Best places to snorkel near me

Everyone knows that snorkeling is a great way to explore the underwater world. But what if you don’t know where to go?

You can’t just pick any old beach and go diving into the ocean without knowing what you’re doing—you need to be prepared for everything from rocks, coral reefs, and strong currents to stingrays and jellyfish.

In this article, we’ll tell you about some of Best places to snorkel near me (and how to find them), best places to snorkel near nigeria, best places to snorkel in caribbean, best places to snorkel in europe, best places to snorkel in the us, and best places to snorkel in florida . You’ll learn how to choose which spots are right for you, so you can have a safe and fun time exploring the sea!

Best places to snorkel in florida

Florida is a water lover’s paradise. Between 825 miles of beaches and 33 first-magnitude springs, there are endless places to explore the waters of the Sunshine State.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or a thrill-seeking adventure, Florida has it all. From Key West to Daytona Beach, there’s an activity for everyone on our list of things to do in Florida when you need a break from driving.

If you’re looking for some help planning your trip, we’ve got you covered! We’ve put together an infographic with everything you need to know about what makes Florida so great:

From gin-clear springs to vibrant, colorful coral reefs in the Florida Keys, here are 10 of the best spots to snorkel in the Sunshine State.

1. Rock Springs Nature Preserve, Tallahassee
2. Wakulla Springs State Park, Tallahassee
3. St. Andrews State Park, Panama City Beach
4. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo
5. St. Joseph Peninsula State Park and Pinnacle Lake Park, Port St. Joe
6. Steinhatchee River Preserve State Park, Steinhatchee
7. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Crystal River
8. Blue Spring State Park, Orange City
9. Indian Key Historic State Park and Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Natural Area (Kissimmee Prairie), Marathon
10. Cedar Key Museum State Park and Historic Site (Cedar Keys), Cedar Key

Biscayne National Park

One top spot to snorkel is close to the hustle and bustle of Miami, and that’s Biscayne National Park, where offshore excursions bring visitors to coral reefs, shipwrecks, and ecologically vital mangrove habitat. Guided snorkel trips are available through Biscayne National Park Institute and a host of other operators listed here.

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne

Many of the best places to snorkel in saltwater require a boat to access, but not all of them. At Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on Key Biscayne, you can bring your own gear (or purchase some in Miami) and snorkel directly from the white-sand beach. In addition to having more than a mile of beach, Bill Baggs has a historic lighthouse with guided tours, restaurants, and trails and sea walls that are excellent for wildlife viewing.

As unique as it is breathtaking, Devil’s Den in Williston is unlike anywhere else in Florida

Devil’s Den, Williston

As unique as it is breathtaking, Devil’s Den in Williston is unlike anywhere else in Florida. As you approach this privately-owned natural gem, it’s easy to walk right past it without noticing if you aren’t paying attention. A small entryway leads down a steep set of stairs below to the the dry cave and spring. The water appears blue and glowing, thanks to lighting inside the cave, and tree roots and green tendrils tumble down from the ground can be seen through a natural skylight at the top. Only snorkelers and scuba divers are allowed inside, and equipment can be rented on site.

Destin

The Emerald Coast is known for its dazzling emerald waters and white-sand beaches, and Destin is no exception. There are several great places to snorkel there, both off-beach and offshore. Norriego Point is a small peninsula of soft white sand that sits back from the Gulf of Mexico with Destin Harbor to the west and East Pass to the east. Henderson Beach State Park has white sand dunes standing 30 feet high and a mile of unspoiled and uncrowded shoreline, where swimmers and snorkelers can explore the clear Gulf water. East Pass and Destin Jetties, at the Destin Bridge and U.S. 98, near HarborWalk Village, are popular for snorkeling, and the jetties serve as man-made reefs where fish are plentiful. Two- and three-hour guided trips are available through Destin Snorkel, which opens for the season in March. Flipper’s Adventures offers 2.5-hour snorkel tours.

Dry Tortugas

Dry Tortugas National Park is 70 miles west of Key West, and getting there is a welcome adventure in itself. The Dry Tortugas, a remote group of islands that make up the National Park, are only accessible by boat or seaplane, but it’s well worth the extra effort to travel there for the stunningly clear underwater views of the marine life that call the Tortugas home and for the peaceful setting that Garden Key, the second-largest island in the Tortugas, provides. Garden Key is 14 acres in size and the site of historic Fort Jefferson. Stay for an afternoon or camp overnight on Garden Key—ferry rides and equipment rentals can be arranged through the Dry Tortugas National Park ferry. Seaplane arrangements can be made through Key West Seaplane Charters.

Slip under the surface of one of its seven cool and gin-clear springs, and it’s easy to see what makes Ginnie Springs one of the best places to snorkel in Florida.

Ginnie Springs, HIgh Springs

Slip under the surface of one of its seven cool and gin-clear springs, and it’s easy to see what makes Ginnie Springs one of the best places to snorkel in Florida. The privately-owned park is situated along the Santa Fe River in rural North Florida, where swimmers can see several species of freshwater fish and turtles. Camp here or just come for the day. Snorkeling gear rentals are available through the park’s dive shop.

John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, North Palm Beach

With snorkeling accessible by beach, no boat is needed to experience the underwater habitats of John D. MacArthur Beach State Park. Boasting almost two miles of shoreline, this state park situated on the Atlantic coast has rocky outcroppings that host a vat array of sea life, including squid, tarpon, lobsters, and sea anemones. Snorkeling equipment and dive flags can be purchased through the park’s gift shop.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo

Whether it’s colorful coral reef you want to see or the iconic Christ of the Abyss statue submerged in the clear waters off Key Largo, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a must-see. John Pennekamp covers 70 nautical square miles and was the first underwater park in the United States. Guided snorkeling tours are available through the park.

Phil Foster Park and Blue Heron Bridge, Riviera Beach

Phil Foster Park in Southeast Florida is another great, no-boat-required saltwater snorkeling destination. It’s home to a snorkeling trail with boulders and artificial reef that host a variety of tropical fish, starfish, octopus, and more. The water is relatively shallow averaging six to 10 feet deep, with a maximum depth of 20 feet. The park is between two bridges teeming with fish and marine life: Blue Heron Bridge on the west side and a smaller bridge on the east. Tides influence visibility and access to some areas, so plan accordingly. Go on your own or take a guided tour with Blue Heron Bridge Scuba, which has equipment for rent.

Silver Glen, Ocala National Forest

Silver Glen Springs in the Ocala National Forest lies west of Lake George, between Ocala and Daytona Beach. Its crystal-clear water varies from wading depths to a maximum depth of about 25 feet at the spring vent. A variety of turtles and large schools of striped bass are some of the natural inhabitants snorkelers can see here. As with almost all Florida springs, the water maintains a constant 72-degree temperature all year long.

Best places to snorkel near me

If you’re looking for the best places to snorkel near me, look no further! With these top spots across the country, there’s no need to go far.

Best Places to Snorkel Near Me:

1. Key West, Florida – You can’t beat this place for great snorkeling. It has clear water and coral reefs that are home to many fish.
2. Lake Tahoe, California – You’ll find crystal clear waters here with lots of marine wildlife like sea lions, dolphins, and jellyfish.
3. San Diego Bay, California – The bay is home to plenty of marine life including rays and sharks!
4. The beach at Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, HI is one of the most popular places in the world for snorkeling because of its clear waters, vibrant marine life, and beautiful coral reefs. The water temperature ranges from 68-80 degrees Fahrenheit year-round so it’s warm enough for swimming but still cool enough for snorkeling. There are plenty of spots along this beach where you can find shallow water that’s perfect for kids or adults just learning how to swim or snorkel. Plus there are plenty of tour guides available if you need help getting started!
5. Snorkel at Lover’s Key State Park in Florida – this is one of the most popular spots for snorkeling in America! It’s an hour from Miami or Fort Lauderdale, so it’s easy to get there without breaking a sweat. You’ll see everything from sea horses to coral reefs here—and if that doesn’t sound like fun enough for you, check out the nearby beach too! It’s known as one of the most romantic beaches in America because there are no hotels nearby so it doesn’t get crowded with tourists like some other beaches do (such as those on South Beach). If you want somewhere quiet but also close-by then this might be a good option for you!

Another great place to snorkel is the Red Sea in Egypt. The water there is warm and clear—perfect for snorkeling! Plus, there are tons of beautiful beaches nearby where you can relax afterward.

Finally, we recommend checking out Hawaii if you’re looking for a less touristy experience. The water there is crystal clear and has some of the best visibility in the world. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that there are tons of cute Hawaiian guys hanging around on the beach!

Best places to snorkel near nigeria

If you’re looking for the best places to snorkel near Nigeria, look no further!

We’ve got a list of spots that are sure to satisfy your inner mermaid.

1. The Bight of Benin

This area is known for its warm waters and diverse marine life. It’s also one of the few places where you can see humpback whales in their natural habitat.

2. Tarkwa Bay

This is a beautiful bay with plenty of coral and tropical fish—you won’t be disappointed!

3. Calabar River Delta

The delta provides some great opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as canoeing or kayaking! You’ll see lots of colorful fish here—and maybe even some dolphins if you’re lucky!

Also,

If you’re a snorkeler looking to explore the marine life of Nigeria, check out these top spots:

1) The Lagoon at Banana Island, Lagos

2) Lekki Peninsula, Lagos

3) Lekki Deep Water Port, Lagos

4) Calabar River Basin and Delta, Cross River State

5) Igbokoda Beach in Ondo State

Ponta Da Piedade

Our first snorkeling spot is not a beach, but a water-bound collection of rock formations. Limestone arches, caves, and grottoes make up Ponta Da Piedade, and provide amazing scenery for a day on (or under) the sea. While this spot can be visited on foot via a hiking trail, access on a boat tour, kayak, or paddleboard will allow for a better all-round experience. Only a seven-minute drive out from the center of Lagos, Ponta Da Piedade is a regular on lists of the must-snorkel beaches in the region.

If planning a trip to this beautiful site by boat, make sure to delve into the specifics of your tour. It’s important you research and pick the right package for you. On a larger boat with more people, the route may be more touristy, with only the most well-known parts of the area on the itinerary. Taking a smaller boat tour, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard will allow for better access to the caves and grottoes of Ponta Da Piedade. It’s also worth knowing that you can only access most grottoes during low tide.

Whether boarding through the Kissing Rock or paddling past the Camel Head formation, always be cautious of rocks here – they poke out from all angles in all different shapes and sizes. Climbing in and out of the grottoes can be a little treacherous, so always take the advice of your tour guide and bring along the reef shoes. The good news is that the topography and lack of sand helps to keep the H2O very clear, giving Ponta Da Piedade some of the best visibility of any location on the south coast.

Praia da Dona Ana

Now we move to a seriusly gorgeous beach situated between Lagos town and Ponta Da Piedade. Mhmm, Praia da Dona Ana is one of the most iconic beaches in the Algarve. With its marvelous cliffside surroundings, it is easy to see why. The beach is complete with hireable loungers, toilets, and shower facilities, along with snack bars and restaurants, but really it’s alla bout the soaring cliffs and the dramatic rock stacks that carve and chop up this run of coastline.

It’s the very same cliffs of Ponta Da Piedade that make the waters at Praia da Dona Ana remarkably still. This, along with their reputation for being very clean, makes the spot attractive to snorkelers. There is an abundance of underwater plant life to be seen under the surface, including multi-colored seaweed blooms and plumes of darting sardine fish. Be warned, however, the water here is known for being very cold, even in the summertime.

One of the best things about snorkeling in Praia da Dona Ana is that the beach faces due east into a large bay. That helps to keep it protected from the onslaught of westerly swells that make this part of Portugal such a surf mecca. During the summer months, it’s usually as flat as a pancake and you can easily swim out to the small clusters of stone to see limpets and small fish by the bucket load.

Praia do Pinhão

Be ready to be wowed by Praia do Pinhão. This small cove on a small bay is perfect for a secluded summer afternoon’s snorkeling. Located near Dona Ana, this similarly rocky beach contrasts by being a favorite of local families rather than a hotspot for tourism. If you make your trip early, it’s likely you could have it all to yourself.

There are two sides to Praia do Pinhão, connected by a tunnel in the rocks on the beach. One side is much smalle and only accessible during low tide. There are no restaurants on this beach, so if you’re planning on spending the whole day here it’s worth bringing some snacks or a packed lunch. In fact, there are no facilities at all, and that includes lifeguards! So, be careful on your snorkel adventure.

The rock formations around the beach create some protection from strong winds and the water is very clear. This makes Praia do Pinhão an ideal location for snorkeling in Lagos. On the left side of the beach, there is also a great spot for cliff jumping and diving, but that’s only for the very brave.

Praia do Camilo

Located between Praia da Dona Ana and Ponta Da Piedade (which is actually only a short walk away), this is one of the most visually striking beaches in the region. Yep, Praia do Camilo is considered one of the best things to do in Lagos on TripAdvisor, despite being a relatively small beach. The sands are soft underfoot, and the surrounding rock formations are majestic and imposing. Accessed only via a long wooden stairway of over 200 steps, getting to Praia do Camilo can take a little effort. But, on arrival, during low tide, you will see that all of your stepping was worth it…

The waters at Praia do Camilo are simply perfect for snorkeling. The sea is shallow, basically transparent, and the winds are blocked by nearby rocks. This allows for serene swimming, and an amazing view of the life under the water. Various species of coral, fish, and other sea life can usually be witnessed at Praia do Camilo.

Praia do Camilo does suffer from crowds, popular as it is. Visits in the early morning will allow you to enjoy the beach in peace, with less commotion. Similarly, watching the sunset from the nearby cliffs is a memorable treat for the family to enjoy. The Do Camilo restaurant, located on top of the nearby cliffs, is a tempting place for an evening meal to end your day.

Praia Porto de Mos

Perhaps the most popular beach in Lagos, Praia Porto de Mos is a large Blue Flag beach that is regularly visited by summertime sun seekers. With fine golden sands to walk on and massive cliff faces on either side of the beach, this spot has a great balance of space and dramatic scenery. Despite being so popular, the four-kilometer length of the beach means that it is not often overly crowded. It is also a great place to hire a boat or a kayak, mainly thanks to the access that you get to the surrounding coves and inlets.

For snorkelers, Praia Porto de Mos is better visited during high tide. This is because the water contains lots of small rocks that are easily stepped on during low tide. When the water’s up, access is easier because you simply have to walk out over the sand. The occasional waves that roll in make it a popular option for surfers when there’s swell. That’s not so great for snorkelers, so check the forecast to avoid the rougher conditions.

Praia dos Estudantes

You can walk from the center of Lagos to the sands of Praia dos Estudantes. It’s a lovely bay with those trademark honey-tinged cliffs to its back and hulking spires of rock sprouting from the ocean to the south and north. Again, it’s an east-facing beach that has arguably some of the best swell protection of all around Lagos, which helps to crank up the visibility in the water.

We’d say stick to the fringing of reef that runs beneath the headlands at the north end of the bay. It stays shallow there for longer and you can spot big anemones and sardine schools in the water most days.

The accessibility of Praia dos Estudantes is both a blessing and a curse. It’s a blessing because you can easily get here after hanging in the city for a quick snorkel session in the afternoon. It’s a curse because it often means the sands and the water are busy, which isn’t great for spotting rarer sea creatures.

Praia de São Roque

Praia de São Roque breaks the mold since it’s not a rugged cluster of rock stacks and coves that’s perfect for daring snorkelers. Instead, it’s a long run of about three miles that starts in Lagos town to the west and runs eastwards all the way to the Ribeira de Odiáxere estuary. That’s a whole load of beach territory, meaning you can easily escape the crowds here provided you’re willing to walk far enough from the town.

The downside is that Praia de São Roque isn’t a haven for sea animals that like to live in the rock reefs and caves. It’s basically sandy from top to tail. That means it’s much better suited to beginner snorkelers and families with the kids in tow. You’re not likely to need reef shoes and access to the water is simply a case of strolling in from your camp on the beach.

Being a little more exposed than the other snorkeling locations on this list, we’d recommend keeping Praia de São Roque for the summer months only – swell can really churn up the water and cut the visibility.

Best places to snorkel in Caribbean

Caribbean snorkeling is an incredible experience. You can see all kinds of underwater creatures and plant life—and you don’t even have to be a diver! There are tons of places in the Caribbean that are great for snorkeling, so whether you’re looking to go on a cruise or just want to take a day trip while visiting the islands, here’s our list of the best places to snorkel in the Caribbean.

Aruba

Aruba boasts incredibly shallow waters and a wealth of underwater treasures to take in on snorkeling expeditions. The island’s most impressive snorkeling spot is the 400 feet long Antilla shipwreck from the Second World War. It is in only 60 feet deep water where snorkelers will also be able to take in the resident moray eels, octopus, groupers, and schools of tropical fish.

There are many superb snorkeling beaches in Aruba thanks to the calm, shallow waters which are ideal for beginners and also for little children. The most popular spots are Baby Beach, Boca Catalina, Arashi and Malmok with breathtaking sponges, coral, and tropical colored fish.

Mexico

Quintana Roo, the Caribbean coast of Mexico is certainly a first-class snorkeling destination. No matter you stay at one of the wonderful resorts in Cozumel, Cancun or choose a laid-back hotel in Playa del Carmen or Tulum, excellent snorkeling places will be just a stone throw away.

Missing out exploring the famous Tulum Cenotes would be definitely a mistake, but swimming with turtles in Akumal or discovering the underwater statues in the Cancun Underwater Museum while snorkeling in Punta Nizuc are also unforgettable adventures!

Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe has a wide variety of beautiful snorkeling spots sprinkled throughout this French island. The best might be the famous Cousteau Underwater Park, clearly the island’s best known and primary snorkeling and diving spot. It is named for the giant of the oceanographic world who loved diving here.

Another great spot to snorkel in Guadeloupe found at the offshore island Les Saintes where visitors can observe underwater trees. You can also go out to Marie-Galante to see colorful reefs.

Cayman Islands

If it comes to snorkeling in the Caribbean, the Cayman Islands’ clear and warm waters provide superb conditions for some underwater exploration all year round. The Cayman Islands main base for tourists is Grand Cayman’s capital, George Town. Snorkelers are sure to love the Wreck of the Cali that appeals especially to children who love looking at old freighters and the accompanying resident tropical fish. Fortunately, the wreck lies in shallow waters and counts octopus, eels, and sea urchins among its more permanent residents.

For sea turtles, butterflyfish, and snappers you can visit other Grand Cayman snorkeling places like the Cheeseburger Reef which lies only 150 yards off the beach at George Town’s northern end. All ages and skill levels of snorkelers can enjoy this sandy entrance to the underwater world where a wide variety of sea creatures are waiting including harmless nurse sharks. Visitors can also sign up for a Stingray City tour here to snorkel with stingrays.

Belize

Belize boasts the world’s second-largest barrier coral reef that is hands down one of the best coral reefs in the Caribbean. Ambergris Caye holds the reputation as the headquarters for snorkeling in this tiny Central American nation.

Belize snorkeling spots are renowned for crystal clear waters, and a wide variety of marine animals. There are plenty of fine resorts near the Belize Barrier reef, making it easy to stay and play longer.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

St. Vincent is justifiably famous as the Critter Capital of all the Caribbean. It helps that the main island is naturally ringed in by a nearly contiguous reef that hosts squid, eels, sea horses, and many other exotic underwater sea life. The most unique dive and snorkel site here is the Bat Cave, home to literally hundreds of bats in this half-submerged cave which is often mentioned among the best places to snorkel in the Caribbean.

St John, US Virgin Islands

One of the most beautiful and unspoiled places in the world today is St. John Island in the U.S. Virgin Islands. One of the most popular St John snorkeling spots is the world-leading beach, Trunk Bay that is a 673-foot-long paradise with self-guided snorkeling trails. There are even submerged signs that depict the different kinds of coral and animals that play in a mere 20 feet underwater depth.

A more hidden gem beloved by the locals exists on the east end of St. John in Haulover North. This spot that abuts the Virgin Islands National Park is the locals’ best recommendation.

As an added bonus when you visit St. John, you can just hop on the nearby sister islands too. Don’t miss out snorkeling in St. Thomas, which offers strangely shaped coral reefs and brightly colored fish. Here, you can even participate in the Cruzan Rum Snorkel Booze Hunt at Bolongo Bay Beach Resort for a unique snorkeling meet treasure hunt experience in the U.S. Virgin Islands. These rum bottles are produced right there in the neighboring sister island St. Croix.

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda is a whole nation that is the ultimate beach paradise and easily among the best snorkeling in the eastern Caribbean. The majority of their 365 individual beaches are perfect and open right out onto calm and clear waters that are inhabited by rainbow-colored tropical fish. The marine life here is dense, featuring bright sea anemones, brain corals and elkhorn corals. The top snorkeling spots on Antigua are Cades Reef and Bird Island.

St. John’s the capital lies on the island’s opposite side from Cades Reef, which is a two-mile stretch of barrier reef that is chocked full of submarine wonders. Reef sharks put in appearances here along the beautiful pink colored coral alongside nurse sharks, parrotfish, moray eels, spiny lobsters, and barracuda.

Snorkelers of all skill sets will find the spot easy to navigate and explore thanks to the lack of current. Underwater visibility here provides vistas of up to 140-feet distance. You can pay to go on a tour led expedition such as the Cades Reef Cruise courtesy of Tropical Adventures or get one that comes with lunch from Island Routes.

Cuba

Cuba is certainly one of the most exciting locations in the Caribbean thanks to its exciting culture, and on top of the unique culture, it is famous for its superb snorkeling places too such as The Bay of Pigs. This former invasion plot site today is an awe-inspiring spot in Cuba in the nation’s southern portion, three hours from party capital Havana.

This park provides a wealth of biodiversity only several meters off the beach. You will encounter coral and hundreds of individual fish. Two of the most enduring snorkeling spots at the bay are Caleta Buena and Playa Larga, that are easily Cuba best snorkeling spots. Caleta Buena is a paradise in turquoise waters complete with underwater caves and huge gorgonians. There are restaurants here on the beach offering an incredible buffet lunch, making the day even more memorable.

Roatan

One of the top snorkeling places in Roatan is West Bay that is easily among the best snorkeling in the Western Caribbean too. This is where the world-famous yearly Freediving Competitions occur. Thanks to the clear and calm water, the reef is easy to reach at a few yards from the beach.

Snorkeling is protected as the boating traffic stays further off of the coast. Because the site is renowned as one of the best places to snorkel in the Caribbean, you should expect to have plenty of company any day you come.

Best snorkeling

Best snorkeling is a great way to see the underwater world without having to learn how to scuba dive. Below is a list of Best snorkeling:

1. INDONESIA

Indonesia is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the world’s most pristine beaches. The archipelago features some of the world’s most beautiful coral reefs, which can be enjoyed by snorkelers and divers alike. Head to the Gili Islands, Wakatobi, Raja Ampat or Sulawesi, where you can explore gorgeous underwater landscapes and come face-to-face with an array of sea creatures like clownfish, green and hawksbill sea turtles, or the fascinating ocean sunfish, known locally as “mola mola”.

2. EGYPT

The Red Sea Riviera is, without doubt, one of the best snorkeling destinations in the world. Put on your mask and with a few strokes of swimfins, you will soon be enjoying clownfish in their anemone, shoals of bannerfish and reef flats covered by giant clams. No matter where you snorkel in Egypt, the reefs are stunning and provide a marine habitat for some of the world’s most colorful marine species.

3. THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS

Home to a marine life found nowhere else in the world, the Galápagos archipelago is a legendary snorkeling destination. Due to a lack of natural predators, the wildlife in the Galápagos is extremely tame, with no fear of humans. Around the islands, you will snorkel with Galápagos sea turtles, penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas, whitetip reef sharks, rays, and a whole host of reef fish.

4. SEYCHELLES

Some of the most stunning beaches in the world, hawksbill sea turtles laying just under the surface of the Indian Ocean, and, right before your eyes, vibrant coral reefs where angelfish, spotted eagle rays and blacktip reef sharks abound. You are not dreaming, you are in Seychelles!

5. HAWAII

Whether you are dreaming about swimming with spinner dolphins off the coast of Big Island, playing hide-and-seek with a Hawaiian monk seal in Kauai or coming face-to-face with green sea turtles in Maui, the volcanic Hawaiian Islands will surely provide you some of your best snorkeling memories.

6. MEXICO

Bathed by the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of California, Mexico introduces snorkelers to an extraordinary diversity of underwater environments. The Mayan Riviera, in particular, offers an unequaled diversity of snorkeling spots. Lose yourself into the clear emerald green waters of a cenote near Tulum, experience the wonder of swimming with a majestic whale shark off Cancun, and finally relax with green sea turtles in the shallow waters of exquisite Akumal Bay… If you are looking for a snorkeling adventure, look no further.

7. FRENCH POLYNESIA

In 1768, the day he got close to Tahiti for the first time, French explorer Bougainville is said to have cried out: “This is heaven on earth!”. There at least is one truth here: French Polynesia is an underwater paradise. Every visitor gets the chance to dive in warm, clear waters and encounter stingrays, sharks, and multicolored fish.

8. THE PHILIPPINES

With more than 7600 islands to explore, it makes sense that the Philippines is one of the best snorkeling destinations in the world. Part of the Coral Triangle, the epicenter of global marine biodiversity, the archipelago has a mind-blowing array of sea life. With lush soft coral gardens, manta rays, whale sharks, sea turtles, schools of sardines, and colorful reef fish awaiting just under the surface of the ocean, there’s something for everyone in the Philippines!

9. BONAIRE

While the fringing coral reefs all around the islands have suffered in recent decades from storms and bleaching events, Bonaire coral reefs remain among the healthiest and the most spectacular in the Caribbean. With its shallow reefs, its calm and warm waters, its exceptional marine biodiversity and its dozens of snorkeling spots just a few steps from the shore, Bonaire offers some of the world’s best snorkeling.

10. GUADELOUPE

Are you ready to dive into the crystal-clear waters of Guadeloupe?

Guadeloupe is best known for its beautiful beaches, but it’s also home to some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world. The island has two main islands, Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, as well as a number of smaller islands that make up its archipelago. You’ll find everything from shallow coral reefs to deep drop-offs here—and the diversity of marine life is remarkable!

The warm waters around Guadeloupe are home to over 400 species of fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and sea turtles. You may even spot lemon sharks swimming around your boat!

This list is a great place to start if you’re looking for some of the best places to snorkel near you. With so many great beaches and locations to choose from, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs!