Best places to snorkel in the world

Snorkeling is one of the best ways to explore the underwater world. If you’re new to snorkeling, it can be tough to know where to start.

The first thing to remember is that you don’t need any special equipment or training. You just need a mask, a pair of fins and some goggles or a snorkel tube and you’re good to go.

Another thing to keep in mind is that snorkeling can be dangerous if you aren’t careful. Be sure not to swim out too far from shore—always wear a life jacket when snorkeling!

If you like being on the water and exploring nature, then snorkeling may just be for you!

In this article, you would get to know more about Best places to snorkel in the world, best places to snorkel in caribbean, best snorkeling in june, best snorkeling in north america, and best places to snorkel in europe.

Best places to snorkel in the Caribbean

If you’re planning a trip to the Caribbean and wondering where to go for the best snorkeling, look no further. The Caribbean is the perfect place to go if you want to experience incredible snorkeling. There are so many idyllic spots with vibrant marine life that it can be quite challenging to decide where to begin.

The magnetic appeal of a Caribbean vacation is strong, attracting people all around the world to its clear waters and sunshine-filled days.

Here are the Best places to snorkel in the Caribbean;

1.  TURKS & CAICOS

Known mostly for the bustling island Providenciales, Turks and Caicos a barrier reef offers some of the most interesting snorkeling spots in the Caribbean with incredibly clear and calm waters. Taking a snorkeling cruise from Providenciales is a great start, but it’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Turks & Caicos offers some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean from the beach.

Top Three Snorkeling Spots in Turks & Caicos:

  • Bight Reef – fairly easy to access
  • Smith’s Reef – more difficult to find and best done with a guide
  • Malcolm’s Beach – spur and groove reef formations

2.  PUERTO RICO

It would be a sin not to add Puerto Rico to the list of best snorkeling Caribbean islands. The pristine beaches and serene waters make for the ultimate Puerto Rico snorkeling adventure. The colorful marine life and lively coral can be enjoyed by some of the beaches, or accessed by a short boat ride. 

The islands off the coast of Fajardo on the East Coast, are an especially popular spot for both snorkeling and diving. People visit from all around the world to swim with the turtles, enjoy the colorful corals and be surrounded by schools of fish.

Top Three Snorkeling Spots in Puerto Rico:

  • Vieques – gorgeous secluded beaches with shore snorkeling access
  • Culebra- there are several great spots located within the Marine Reserve, namely Carlos Rosario Beach, Playa Tamarindo, among others.
  • Cayo Diablo National Park – with shore accessibility and outstanding shallow snorkeling

3.  JAMAICA

If you plan a snorkeling trip to Jamaica, then make sure that Negril is your top spot to visit where you’ll have access to an array of urchins and conch shells. But that’s not all that there is to enjoy. There’s also the allure of underwater caves and even the possibility of nighttime snorkeling in Jamaica.

Some of the most vibrant snorkeling spots in Jamaica are close to the shore meaning that your daily underwater adventure is convenient and simple to achieve. If you have access to a boat, then you can also venture off of the coast of Seven Mile Beach in Negril and explore the coral reef.

Top Three Snorkeling Spots in Jamaica:

  • Negril – explore the Cliffs or take a boat trip out to Booby Cay
  • Montego Bay – perfect for kids and beginner snorkelers
  • Ocho Rios – a top choice for those visiting on cruise ships

4.  MEXICO

Snorkeling in Mexico is simply magnificent. If you don’t have your own, you can grab a pair of flippers and a mask from one of the many available kiosks. What follows next is hours exploring the underwater world. 

The 5,800 miles of Mexican coastline means that you’ll have no shortage of spots to choose from. But to get you started, you’ll want to pay attention to Cozumel, Holbox and Riviera Maya. 

Cozumel

Cozumel is a spot where you can go snorkeling by day and sip tequila by night. The majority of the best spots are on the western coast and include spots such as Secrets Cozumel, Palancar, Columbia Reef and The Money Bar. The current on the east side of the island can be quite dangerous and should not be tested.

The best snorkeling spots aren’t synonymous with white sandy beaches. Instead, rocky and dark shore is a good indication of snorkeling potential. With this in mind, you may want to pack some snorkeling booties. 

If your time is limited and you want to go to the best spots straight away, then book a Cozumel snorkeling tour in advance. 

Holbox/Mujeres

Holbox is a small island known for its scenic beaches and snorkeling potential, especially if you want to try your luck at spotting majestic whale shark. Isla Mujeres is also a popular spot for snorkeling, but is located on the western side of Quintana Roo. 

You can quite easily snorkel from the beaches around Isla Mujeres, but the most rewarding area is undoubtedly Garrafon Reef Park. 

Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya, located south of Cancun, has a generous offering of plenty of shallow-water reefs and sheltered inlets just waiting to be explored. It’s the perfect place to snorkel with the family and discover the incredible marine life. 

Full of outdoor activities from swimming in cenotes to exploring ruins, this area is a popular spot for anyone who loves the outdoors. Although Cozumel has the best snorkeling in the area, there’s some good snorkeling near Tulum, including snorkeling with turtles in Akumal Bay.

5.  VIRGIN ISLANDS

Both the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) and the British Virgin Islands (BVI) offer unforgettable Caribbean snorkeling experiences. The main deciding factor between the areas is the type of vacation you want out of the water. 

Visiting USVI will give you a notably more commercialized experience with beautiful beaches, a buzzing nightlife, and chain resorts for rent. The BVI is a more private experience, made up of a wealthier economy and a mood of tranquility.

United States Virgin Islands

If you’re looking for a magical place to snorkel in the Caribbean, the USVI has a variety of options to choose from. Most spots are island reefs which are located just offshore. The waters are home to an abundance of life, including seahorses and lobsters. 

The three main US Virgin Islands include Saint Croix, Saint John, and Saint Thomas. But there are several minor islands offering unbeatable snorkeling experiences.  

The British Virgin Islands

The BVI are known to offer some of the best sailing and cruising experiences, where passengers can throw anchor and dip below the surface to explore what lies beneath. In fact, the majority of the best snorkeling spots are only accessible by boat. Which is why we’d recommend getting out on a boat to explore the area.

The four larger islands include Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda and Jost van Dyke. But there are 50 smaller islands and cays waiting to be explored. Whether you’re enjoying the resident Whitespotted Filefish at Carvel Rock on Cooper Island, or rays hiding in the boulders at The Baths, Virgin Gorda, you’re in for a treat. 

6.  GRAND CAYMAN

If you’re on the hunt for the best snorkeling in Caribbean waters throughout the year, then the Grand Cayman is worth consideration. A fair number of the spots have beach access and are accessible from the shore. Although there are other spots, such as Stingray City, that are best experienced with a tour. 

The most difficult part of snorkeling in the Cayman Islands will be choosing which of the (many) spots to include on your itinerary. The brightly colored coral reef shines through the crystal clear waters and attracts snorkelers from around the world. 

Make sure that you spit in your goggles beforehand because you don’t want them to fog up. This could cause you to miss the incredible sights such as parrotfish, barracudas, and a variety of schooling fish. 

Top Three Snorkeling Spots in Grand Cayman:

  • Eden Rock – centrally located in George Town
  • Rum Point – set aside a full day to explore this part of the island
  • Turtle Reef – most commonly known for diving, but the shallow reef is a fantastic choice for snorkeling too

7.  BELIZE

The Belize barrier reef offers unrivaled coral reef snorkeling experiences, boasting an abundance of tropical fish to discover. The clear, turquoise water and choice of hundreds of cayes make Belize one of the best Caribbean snorkeling destinations.  

While it’s possible to snorkel off of the beaches, the best snorkeling is experienced at the many cayes and atolls.

The dry season, which runs from November to May, is considered to be the best time to visit as the visibility is best. With that being said, the snorkeling is unmatched all year around. Some of the unique marine life that you can expect to encounter include the West Indian Manatee, sea turtles, and whale sharks. 

You can also push out further than the reefs on the mainland, and adventure to the various marine reserves and atolls to discover more. 

Top Three Snorkeling Spots in Belize:

8.  CURACAO

Our experience snorkeling in Curacao, located in the southern Caribbean, was both relaxing and exhilarating. The majority of the snorkeling spots have beach entry, meaning easy accessibility and less organization needed. 

The west coast of the island is best for underwater adventures, showcasing sea turtles, brightly colored fish, and the iconic tugboat wreck. Curacao’s waters are known to be less legally protected than other islands in the Caribbean, such as Bonaire. But the long stretches of white-sand beaches make up for any missing fish. 

The entire island is an adventure waiting to happen, and worth booking a desert tour and snorkel combo experience.

Top Three Snorkeling Spots in Curacao:

  • Playa Caracasbaai- fantastic corals, but for more advanced snorkelers
  • Tugboat – shallow tugboat wreck along the reef
  • Klein Curacao – a small island approximately six miles from Curacao

9.  ROATAN

Located approximately 20 miles from Honduras, Roatán is a haven for marine life and a dream for snorkelers. Dipping your head below the surface will bring you up close with queen angelfish, sea turtles, and even whale shark. 

There are over 25 unforgettable spots in the world’s second-largest reef. The crystal clear waters give a clear vision of soft coral all around the island but are best enjoyed at West Bay. 

March, April, and May are considered the best months to visit Roatán, when the climate is most temperate and the island least crowded.  If you’re looking for a local to guide you on a snorkeling trip, then you can always book a Roatán snorkeling adventure.

If you enjoy pushing your boundaries a bit more, and are experienced in freediving, then you can the western tip of the island. The reef wall drops off at a point to a stunning canyon.  

Top Three Snorkeling Spots in Roatan:

  • West Bay
  • Half Moon Bay- protected bay with lots of fish
  • Pigeon Cay – recommended for strong swimmers

 10. BONAIRE

Bonaire is the second-largest island in the Dutch Caribbean, boasting a plethora of ocean life to enjoy. Bonaire’s coral reef is envied as one of the healthiest in the Caribbean. 

The immense biodiversity of marine life found in the reefs of Bonaire makes it one of the best Caribbean islands for snorkeling. Just east to Aruba and Curacao, the most notable snorkeling is found on the west coast which is protected from the winds. 

The majority of the snorkeling spots are narrow strips of coral reef and can be easily accessed from the shoreline. These snorkeling spots accessible by the beach are free and noticeably marked. 

At these spots, you’ll find some of the 350 species of fish species known to the island, and 55 species of corals. There are also further-flung snorkeling areas that can be accessed via boat and tour groups. 

The climate in Bonaire is consistent all year-round, making snorkeling a suitable activity whenever you visit. However, if you want more of the reef to yourself, then low-season (May to October) is best.

Top Three Snorkeling Spots in Bonaire:

  • Klein Bonaire – only accessed by boat
  • 1000 Steps – access is via a small staircase and beach
  • Sorobon Beach/ Lac Bay – great spot for calm days and strong swimmers

Best places to snorkel in the world

Snorkelling is a great way to escape the daily grind, and we’ve got the top spots for you.

It doesn’t take much: just some fins, a mask, and a snorkel! You can be floating through the water in no time at all, seeing all sorts of vibrant fish and mesmerising sea creatures all around you. With up to 80% of all earthly life located in the seas, there’s no shortage of remarkable creatures to encounter. And memorable aquatic adventures can be had near shore with a mask, fins, and snorkel. Snorkelers can experience intense natural beauty without heavy equipment or time-consuming certification—which means no matter what your level of experience, the ocean’s beauty is within reach.

To help you make plans to swim with sea turtles or mingle with manta rays, we reveal our top nine places to snorkel in the world!

Here is a list of Best places to snorkel in the world;

Koh Tao, Thailand

Why it’s special: The Japanese Gardens’ one-of-a-kind granite boulders, home to spectacular coral and aquatic life

Surrounded by tranquil, cerulean water and dotted with enchanting bays and beaches, the small island of Koh Tao, Thailand, is synonymous with world-class diving and snorkelling, and only a short jaunt from Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui.

After exploring the Japanese Gardens, named for its spectacular boulders covered with ornate hard and soft coral, continue your adventure at Aow Leuk, one of Koh Tao’s most beautiful beaches. Baby sharks, clownfish, triggerfish and blue spotted rays all come out to swim in this underwater playground.

Florida Keys

Why it’s special: Spectacular coral and diverse marine life in the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S.

The sublime underwater landscape in the Florida Keys supports a vivid array of colourful coral and sea sponges, along with marine life such as sharks, turtles and multitudes of tropical fish. And it’s all an easy day trip from Four Seasons Hotel Miami.

In Key Largo, home to the immensely popular Molasses Reef, you can swim among some of the Keys’ healthiest and most colourful coral, along with stingrays, eels, Goliath grouper and various shark species. Farther south, the charming village of Islamorada is a secret sweet spot boasting numerous patch reefs (isolated platforms of coral) where you’ll encounter barracudas, sea turtles, and – if you’re lucky – hammerhead sharks

Baa Atoll, Maldives

Why it’s special: Swim with manta rays, whale sharks and sea turtles in a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve

Nearly 1,200 picture-perfect coral islands come together in the Indian Ocean to form the magical Maldives. Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere ReserveFour Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru offers the unique opportunity to snorkel with sea turtles, docile reef sharks, vividly coloured fish and even the occasional dolphin.

The indescribable experience of snorkelling amid the giant, notoriously rare manta rays and whale sharks is not to be missed. Join a marine biologist from the Resort for an escorted snorkelling and manta ray adventure, or hop aboard the Four Seasons Explorer for a magical boating foray into the ocean around the Maldives.

Maui, Hawaii

Why it’s special: Unique lava rocks and secret coves abound

With its abundance of tranquil beaches, sheltered coves and crystal-clear water, it’s no wonder Maui is a classic family favourite for fun in the sea. You’ll find an abundance of snorkelling sites around the island, but don’t miss a visit to the Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve. Get the gear you need at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, just a stone’s throw from the nature reserve and right on Wailea – a great place for beginners.

Watch for signs for the reserve on Makena Road, just past Big Beach. From here, look for Waiala Cove, an ideal spot just 100 yards (91 metres) into the reserve. The nooks and crannies of the lava rocks make perfect homes for a vast array of exotic fish, coral, eels and sea turtles. The site is easy to access; you need only go a few metres into the water before swirling schools of fish arrive to nibble at your feet.

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Why it’s special: 76 world-class dives within a short boat ride

Abundant reefs, colourful fish, historic shipwrecks: The Red Sea is a spectacular playground for divers and snorkelers. Spot turtles, sharks, lionfish, rays and eels among the coral gardens and clear waters, and with a variety of sites so close to Sharm El Sheikh, snorkellers of all skill levels can find their ideal depth. The House Reef at Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh is the perfect place for beginners to get their feet wet; the private and secluded spot ranges in depth from 5 metres to 40 metres, and is easily accessible from the Resort’s swimming jetty,

The underwater adventure doesn’t end when the sun goes down. Don’t miss the opportunity for a chance to explore the reef under the light of a full moon – even without lights, visibility reaches an impressive depth of 10 metres. It’s an otherworldly evening, made even more enchanting by the glow of bioluminescent plankton.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Why it’s special: The world’s largest coral reef and more than 3,000 individual reef systems and coral cays

The Great Barrier Reef is perhaps the most iconic diving and snorkelling destination in the world, and the exceptional beauty of this natural wonder warrants the reputation that precedes it. The easiest way to experience the grandeur of this underwater marvel is to join any of the boat tours that take snorkellers to various spots along the reef. Most snorkellers and divers choose to base themselves in Cairns, but Port Douglas and Townsville also offer easy access to beautiful swims.

If you prefer to stay as close to the action as possible, try a visit to the small but lovely Heron Island, a coral cay located at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef. You’ll have the opportunity to mingle with 60 percent of the species of fish that live along the Great Barrier Reef. Easy-to-access snorkelling spots right off the beach are notable bonuses.

After exploring the world under the waves, head down the coast to Four Seasons Hotel Sydney for an adventure on top of them – the famous swells at nearby Bondi Beach are perfect for beginners and pros alike.

Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia

Why it’s special: Drift snorkelling with the current, and crystal-clear water abounding with majestic manta rays

Bali is frequently referred to as the “Island of the Gods,” and it’s a fitting name. But what many travellers don’t realise is that extraordinary biodiversity and pockets of calm water surround Bali. A day trip from Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay will take you to one of the best snorkelling sites just off the island: Nusa Lembongan.

Spot more than 250 species of fish, along with sharks, coral and mesmerising manta rays. The crystal-clear water and calm bays are ideal for all levels of skill. For further exploration underwater, hire a private boat from the Resort and head to Manta Point, Crystal Bay and Mangrove Point, three popular snorkelling sites around Nusa Lembongan.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Why it’s special: Feeding sharks at the Lagoonarium

If you yearn to get closer to sharks, a visit to Bora Bora should be at the top of your bucket list. In this Polynesian paradise, a close encounter with blacktip reef and lemon sharks is almost a given, along with rays, turtles, dolphins and colourful coral teeming with reef fish.

Stay in a beachfront villa at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora and slip into the water right off your bungalow to explore the underworld through your mask. Join a local guide on n motorized outrigger canoe – a tribute the traditional Polynesian seafaring vessel – and visit three spectacular snorkelling spots: see dreamlike coral structures at Coral Garden; swim with stingrays in the lagoon’s shallow waters; and the Pacific Ocean, where schools of blacktip reef sharks and lemon sharks roam.

Punta Mita, Mexico

Why it’s special: Rock formations and waterways near an uninhabited island, and underwater swim-through tunnels

While many covet sand space in Cancún, the Riviera Nayarit – and more specifically the sleepy fisherman’s village of Punta Mita – remains one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets. Right at the heart of this gem is Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, the perfect jumping-off point for aquatic adventures in the region, even offering prime snorkelling for beginners near the Resort.

The clear blue water and distinctive rock formations along the coastline provide chances to swim with eagle rays, moray eels, starfish and seahorses. You can also expect vibrant coral reefs, underwater caves and the occasional visit from a friendly pod of dolphins.

Best places to snorkel in Europe

Europe is a continent that has got many beautiful places to visit and explore. Many people travel to Europe to experience the beauty of different cultures, architecture, food and many other things. But there are some people who love to go snorkeling in Europe. Snorkeling is an activity which consists of swimming face down with a breathing mask and watertight goggles. It is very important to choose the right location for snorkeling as it can be dangerous if you choose wrong location.

Snorkeling in Europe can be done at different locations but most of them are located near the coast line or beach areas. You can find many great spots for snorkeling in Europe if you search online or ask locals about these spots. You can also try some places which are not famous but still offer great experience for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Here we have highlighted 17 best destinations for snorkeling in Europe including their location so that anyone can choose his/her favorite destination easily without any trouble.

 

  • Elafonisi Beach, Crete, Greece
  • Russalka, Black Sea, Bulgaria
  • Reserva Natural da Berlenga, Portugal
  • Makarska, Croatia
  • Maddalena Archipelago National Park, Sardinia, Italy
  • Illes Medes, Costa Brava, Spain
  • Ghar Lapsi, Malta
  • Coco Beach, Nice, France
  • Lake Silfra, Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
  • Isola Rossa, Sardinia, Italy
  • Skiathos, Greece
  • Paphos, Cyprus
  • Bovisand, Devon, UK
  • Lobos, Canary Island, Spain
  • Ustica, Sicily, Italy
  • Palud Bay, South of France
  • Cabrera Archipelago National Park, Spain

1. Elafonisi Beach, Crete, Greece

If you wish to do snorkeling in Europe, then Elafonisi beach is among the top 10 snorkeling spots in Europe. Located on the Crete Island in Greece in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, this place offers a diverse variety of marine life of the Mediterranean to the marine life enthusiasts. The clear blue waters shining like the clear sky let you witness the marine life clearly and allows you to explore the depths of the sea easily.

Famous for: Diverse marine life
Best Time To Visit: Early Autumn, September to October 
Price: 180 Euros

2. Russalka, Black Sea, Bulgaria

It is not only the well famed Mediterranean that’s great for snorkeling in Europe. The Black Sea, despite having water with many sediments, can also be a good place to snorkel. One of them is Russalka in Bulgaria, a top snorkeling destination in Europe. Although the marine life here is fairly small, you can see shipwrecks from the Ottoman era.

Famous for: Encompasses shipwrecks from the Ottoman era.
Best Time To Visit: June To September 
Price: 40 Euros

3. Reserva Natural da Berlenga, Portugal


Located just 10 km off the shore from Peniche in Portugal, Reserve Natural da Berlenga is a rocky island. Known for its natural and wild beauty, this place is one of the best places for experiencing great snorkeling in Europe. The areas near around the shoreline are among the greatest for snorkeling in Europe, having visible shipwrecks in the clear deep blue waters and a collection of some of the finest biodiversity known to man, this place is a wonderland for nature lovers.

Famous for: Clear deep blue waters
Best Time To Visit: Spring season, February and Autumn (October)
Price: 70 Euros

4. Makarska, Croatia

After snorkeling in France, Italy and Spain, come visit the Adriatic Sea coast in Makarska in Croatia. The species here are completely different and the fresh water springs on the seabed allow the formations of some of the best coral reefs in Europe such as that of the Golden Sponge species. If you are lucky, you might spot a seahorse while snorkeling in Europe at this destination. It is indeed one of the best places to snorkel in Europe

Famous for: Prepossessing coral reefs.
Best Time To Visit: May and June 
Price: 64 Euros

5. Maddalena Archipelago National Park, Sardinia, Italy

Maddalena Archipelago National Park is a national park located on the northern part of the Sardegna Island and all of its surrounding areas. This is one of the best islands for honeymoon. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, it is among some of the best snorkeling destinations in Europe. This place is like the best of both worlds and is one of the best places in Europe for snorkeling.

Famous for: Majestic surroundings.
Best Time To Visit: April To May and September To October 
Price: 57 Euros

6. Illes Medes, Costa Brava, Spain

Considered to be among the best destinations for snorkeling holidays in Europe for 2022, Illes Medes is a protected marine reserve. This means that the growth of fishes and plants is natural here. The people here mind their own business, so you won’t be disturbed by those doing adventure activities at the beach. You’ll get the most fulfilling experience of snorkeling in Europe here.

Famous for: Serene ambiance
Best Time To Visit: March To May (Spring) and September To November (Autumn)
Price: 38 Euros

7. Ghar Lapsi, Malta


This is another great European place for marine life lovers and also considered to be one of the ideal places for snorkeling in Europe. The clear waters and caves with white sands here make the whole experience wholesome and fun. You can go explore the natural caves which are bustling shelters for fishes, and can also find some great variety of fishes at the sandy beaches. You can even find beautiful reefs in these waters and explore their beauty.

Famous for: Surrounded by natural caves
Best Time To Visit: April, May and June
Price: 10 Euros 

8. Coco Beach, Nice, France

Nice has always been an important place for visitors to France, but it is really surprising how such a beautiful and serene place can exist near an industrialized town like this. Although the beach is really busy during the season, the water is crystal clear. Also, there are many diving companies offering dives but if you want to snorkel, then you can explore the less busy coves near the beach but that doesn’t mean you won’t have to look out for Jet Skis and things like that.

Famous for: Crystal clear waters
Best Time To Visit: April To June (Spring) & September To November (Autumn)
Price: 190 Euros

9. Lake Silfra, Thingvellir National Park, Iceland


Lake Silfra is a glacial lake. This means that the water is crystal clear and perfect place for snorkeling in Europe. There are water geysers nearby, which means that the water is fairly warm for snorkeling. You can witness various varieties of freshwater fishes here, and the visibility here is such that you can even see the fissures where the two continental plates meet. There is also a lagoon besides the lake with its shallow bottom which can be visible clearly from the top. Hands down, it is certainly one of the best places to snorkel in Europe.

Famous for: An array of freshwater fishes.
Best Time To Visit: Throughout The Year
Price: 180 Euros

10. Isola Rossa, Sardinia, Italy

The red rock beaches around the small Mediterranean town of Isola Rossa are a great place to explore biodiversity among the beaches of Europe. This is also considered to be one of the best places to snorkel in Europe. There are a decent number of pools and inlets for exploring fishes and the water is crystal clear with some rare sediments. The reef as well as the beach is sandy and yet, full of life and biodiversity.

Famous for: Rich biodiversity
Best Time To Visit: April To May and September To October 
Price: 135 Euros

11. Skiathos, Greece


A really beautiful place in the Aegean Islands of Europe, snorkeling here can be a bit difficult because of low visibility due to presence of sediments. Snorkel in the rocky islands with hidden beaches to find some rare and exotic fishes. Some beaches have white sand stretching for miles. The best ones for snorkeling in Europe are the rocky ones.

Famous for: White sandy beaches
Best Time To Visit: May To October 
Price: 60 Euros

12. Paphos, Cyprus

Famous for presence of both small as well as big caves, this small town along the eastern coast of Cyprus is amongst the best snorkeling places in Europe. The best places to snorkel here are small and secluded beaches and the area near the lighthouse. You can find all kind of marine animals here – from small unbothered fishes like the pipe fish to big marine animals like octopuses.

Famous for: Diverse range of marine animals
Best Time To Visit: May To November 
Price: 45 Euros

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13. Bovisand, Devon, UK

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Among the best and the most well-known snorkeling places in UK, Bovisand is situated near the Plymouth harbor. Protected by the bad weather, this place is an ideal snorkeling destination. The shallows in this place are sandy at the bottom but you have a good chance of seeing big fishes here. If you go a little further, you may have a chance of witnessing sharks. Without a doubt this is one of the best places for snorkeling in Europe

Famous for: Home to big fishes, even sharks!
Best Time To Visit: Spring (March To Early June), Autumn (September To November)
Price: 43 Euros

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14. Lobos, Canary Island, Spain

Among the smallest of the canary islands of Spain, this place offers some of the most exquisite snorkeling places in the whole of Europe. Located just 2 km away from the Island of Fuerteventura, this place is among the best spots for snorkeling enthusiasts. Now a protected marine reserve, the area remains undisturbed and the fishes and plants grow without any disturbance from the outside world. This is one of the best places to snorkel in Europe.

Famous for: Tranquil ambiance and rich marine life
Best Time To Visit:  March To May (Spring), September To November (Autumn)
Price: 60€

15. Ustica, Sicily, Italy

Located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, west of the Island of Sicily in Italy, this place is one of the best spots for snorkeling in Europe. You can find lots of fishes and species of marine animals in the clean waters here. Don’t miss this place if you’re visiting Italy. Make sure to wear safety gear while snorkeling in Europe and have a gala time.

Famous for: Remarkably clean waters
Best Time To Visit: May To June And September To October 
Price: 10€

16. Palud Bay, South of France

Palud Bay, also known as Plage de Le Palud is one of the best places to go snorkeling in Europe. A popular spot in the Mediterranean Coast, this site offers a highly enriching experience. Palud Bay is located in Mediterranean’s oldest national marine park, the Port-Cros National Park. The site has well defines snorkeling paths marked by buoys, each of which indicate a unique environment. Explore the rocky, sandy and sea grass beds and swim with a variety of friendly fish.

Famous for: Picturesque surroundings. Surrounded by lush greenery and rocky terrains.
Best Time To Visit: NA
Price: 28€

17. Cabrera Archipelago National Park, Spain

One of the best places to snorkel in Europe is the Cabrera Archipelago National Park, it is a maritime-terrestrial national park in Spain. It is located on the off the southeast coast off the Spanish Balearic Island – Mallorca. This region was once a prison camp. Its well-preserved seabeds makes it the best place to snorkel in Europe for spotting some astonishingly unique marine life. The snorkelling region features wonderful rock formations, tiny bays and caves.

Famous for: Unique marine life
Best Time To Visit: NA
Price: 37 Euros

Best snorkeling in North America

North America is a snorkeler’s paradise. Not only does it have three oceans, but they’re all right there!

If you want a taste of what the Caribbean has to offer, Florida and Mexico are both great places to start. The Caribbean Sea is full of nurse sharks, green turtles, barracuda and tons more tropical fish swimming among coral reefs.

But if you’re looking for something different—and maybe even better—head on over to the Gulf of California or the Gulf of Mexico. These two bodies of water will give you some amazing views of whales and dolphins as well as beautiful coral reefs that you can explore on your own or with a guide.

The best snorkeling in North America is in the Florida Keys.

The best snorkeling in North America is found in the Florida Keys, which are made up of over 1,000 islands and cays. There are no rivers or lakes in this area, so if you want to see some amazing marine life, take a trip out to these islands!

The Florida Keys have a wide variety of marine life including sea turtles, sharks and rays as well as tropical fish like grouper and amberjack. There are also several different species of coral including brain coral (which looks like a brain), boulder coral (which looks like giant rocks) and star coral (which is shaped like stars).

In addition to all of this amazing wildlife there are many great places for snorkeling including John Pennekamp State Park which has three different sites for snorkeling including Molasses Reef which is located about six miles off Key Largo at a depth of 25 feet; Conch Reef which is located about six miles off Key Largo at a depth of 50 feet; and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park which has several different sites including Sand Key Park on Key West where you can see.

So there you have it! The best places to snorkel in the world.

If you’ve ever wanted to see the dazzling colors of a coral reef, or swim among sea turtles and dolphins, or just be able to say that you’ve been to some of the most beautiful places on Earth—well, we can help with that.

If you want to get out there and explore nature at its finest, this list is your ticket. You’ll find a wide variety of locations from around the globe—so no matter what sort of vacation spot you’re looking for, there’s something here for everyone.

And if you happen to find yourself in one of these destinations? Well then… enjoy!

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