Night Kayaking in Panama City Beach

Night kayaking here means paddling a transparent kayak lit from below with colored LEDs across the calm waters of St. Andrews Bay. The water often glows from bioluminescence (strongest in warmer months), and you’ll likely see fish, stingrays, and sometimes jellyfish swimming underneath you. The tours last about 90 minutes, move at a relaxed pace, and usually include a short break for snacks. It’s peaceful rather than thrilling—no big waves, just quiet darkness broken by the lights in your boat and the occasional city glow on the horizon. Most groups are small and guided.

Best time is late spring through early fall (May–September) when bioluminescence peaks and water temperatures stay comfortable. Summer evenings are ideal but can be humid; winter nights are cooler and the glow is usually weaker. Expect to pay around $55–85 per person depending on group size and whether you add a paddleboard option. Private tours or sunset-to-night combos sit at the higher end.

Pick the clear-bottom kayak over a standard one if you want the full light show underneath. Skip the add-on photos or “premium” LED packages unless you really want them—basic tours already deliver the main experience. Bring a waterproof phone case, bug spray for the launch area, and a light jacket for the paddle back.