Bioluminescent Beaches: Have The Best Time On These 7 Sparkling Sea Shores in India

All of us must have thought about being in our own Disney movies at least once in our lives. Feeling like a prince or princess while the pixie dust engulfs us is sheer joy! Isn’t that absolutely beautiful? Alas, stuff like this only exists in the fictional world…But, does it? Bioluminescent Beaches in India give you a glimpse of the ethereal experience that otherwise would seem like a fragment of our imagination. While you sink your feet into the wet sand, the water brings with it glittering amazements that will tickle your toes before going back into the heart of the ocean. 

Bioluminescent Beaches get their shine because of organisms like the phytoplanktons and dinoflagellates. When these living forms are disturbed from their position, something that usually happens while the waves splash, they illuminate to produce impressive light. These organisms are completely harmless and you won’t be harming them either when you move your hands through the approaching waves. 

It is so magical to witness the glory of a Bioluminescent Beach once the sun disappears behind the horizon. India is blessed with several such beaches, each more gorgeous than the other. 

Read on to find out about the 7 Best Bioluminescent Beaches in India

You May Also Like to Read: Beaches in India: a List and Why You Need to Visit Them at Least Once

Bioluminescent Beaches in India – Know Everything About Them 

1 – Bangaram Beach

Bangaram Island is one of the most sought-after places on Lakshadweep Island. Tourists prefer to come here to relax, rejuvenate, and have a silent holiday. The Bangaram Beach is vast with several water sports activities, beachside shacks and dining arrangements. It is also well-known for its colourful coral reefs. Once the sun sets, choose a perfect spot right in front of the ocean and see the magic unfold. The water splashes against the shore and an electrifying blue light will greet you. You will have to pay attention because this splash of light can pop up from anywhere. This is because of the algae and phytoplanktons that are present in the water. They are more predominantly visible during the night though they are also present during the day time. You will be surprised to know that the glowing water can also be because of the jellyfish that dwell near the shore.

 The sky above Bangaram Beach is crystal-clear and is also the best spot for stargazing. If you are looking to benefit from the best of both worlds, choosing to visit Bangaram Island will prove to be the right choice. 

Location: Bangaram Beach, Bangaram Atoll/ Island, Lakshadweep, 682553
Things to Do: Water Sports, Beach Dinner, Motor Boat Rides, Magnificent Sunsets

2 – Juhu Beach 

Juhu Beach is the best place to be if you want to listen to the melodious waves crashing against the shore while munching on delicious street food! What is the icing on the cake? Juhu Beach is also one of the best Bioluminescent Beaches in India! Though bioluminescence is not regularly seen in the waters, whenever you come across it, the scene will prove to be worth your time and energy. The electrifying blue waters will illuminate the place and you can witness the same from the comfort of the seaside restaurants.

 It was way back in 2016 when the phenomenon of bioluminescence was seen in Juhu Beach. Since then, oceanographic experts and residents in general always have had their eyes open to see if glimpses of the beautiful nighttime occurrence will surprise them! Whenever bioluminescence is noticed in Juhu Beach, it lasts for a few days to a month before coming back at a later time. This is because the light-emitting phytoplanktons and algae bloom do not consistently stay by the shore and move on to dwell in other parts of the sea or die when their lifespan comes to an end. Whenever you hear the news about Juhu Beach ‘glowing’, pack your bags and rush to see the wonder firsthand!

If you are planning to visit Juhu Beach, book your affordable accommodation at Hotels in Mumbai for a comfortable stay experience. 

Location: Juhu Beach, Juhu Tara Rd, Juhu, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Things to Do: Eat at the food stalls, Photography, Swim during low tides, Get the beachside Mehendi.
Where to Stay: Hotels near Juhu Beach Mumbai

3 – Betalbatim Beach

Goa is the party capital of India! Once the sun disappears from the sky, the shacks and pubs/clubs radiate with lights till the sun comes back again! Another place where you will find dazzling light is on Betalbatim Beach. This is one of the most visited bioluminescent beaches in the country and is known for its outstanding sunrise/sunset moments. The white sand beach is also popular as one of the cleanest beaches in Goa. If you go around boating or kayaking, you will even come across dolphins in these waters. But once the sun goes down, the algae bloom in the water starts to emit out gorgeous sparkles that will excite you! The illumination is more prominent on this beach and lasts way longer than a few weeks. South Goa is relatively more silent and peaceful during the nights than North Goa. So, you can happily lie down on the beach, and let that shining water brush against your feet while staring at the moonlit sky! The serene tranquillity that this whole experience offers is too precious to ever forget. It will surely find a special place in your hearts. 

However, keep in mind that crabs tend to dwell on the white sand beach in good numbers. Steer clear of their way and try not to stamp on them by accident.

Location: Betalbatim Beach, Fatona, South Goa, 403708

Things to Do: Swimming, Parasailing, Jet Ski Ride, Scuba Diving, Dolphin Spotting, and Kayaking.
Where to Stay:Hotels near Betalbatim Beach Goa

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4 – Mattu Beach

Mattu Beach in Udupi, Karnataka is known to have a very calm and quiet ambience. The crowd is less and you can enjoy the beach for yourself if you plan your trip properly. It was only very recently that Mattu Beach found its place in the list of Bioluminescent Beaches in the country. It has a very long shoreline that extends up to 30 km. When the sun sets, the bioluminescent algae bloom starts to shine and makes the entire place sparkle exquisitely. Bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon that is also greatly influenced by weather conditions and seasonal changes. Especially in places like Karnataka where you can notice extreme weather conditions that can show a strong influence on the growing conditions of the illuminating algae. 

When you visit Mattu Beach in the winter season, you are more likely to come across bioluminescence. The temperature of the seawater is suitable for the abundant growth of phytoplanktons and dinoflagellates that produce the needed chemicals to make the splashing waves sparkle. When we say chemicals, do not assume them to be harmful. They are simple flight-or-fight responses by the organisms that pose no threat to humans, animals, or the other sea-dwelling life forms. During the day, enjoy taking a walk on the warm golden sand shore, while the palm trees sway to the melodies of the wind. The raw coastal charm of Mattu Beach makes it one of the most interesting tourist destinations in Karnataka. Bioluminescence is an added advantage!
Location: Mattu Beach, Udupi, Karnataka, 574105
Things to Do: Swimming, Relaxed Walks, Picnics, View Picturesque Sunsets

5 – Thiruvanmiyur Beach

If you were active on social media in the year 2019, you must have noticed the huge buzz about the sparkling waters in ‘Chennai Beach’. Well, people now know it by the name – Thiruvanmiyur Beach. This particular place also joined the other bioluminescent beaches in the country and became one of the most talked about coastal regions in the past. Before 2019, bioluminescence was not noticed in Thiruvanmiyur. But there is no specific reason why the mysterious glow should not appear on these shores. The phenomenon is not constant so you must wait for the right season to see the water shine. Usually, the bioluminescence is noticed during the autumn and winter seasons. The glow is relatively dim during the first few days and picks up to shine more prominently later. The occurrence will be visible for about a month before it bids adieu. When you hear the news channels going gaga that Thiruvanmiyur is sparkling again, waste no time and reach Chennai! This is an isolated beach with a calm ambience so people who enjoy the quiet will definitely love it. But once the sun disappears behind the mountains, this bioluminescent beach will surely attract a lot of curious eyes.
Location: Thiruvallavur Nagar Beach, Valmiki Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600041
Things to Do: Casual walks, Picnics, Spectacular Sunset View. 

While you are in Chennai, book your stay at Hotels in Chennai for an elevated travel experience. 

6 – Varkala Beach

When we are talking about such an ethereal phenomenon on earth, how can we miss God’s Own Country? Varkala Beach is one of the most beautiful bioluminescent beaches in the country. The entire ambience with the swaying palm trees, pristine blue waters and golden-yellow sand adds to the glamour of the glimmering nights. And then there are the towering cliffs along the coastline that are the main distinctive features of this Kerala beach. Have you seen those eye-catching wallpapers on your computer? Varkala Beach is even better than them!

Again, just like the few bioluminescent beaches that we have discussed, the phenomenon is not an everyday thing at Varkala. It mostly occurs during the winter months when the nights are colder and support the growth of algae blooms responsible for the glow. When you visit Varkala Beach to witness the bioluminescence, do not forget to take a dip in the mineral springs that are known to have astonishing health benefits.

Location: Varkala Beach, Varkala Town, Kerala, 695141
Things to Do: Explore Mineral Springs, Janardhanaswamy Temple, Coastal restaurants, Sunset view

7 – Havelock Beach

Havelock Beach lets you experience the thrill and excitement of bioluminescent kayaking! This is one of the bioluminescent beaches in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands where you can go kayaking in the glowing waters. But, only up to a certain safe distance and when the moonlight and illumination are suitable enough to venture into the waters. If you are lucky enough to be here during this time, do not miss out on the fun! The best time to visit Havelock Beach for bioluminescence is during the winter season, mainly from December to February. The glow starts sometime during the end of November but becomes more prominent in December. Apart from Phytoplanktons, you will also find shining jellyfish and rare corals! The sparkling dots on the water that splashes against the pristine white shore are so charismatic! 

Location: Havelock Beach, Havelock Island, South Andaman District, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Things to Do: Snorkelling, Scuba Diving, Surfing, Jet Ski, Banana Boat Ride.

Planning a Trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands? Then You Must Definitely Read: the 12 Enticing Places to Visit in Andaman and Nicobar to Explore Its Coastal Charm

While it is very exciting to visit these bioluminescent beaches at night, familiarise yourself with the local laws. For instance, it is not allowed to stay on the shores of Thiruvallavur or Thiruvanmiyur past 10:30-11:00 PM. There is strict police patrolling and being caught can lead to some time in jail or paying hefty fines. There could be various reasons as to why these specific states have imposed restrictions. It could be the fear of pick-pocketing, crimes, high tides or simply avoiding ‘drunk nuisances’. Nevertheless, it is good to stay safe after the sun sets.

When you visit the bioluminescent beaches, try to click as many pictures as you can and fully embrace the enchanting experience. It is not every day that you will come across such mystical scenes in life!