Merritt Island: Bioluminescent Night Kayak Tour Florida Waters

Summary

Kayak under the stars as Merritt Island’s waters glow blue

You’ll slip into a kayak after dark on Merritt Island and watch bioluminescent plankton swirl beneath you as you paddle through quiet Florida waters. A local guide leads the way, sharing stories while you trail your fingers through glowing blue light—an experience that feels both surreal and strangely peaceful.

What’s the experience like?

Li handed me a paddle with this little grin and said, “Just wait till you see it.” I’d never met her before—she was our guide for the night—but she had this calm way of explaining things, like she’d done this a hundred times (which she probably has). We were standing in the dark on the edge of Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge, just a few other folks around, all whispering and fumbling with life jackets. It smelled like salt and wet grass, kind of earthy but sharp. The air was thick—Florida in summer is always sticky—and I could hear frogs somewhere off in the reeds.

Getting into the kayak was awkward (I nearly tipped myself right in), but once we pushed off, it was quiet except for the paddles dipping. No city lights out here—just black water and a sky full of stars. Then Li told us to drag our hands through the water. I did, and suddenly there were these blue sparks trailing my fingers. Actual bioluminescence. It looked fake, honestly—like movie magic—but it was real and right there under my hand. Every time someone laughed or splashed their paddle too hard, the water lit up again. I tried to take a photo but gave up; you just have to see it for yourself.

I remember drifting for a bit, not talking much because everyone was watching their own little light shows under their kayaks. Li pointed out some fish darting by—they left glowing streaks like comets underwater. She told us about plankton and how they only do this when it’s really dark out here on Merritt Island, which is why night kayaking is such a thing in Florida. Someone asked if dolphins ever show up (they do sometimes), but tonight it was just us and the tiny glowing creatures. It felt private somehow, even with strangers around.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Night kayaking to see bioluminescence

• Arrive at launch site
• Launch kayak into river
• Paddle through natural river
• Observe glowing plankton in water
• Return to shore

Top questions

What is included in the Merritt Island bioluminescence night kayaking tour?

The tour includes kayak, paddle, life-jacket, professional guide, and all taxes or fees.

Is this night kayaking tour suitable for children?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need previous kayaking experience?

No prior experience is required; guides provide instructions before launching.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

How physically demanding is this bioluminescent kayak tour?

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to participate.

When do bioluminescent tours depart at Merritt Island?

Tours depart nightly throughout the year to catch optimal darkness for viewing.

Will I see dolphins or manatees during the tour?

Dolphins may appear occasionally but are not guaranteed; focus is on glowing plankton.

What’s included

Your evening includes use of kayak, paddle and life-jacket plus guidance from a professional local guide—all taxes and handling fees are covered so you just show up ready to paddle into Merritt Island’s glowing waters after dark.