After undergoing a lockdown and quarantine period for weeks, several tourist attractions in the United States re-opened to the public. A number of beaches in San Diego again received visitors to coincide with the phenomenon of bioluminescence.

_{The phenomenon of the glowing waves in La Jolla. © 2020 REX / Shutterstock / KC Alfred / ZUMA Wire}

Luminous Blue Wave Phenomenon on La Jolla Beaches

Ashwin Salvi

A number of beaches on the coast of La Jolla, San Diego experienced the phenomenon of blue glowing waves that can only be witnessed at night. According to an article reported by NBC San Diego (4/29/2020), one of them is Windansea beach. Photographer Ashwin Salvi was able to capture its beauty at the end of April.

Other beaches in La Jolla also experience a similar phenomenon. Reported by La Jolla Light (2/5/2020), tourists at Scripps Pier, Ocean Beach, Sunset Cliffs, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, and off the coast of San Elijo State Beach can also witness the beauty of the blue waves at night.

Due to Phytoplankton Surge

Milan Kovacevic

According to bioluminescence expert Michael Latz, this phenomenon is caused by a surge in the number of phytoplankton in the waters. Phytoplankton from this type of algae make the surface of the water reddish brown, often called a red tide. At night, phytoplankton emit brilliant blue light.

This light comes from the color pigments found in their bodies. Plankton will react to waves or any movement in the water by releasing the light. This phenomenon can also be witnessed in other countries, including several beaches in Indonesia.

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