear something splash or see a heron silhouette against the sky. There was this moment where we all fell quiet — no one talking, just paddling under stars and watching tiny sparks flicker in the water whenever our paddles dipped in. It’s hard to explain but it felt both peaceful and sort of electric at the same time. I still think about that silence sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bioluminescent Comb Jelly Kayak Tour

• Arrive at Indian River Lagoon
• Prepare kayak and safety gear
• Paddle calm waters with mangroves
• Observe bioluminescent Comb Jellies
• Catch and hold glowing creatures
• Enjoy dynamic rainbow light show
• Experience wildlife and star views

Top questions

When do bioluminescent comb jellies appear in Florida?

They gather in Indian River Lagoon during cooler months, typically winter.

Is it safe to touch comb jellies on this kayak tour?

Yes, comb jellies do not sting and are safe to hold gently.

How long does the bioluminescence kayak tour last?

The kayak tour lasts about 2 hours.

What should I bring for the night kayak tour?

Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet, water shoes or sandals, towel (for after), extra clothes, bottled water, snacks; camera is optional but won’t capture bioluminescence well.

Are guides provided on this kayak tour?

Yes, a professional local guide leads each group through Indian River Lagoon.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup; meeting location is confirmed by text/call based on best bioluminescence conditions.

Can kids join the bioluminescent kayak tour?

The activity is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health; check directly for age specifics.

What’s included

Your evening includes use of a kayak with paddle and PFD (life vest), guidance from a professional local guide throughout your 2-hour paddle on Indian River Lagoon, plus safety lights provided for night conditions—just bring yourself (and maybe some dry clothes for later).