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Mosquito Bay

Mosquito Bay is known for glowing light blue and green at night (a property known as bioluminescence). It's one of the most brightly colored bioluminescent tours in the whole world, making it a bucket list item for many people.

Before you hop on a kayak and get into the water, what do you need to know before you venture to the glowing waters of Vieques? Is it worth visiting in the first place?

Is Mosquito Bay worth visiting?

First of all, it depends on when you visit. If you are going at night (especially if there isn't a full moon), it will be a one-of-a-kind experience that is definitely worth your vacation money and time.

However, if you don't care about the bioluminescent waters and would rather do something thrilling and high-speed, then any other bay, lake, or river will be preferable and probably more affordable.

(Expectation Check: An important thing to note is that the colors of the bay displayed in many pictures are misleading. Most Internet photos of the water are edited to enhance the brightness, so if you are expecting excessive brightness, you may be let down.)

Tour Services

Get with one of the local kayak tour companies to experience the bay. You'll meet with your tour guide, and they will set you up with a kayak. Feel free to ask as many questions as you want to learn about the bay, the island, and the science behind the glowing microorganisms.

As you paddle into the bay, you'll see a growing mass of green hue on the water. This will erupt into a full sea of calming natural colors.

Frequently-Asked Questions about Mosquito Bay

How long is a Mosquito Bay kayak tour?
You will be on the tour for 2 hours.

What should I bring?
Bring the following:
  • Swimsuit

  • Water Shoes

  • Avoid Bringing your phone

  • Throwaway Camera


Why is it called Mosquito Bay?
Why would anyone want to name a beautiful bay after a blood-sucking parasite? Well, nobody did. Mosquito Bay is named after a small ship called "El Mosquito" that was owned by a man named Roberto Cofresi. He was a Robin Hood-like figure in Puerto Rico history who is much respected.

Why does the bioluminescent bay glow?
The waters of Mosquito Bay glow because of a single-celled microorganism called dinoflagellates. When disturbed by nearby vibrations, the mini creatures glow in response.

What's one of the best times to go to Mosquito Bay?
The best time to go to Mosquito Bay is during the dry season (December to early April). This is because heavy rainfall can make it hard to see the glow.

Can you swim in Mosquito Bay?
Laws have passed in Puerto Rico that ban swimming in the bay, though you can paddle your kayak and stick your feet in the water to cool off.

Do sharks live in Mosquito Bay?
Yes there are, but they aren't fully grown. The waters of the Mosquito Bay are used as a sanctuary for fish. Sharks usually lay their eggs in the bay and leave for deeper waters. Just be cautious and listen to the tour guides. Your guides are trained to deal with any emergency situation--including sharks.

As you can see, Mosquito Bay is well worth your time and money. If you want to visit these mysterious and magical waters, book a vacation through Puerto Rico Activities! You won't regret it.

Come and see us

As you can see, Mosquito Bay is well worth your time and money. If you want to visit these mysterious and magical waters, book a vacation through Puerto Rico Activities! You won't regret it.