Glow in the Dark Night Kayaking tour in San Juan 

When the sun dips below the horizon in San Juan, the waters come alive. That’s all thanks to the bioluminescent plankton that light up the waters across Puerto Rico. This makes it the perfect setting for a night kayaking adventure, and trust me, it’s one of the coolest excursions San Juan has to offer! 

Okay, okay, okay—I know what you’re thinking. You didn’t come to Puerto Rico to work out. You’re here to relax, unwind, and soak up the sun on the beach. But trust me, this glow-in-the-dark night kayaking tour in San Juan is the perfect mix of fun and fitness. Plus, you’ll feel so proud of yourself for sneaking in a workout while on vacation! 

The tour takes place on the Condado Lagoon, where you’ll paddle beneath the city lights of San Juan in a clear-bottom kayak with LED lights that activate as the sun sets. During the Condado City Lights Night Kayak Tour, you’ll experience the incredible sight of bioluminescent plankton lighting up the water. (Who knew Plankton would be here? Now I wonder if we can spot Spongebob?) So, what exactly are bioluminescent waters? Essentially, tiny organisms in the water emit light, making the water glow with every paddle stroke.

To add to the fun, you can even paint your face and body with glow-in-the-dark paint—because why not light up while you paddle? It’s a whole vibe, and a great way to see San Juan from a totally new perspective while getting in a sneaky arm workout. I have to admit, I was not prepared for the burn!

Benefits of Kayaking

So, this wasn’t my first time kayaking, but it was my first time doing it at night—and wow, what an experience! I hadn’t kayaked in a few years (the last time was with my dad in Turks and Caicos), so I kind of forgot just how much of a workout it really is.

Let me tell you, your arms will be on FIYAAAAAAAA—but in the best way possible. You’ll start to feel it a bit while paddling, but by the end of the tour, your arms will definitely know they’ve worked hard. But honestly, that post-tour feeling of accomplishment? Worth every bit of the burn. Who knows, maybe I should pick up kayaking as a hobby? Not only is this workout fun, but it’s packed with benefits for your body. Did you know that kayaking:

• Tones and strengthens your arms: Kayaking is a fantastic upper body workout that targets your biceps, triceps, shoulders, and back. The repetitive paddling motion helps build muscle strength and endurance, giving you toned and sculpted arms while enjoying the scenic water views
• Improves your cardiovascular fitness: Kayaking isn’t just about strength; it’s also a great cardio workout! Paddling at a steady pace gets your heart rate up, improving your cardiovascular health and helping you burn calories while exploring the waterways.
• Boosts your core stability and balance: As you paddle, you engage your core muscles to maintain balance and control the kayak. This constant engagement strengthens your abdominal muscles, improves posture, and enhances overall stability.
• Relieves stress and promotes mental well-being: There’s something incredibly calming about gliding across the water, surrounded by nature. Kayaking offers a peaceful escape, reducing stress levels and boosting your mood. It’s like nature therapy, helping you feel refreshed and recharged! (hello, nature therapy!)

Night Kayaking Tips

Before you start your tour, you’ll have a “Kayak 101” safety briefing to ensure you and your paddling partner are good to go. It’s very important to arrive at least 30 minutes before the tour so you can listen to the instructions as the tour guides want to ensure everyone feels comfortable before going out in the water.  Here are a few tips to keep in mind while paddling:

1. Stay calm and paddle steadily—it’s all about rhythm, not speed!
2. Listen carefully during the “Kayak 101” lesson—this is not the time for selfies and taking pictures! You’ll want to know and understand the basics of kayaking in the lagoon (even if it’s not your first time kayaking) to ensure a safe and fun experience.
3. Keep your LED lights on—you want to see and be seen!
4, Avoid bug spray—it damages the clear kayak bottoms, and trust me, you won’t need it on the water. 
5. GoPro or waterproof phone case or camera?—Bring it at your own risk, but trust me, you’ll want to capture this experience! This $8 waterproof phone case from amazon is my absolute favorite and I take it with me for all of my travels! 

Important Info Before You Go

• Kayaks are two-seaters: Perfect for a paddle buddy! The max weight per person is 275 lbs, with a total of 400 lbs per kayak.
• You will get wet: Expect to be knee-deep in water when getting in and out of the kayak, so dress casually—shorts and t-shirts work great.
• This tour is beginner-friendly: If you have any trouble, the guides are there to help. Just remember, leaving the tour early or needing to be towed back doesn’t mean you get a refund.
• Cash: Bring some for parking fees and tips for your guides. They work hard to make your experience fun! 
• Waivers: Group must have at least an 18 year old to attend and sign waivers. Young children must have at least a 16 year old in each kayak, they cannot be in a kayak alone. The minimum age for kayaking is 3 years old. 

tour hours, Pricing, and Location

Hours of Operation: Night kayaking tours usually start around sunset. Between March – September, tours start at 6pm as the sun sets earlier. 
Location: 1014 Ashford Ave, San Juan, 00907, Puerto Rico. The tour leaves from the Condado Ocean Club.
Pricing: Starts at $59 per person. You can purchase the tour on the website or on viator here. 
Duration: The kayaking portion of the tour lasts 45 minutes, plus you’ll spend about 30 minutes on land beforehand for preparation, including the “Kayak 101” safety instruction.

Not in the mood to paddle? Trade the kayak for a cocktail and soak in the views at one of these 3 beachfront restaurants you’ll love in San Juan!