Bioluminescent Algae Illuminates Southern California Coast
Southern California’s coastal tour operators are currently treating visitors to a unique spectacle as bioluminescent microalgae lights up the ocean waters, creating a stunning blue glow. The phenomenon occurs when the algae, known as dinoflagellates, is stirred up by waves, wind, or watercraft movements.
For the past month, a rare pod of killer whales has been drawing attention along the coast. Now, operators like Newport Coastal Adventures are offering nightly 90-minute cruises to witness the mesmerizing bioluminescence. The natural blue glow is particularly visible when the ocean water is agitated, creating a magical display as waves crash along the shorelines.
The whale-watching company encourages participants to join them in the search for the bioluminescent glow, highlighting the potential to witness not only the stunning blue phenomenon but also encounters with dolphins, large fish schools, and other marine life.
Video and photos released by the company showcase the ethereal beauty of the glowing water, offering a unique nighttime experience for beachgoers and tourists alike. This natural light show is reminiscent of a similar event in September of the previous year when boogie boarders were captured riding through the glowing waves at Huntington Beach.
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Nate Jaros, the senior director of fish and invertebrates at the Aquarium of the Pacific, explained that the microalgae associated with red tide produces bioluminescence when disturbed at night. While red tide is visible during the day, creating an orangish-brown tint in the water, the bioluminescence becomes activated in the evening, giving the waves an enchanting glow.
The availability of high concentrations of the bioluminescent algae can vary, but recent sightings have prompted coastal operators to offer special cruises, providing a magical and memorable experience for those seeking the beauty of Southern California’s illuminated coastline.
