Looking for the world’s best snorkelling spots? You’re in luck. We’ve covered the top places to go snorkelling around the globe in this handy guide.

From Thailand to Australia, we’ve been lucky to snorkel in some of the most beautiful locations. In fact, one of our favourite things to do on a trip is to don our snorkelling gear and head out into the ocean.

Whether you’re a first-time snorkeller looking for calm conditions, or a serious snorkel-lover who wants to see some of the world’s hidden gems, you’re guaranteed to find somewhere that excites you in this guide. 

Let’s dive into the best spots…

Best Snorkelling Spots

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

We can’t write a guide to the best snorkelling spots without featuring the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that needs no introduction. Situated off the coast of Queensland, Australia, it is the world’s largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometres and comprising thousands of individual reefs. 

For snorkelers, the Great Barrier Reef offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore an underwater universe brimming with biodiversity. The vibrant coral formations provide a kaleidoscopic backdrop to an incredible array of marine life, including colourful fish, rays, sharks, and the iconic green sea turtles.

But that’s not Australia’s only impressive snorkel spot. On the other side of the country, Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia presents a unique and equally enthralling snorkelling experience. 

Ningaloo is renowned for its accessibility, as the reef is located just metres from the shore in many areas. Snorkelers can encounter the world’s largest fish, the gentle whale shark, during its annual migration, as well as vibrant coral gardens and an abundance of marine species. Better yet, it’s usually a lot quieter than the Great Barrier Reef.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Belize

Next up: Belize. And, located off the coast of Ambergris Caye, Hol Chan Marine Reserve is one of the country’s largest pulls. 

Here’s where a thriving marine ecosystem beckons with rich biodiversity. One of the most famous parts of the reserve is Shark Ray Alley, where you can enjoy encounters with nurse sharks and stingrays. 

Belize is also home to three major atolls – Glovers Reef, Lighthouse, and Turneffe – that offer unparalleled diving and snorkelling opportunities. These atolls feature vibrant coral reefs and underwater walls. It’s even common here to spot larger species like eagle rays and reef sharks. 

The Great Blue Hole, a world-renowned dive site, is located in the Lighthouse Atoll. While it is a mecca for scuba divers, snorkelers can still appreciate the awe-inspiring natural wonder. 

The perfectly circular underwater sinkhole reaches depths of over 120 metres. Snorkelling at the rim of the Great Blue Hole allows you to catch a glimpse of the unique geological formations and the possibility of encountering marine life such as reef sharks and groupers.

Cayman Islands, Caribbean

We could pick almost any destination in the Caribbean, as it truly is one of the most impressive places for snorkelers. However, the Cayman Islands, in particular, is an epic place to don your snorkelling gear.

One of the most famous and unique snorkelling experiences in the Caribbean can be found in Stingray City on Grand Cayman Island. This spot invites you to interact with southern stingrays in their natural habitat. 

The shallow sandbar allows snorkelers to wade or swim alongside these gentle creatures. The clear waters provide excellent visibility, making it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced snorkelers.

Additionally, known for its pristine and untouched underwater landscapes, Little Cayman Island offers a tranquil setting for snorkelers. The Bloody Bay Marine Park, with its dramatic drop-offs and coral walls, is a highlight. 

Nearby, the Molinere Sculpture Park in Grenada is one of the top reasons to hit up the Caribbean. This intriguing underwater art gallery is well worth paying a visit to. 

Situated off the coast of Grenada, this unique site features a collection of sculptures submerged in shallow waters. Snorkelers can explore this open-air museum, discovering intricate sculptures that have become artificial reefs, providing a habitat for marine life.

The Galápagos, Ecuador

It’s typical that one of the most difficult places to reach is also one of the best snorkelling spots. But, trust us when we say that it’s worth the effort of travelling to the stunning Galápagos Islands. 

Located in the Pacific Ocean about 1,000 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador, these islands are famed for their incredible biodiversity. Not to mention their role in inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.

One of the must-visit snorkelling sites in the Galápagos is the Devil’s Crown, a submerged volcanic crater near Floreana Island. This natural wonder, aptly named for its circular shape resembling a crown, is a haven for marine life. Navigate your way through schools of playful sea lions, encounter curious Galápagos penguins, and witness the graceful movements of eagle rays and sharks. 

Beyond the Devil’s Crown, you might find yourself swimming alongside marine iguanas, playful sea lions, and even the majestic Galápagos giant tortoises that occasionally venture into shallow coastal areas.

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

It’s a popular destination for all-inclusive holidays, but did you know that Egypt’s Sharm El Sheikh is also one of the best places to snorkel?

It’s true. And one of the most impressive snorkelling sites in Sharm El Sheikh is Ras Mohammed National Park, where the Gulf of Aqaba and the Gulf of Suez meet, creating a thriving marine ecosystem. 

Here you can immerse yourself in the vibrant coral gardens of sites like Shark and Yolanda Reefs, witnessing a diverse array of marine species, including barracudas, moray eels, and reef sharks. The underwater landscapes in this part of the Red Sea are characterised by dramatic drop-offs and underwater canyons. 

One thing’s for sure – you’re in for an exhilarating snorkelling experience in this part of Egypt.

Fiji Islands

The Fiji Islands are an archipelago that deservedly earn their place on any Pinterest board. And snorkelers will also want to visit. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs, Fiji boasts some of the most exquisite snorkelling sites in the world.  

Within Fiji there are so many incredible places to snorkel. The Great Astrolabe Reef, the fourth-largest barrier reef globally, encircles the island of Kadavu, inviting you to explore its kaleidoscopic coral gardens teeming with an abundance of marine life. Beqa Lagoon, on the other hand, is renowned for its shark encounters.

But, we’ll be honest, you could plan an entire two-week trip to Fiji and never run out of snorkelling spots. Other standout snorkel spots include Waitabu Marine Park on Taveuni Island and the Yasawa island chain to the north west of Fiji’s main island.

Hawaii

When asked to picture impressive coastal spots with colourful coral reefs, we bet Hawaii comes to mind, right?

Known as Pineapple Island, Lanai should be your first spot. Hulopo’e Bay, with its protected marine sanctuary, offers crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Snorkelers can encounter colourful fish, sea turtles, and even spinner dolphins in this idyllic setting. 

Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Kealakekua Bay is a popular place to go snorkelling. The bay is a marine conservation district, and its calm, clear waters are home to a thriving coral reef ecosystem. The bay is also renowned for the Captain Cook Monument, an underwater attraction not to be missed.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora, the jewel of the South Pacific nestled within French Polynesia, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes both above and below the waterline. 

For snorkelling enthusiasts, the island’s turquoise lagoon and coral-rich ecosystems provide an aquatic paradise. The coral gardens surrounding Bora Bora are teeming with a kaleidoscope of marine life, including vibrant fish, graceful rays, and the occasional blacktip reef shark.

One of the standout snorkelling sites is the Bora Bora Lagoonarium, a natural aquarium that offers a captivating encounter with a variety of sea creatures. Snorkelers can swim among friendly stingrays, curious reef sharks, and an array of tropical fish in the lagoon’s pristine and shallow waters.

Elsewhere, Matira Beach is home to one of Bora Bora’s most famous stretches of sand. The shallow and calm waters here make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

Gili Islands, Indonesia

We love the Gili Islands – and it’s no surprise as to why. They’re a haven for snorkelers and divers.

All three islands, Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, boast crystal-clear waters and thriving coral gardens. However, what really sets the Gili Islands apart is their unique underwater art gallery featuring submerged statues. 

Off the coast of Gili Meno, the “Nest” art installation captivates snorkelers as they encounter life-sized human figures nestled within pretty coral formations. The statues, created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, serve as both an artistic expression and a habitat for marine life, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the underwater exploration. 

Beyond the art, the Gili Islands showcase an array of marine wonders, including sea turtles, colourful reef fish, and even the occasional reef shark.

If you’re travelling near Bali and love to snorkel, it’s also worth pointing out Nusa Lembongan. This is another island nearby that is a paradise for water-lovers. If you’re lucky, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the elusive Manta Rays that call this region home.

Komodo National Park, Indonesia

In the heart of the Indonesian archipelago, Komodo National Park stands as one of the best snorkelling spots. It’s renowned for its awe-inspiring underwater biodiversity and dramatic landscapes, not to mention that it’s also home to the famous Komodo dragons.

The crystal-clear waters surrounding Komodo Island boast an impressive array of coral gardens. Snorkelers will encounter schools of tropical fish, graceful manta rays, and even the elusive dugong. One of the park’s highlights is the Pink Beach, where the coral’s red pigments combine with the white sand, creating a mesmerising pink hue both above and below the waterline.

While you’re in the region, make sure to check out Raja Ampat, situated in West Papua. This archipelago is often nicknamed the ‘Amazon of the Seas’ thanks to its unparalleled marine biodiversity. The region boasts the highest recorded diversity of coral species in the world, while the vibrant coral gardens and mushroom-shaped islands boasts a staggering variety of fish species, from pygmy seahorses to majestic reef sharks.

The Maldives

If you’re after paradise, look no further than the Maldives, an island chain perched in the Indian Ocean. While the islands are renowned for overwater bungalows and pristine white-sand beaches, their extraordinary coral reefs are reason alone to visit.

One of the best snorkelling spots within the Maldives is the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This atoll is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and commitment to sustainable tourism (which we’re big advocates of, too.) 

The Baa Atoll is home to the Hanifaru Bay, a marine protected area where, during the manta ray season, snorkelers may witness massive congregations of these graceful creatures feeding on plankton. The opportunity to snorkel alongside these gentle giants is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Ghar Lapsi, Malta

With its postcard-worthy beaches and calm waters, Malta is an underrated destination for those looking for an incredible snorkelling vacation. When heading underwater, keep an eye out for Posidonia beds, huge schools of Amberjack, and even Moray eels.

But where do you begin? Well, wonder no more – the natural inlet of Ghar Lapsi is our top recommendation. This area is known for its excellent visibility, allowing you to explore the rocky seabed and encounter a diverse array of marine species. 

One of Ghar Lapsi’s distinctive features is the Blue Hole, an underwater cave system that we urge experienced scuba divers to check out. While you cannot easily snorkel inside (you’ll need full scuba gear on to explore), the Blue Hole boasts a captivating realm where shafts of sunlight illuminate grand underwater caverns.

Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Wondering where to go snorkelling? Look no further – Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is a goldmine of incredible spots. We really couldn’t pick just one place, so here are a few we wholeheartedly recommend…

Positioned just off the coast of Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is renowned for its world-class coral reefs. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system globally, hugs the island’s coastline, providing you with a front-row seat to an underwater spectacle. 

A tranquil island situated on the north coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Isla Holbox boasts pristine beaches. The island is best known for its encounters with gentle giants, as whale sharks frequent the waters around Isla Holbox.

Nearer Cancún, Isla Mujeres’s Garrafon Natural Reef Park offers excellent snorkelling opportunities, allowing visitors to explore coral gardens and encounter the likes of parrotfish and rays.

Moving inland, Tulum’s cenotes (natural sinkholes) are, without a doubt, our favourite places to snorkel. Cenote Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote are among the most famous, with their clear, freshwater revealing surreal underwater landscapes.

Palawan, Philippines

Palawan, often referred to as the Last Frontier of the Philippines, is a haven for nature lovers, and its underwater landscapes are no exception. With its turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and vibrant coral reefs, Palawan offers an enchanting snorkelling experience amid some of the most stunning natural scenery in Southeast Asia.

One of the best snorkelling destinations in Palawan is the Bacuit Archipelago, near the beaches of El Nido. This collection of limestone islands and islets is surrounded by clear waters that host an abundance of marine life. 

If you have some more time to go snorkelling in the Philippines, other popular places include the Lusong Gunboat Wreck at Lusong Island and Dimakya Island. Snorkelers can explore hidden lagoons, swim through underwater tunnels, and marvel at the colourful coral gardens that are home to an array of tropical fish species.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Now, you might not consider Africa as one of the best snorkelling spots… But you would be completely wrong. Zanzibar, an island just off the coast of Tanzania, is a case in point. 

The surrounding Indian Ocean holds a treasure trove of underwater wonders. Mnemba Atoll, a small coral island situated northeast of Zanzibar, is an incredible snorkelling destination. 

Designated as a Marine Conservation Area, this area is famous for its pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. Here you can explore vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, encounter graceful sea turtles, and witness the beauty of reef sharks cruising through the clear, turquoise waters. 

Another reason we love snorkelling in Zanzibar is thanks to the island’s magical beaches. The likes of Nungwi and Kendwa offer accessible snorkelling opportunities right off the shore. What more could you possibly ask for?

The Similan Islands, Thailand

Thailand is often one of the first places that many people think of when wondering where to go snorkelling. And, tucked away in the Andaman Sea, the Similan Islands are a marine paradise, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant fish.

The Similans consist of nine granite islands, each surrounded by coral reefs teeming with life. Beneath the surface lies a kaleidoscope of marine life, from colourful reef fish to graceful sea turtles. 

We went snorkelling at the Phi Phi Islands on a recent Thailand trip and had an incredible experience. This archipelago offers a postcard-perfect setting for snorkelling adventures. Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh, the two main islands, boast clear turquoise waters and thriving coral reefs. 

We highly recommend booking a tour that includes the stunning Maya Bay, made famous by the film The Beach. While nobody is permitted to swim in the water, the surrounding cove is an idyllic spot that you do not want to miss.

Best Snorkelling Spots: What to Know Before You go

Where’s the best place to go snorkelling?

Any of the spots we’ve mentioned are incredible snorkelling destinations. But, for first timers, we recommend Thailand. There are lots of tours that take you to coves where the water is calm and there are plenty of fish. This is great even if you are travelling in off-season, when the boat rides can be a little bit choppy.

Is snorkelling safe for non-swimmers?

We always recommend that anyone snorkelling is able to swim, but most tours will let you snorkel even if you are not a strong swimmer. It’s vital that you wear a lifejacket to keep you afloat – all you need to do is kick your legs to propel yourself around.