Where To See Bioluminescent Waves In Palos Verdes

PALOS VERDES, CA — Bioluminescent waves have returned to the Southern California coast, drawing hundreds of residents to the beach after dusk in hopes of experiencing the natural phenomenon before it disappears.

The glowing waves were recently spotted in San Diego County and have been experienced as far north as Marina del Rey.

According to Jessica Roame, education & communications manager for Newport Whales in Newport Beach, bioluminescence is caused by tiny phytoplankton called dinoflagellates, which are light-producing organisms that live in the ocean.

When the plankton are in bloom and they are agitated by waves or splashing, they glow.

Travelers aboard a Newport Coastal Adventure vessel were treated to the spectacular sight of dolphins and fish swimming against bioluminescent waves Sunday evening, Roame said.

"It’s hard to predict when or where these tiny plankton will bloom, or how long it will stick around — which is one reason this is so cool to be happening right here within range of our boats," Roame told Patch.

Peninsula residents looking to get a first-hand look at bioluminescent waves can follow the following tips:

• Check with aquariums and maritime institutes.
• If bioluminescence is happening locally, institutions such as the Birch Aquarium in La Jolla, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach and the Ocean Institute in Dana Point might post updates on their websites or social media feeds.
• Find a dark location.
• During an ongoing bioluminescent event, try to find a stretch of coast that is far away from man-made light. According to VisitCalifornia.com, experts suggest getting out to the shore before the moon rises, about two hours after sunset.
• Track hotspots.
• The best bioluminescent displays can vary in location from night to night. Residents interested in seeing the glowing waves can monitor hotspots via social media