While you may have heard about soaking up the sun on the pristine beaches in Maldives, did you know that sometimes, these shorelines glow with a mesmerising blue-green light? Read on to find out more about this ethereal sight!
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A Natural Phenomenon
Bioluminescence is the ability of living organisms to produce light, and the Maldives features a species of bioluminescent plankton that emits a stunning glow when disturbed by waves or movement in the water. This, in turn, creates a breathtaking spectacle that highlights the beauty and diversity of the marine ecosystem of this enchanting destination.
Finding a Glowing Beach
While glowing beaches are not a common occurrence, you may be lucky enough to witness this phenomenon at Hulhumalé Beach on Hulhumalé Island; it lies south of North Malé Atoll where you can stay at a luxury Maldives beach resort. The best time to see the glow here is between April and November, with the most intense displays typically occurring in September and October.
Even if you miss the glowing plankton, don’t worry! There are plenty of other magical underwater adventures to keep you entertained after sunset. Resorts like Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, for example, offer guided scuba diving and snorkelling at night which are truly unforgettable as well.
Factors Affecting the Glow
The duration of the bioluminescent glow can vary depending on several factors, including the density of plankton, water temperature, tides, and weather conditions. It’s important to note that the glow can last from a few days to a couple of weeks, so luck also plays its part in seeing this spectacle.
Things to Consider
While the glowing beaches in Maldives may seem out of the ordinary, they are completely safe for humans, though it’s not recommended to swim alone at night to get up close to this phenomenon. Additionally, remember that the tiny bioluminescent creatures play a vital role in the ecosystem, so it’s important to preserve and protect them too.
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