Snorkelling is one of the most accessible and exhilarating ways to experience the wonders of the ocean. With nothing more than a mask, snorkel, and fins, you can glide through crystal-clear waters and discover vibrant coral reefs, exotic marine life, and underwater landscapes that feel like a whole new world. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeller seeking your next adventure or a first-timer eager to dip your toes in, the right destination can transform a simple snorkelling trip into a life-changing experience. Ready to dive in? Here are 10 breath-taking snorkelling spots to add to your travel bucket list this year.
1. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Location: Queensland, Australia
Best Time to Visit: June to October
The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stretching over 2,300 kilometers, it is home to an astonishing variety of marine life, including 1,500 species of fish, sea turtles, and endangered species like the dugong. You can snorkel in the shallow lagoons, where you’ll swim alongside vibrant coral gardens and colorful fish.
Highlights: Coral Gardens, Hardy Reef, and the outer reef where you can explore deeper waters.
Tip: Join a guided snorkelling tour led by marine biologists who can explain the fragile ecosystem and its conservation efforts.
Must-Do: Snorkel at Reefworld, a floating pontoon, for a safe and enriching experience.
Learn more about the Great Barrier Reef
2. Ilha Grande, Brazil
Location: Off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Ilha Grande is a tropical paradise filled with lush rainforests, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife. It’s a great destination for those looking for a less crowded snorkelling experience. One of the best places to snorkel here is Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon), a sheltered bay known for its clear waters, where you can swim alongside sea turtles and vibrant tropical fish.
Highlights: Lagoa Azul, Saco do Céu, and the island’s hidden beaches.
Tip: The currents around the island can be strong, so be sure to snorkel in calm, sheltered areas if you're a beginner.
Must-Do: Take a boat tour around the island’s secluded beaches and marine reserves to see the best marine life.
3. Komodo Island, Indonesia
Location: East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Best Time to Visit: April to December
Famous for its Komodo dragons, Komodo Island is equally renowned for its incredible underwater biodiversity. The island lies within Komodo National Park, one of the richest marine environments in the world. With vibrant coral reefs, manta rays, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish, the island offers snorkelling experiences like no other.
Highlights: Pink Beach, Manta Point, and the island’s crystal-clear waters.
Tip: The currents can be strong in some areas, so it’s important to follow local guidance and stay close to your guide.
Must-Do: Snorkel at Pink Beach, where the water is not only teeming with marine life but also boasts soft, pink sand.
4. The Big Island, Hawaii, USA
Location: Hawaii, USA
Best Time to Visit: April to October
The Big Island of Hawaii offers an abundance of snorkelling experiences, from shallow reefs to deeper waters with bioluminescent plankton. The Kona Coast is one of the most popular snorkelling areas, known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. For something truly unique, try night snorkelling with manta rays, where you can witness these graceful creatures feeding on plankton.
Highlights: Kailua-Kona, Honaunau Bay, and night snorkelling with manta rays.
Tip: For a more intimate experience, consider joining a small group or private tour that takes you to less crowded snorkelling spots.
Must-Do: Experience the bioluminescence while snorkelling at night with manta rays at Kona’s Blackwater dive sites.
5. Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Location: West Papua, Indonesia
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Raja Ampat is one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems on the planet, with over 1,500 species of fish and 75% of the world’s coral species. The crystal-clear waters and thriving coral reefs make it a top destination for snorkellers looking to see a variety of marine life, including manta rays, sea turtles, and schooling fish.
Highlights: Piaynemo, Wayag, and the local eco-resorts with private reefs.
Tip: Raja Ampat is remote and requires longer travel, so plan your trip in advance and be prepared for a boat-based snorkelling adventure.
Must-Do: Explore the pristine coral gardens near the eco-resorts or embark on a liveaboard diving boat for a more comprehensive marine experience.
6. Palawan, Philippines
Location: Palawan Island, Philippines
Best Time to Visit: December to May
Palawan is home to two of Southeast Asia’s best snorkelling destinations: the Tubbataha Reef and the Coral Garden. The water is warm and crystal-clear, making it perfect for snorkelling. The region offers diverse marine life, including various species of corals, turtles, and colourful fish.
Highlights: Tubbataha Reef, El Nido, and Coron’s shipwrecks.
Tip: Palawan is a protected marine area, so be sure to respect local regulations and avoid touching the coral.
Must-Do: Snorkel at the Coral Garden sanctuary, where the reef is healthy and brimming with marine life.
7. Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Location: Belize, Central America
Best Time to Visit: April to June
The Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest coral reef system in the world and offers some of the best snorkelling in the Caribbean. The calm, clear waters are home to a wealth of marine life, including turtles, rays, and an abundance of tropical fish. The reef is easily accessible from various coastal towns, making it perfect for both experienced snorkellers and beginners.
Highlights: Silk Caye, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and the Great Blue Hole (for divers).
Tip: Visit the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where the waters are teeming with marine life, and you can snorkel in shallow, protected areas.
Must-Do: Snorkel at Silk Caye to swim alongside sea turtles and colourful fish in pristine waters.
8. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Location: Ecuador, Pacific Ocean
Best Time to Visit: June to November
The Galápagos Islands are known for their unique wildlife and offer snorkelling experiences that are like no other. You’ll encounter playful sea lions, sea turtles, and even penguins. The volcanic underwater landscape creates an extraordinary environment for both snorkelling and diving.
Highlights: Devil’s Crown, Gordon Rocks, and snorkelling with sea lions at Kicker Rock.
Tip: Plan your trip around the Galápagos Marine Reserve to access the most diverse and protected marine environments.
Must-Do: Visit Devil’s Crown, an underwater volcanic caldera with crystal-clear water and vibrant marine life.
9. Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
Location: British Virgin Islands, Caribbean
Best Time to Visit: November to May
Virgin Gorda offers some of the best snorkelling in the Caribbean, particularly around The Baths, a series of massive granite boulders that create dramatic underwater grottos. The shallow waters are teeming with fish and provide a unique snorkelling experience.
Highlights: The Baths, The Dogs, and the nearby coral reefs.
Tip: The Baths are best explored by boat, and the shallow waters make them perfect for beginner snorkellers.
Must-Do: Snorkel around The Dogs, a cluster of uninhabited islands, where you’ll find healthy coral reefs and hidden treasures.
10. Red Sea, Egypt
Location: Egypt, Red Sea coast
Best Time to Visit: March to May
The Red Sea offers some of the best snorkelling in the world, with an impressive diversity of marine life and clear, warm waters. Popular spots like Sharm El-Sheikh and Marsa Alam are known for their colorful coral reefs, spinner dolphins, and the opportunity to see dugongs.
Highlights: Abu Dabbab Bay, Ras Mohammed National Park, and the Thistlegorm wreck.
Tip: The best snorkelling can be found near shallow reefs and protected areas, so be sure to visit marine reserves.
Must-Do: Snorkel in Abu Dabbab Bay, where you can swim with sea turtles and spot elusive dugongs.
Before you embark on your next snorkelling adventure, make sure you’re equipped with the right gear to enhance your experience. Mike’s Dive Store offers a wide range of all-in-one snorkelling packages, including high-quality mask, fins, and snorkel sets that are perfect for both adults and children. Their curated collection features top brands like Cressi, Mares, and Scubapro, known for their durability, comfort, and performance. Proper snorkelling gear ensures a better fit, improved visibility, and greater comfort, allowing you to fully enjoy the underwater world with confidence. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant reefs of the Great Barrier Reef or swimming with sea turtles in Belize, investing in reliable snorkelling equipment from Mike’s Dive Store will make your experience safer, more enjoyable, and unforgettable. Explore their adult snorkelling kits and children's snorkelling kits to find the perfect set for your next aquatic adventure.
Prescription Scuba Diving and Snorkelling Mask Builder
Snorkelling is a fantastic way to explore underwater, but if you wear glasses or contact lenses, it can be tricky to see clearly. Prescription snorkelling masks are the perfect solution, giving you clear vision without the hassle of glasses or contacts.
Our prescription mask builder makes it simple to choose the right mask for you. Start by picking your preferred snorkel mask, then select the prescription lenses that match your vision. You can also add accessories like anti-fog solutions to enhance your experience.
Once you’ve selected your mask and prescription lenses, the lenses are made to match your prescription for perfect vision underwater. Whether you need single-vision or bifocal lenses, it’s all tailored to you. With a custom prescription snorkelling mask, you can dive in with confidence and see everything clearly. Discover Mask Builder
Exclusive discount: The Camel Dive Club and Hotel in Sharm El-Sheikh is the go-to destination for all scuba diving and snorkelling activities in the area. It's one of our favourite places for family vacations or even technical diving trips.
Use promo code MIKE10 to get -10% off on snorkelling/diving/courses & hotel stay at Camel Dive Club & Hotel – contact here for a personalised quotation.
Whether you’re looking for calm, shallow waters or thrilling marine encounters, these destinations offer unforgettable snorkelling experiences. Pack your mask and fins and dive into adventure!
