2025–2026 New Moon & Dark Sky Dates for Bioluminescent Tours in Florida
2025
October 2025
Dark nights:
October 14th–28th
New Moon:
October 21st, 2025
November 2025
Dark nights:
November 8th–26th
New Moon:
November 19th, 2025
December 2025
Dark nights:
December 8th–25th
New Moon:
December 20th, 2025
2026
January 2026
Dark nights:
January 7th–24th
New Moon:
January 18th, 2026
February 2026
Dark nights:
February 4th–22nd
New Moon:
February 17th, 2026
March 2026
Dark nights:
March 6th–24th
New Moon:
March 19th, 2026
April 2026
Dark nights:
April 5th–22nd
New Moon:
April 17th, 2026
May 2026
Dark nights:
May 5th–21st
New Moon:
May 16th, 2026
June 2026
Dark nights:
June 3rd–20th
New Moon:
June 15th, 2026
July 2026
Dark nights:
July 2nd–19th
New Moon:
July 14th, 2026
August 2026
Dark nights:
August 1st–17th
New Moon:
August 12th, 2026
September 2026
Dark nights:
September 1st–16th, September 29th-30th
New Moon:
September 11th, 2026
October 2026
Dark nights:
October 1st–16th, October 29th–31st
New Moon:
October 10th, 2026
November 2026
Dark nights:
November 1st–16th, November 27th–30th
New Moon:
November 9th, 2026
December 2026
Dark nights:
December 1st–15th
New Moon:
December 9th, 2026
FAQs
When Can I Experience Bioluminescence?
Bioluminescence is a natural spectacle visible year-round. From June to September, and sometimes into autumn, tiny plankton called dinoflagellates create glowing displays in the water. During winter, comb jellies produce their own unique bioluminescent shimmer. In transitional months, you might even catch both types glowing together.
The visibility of bioluminescence can vary depending on the moon’s phase, as shown in our calendar.
Is a New Moon the Best Time to View Bioluminescence?
Bioluminescence is often visible every night, but the best conditions occur around a new moon when the sky is darkest. With little to no moonlight to interfere, the glow stands out vividly. For the best experience, plan your visit within a few days of a new moon or on nights when the moon rises late. These dates are popular, so booking early is recommended.
Can I Still Enjoy Bioluminescence During a Full Moon?
Yes, you can still have a fantastic bioluminescence experience on a full moon night. Our guides know the best spots, like areas shaded by trees, where the moonlight’s impact is minimized. Cloudy nights can also dim the moonlight, creating near-new-moon conditions. In summer, when dinoflagellate glow is at its strongest, the bioluminescence shines brightly regardless of the moon. Plus, kayaking under a full moon offers a stunning backdrop.
What Are Dark Sky Nights?
Dark sky nights occur when the moon rises very late or not at all during your tour time. Even if it’s not a new moon, these nights offer excellent viewing conditions because the moon isn’t visible yet. Check our 2024 dark sky schedule for ideal dates.
Need Help Choosing a Date?
We’re here to assist you in selecting the perfect night for a memorable bioluminescence adventure.
Contact us for personalized recommendations!