Lisa Hotchkiss

Each time the paddle dipped into the water, it was just like being in a Disney movie. The water sparkled with light, like underwater fairy dust. Fish darting in front of and under the kayak were outlined in glowing splendor. Though it appears otherworldly, it’s really the result of millions of cranky tiny creatures called dinoflagellates that emit light when they’re disturbed. The scientific term is bioluminescence, and it occurs annually in Tomales Bay from about July to October. Evening kayak trips leave from either side of Tomales Bay, in Marshall and Inverness and, for a few hours, will transport you from Tomales Bay to Never Never Land.