The 12 best snorkeling destinations in the world
by spotmydive
Snorkeling is a great activity to discover the seabed with just a mask, fins and a snorkel. There are over one thousand best snorkeling spots. The world is big and there are as many snorkeling sites as beaches or immersion points. However, we can distinguish some snorkeling destinations that stand out from all of them. If you are traveling in one of these great destinations, you will not be able to resist the call of the sea. Here is the list of the best places to go for snorkeling.
Snorkeling in The Seychelles
Life is easy in the Seychelles. It is a true paradise on earth. The Seychelles are just like this beautiful postcard that you look at when you are behind your computer in the office. An outing with a mask and snorkel in the Seychelles is a must. With its beautiful translucent waters caressing sumptuous sandy beaches, the Seychelles will make you dream. The Indian Ocean bordering the region teams up with the underwater life. You will therefore be able to snorkel with manta rays, leopard rays, reef sharks, hawksbill turtles or whale sharks. The best snorkeling sites in the Seychelles are the Denis Island, Coco Island, Saint Pierre Island, Desroches Island or Port Launay Park. Those sites will not disappoint you. The Seychelles is definitely one of the best places in the world for snorkeling.
Snorkeling in Mexico
Snorkeling in Mexico is a must. That region offers a huge variety of possibilities between the beautiful cenotes of Yucatan, the opportunity to swim with whale sharks or with sailfish swordfish.
Snorkeling in the cenotes
It is impossible to talk about a mask and snorkel outing in Mexico without mentioning snorkeling in the cenotes. Many cenotes, ancient limestone caves collapsed with waters of absolute transparency offer a unique snorkeling experience. In a cenote, you will often have the opportunity to follow a completely natural course dug in the rock. Some of the best snorkeling spots for exploring cenotes are the beautiful Dos Ojos or Casa.
Snorkeling with whale sharks
If you’re wondering where to go to swim with whale sharks, look no further, snorkeling in Cancun Mexico is one of the best destinations in the world. The ultimate snorkeling experience is certainly to witness the life of a whale shark.
Snorkeling with sailfish swordfish
At Spotmydive, we are fans of the sailing swordfish. That fish can travel up to 110 kilometers per hour. It is the fastest fish in the world. This magnificent pelagic fish, has a large dorsal fin shaped sail that can fold when swimming in depth. It can weigh up to 100 kilos and measure up to 3 meters. Swimming with a sailfish swordfish is an extraordinary experience!
Snorkeling in Egypt
A snorkeling trip in Egypt is among the most beautiful experience on the planet. Despite the effect of coral bleaching in the Red Sea, there are still a multitude of very well-preserved sites. What is remarkable in Egypt, compared to other destinations, is the density of fauna and flora with bright colors. We do not particularly come to see big fishes during our snorkeling excursions in Egypt, we particularly go there to witness an explosion of colors and life.
Snorkeling in Safaga
Safaga is a superb place for a snorkeling excursion in Egypt. Safaga is still not very touristy and benefits from all the necessary infrastructures as well as superb snorkeling spots. There is usually one snorkeling trip per day. If you go for a snorkeling outing in Safaga, you take the chance of seeing turtles, gorgonians, butterfly fish, stingrays, parrotfish and many other fish from the Red Sea.
Snorkeling in Hurghada
Snorkeling on the seashore of Hurghada is not the most extraordinary experience. The ideal scenario is to book a day trip to discover the beautiful snorkeling sites around the islands of that region. From there, you can observe a very dense and varied fauna as well as particularly well-preserved corals.
Snorkeling in French Polynesia
French Polynesia is without a doubt one of the most beautiful destinations in the world for a snorkeling outing. The beaches are wonderful, the water is translucent, the people are friendly and the underwater life is simply breathtaking. In terms of snorkeling, this is one of the few places in the world where you can do snorkeling with humpback whales from August to October. In addition, you can also go on a snorkelling outing with dolphins, sharks, turtles and many other species. It is unquestionably one of the best destinations for snorkeling on the blue planet.
Snorkeling with Humpback Whales
For a moment, imagine yourself swimming with humpback whales that are over 16 meters long. In Polynesia it is possible! This huge cetacean visits this little corner of paradise located at the end of the world from August to October. A snorkeling outing with humpback whales is most likely the ultimate snorkeling experience.
Snorkeling with dolphins
Another superb marine experience in Polynesia that you should not miss is the opportunity to go snorkeling with dolphins. Dolphins are indeed numerous on the atolls and also near Tahiti. While exploring to see dolphins, you will also most likely be able to observe different species such as reef sharks or turtles.
Snorkeling in Thailand
Thailand is a very touristic country and this has had an impact on marine life and corals. However, the country remains an essential snorkeling destination. In addition, centers can take you to snorkeling spots away from the tourist hustle that are still well preserved and full of underwater life.
Snorkeling in Norway with killer whales
Going out on a snorkeling outing in Norway does not seem, at first sight, to be a very pleasant experience. On the other hand, imagine yourself for a moment doing a snorkeling outing with killer whales. This is definitely an experience apart. If you go on a trip to Norway and you like snorkeling and high thrills, do not miss out on this adventure!
Snorkeling in Indonesia
Indonesia is located at the center of the coral triangle and has more than 10% of the world’s coral reefs. This country is extraordinary and its 17,500 islands and islets offer superb snorkeling sites. The country has one of the largest underwater biodiversity in the world and hundreds of so-called endemic species. The country is large and the destinations for snorkeling are numerous. You can enjoy snorkeling in Bali, Gili Islands, Sulawesi and many other great snorkeling destinations. It is also possible to snorkel with manta rays in Indonesia. In the south of Bali, you can also come across the famous Mola Mola or moon fish.
Snorkeling in Belize
Located in southern Mexico and south of the Caribbean Sea, Belize has the second largest barrier reef in the world and believe us, it is worth the detour. A snorkeling outing in Belize is simply amazing. You can swim at the Belize Blue Hole, explore the Lighthouse Reef or swim with nurse sharks at Shark Ray Alley.
Snorkeling in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is also a great destination for snorkeling. On the Pacific coast, the seabed has the particularity of having very few corals but give however the opportunity to observe beautiful eagle rays and a multitude of fish. The waters are laden with sediments and attract a large underwater fauna. The sea is sometimes rough but snorkeling trips in Costa Rica, in small islands off the coast are worth seeing.
Snorkeling in France
The south of France is one of the best snorkeling destinations in Europe. The beautiful transparent waters of the marine reserves are surrounded by beautiful limestone rocks. The best way to visit the less visited regions is to book a snorkeling outing in Marseille or La Londe in the Var. The center will then take you by boat to visit beautiful places.
Snorkeling in Marseille
Marseille is a fascinating city. What is noticeable above all during a snorkeling outing with the local centers, are the beautiful islands around the big city. These protected islands with fabulous charm are only about ten minutes by boat from the port and are worth a boat trip alone. When you get to the snorkeling spot, the teams of the centers of Marseilles, introduce you to the seabed with passion. A family snorkeling outing in Marseille is a great experience.
Snorkeling in Porquerolles
The islands of Porquerolles and Port Cros are very well known. Some of the creeks have an exceptional underwater flora and fauna that perfectly represent the variety of fish of the Mediterranean. The center of Dune La Londe offers snorkeling outings in creeks or small beaches with undeniable charm.
Snorkeling In Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe consists of two main islands surrounded by a multitude of small islands. Almost all the islands and coasts are conducive to snorkeling. You can enjoy the coral reef of Lesser Antilles, translucent berries of Saintes, or see lemon sharks in Petite Terre.
Snorkeling in Iceland
So no, the water is not particularly hot in Iceland and the fauna is not particularly dense. On the other hand, Iceland offers an amazing experience, snorkeling in Silfra. This site has the distinction of being located between two tectonic plates and has an exceptional architecture. The topography of the snorkeling spot is spectacular. In addition, the site has the best visibility in the world with more than 100 meters of visibility. We dive there with a very thick wetsuit and the duration of the snorkeling excursion in Silfra only lasts 20 minutes.