13 Places on Earth With Seriously Otherworldly Scenery

Lisette Marie

December 8, 2025

9. The Luminous Waters of Bioluminescent Bays, Puerto Rico

Blue Tide. Seasonal winds can cause the upwelling of nutrients which in turn can cause plankton populations to bloom as "red tides." Here, a dinoflagellate population (Noctiluca sp.) turns the ocean a luminous blue colour as the disturbance by the wind tr. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @Bruce Anderson (University of Stellenbosch

The bioluminescent bays of Puerto Rico, particularly Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques, offer a magical experience as the waters light up with a blue-green glow. This phenomenon is caused by dinoflagellates, tiny organisms that emit light when disturbed. The resulting spectacle is akin to swimming in a sea of stars, with each movement creating a trail of shimmering light. The bioluminescent bays evoke the mysterious beauty of alien oceans, where unknown life forms might illuminate the depths. Experiencing this natural wonder under a starlit sky is a reminder of the hidden marvels that our planet holds, akin to the mysteries of the cosmos.

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13 Places on Earth With Seriously Otherworldly Scenery

9. The Luminous Waters of Bioluminescent Bays, Puerto Rico

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