SoCal Algae Is Creating Stunning Bioluminescent Waves

Southern California’s coastline has been experiencing some otherworldly bioluminescence at night due to algae blooms in the water. The microorganisms, in this case known as Lingulodinium polyedra, appear red during the day, but at night glow blue as the water is disturbed by waves lapping the shoreline. Massive red tide phenomena like this only happen every few years, typically in the spring as water begins to warm.

RELATED: This Apocalyptic Surf Edit Will Give You Chills

While many beaches around the state are closed, some lucky surfers in San Diego managed to get a ride in on the glowing waves a few days ago.