Check out our list of some of the best places to enjoy snorkelling around the world.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
With about 1500 islands and numerous tiny islets, Raja Ampat is one of the most sought after diving destinations in Indonesia. Home to over 1000 different species of fish, sea turtles, sharks and mantra rays, this popular marine oasis is best to experience the rich and beautiful underwater aquatic world. A snorkelling tour along the coast of the island takes you through shallow reefs and some of the unexplored habitats. Spot some of the endangered species such as Nudibranch and Tasselled Wobbegongs. Be aware of the ocean currents and weather conditions before venturing deep.
Mahé, Seychelles
Comprising of over 115 islands, several bays and coves, Mahé is one of the popular snorkelling sites in the Seychelles. Featuring a spectacular marine life along with rich flora, the island is best place to explore the shallow lagoons and numerous tiny corals. The marine park of Ternay Bay, Port Launay, Anse Soleil, Petite Anse, and Anse Takamaka are the popular diving and snorkelling sites on the island. Sea turtles, angel fish, parrot fish, and demoiselles are among the species which can be spotted here.
Norman Reef, Australia
Consisting of over 900 tiny islands off the coast of Queensland, Normal Reef is one of the top diving spots in the country. Packed with numerous corals and home to different marine species, the reef is perfect to enjoy the beautiful underwater world. For those willing to explore the marine life, regular snorkelling tours are organised by guides and tour operators. Angelfish, Unicornfish, Butterflyfish, hawkfish, sweetlips, reef bannerfish, pufferfish, wrasse, moray eels and turtles are among the common species spotted here.
The Coral Triangle, Asia Pacific
Stretching all the way across Bali, the Philippines and Solomon Islands, The Coral Triangle is another famous diving spot in the world. As the centre of the world’s marine biodiversity, it is home to over 2000 species of reef fish and numerous sea turtles and is thus regarded as one of the best snorkelling sites in the world. Due to the shallow water level and low lying waves, you don’t have to dig in deep to explore the rich aquatic world. Most snorkellers here enjoy the swift-moving channels, exposed seaward reefs, protected coral gardens, quiet lagoons and bays, and mangroves as a part of their adventure.
Isla Holbox, Mexico
A sleepy island off the coast of Mexico, Isla Holbox is a popular diving site and one of the top destinations for whale shark swimming. Swimming with sharks and other sea animals in the waters of North Pacific Ocean is undoubtedly an experience of a lifetime. If you are lucky enough, you can spot dolphins and sea turtles as well. The lagoons, corals and the rich marine life provide a playground for snorkellers to enjoy and explore the hidden ocean treasures. The months from June to September are usually considered best to enjoy snorkelling and other adventure activities here.
