There is nothing quite like snorkeling, the colorful sights, curious creatures and breathtaking coral reefs offer a unique twist on the landscapes we typically view. It’s not difficult to snorkel and both kids and adults can quickly learn how to do so. Every vacation is that much better when paired with a snorkeling adventure. Regardless if you are new to snorkeling or an experienced pro, here are 9 of the best snorkeling spots on the Planet.
1. Makaha Beach Park, Oahu
Considered one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii, Makaha Beach Park is easily accessible from the leeward side of Oahu. Snorkelers enjoy 100+ feet of visibility, offering unmatched encounters with fish, corals, green sea turtles (which can weigh as much as 400 pounds), resident spinner dolphins, spotted eagle rays and more.
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2. Bunaken National Marine Park, Indonesia
The Bunaken National Park is 97% underwater, and was founded in 1991 in order to protect the incredible and undamaged coral reefs that exist here. There is so much diversity to take in, including endless coral reefs, over 2,500 species of fish and a host of awesome invertebrates.
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3. Culebra, Puerto Rico
Playa Flamenco is a popular party beach but it only takes is a scenic 20-minute walk over a desert island that connects to Carlos Rosario Beach and you have reached one of the greatest snorkeling spots in all of the Caribbean.
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4. Bimini Islands, Bahamas
There is so much to see when snorkeling in the Bahamas and not just in terms of coral reef and other marine life. Many flock here to see the 282-foot Sapona shipwreck. The boat is partially submerged in 20 feet of water, and if you’re lucky you might see a group of gorgeous spotted dolphins while you’re down here.
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5. Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt
It is said there are two types of snorkeling in Sharm el-Sheikh: good and excellent.
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6. Rurutu, French Polynesia
If you come here between August and November you might have the chance to see a 40-foot humpback whale migrating north from Antarctica.
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7. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is located 12 – 50 miles off the northeastern shore of Australia’s coast. Here you will find 2,500 reefs covering a surface space as large as California. You can take a boat out to the Great Barrier or enjoy exploring the shallow waters directly off the beach, where you have the chance to see spotted eagle rays, manta rays, green sea turtles, hundreds of coral species and more.
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8. Fiji
If you love snorkeling Fiji is your true paradise with 330 islands to explore. A popular feature here are “boomies,” which is coral that rises up from deep below to only a few feet below the water’s surface. You can take a boat tour to far-out reefs, or enjoy the bountiful snorkeling right off shore, either way you are sure to see so much incredible marine life.
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9. St. John US Virgin Islands
St. John offers ideal snorkeling locations for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Some are accessible right off shore, such as Leinster Bay and Haulover Bay.
