Laguna Grande Bioluminescent Kayak Tour — Fajardo Night Paddle Guide
Paddle through a mangrove canal in Fajardo to reach Laguna Grande and witness waters that glow when disturbed. This two-hour guided night tour combines quiet paddling, a natural history briefing, and the chance to see Pyrodinium bahamense light up the bay.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive 30 minutes early
Check in at the green Yokahu Kayak Trips tent beside the ocean to complete weigh-ins and equipment briefings.
Use a red headlamp
Bring a headlamp with a red filter to move around without ruining night vision or disturbing the bioluminescent organisms.
Wear closed-toe water shoes
Mangrove roots and slippery ramps make water shoes a safer choice than sandals or bare feet.
Skip lotions and heavy sunscreen
Oils and lotions can wash into the bay—use biodegradable products and rinse before launch if possible.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle the quiet mangrove canal early in the tour for reflections and bird activity.
- •View the Las Cabezas de San Juan lighthouse from the shoreline before or after your tour for daytime photography.
Wildlife
- •Mangrove birds (egrets and herons)
- •Fiddler crabs and small reef fish in the channel
Conservation Note
Tours limit group sizes and enforce no-touch rules to reduce disturbance; guests should avoid sunscreens and soaps, and follow guide instructions to protect the plankton and mangroves.
Laguna Grande sits adjacent to Las Cabezas de San Juan, a reserve created to protect coastal ecosystems and the area’s coral-reef/lagoon interface; local communities have long recognized the bay’s night lights.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the kayak paddle wake for light trails
- • Entrance to the mangrove canal for silhouettes
- • Shoreline near the launch for pre‑ or post‑tour shots
What to Bring
Waterproof phone/camera bagEssential
Protect electronics and capture low-light images without risking damage.
Red-filter headlampEssential
Preserves night vision and prevents disturbing the bioluminescent organisms.
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Protects feet on slippery launch ramps and while boarding kayaks.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during the 2‑hour tour—operators usually provide water and light snacks.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The experience runs about 2 hours total, including equipment briefings, paddling through mangroves and time at the bioluminescent bay.
Can children join?
Yes—children age 6 and older may participate but must be paired with a family member; all participants must be able to paddle.
Is the bioluminescence guaranteed?
No; the bioluminescent display varies with environmental conditions. Guides do their best but intensity cannot be guaranteed.
Are single kayaks available?
Single kayaks cannot be guaranteed; most boats are doubles and odd-numbered groups will be paired with other guests.
What are the weight and health restrictions?
Maximum weight per person is 245 pounds and pregnant travelers or those with significant heart or spinal conditions are not permitted.
What should I bring for photos?
Use a waterproof bag, a camera with low-light capability, and avoid flash; practice slow, steady strokes for the best light trails.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Fajardo, Puerto Rico
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—must be able to paddle and sit for up to two hours; suitable for families with kids 6+ who can paddle.
Ready to Explore Fajardo?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now