Travel junkies know that when you’re done exploring historical sites, when you can’t stand the sight of one more museum, and you’ve shopped in every open-air bazaar, there’s only one thing left to do—head to the sea. So here are some suggestions for the best snorkeling in the world
Why it’s special: Unique lava rocks and plenty of secret coves
It’s no surprise that Maui is a favorite for beach-lovers, with its plethora of quiet beaches, secluded coves, and crystal-clear waters. There are numerous snorkeling spots on the island, but don’t miss the Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve. It is one of the best places to go snorkeling.
On Makena Road, just past Big Beach, look for signs directing you to the reserve. Look for Waiala Cove, which is just 100 yards (91 meters) inside the reserve. The lava rock nooks and crannies are ideal habitats for a wide variety of exotic fish, coral, eels, and sea turtles. The location is simple to reach; only a few meters into the water before swirling schools of fish gather to nibble at your toes.
Why it’s special: Belize boasts the biggest barrier reef outside of Australia (185 miles!)
There are plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with eels, rays, and other beautifully colorful fish here. Hundreds of cayes and atolls (a type of coral reef) dot the Caribbean coast, each bursting with multicolored coral sunken beneath the turquoise oceans.
The Hol Chan Marine Reserve and shark-ray alley, two of the top diving and snorkeling options off Ambergris Caye, are teeming with nurse sharks eager to let you live out your swimming-with-the-sharks dream. This is known as a place for the best snorkeling in the world for this very reason.
Why it’s special: Untouched lagoons and jungles
The Brazilian island of Ilha Grande is one of the most thrilling and best snorkeling spots in the world. The island’s monkey-filled jungles and lagoons are pristine and ideal for witnessing underwater coves, seahorses, turtles, angelfishes, and even exploring shipwrecks. Ilha Grande is a Brazilian island located halfway between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
Why it’s special: Epitome of environmental protection
Lady Elliot Island, the Great Barrier Reef’s southernmost coral cay, offers some of the best snorkeling spots in Australia and is well-renowned for its manta rays, nesting sea turtles and has some brilliant eco-credentials.
Explore a seafloor rich in coral gardens and marine life, such as enormous manta rays, barracudas and leopard sharks. The shallow lagoon on the island’s eastern side is ideal for families and beginners, while the coral gardens on the western side provide deeper waters that are ideal for more experienced snorkelers.
Lady Elliot Island, located in one of the Great Barrier Reef’s ‘Green Zones,’ has the highest level of environmental protection, as do the humpback whales who travel through these seas between June and October.
This Komodo island is not only famed for the Komodo Dragon, the world’s largest lizard, but it is also one of the best snorkeling destinations. This island’s Pink Beach allows you to swim with rays and hawksbill turtles, but if you’re searching for something more exotic, the Komodo National Park is the place to go. The park and its waters will provide you with access to 14 endangered species of fish, 260 different types of corals, and over 1000 different types of fish. A must-see for everyone who enjoys aquatic life
The region that inspired Charles Darwin and is famous for its hundreds of years old turtles also has a wonderful marine life. This wonderful joy for the underwater adventurer is home to Galápagos penguins, sea lions, fur seals, dolphins, orcas, humpback whales, and more. The location is ideal for a holiday with friends and family because it is home to several beautiful spots. This is one of the best snorkeling spots in the world, especially in Ecuador.
Aren’t these greatest snorkeling spots enticing? Looking at these stunning locations, it is evident that snorkeling is an experience that must be felt rather than described.
