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Experience the Magic City like no other! Join us as we hunt down the Sun and catch ocean breezes in the process. We can stop on the beach or raft up and float as the Sun sets behind Miami's fantastic skyline. The sunsets are spectacular the nights divine. So, come out and enjoy nature the way God intended -- up close and personal.It will be light when we launch, dark when we return. That means lights are required for the paddles. No lights, no paddle, it's the law. Lights are provided for all rentals. If you bring your own, you must bring a bright white light that can be used to signal other vessels.
BIOLUMINESCENT JUNE - SEPTEMBER
Catch the sunset behind the beautiful Miami skyline then watch the waters come alive as bioluminescent plankton light up and delight spectators. Marine glow worms have been very active near the full moon this season. As their courtship heats up, magic happens. Watch them light up the water. These are amazing moments.
One of the most spectacular sights on a night trip is to witness hundreds of tiny star-like bioluminescent plankton flickering like a starry night sky. As you move through the dark water, these small creatures’ glow with life. Wave your paddle through the water in front of you and be mesmerized by the tiny sparkling specs of plankton or Dinoflagellates, tiny unicellular marine plankton also known as fire plants. Fed by the thriving mangrove forest, these small creatures generate a green flash of light when agitated.
Best observed in the darkest skies, summer waters in the lagoon sparkle as your paddle blades move through the water. Fish swim by lighting their trail in the lagoon.
Best viewing is June through early September. These are living colonies, and they do move. We cannot guarantee full display every night, but we can tell you it's a great experience under the night sky.
TIME & PLACE:
Meet at Virginia Key Outdoor Center, 3801 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149. Please arrive at least 30-minutes prior to your event start time. Late arrivals are non-refundable.
PARKING:
Parking is FREE for event participants in the VKOC lot.
ARRIVE at least 30-minutes prior to event start time.
DIFFICULTY:
This paddle is suitable for experienced beginners. Conditions will determine length and final route. Not recommended for first time paddle boarding or kayaking. We will paddle at a leisurely pace.
DESTINATION:
Final destination and route are subject to weather. The lagoon is always sheltered, and the creek is calm. We'll paddle to Norris Cut and either the beach side or the port. Both are spectacular at night. It will be dark so please, stay together.
Drinks, snacks, insect repellent, and lights are available from at the park store.
RENTALS:
Kayaks, Paddleboards, and Surf Skis are available for rent. Advanced reservations are required. If you are attempting to book onsite you must arrive at least an hour early.
CAN I BRING MY OWN KAYAK/BOARD/CANOE?
Yes you can! Please be sure to RSVP ahead of time by selecting the BYOB option. All crafts are required to have a coastguard approved light. Each person on the craft must have a lifejacket accessible to them. Children are REQUIRED by law to have them all. Lights and Lifejackets are required for these paddles. No lights/lifejackets, no paddle, it's the law. All BYOBs must be set up by the launch at least 20 minutes prior to start time.
GROUPS AND PRIVATE TOURS:
VKOC offers private and group events. Whether a romantic evening for two, a family outing, or a groups celebration we have a package for you. For help booking your group please contact us at [email protected]
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
ALL Rentals include your selected equipment, paddle, safety equipment, life jacket, light and guide.
If you bring your own boat or board you MUST have your life jacket, audible signal device. Each boat or board must have a light as required by US Coast Guard requirement for all crafts on water at night. Equipment must be seaworthy and free of dangerous defects.
WHAT TO BRING:
Bring any comfort items you may need, a towel, bugspray (just in case, it is Florida), maybe a change of clothes. If you left it behind, we probably have it available in our shop.
FACILITIES:
VKOC has private bathrooms (that are stocked), outdoor showers, and a snack and souvenir shop on premises. You are welcome to hang out after the paddle and share our grill, have a drink, etc. Good music is always welcome.
QUESTIONS?
Please call us at 786.224.4777 or by email at [email protected]
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Virginia Key Outdoor Center, 3801 Rickenbacker Cswy, Miami, United States
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