Summer brings glowing waves to Bellingham. When, where to see bioluminescence
It’s summer in Bellingham.
As the sun sinks below the horizon, outdoor enthusiasts race to the shores of Whatcom County in hopes of spotting a spectacular sight: bioluminescent plankton.
Glowing plankton illuminate the ocean, lighting up the lapping waves with a neon blue glow.
“This natural phenomenon transforms quiet bays and inlets into dazzling displays during warm summer nights,” State of Washington Tourism said on its website.
When are the best times to spot glowing waves? Where can you go for ideal views?
Here’s your guide:
What causes waves to glow in Washington?
The Salish Sea often sees large blooms of microscopic plankton known as dinoflagellates, according to Bellingham’s Community Boating Center.
“When disturbed, these tiny organisms emit flashes of light, creating a dazzling display beneath the water’s surface,” the nonprofit organization said.
Sophia Rouches, owner of Moondance Sea Kayak Adventures in Bellingham, said this is caused by a chemical recreation similar to one that makes a firefly light up or a glowstick glow “when it’s first broken.”
“There’s some uncertainty around why this happens but scientists believe it’s a defense mechanism to scare away predators,” said Rouches, whose company offers kayak trips to see the glowing plankton.
According to National Geographic, many marine animals can be bioluminescent, including jellyfish, squid, angler fish and lanternfish.
On land, fireflies, railroad worms and certain types of millipedes also produce chemical reactions that result in a gentle glow, according to wildlife blog Wildlife Nomads.
What are best times to see bioluminescent waves?
“The best time to see the bioluminescence is during the summer months when the plankton bloom in high numbers,” Rouches told The Herald in 2025. “June, July, August and even September all have proven to be great months to view the glowing plankton.”
The viewing season has gotten longer over time due to climate change, the kayak tour operator said
As water grows warmer, the waves glow brighter and longer, Rouches said.
According to State of Washington Tourism, you’ll experience the “best visibility in warm, calm water with minimal moonlight.”
Rouchese recommends waiting until the new moon, when the sky isn’t as bright.
“The key is to make sure the sky’s the darkest it can be,” Rouches said. “We typically recommend trying to see the bioluminescence at least an hour after the sun goes down, or even later into the evening.”
You should also head away from any light pollution if possible.
Where can I see bioluminescence near Bellingham?
If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of bioluminescence, simply head to the beach in Whatcom County after dark. “Bioluminescent dinoflagellates gather in (warm-water) lagoons or bays, and the narrow opening prevents them from escaping,” National Georgraphic said. “The whole lagoon can be illuminated at night.”
You can also see bioluminescent plankton “right on the shoreline in really bright blooms,” Sara Welsh, director of community development at the Community Boating Center, told The Bellingham Herald in 2024. “Like even if you’re walking on the beach, the sand will start to glow and it’s like you’re walking on stars.”
Teddy Bear Cove, just south of city limits, is one go-to spot to see the plankton in Whatcom County, and a pair of local bioluminescence tours leave from Larrabee State Park.
However, both locations technically close at dusk.
“A lot of the city and state parks close around dusk, which does make it difficult to view the bioluminescence from these public access points,” Rouches said. “We would love to see more areas allow for public viewing, but it’s also difficult because of the added safety concerns at night.”
“The best places to view bioluminescence near Bellingham are calm, protected bays that are far from city lights,” Rouches said.
“Getting away from urban areas is key,” she said. “You’ll want to look for locations with minimal light pollution and still waters, which help enhance visibility of the glowing plankton.”
What are prices for kayak tours in Whatcom County?
Some local companies offer guided kayak tours to see the plankton.
Moondance Sea Kayak Adventures’ tours cost $115 a person and can be booked online.
Bellingham-based Dragonfly Kayak Tours offers bioluminescence paddle tours starting at about $140, while the Community Boating Center tours cost $100.
“Some people choose to explore on their own using personal kayaks or paddle boards, launching from places like the Fairhaven boat launch,” Rouches said.
However, Rouches doesn’t recommend going on your own, unless you’re properly prepared.
“Paddling at night can be very dangerous if unprepared with safety equipment,” Rouches said. “The water is extremely cold and hypothermia is quicker to onset at night.”
Where else can I see glowing waves in Washington?
According to State of Washington Tourism, places to see bioluminescence in Washington state include the Hood Canal, Fort Flagler, Whidbey Island and Port Gamble. You can also take a ferry to Garrison Bay and Westcott Bay on the northwest side of San Juan Island, which The Lonely Planet named one of the best places in the world to see bioluminescence 2024.