Top 10 Best Snorkeling Destinations

Snorkeling is a fun and exciting water sport for those who love to observe underwater wildlife. It is great for those who want an easy way to experience amazing marine life without having to do scuba diving. It is also affordable and only requires a snorkeling mask and a snorkel (tube). If you find you are not a strong swimmer you can also wear a snorkeling vest or life jacket to keep you afloat. You can also use flippers which help you to propel through the water faster and a lot easier. Now all you need to do is to find the perfect location to go snorkeling. You will want to choose a spot that is not only full of wonderful and beautiful sea life but you also need to choose an area that is safe. Don’t forget, never touch the coral or sea creature and also do not go snorkeling on your own. Here are the top 10 best snorkeling destinations.

1: Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Situated off the coast of Queenland, the Great Barrier is the world’s largest coral reef system and is one of the seven wonders of the natural world. It is so large and magnificent it can be seen from space. Actually it is the only living thing on earth that is visible from space. Thanks to the protection program, the Great Barrier Reef is a biodiversity hot spot, making it one of the best places to snorkel. It is also easily accessible and there are many guided tours available for tourists. Expect to see the most beautiful and colourful corals in the world along with sea turtles, 1500 species of fish and 5000 species of mollusc. See if you can find nemo!!

2: Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles

Bonaire is a beautiful island and is a must visit place for snorkeling and scuba diving. The reefs are easily accessible from the shore, making easy to be able to find a perfect snorkeling spot. You will see unique and colourful fish with some of the most beautiful coral. Another activity you can try is night snorkeling, by using a flash light during the night time. You can spot angelfish and surgeonfish.

3: Rurutu, French Polynesia

Rurutu is a small island of French Polynesia. It is an amazing snorkeling spot because it is one of the few places where you can swim with the whales. Because it is not as well known as other tourist spots, there are fewer divers and is very much untouched by humans. There are several snorkeling and scuba spots for beginners and for the more experienced. The best thing is that is an excellent place to snorkel all year round.

4: Fiji

Fiji is an island located in the South Pacific Ocean. It is a fantastic place to visit for not only snorkeling, but also relaxing on the beaches. The corals of Fiji are well protected, well preserved, and is rich in biodiversity. To find the best spots you will need to hire a vessel to take you to the best snorkeling areas. You will be able to find a wide array of colourful fish and coral.

5: Bunaken National Park, Indonesia

Bunaken National Park is located at the centre of the Coral triangle and is home to 390 different species of coral. You can also find many unique sea creatures such as fish, turtles and giant clams. There are 22 official diving spots all easily accessible off shore or by boat.

6: Florida Springs, USA

Florida Springs is great place to go freshwater snorkeling. The waters are very clear and also nice and warm. If you are lucky you may able to spot a rare West Indies Manatee. There are also a number of shipwrecks, where you can explore.  This is a great place for beginners and for kids to try snorkeling.

7: Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Grand Cayman is the largest of the Cayman Islands. Grand Cayman is one of the top best destinations to snorkel because of its wide rand of sea life and the ease of accessibility. Expect to see sea turtles, stingrays and lots of colourful fish. You can also visit Stingray city where you can touch and feed the stingrays.

8: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Providenciales is known for is amazing crystal clear waters which makes it perfect for snorkeling. Off the shore is Smith’s Reef a snorkeling spot where you can observe turtles, moray eels, eagle rays and nurse sharks.

9: Red Sea, Egypt

The waters of the Red Sea are calm and crystal clear, and is a popular attraction for snorkelers. The best snorkeling locations are National Park of Mahmya Island, Makadi Bay and Soma Bay. The waters are warm and they have some of the most amazing marine life. It is a great place to find vibrant corals, sea turtles, tropical fish and sometimes even dolphins.

10: Makaha Beach Park, Oahu, USA

If you love turtles, then Makaha Beach Park is the perfect place to go snorkeling. You will need to visit during summer as the water is quite calm and clear. The snorkeling spot is a U-shaped bay and with some shallow coral. However to see some the amazing underwater wildlife, you do need to be a strong swimmer and swim away from the beach. If you are lucky you will be able to spot some turtles. Don’t forget to bring along an underwater camera to snap some great underwater shots.

Snorkeling Tips

• If you are beginner make sure you stay close to the shore.
• Never touch the coral or sea creatures, you may upset the balance or put yourself at risk of harm. Always maintain a safe distance.
• Avoid exhaustion or fatigue. You can consider a snorkeling vest to help you keep afloat.
• Be careful of the seabed. Coral and rocks can be very sharp. Wear flippers or aqua shoes to protect your feet.
• Never snorkel alone and stick to recommended snorkeling spots.
• If you are swimming in cold waters, wear a wet suit to keep your body warm. 

source: infobarrel