Galicia's coast dazzles with bioluminescent waters and celebrity-favored hidden beach

Bioluminescent plankton, known locally as the "mar de ardora," illuminated several beaches in the Rías Baixas region of Galicia in June. The first sightings were recorded in Bueu and Chapela, and on 25 June laboratory analysis near the Cíes Islands confirmed the presence of about 400 luminous cells. Yolanda Pazos of the Instituto Tecnolóxico para o Control do Medio Mariño explained that dinoflagellates emit blue flashes when disturbed, and that clear, calm nights with orange‑tinged water during the day often precede the glow.

At the same time, the remote Razo beach in the municipality of Carballo has become a discreet retreat for Spanish film stars Mario and Óscar Casas. The extensive sandy stretch, part of the Costa da Morte, offers strong, consistent surf and an isolated environment that allows the brothers to escape public attention. The beach, situated within a protected dune‑marsh ecosystem, combines natural beauty with the practical comforts of a Blue Flag‑certified site.