B I O L U M I N E S C E N T
S H O R E
California, United States
Did you know San Diego's famous beaches have glow-in-the-dark
waves? During the spring and summer, bioluminescent algae collect
in the warm waters off the Southern California coast and cause an
awe-inspiring light scene in the evenings.
Though these algae aren't guaranteed at any San Diego beach, there
are a few things you can do to optimize your chances of seeing them.
First, choose a shore far from downtown and bright lights—these
algae like darkness and lots of it. Second, check "red tide" monitors
for an alert. The algae reproduce quickly when the water has the
nutrients they enjoy, which makes the water turn a reddish color.
If you're lucky enough to experience these unpredictable electric
swells, it's a captivating and blissful treat.
18
