If you’re looking for something unique to do on your next trip, why not head to Holbox, Mexico? Located just a few hours from Cancun, Holbox is an island on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo State. Holbox is part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve and is separated from the mainland by the Yalahau Lagoon. There, you can find the area inhabited by a variety of wildlife including flamingos and pelicans. Located between the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, the area is rich in marine life including sea turtles and whale sharks as well. In addition, it’s also a great place to see bioluminescence. Bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by living organisms that occurs in marine vertebrates and invertebrates. If you’d like to learn where you can see bioluminescence in Holbox, keep reading below.  

Bioluminescence in Holbox 

Holbox is a fun place to visit for a day trip if you are vacationing in Cancun, Mexico. The car-free island is a great place to disconnect and relax. In order to best see bioluminescence, the ideal conditions include a moonless night and light breezes. On the island of Holbox, the calm waters come alive with tiny glowing lights during the darkest hours of the night. For the full experience, visitors should wade into the ocean until you notice that the water suddenly turns into a soft glow of pale blue or green. As you wade out even further until the water reaches your knees, you will really be able to appreciate the glittering phenomenon that is created by bioluminescent plankton in the water. To have the best bioluminescence experience and maximum visibility, ideally plan your Holbox vacation in days near the new moon in the summer and fall.  

 

Top Spots to View Bioluminescence 

While the ideal time for viewing can vary by night and according to the moon cycles, it’s recommended to book a guided tour. Note that bioluminescence tours are not usually available on days close to a full moon because the light from the moon is too bright. In addition, the summertime is the best season for optimal visibility, although bioluminescence can sometimes be seen as early as March and as late as mid-December. In Holbox, the most popular spot for swimming in bioluminescent waters is located on the southeastern tip of the island at a beach called Punta Cocos. This beach is conveniently located just a few minutes outside of town, and most guided bioluminescence tours will take you to this spot as well. Make sure to reserve your spot in advance as tours are limited.  

What to Wear 

Are you curious what to wear or bring with you for your adventure? Since the water in the Punta Cocos Beach area that is most popular for viewing is only knee-deep, you can simply wear a swimsuit or shorts and t-shirt. The water is calm and only has a few rocks, so water shoes are not required. In addition, it’s recommended to not bring a camera since the very dark conditions make photography almost impossible. Plus, it’s best to have your hands free so you can touch the water and enjoy the unique sensory experience to the fullest. Aso, avoid using even the smallest light when you are on the beach as it could adversely affect visibility in the water for others. Avoid using lights such as cell phones, bike lights, golf cart headlights, flashlights, and flash photography. 

If you’re ready to plan your trip, why not contact a reputable travel agency and let them handle the details for you. For example, Amazing Mexico at (866) 883-0573 is a genuine travel agency that works with the best resorts in the Riviera Maya where Holbox is located as well as other top destinations in Mexico including Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, and Islands of Loreto. Currently, they have discounted all-inclusive travel packages on sale so you can enjoy a fabulous vacation without going over budget. Summertime is a great time to view the bioluminescence in Holbox so why not call Amazing Mexico at (866) 883-0573 today and coordinate your plans? Check the moon cycles to plan your trip near the new moon for best viewing conditions. Don’t hesitate and call Amazing Mexico at (866) 883-0573 and book your dream vacation to Mexico today!