Budget Indian Travelers with nearly 1190 volcanic and coral islands sprawled across the Indian Ocean, Maldives has long been considered as one of the most popular romantic getaways to enjoy some tropical charm. Thanks to its crystal clear waters, beneath which lurk the shoal of fishes, rays and sharks, the warmth of the sun and a plethora of activities, Maldives should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Do you know there’s a beach in Mudhdhoo Island (also known as Vaadhoo Island) of Maldives that glows at night? Yes, you read that right! This glow-in-dark is basically a natural phenomenon called ‘Bioluminescence’ wherein light is emitted or created by a living organism. Moreover, the sea is vast, mysterious and full of unknown creatures; it is believed that there are several marine animals which are capable of performing light producing action. And, therefore, the light produced at Mudhdhoo Beach (Vaadhoo Beach) is because of these organisms, which lights up the sea’s shorelines in the most magical manner. It’s altogether an otherworldly occurrence for which people travel from near and far and there’s a reason why newlyweds prefer jetting off for their honeymoon here.

Where is the Vaadhoo Island?

The beach is a part of Vaadhoo Island, which is one of the islands of Raa Atoll in Maldives. It’s actually a small island with not more than 500 people. However, the island has earned itself a place on the global tourism map owing to its Sea of Stars phenomenon. For a long time, this island was Maldives’ one of the best kept secrets, but now it has become one of the most sought-after places to visit in Maldives.

What’s the secret behind the glow?

There’s no secret but a microorganism called phytoplankton/plankton involved behind this mesmerising shining beach. These aquatic microbes are bioluminescent in nature and radiate a vibrant blue light under sea. There’s a lot of chemical science involved in the glowing process; and this phenomenon intrigues us to be a part of this dreamy action and capture the memory forever! The view will give an impression that stars are coming down to grace the ocean with their presence! One can also go for a swim in the water or just walk along the beach and leave your glowing footprint behind only to be washed away by sea water later. How to reach Vaadhoo Island? Reaching Vaadhoo Island is not at all an issue as the destination is well connected to the rest part of Maldives. The island is located around 8 km away from Male, the capital city of Maldives and the main airport. Travelers can hire a speedboat to reach here, which takes around 15 minutes.