By Kenya Barrett
Our Earth is filled with many amazing things to see and do, and some of the most exciting things lie right underwater. As a safe, easy, and fun activity, snorkeling is perfect for travelers of all ages to experience the magic of our oceans.
Not sure where to start? Check out our list of some of the best places to snorkel in the world.
Oahu, Hawaii
While all of the Hawaiian islands are viable options for snorkeling, Oahu is hands down one of the top places to snorkel in the US. Trained professionals generally host excursions that take visitors out to a few of the popular snorkeling spots like Hanauma Bay, Shark's Cove, and Kuilima Cove.
Since Hawaii is biologically diverse, travelers will encounter different species of wildlife while snorkeling. A few species native to the region include triggerfish, Hawaiian monk seals, moray eels, and eagle rays.
Baa Atoll, Maldives
Aside from being one of the most beautiful island nations, the Maldives is also known for its floating bungalows and pristine waters. However, the Baa Atoll has some of the calmest and bluest waters of all, which makes it one of the top places to snorkel on Earth. Visitors are particularly drawn to Hanifaru Bay since it's home to clans of manta rays and whale sharks.
Also a UNESCO biosphere reserve, travelers can enjoy a safe experience with trained divers who provide a brief tour of the area. Some of the best times to visit Baa Atoll include the summer and fall seasons.
Koh Tao, Thailand
Koh Tao is a small island that belongs to the Chumphon Archipelago off the eastern shores of Thailand. The isle’s name translates to “Turtle Bay” since it has become an important breeding ground for green and hawksbill turtles. Many tourists, especially those interested in diving, flock to the island due to its super warm waters and near-perfect snorkeling spots. A few popular locations include Sail Rock, Mango Bay, Sairee Reef, and Shark Island.
What makes Koh Tao one of the best places to snorkel is its inexpensive pricing. Travelers can experience a wide range of wildlife while swimming through the clear waters of Koh Tao, without breaking the bank.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Out of all of the best places to snorkel in the world, Grand Cayman certainly sets a high bar. While other snorkeling spots are great for seeing rare marine life, Grand Cayman has something more unique to offer. The isle is home to one of the few bioluminescent bays in the world that you can actually snorkel through. Additionally, travelers can swim through the Barrier Reef of Cayman which is north of Bobby Cay.
Perhaps the most interesting place to snorkel in Grand Cayman is the Shipwreck of Gamma. Located right off the coast of Georgetown, the shipwreck resides in the waters of the iconic Seven Mile Beach and is a short distance from the shore. Visitors don’t need to book an excursion to explore the wreck and its remnants. While discovering what’s left of the ship, you may encounter a few animals that have made the wreck its home including sea urchins and tropical fish.
Rosario Islands, Colombia
While you’re probably aware of Colombia's rich culture and even richer coffee, you might not know it's also home to one of the top places to snorkel on Earth. The Rosario Islands, which sit off the coast of Cartagena, is an ideal location for snorkelers looking to explore the marine life of South America.
The best places to snorkel in the Rosario Islands would be Isla San Martin de Pajarales and Isla Grande. Visitors can arrange guided charters to the islands' magnificent coral reef to enjoy views of exotic sea turtles, pufferfish, and angelfish.
Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
This stunning coastal city draws large crowds annually due to its amazing seaside resorts and proximity to the Red Sea. But did you know that the Red Sea is actually one of the best places to snorkel around the world? The Red Sea is home to an amazing coral reef that hosts an exotic set of marine life. Two of the closest regions to snorkel through include the reefs of Montazah and El Fanar.
Snorkelers can view nearly 300 different coral species during their exploration of the waters, as well as diverse marine life including tropical fish, turtles, and stingrays.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
One of the most famous and best places to snorkel in the world is the Great Barrier Reef. Located off the coast of Queensland, this magnificent reef is the largest on Earth. A world heritage site and one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is simply a location that snorkelers have to check off their travel bucket list.
Snorkelers have the chance to spot some of the rarest species of marine life on Earth at the Great Barrier Reef. Approximately six species of sea turtles, 17 species of sea snakes, and more hang around the warmest waters of the reef. A few other animals that you may spot while snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef include humpback dolphins and whales, clownfish, red bass, and seahorses!
Bora Bora, French Indonesia
Whether you’re advanced or a beginner, Bora Bora is a welcoming place to enjoy snorkeling. Visitors tend to flock to the southern tip of the island near Motu Piti Aau and Moti Piti Uuuta, where they can marvel at pastel coral gardens while gliding through the blue waters of the Pacific. The waters are calm and give beginners a chance to swim alongside schools of tropical fish.
More advanced snorkelers can head outside of the Teavanui Pass to swim in the deep blue waters of the Pacific. You can reach these regions by boat through professional excursion rangers that offer tours from the hotels on Bora Bora. If you’re lucky, you may spot a few dolphins or lemon sharks.
Now that you know some of the top places to snorkel in the world, where will you visit first?
