Luminous Lagoon is a nature reserve in Rock, Falmouth, in Trelawny Parish on the north coast of Jamaica. It is also known as Glistening Waters, and locally as Luminous Lagoon Luminaria. The lagoon is one of only four bioluminescent lagoons in the world, and its appeal lies in what happens on the water after dark.
What you will see
The glow comes from microscopic organisms living in the water. When the water is disturbed, they light up, so paddles, hands and the wake of a boat all leave bright trails. Because the effect depends on darkness, the lagoon is best experienced at night, and most visitors come on a boat tour rather than visiting on foot.
Planning your visit
- Best time: a night-time boat tour, when the glow is most visible.
- Getting there: the site is at Rock, near Falmouth, in Trelawny Parish.
- Contact: +1-876-954-3229, to check arrangements before you travel.
The area around it
Falmouth is the main town of Trelawny Parish, and the lagoon makes a natural stop for anyone exploring this part of Jamaica's north coast. Planning a day or evening around the tour lets you enjoy the lagoon as the centrepiece of a quieter, more rural outing.