Join us for an experience unlike anything else you will do in Point Reyes.
You might be wondering what all the commotion is about. Bioluminescence is only present for a couple of months a year when the variables all align: water temperature, air temperature, winds, currents, and tides. When the conditions are right, we start to see small organisms that “light up” the water a brilliant green when they are displaced. We can usually only see this display on moonless nights.
When we kayak, our paddle strokes disturb the water and cause the dinoflagellates to “light up”, creating a light show as we explore Tomales Bay. Fish swimming in the water are followed by a green trail, and sometimes a seal or bird will make a splash, causing quite a display of color and commotion.
Launching in the north end of Tomales Bay, we head across the bay into Point Reyes National Seashore. We pass Hog Island and the curious harbor seals, paddling toward White Gulch, home of the Tule Elk. The setting sun’s rays dance across the water as we stop on a secluded beach. We watch the colors fade in the sky while enjoying a mini-picnic of freshly baked desserts from the local bakery and hot beverages. Once it is dark, we set back out onto the water to experience an amazing natural wonder.
On a moonless night, with the sun only a memory, the quiet darkness that surrounds us is the perfect viewing environment for the delicate light show put on by tiny organisms. Many people have heard about the magic of bioluminescence, but you can’t quite understand until you see it.
“Wait, What is it?” Bioluminescence is light produced by a chemical reaction in living things. The chemical reaction releases energy as light. It is similar to the reaction which occurs when you break a light stick. The organisms you are most likely to see lighting up Tomales Bay in the evening are called dinoflagellates. Dinoflagellates are single celled protists; with some animal characteristics like locomotion and some plant characteristics such as photosynthesis.
Best Viewing Dates: July through November
Check Calendar for current dates
*Private Tours availble anytime upon request
Time:; 4hrs.and include dessert picnic stop:
*Launch times vary with seasonal daylight starting between 4 and 7pm.
Price: .....$89 per person
Launch Site: Miller Park, aka Nick's Cove (see Directions for details)
Group & Mid-week Tours: Mid-week tours and private or group paddles can be scheduled for any night. Weeknights are often a quieter time to experience the bay, as we are usually the only boaters on the water. Bioluminescence is best viewed on nights with no moonlight. Call the office for this year's optimal viewing times.
Preparing for Your Trip
The success of any journey is often based on well prepared participants. The most important contribution you can make is to arrive on time prepared and eager to enjoy the trip. When getting ready for your trip please double check that you understand the directions and allow yourself plenty of travel time. It is very important to be appropriately dressed to insure your comfort, so please study and follow the clothing recommendations that are provided.
Our Guides
PRO takes pride in the quality and skill level of your guides. Impeccably trained, they bring a wealth of knowledge and proficiency to each trip. With expertise in group facilitation, natural history, wilderness first aid, and specialized kayak instruction, your guides are ready to provide you with a safe, relaxing and enjoyable experience. As a trip’s success and safety depends on their judgment, we ask that you respect and support their decisions.
Directions
Please study and follow the Directions to Miller Park for our Bioluminescence Tour.
Have a safe and enjoyable drive and please do your best to be on time!
