LED Night Snorkeling

The reef is still busy at night, but with an entirely different cast of marine life than you'd see during the day. Corals light up under UV rays due to fluorescence, a process where certain proteins within the coral absorb ultraviolet (UV) or blue light and emit it as a different, visible color—typically bright greens, reds, oranges, or blues. These fluorescent proteins act like natural sunscreens, protecting the coral from harmful UV radiation. Nocturnal creatures such as lobsters, crabs, and octopuses become active, emerging from their hiding spots to forage and hunt. Eels glide through the reef, and schools of fish shimmer under the artificial light. Keep an eye out for sleeping parrotfish that create protective mucus bubbles around themselves at night to mask their scent from predators.

Snorkeling at night comes with unique challenges, including limited visibility, changing currents, and navigating unfamiliar waters in the dark. A guided tour ensures safety, as experienced guides know the best spots and conditions for night snorkeling. They provide high-quality LED and UV lights to enhance the experience and help you spot marine life you might otherwise miss. Plus, guides are knowledgeable about the reef’s ecosystem and can point out fascinating creatures and behaviors you wouldn’t notice on your own. Going with a guide allows you to relax and fully enjoy the underwater spectacle without worrying about navigation or safety concerns.

Shark incidents in Puerto Rico’s waters are extremely rare, and serious injuries are even rarer. When you enter the ocean, it’s important to remember that it’s a natural, wild environment with many types of marine life, including sharks. Although the chances of a shark-related injury are very low, they are still part of the ocean’s ecosystem, and the ocean should be approached with respect. By learning about sharks and following safety guidelines, you can minimize even this small risk.

Yes, snorkels allow you to breathe with your face in the water at the surface. If you’d like to dive down, though, water will enter the snorkel, so you’ll need to hold your breath until you resurface. Once back at the surface, you can clear the snorkel by blowing out the air in your mouth hard. That should clear the snorkel, but if it doesn’t, tread the water, remove the snorkel from your mouth and dump the mouthpiece out.

Standard eyeglasses can’t be worn with a snorkel mask, but prescription masks exist for those who need vision correction while snorkeling. If you’re interested, consider looking into a prescription mask option before your tour. Alternatively, contact lenses can be worn under a snorkel mask, though it’s best to close your eyes if water enters to prevent losing a lens.

LED night snorkeling uses special UV and LED lights to light up the underwater world after dark. It’s like flipping on a blacklight for the ocean—corals glow neon, fish shimmer like disco balls, and the reef comes alive in a whole new way. It’s seriously next-level snorkeling.

The adventure goes down at Escambron Marine Park, just a short hop from Old San Juan. You'll check in at the park, gear up, and then hit the water under the stars.

Nope! Whether you’re a total rookie or a seasoned reef explorer, you’re welcome. The guides are pros and will get you dialed in before you hit the water.

Safety is a top priority. You’ll be with experienced guides the whole time, using top-notch gear, plus flotation vests if you want extra support. The real trick? Stay calm, stay curious, and follow your guide's lead.

Night snorkeling is epic year-round in San Juan! Water temps are warm, and marine life is active no matter the season. Winter and spring usually bring even clearer water, which makes the reef’s glow even more mind-blowing.