The 180-kilometre-long Sunshine Coast is full of natural wonder, but perhaps none is more magical than bioluminescence. This phenomenon is the ocean's version of the Milky Way—occurring at its peak in July and August—and one of nature's most enchanting experiences. Read on for details about bioluminescence on the Sunshine Coast and how to see it for yourself.
What Is Bioluminescence?
Bioluminescence is created when tiny organisms emit light through chemical processes. On land, fireflies are the best-known example of this. But in the ocean, it's everywhere from microscopic plankton to deep-sea squid. While this chemical reaction doesn't emit any heat, the effect it produces—especially under water—is wondrous. In the waters off the Sunshine Coast, bioluminescence is mainly caused by dinoflagellates—a type of plankton that lights up when disturbed. On dark summer nights, dip your hand or a paddle into the water and watch as it lights up and swirls around you. Even crashing waves can cause beaches to glow blue-green under the right conditions.
Most often, bioluminescence appears as a blue-green colour. These colours have shorter wavelengths, allowing them to travel farther in the water. Our eyes are also more sensitive to blue and green light, especially helpful when you're paddling along a dark inlet staring at the inky-black water. So, what causes this spectacular glow? When a light-emitting molecule called luciferin reacts with an enzyme known as luciferase, it releases a flash of light. Nearly 75 per cent of marine life have the ability to create their own light, while others, like anglerfish, rely on glowing bacteria to do the job for them.
Marine scientists believe bioluminescence helps marine life ward off predators, lure prey, or communicate. But whatever the exact reason, the result is something otherworldly—nature’s very own magic trick. Whether you’re quietly drifting along the Sechelt Inlet or in one of the calm bays that dot Desolation Sound, watching the ocean shimmer below you is the very definition of a core memory.
Sunshine Coast Bioluminescence Tours
The Sunshine Coast is home to dozens of marine operators offering everything from evening paddles to half- and multi-day adventures. While it's entirely possible to spot bioluminescence on one of these tours, the best way to guarantee a glow-in-the-dark experience is to book a tour designed specifically for it.
Egmont-based Metta Eco Experiences runs small-group bioluminescent tours by kayak. Their "Into the Night" journey is an opportunity to paddle the calm waters of Sechelt Inlet, experiencing the magic of the glowing water below you and the solitude of the night sky above you. Alpha Adventures, which operates out of a few locations on the Sunshine Coast, offers two-hour evening tours, a perfect introduction to nighttime kayaking and the incredible ecology of the Sunshine Coast. And the dates for Halfmoon Sea Kayaks' tours occur throughout summer's new moon periods—the optimal light condition for taking in bioluminescence, and your best chance at seeing it.
Where to See Bioluminescence on the Sunshine Coast
Aside from tours, the best places to spot bioluminescence are in calm, protected bays where plankton are less likely to be disturbed (that's where you come in!). Some of the best places to see it on the Sunshine Coast include:
- Sechelt Inlet, Sechelt
- Smuggler Cove, Halfmoon Bay
- Sargeant Bay, Halfmoon Bay
- Jervis Inlet, Egmont
- Saltery Bay, qathet
- Desolation Sound, qathet
- Shelter Beach, Texada Island
- Savary Island
When to See Bioluminescence on the Sunshine Coast
Bioluminescence is typically at its peak in the summer, from July through August, though some tours start earlier in the season. Warmer water and longer daylight hours encourage plankton blooms, especially during calm weather. Most operators offer nighttime or sunset tours beginning in May and June, running through late summer.
For the best experience, aim for a moonless night, away from light pollution. The darker it is, the brighter the glow. Keep these viewing tips in mind:
- Choose a moonless or new moon night for maximum darkness.
- Head to calm, sheltered bays with little wave action.
- Avoid bright flashlights or phone screens.
- Bring a headlamp with a red-light nighttime setting.
It is imperative to stay safe when playing on or near water. Be prepared, wear a life jacket or PFD (personal flotation device), don’t drink alcohol, and make sure you are familiar with your chosen activity. AdventureSmart and Leave No Trace are great resources to help you get informed before heading outdoors.
Learn about other ways to experience the waters of the Sunshine Coast.
