27 of the World's Best Places to Go Snorkeling
When it comes to outdoor adventure, few experiences can rival snorkeling. Swimming with tropical fish in crystal-clear waters is an activity suitable for all ages, and destinations worldwide offer excellent snorkeling opportunities. According to our curious Miru travel leaders, here are some of the best places to go snorkeling.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
The best place to go snorkeling
Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands is our vote for the top snorkel spot in the world. Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, the most biodiverse marine area in the world, these remote Indonesian islands are a snorkeling paradise.
Learn more about Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands.
15 Best Places for Snorkeling
Still, trying to decide where to go on your next vacation? Why not add one (or all!) of these fantastic snorkeling destinations to your list? From Bora Bora and Mexico to Australia and Brazil, there's sure to be a spot that's perfect for you.
Shallow shipwreck, snorkeling in Palau
1. Palau & Yap
One of the smallest countries in terms of landmass, Palau makes up for its size with some of the most biodiverse waters on the planet.
Discover colorful coral sunken beneath fringing reefs, inner lagoons, seagrass beds, marine lakes, and mangrove forests. Search for over 1,500 species of colorful fish, more than 700 species of coral, and a variety of large pelagics.
Unforgettable moment: Enjoy an unusually serene experience swimming with non-stinging jellyfish on the uninhabited island of Eil Malk.
Anemone fish - Great Barrier Reef, Australia
2. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Any mention of the world's best snorkeling spots would be incomplete without Australia's Great Barrier Reef—the largest coral reef ecosystem in the world.
One of the most iconic natural wonders of the world, stretching more than 1400 miles along the Australian shoreline, the Great Barrier Reef is best visited in winter, away from jellyfish season, which runs between November and May.
Discover Australia's Great Barrier Reef on our Dive and Snorkel Adventure.
3. Wakatobi Island, Indonesia
Wakatobi Island, off the southeast coast of Sulawesi in the Banda Sea, once described as an "underwater Nirvana" by Jacques Cousteau, is a world-class snorkeling destination.
Not to miss moment: snorkeling at Wakatobi Reef, a designated UNESCO Marine Biosphere Reserve.
The famous Blue Footed Booby - Galapagos Islands
4. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
It's easy to see why ancient mariners thought these islands were enchanted. From the giant tortoises that inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution to the vibrant marine life that inhabits the islands' waters, the Galapagos Islands are indeed a world unto themselves.
Ready to travel? Learn more about our Ultimate Galapagos Island Tour.
5. Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands
Pristine coral reefs teeming with green sea turtles and manta rays—over 3000 species of fish and more seagrass and mangrove species than anywhere else. Search for pygmy seahorses while you snorkel through diverse marine life or learn about the legacy of the old world spice trade -Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands are not to be missed.
Snorkeling in Egypt with sea turtles
6. The Red Sea, Egypt
One of the world's top destinations for underwater enthusiasts, the Red Sea, a seawater inlet of the Indian Ocean lying between Asia and Africa, is home to over 1200 species of fish, including 44 types of reef sharks and 200 types of hard and soft coral.
With warm water temperatures, excellent visibility, and a variety of dive sites, it's no wonder the Red Sea is high on any snorkeler's bucket list.
Why visit: Blacktip reef sharks inhabit the Red Sea year-long, and while they are shy by nature, with a little patience, you may be able to swim alongside one.
Book your Red Sea Snorkeling trip here.
7. Tofo, Mozambique
Moray eels, whale sharks, sea turtles, and humpback whales are just a few of the brilliant marine life species you'll encounter while diving and snorkeling in Tofo, Mozambique.
When to visit: Tofo welcomes hundreds of humpbacks between October to June. And while most other dive or snorkel sites are seasonal to whale sharks, Tofo is home to these gentle giants all year round.
8. Hanauma Bay, Hawaii
Hanauma Bay on the island of Oahu is another excellent spot for snorkeling and one of the most popular places to snorkel in all of Hawai'i.
This volcanic crater in the Pacific Ocean has been partially submerged by the sea, creating a sheltered lagoon with calm waters and plenty of fish.
A protected marine life conservation area, visitors are required to participate in a short 9-minute orientation program before entering the park. This program helps educate visitors about responsible wildlife interactions and must be reserved and paid for in advance.
9. Ambergris Caye, Beliz
Ambergris Caye, the largest of Belize's offshore coral cayes, is a popular destination for snorkelers and scuba divers.
The water here is crystal clear, with plenty of tropical fish and coral. Don't miss out on swimming with nurse sharks and stingrays!
When to visit: The water is at its clearest between April and June.
10. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora, a small South Pacific island northwest of Tahiti, is one of the most beautiful places on earth. And its turquoise waters and coral gardens make it a top snorkel spot to visit.
So whether you're a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, Bora Bora is a great place to explore the underwater world.
11. Roatan, Honduras
Roatan is a beautiful island off the coast of Honduras that offers some of the best snorkel and dive sites in the world. The coral reef is healthy and teeming with fish and sea life making it an ideal spot for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. There are also several shipwrecks to explore, adding an extra element of excitement to your underwater adventure.
Sea turtle - Great Barrier Reef, Australia
12. Lady Elliot Island, Australia
Lady Elliot Island is a world-famous snorkeling destination located at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef. With beaches made entirely of coral and guano, the island is home to an abundance of marine life, including majestic manta rays, sea turtles, and over 1200 species of fish.
When to visit Lady Elliot Island: Turtle nesting season is between November to February, and turtle hatching is from February through April. Humpback whale migration begins in June and runs until October, while peak Manta season begins in May and until August.
13. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
Fernando de Noronha is an archipelago located about 200 miles off Brazil's northeastern coast. It's comprised of one main island and 20 mainly uninhabited islands.
Mainly known for its diving spots, snorkelers should go to Atalaia Beach, which forms a natural aquarium and swimming pool during low tide, trapping fish in tidal pools until the next high tide.
14. Whitsunday Islands, Australia
The Whitsunday Islands are a stunning example of Australia's natural beauty. Lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and azure waters make this region a paradise for both locals and visitors alike.
With 74 islands to explore, there's no shortage of snorkeling spots. From beginner-friendly reefs to more advanced sites, there's something to offer everyone.
Coral reef - Komodo National Park
15. Komodo Island, Komodo National Park , Indonesia
Komodo National Park, located in Indonesia, is best known as the home of the Komodo dragon. But this national park is also one of the top snorkeling spots in the world.
With over 2,200 species of fish and eye-popping coral, there's plenty to see underwater. Hammerhead sharks, hawksbill turtles, and mantas are just a few of the many animals you might encounter during your stay.
Recommend snorkel site: Tanjung Rusa, has fantastic snorkeling with an excellent coral garden in a shallow reef.
16. PHI PHI AND THE SIMILAN ISLANDS, THAILAND
These Thai islands offer a breathtaking snorkeling experience with some of the clearest waters in the world.
Visitors to Phi Phi and the Similan Islands can rent top-notch snorkel gear onsite, ensuring a fantastic view of the underwater spectacle.
The Phi Phi Islands are known for their stunning rock formations and vibrant aquatic life, while the Similan Islands are famous for their diverse coral reefs and visibility that can exceed 30 meters.
Not to miss moment: Snorkeling at the renowned Elephant Head Rock, where the underwater topography and current conditions create a unique snorkeling adventure.
17. VIRGIN GORDA, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
Virgin Gorda is famed for its yacht-filled harbors and idyllic snorkeling spots.
The island's crystal-clear waters allow snorkelers to explore underwater caverns and the famous Baths, a seaside area where giant boulders form spectacular saltwater pools and grottoes.
Essential experience: Swim through the narrow crevices of the Baths to discover hidden rooms filled with sea life.
18. BAZARUTO ARCHIPELAGO, MOZAMBIQUE
Part of a protected marine park, the Bazaruto Archipelago offers pristine beaches and unspoiled coral reefs rich with marine biodiversity.
These remote islands are a haven for endangered species such as dugongs and several types of sea turtles.
Best time to visit: Snorkeling during the migratory season of the humpback whales from July to September.
19. BORACAY, PHILIPPINES
Boracay is renowned not just for its powdery white beaches but also for its vibrant marine life.
The waters around the island are teeming with colorful fish and coral gardens, making it a favorite among snorkelers and divers alike.
Highlight: Visit Crocodile Island, a short boat ride away, known for its rich coral formations and diverse fish species.
20. BUNAKEN NATIONAL MARINE PARK, INDONESIA
Located at the heart of the Coral Triangle, Bunaken is one of Indonesia's most famous diving and snorkeling areas.
Bunaken National Marine Park is not only a world-class diving site but also offers spectacular snorkeling along its dramatic coral walls.
The park encompasses several islands offering some of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world, including rare and colorful marine species.
Signature experience: Snorkel along the massive coral walls dropping down as deep as 1,344 meters in some places.
21. ILHA GRANDE, BRAZIL
Ilha Grande boasts unspoiled tropical beauty and waters filled with vivid marine life, making it a top destination for snorkelers in Brazil.
The island's rich biodiversity is accentuated by its clear, warm waters that are ideal for spotting sea turtles and a variety of tropical fish.
Key highlight: Snorkel at the Blue Lagoon, where the calm, azure waters are perfect for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike.
22. HOL CHAN MARINE RESERVE, BELIZE
Just off the coast of Ambergris Caye, Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a snorkeler's paradise, featuring a cut in the reef with steep coral walls.
This marine sanctuary protects a rich array of marine life including moray eels, parrot fish, and even nurse sharks.
Why visit: Experience the thrill of snorkeling Shark Ray Alley, where friendly nurse sharks and stingrays glide beneath the waves.
23. BUCK ISLAND, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
Home to one of the few fully protected marine parks in the U.S., Buck Island is renowned for its elkhorn coral barrier reefs.
The crystal-clear waters offer snorkelers the chance to explore thriving coral gardens and encounter a variety of marine species.
Don’t miss: The underwater trail designed to guide snorkelers through the best areas of the reef.
24. PEANUT ISLAND, FLORIDA KEYS
Located in the heart of the Florida Keys, Peanut Island is known for its snorkeling lagoon with easy access to beautiful coral reefs and rich underwater life.
This man-made island offers sheltered waters ideal for families and beginner snorkelers.
Highlight: Explore the historic wreck of a submerged freighter that now hosts a vibrant artificial reef.
25. NINGALOO COAST, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Unlike its more famous counterpart, the Great Barrier Reef, the Ningaloo Reef allows snorkelers to swim with the gentle whale sharks, manta rays, and humpbacks right off the beach.
The coast is also famed for its stunning coral gardens that are easily accessible from the shore.
Best time to visit: April to July for snorkeling with whale sharks.
26. ICELAND
While not your typical snorkeling destination, Iceland offers a unique snorkeling experience in the Silfra Fissure, where you can swim between two continental plates.
The water in Silfra is some of the clearest in the world, offering over 100 meters of underwater visibility.
Must-try experience: Snorkeling in the near-freezing waters is truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
27. SIPADAN ISLAND, MALASYA
Located off the coast of Sabah in Malaysia, Sipadan is often ranked among the top snorkeling destinations in the world due to its remarkable underwater life and crystal-clear waters.
The island is surrounded by one of the richest marine habitats in the world, with hundreds of species of coral and thousands of species of fish, turtles, sharks, and manta rays. The dramatic drop-offs allow snorkelers to float above walls of coral teeming with life.
Noteworthy experience: Encounter large schools of barracuda and big-eye trevally, creating mesmerizing underwater tornadoes.
From snorkeling coral gardens alongside dolphins to dramatic seascapes and underwater coves, these destinations are sure to impress.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, there's no shortage of unique places to explore. So grab your mask and fins and get ready for a snorkeling adventure.