Luminous Lagoon – Jamaica

Growing up in Jamaica I had always heard of the Luminous Lagoon AKA Glistening Waters but I had not been there until recently.

The luminous lagoon is located where the Martha Brae River meets the Caribbean Sea in Falmouth, approximately 40 minutes outside of Montego Bay.

The phenomenon is caused by microorganisms that are “charged” by the sun in the day and glow when disturbed at night. The bioluminescence seen at the Luminous Lagoon was reported to be the largest and brightest of the places in the world where bioluminescence occurs.

The tour of the Luminous Lagoon consisted of a short boat ride into the heart of the lagoon. Riders were greeted with drinks and music as we rode. Along the way we could see beautiful views of the Caribbean sunset and of the birds coming in for the night in the trees along the water.

Once in the lagoon you can see the colors following the wake of the boat engine. Participants on this excursion were encouraged to swim in the water. Several participants jumped in creating a fascinating glow.

The bottom of the lagoon is slippery and muddy so water shoes are recommended. In addition, the more people touched the bottom and disturbed the mud the more difficult it was to see the glow.

Even when everyone was finished swimming the water seemed to twinkle as fish or even the wind disturbed the organisms.

The excursion was a quick one, between 2-3 hours depending on the distance between where you are located and the luminous lagoon. I found it to be a fun and really beautiful experience. If you are staying in and around Montego Bay I highly recommend that you visit the Luminous Lagoon.