When you’re in a place like the Caribbean, there’s a fringe benefit to the waters being so warm and clear. Not only are they great for swimming and relaxing, they’re also perfect for activities like snorkeling. Seriously, there may be no other place in the world that’s better for it!
Now, you might not think that snorkeling is the most exciting thing ever, but this only means that you’ve never gone snorkeling in the Caribbean. When you’ve got your snorkeling gear on there, you’re sure to see and feel things that you’ll remember for a lifetime. Have you ever wondered what it’s like to swim through a school of seahorses? Have you ever dreamed of swimming with the stingrays? That’s exactly the kind of experience you can have in the Caribbean.
But, where should you go? What Caribbean snorkeling spots are the best? That’s exactly what we’re going to be covering below. In the 24 pictures that follow, you’ll see the kinds of experiences you can have if you choose to go snorkeling in the Caribbean. We think after you see what’s available, that you’ll be rushing to book your next vacation down there. So, let’s take a look!
1. Underwater Sculpture Gardens (Grenada)
If you really want a unique snorkeling experience, then you have to check out this destination that was created by artist Jason de Caires Taylor.
2. Riviera Maya (Mexico)
The Riviera Maya is dotted with sinkholes, called cenotes, which are absolutely perfect for fantastic snorkeling.
3. Horseshoe Reef (Tobago)
While there’s plenty of aquatic life to be admired here, the thing that will really strike you is the fantastically colored reef.
4. Thunderball Cave (Bahamas)
Yes, it’s named for the James Bond movie, and no that’s not the only thing this snorkeling destination has going for it.
5. Hol Chan Marine Reserve (Belize)
There’s a of snorkeling water to cover here (over 4000 acres, actually), but be sure you don’t skip Shark Ray Alley.
6. Stingray City (Grand Cayman)
Given the name, we’re sure that we don’t need to tell you why this snorkeling destination has earned a spot on the list!
7. Buck Island (U.S. Virgin Islands)
Surrounded by a coral reef, there are plenty of grottos to snorkel through, where you’ll encounter all kinds of reef fish.
8. The Baths (British Virgin Islands)
Not only is The Baths one of the finest beaches in all of the Caribbean, it’s also one of the best places for snorkeling.
9. Trunk Bay (St. John)
There’s no such thing as boring snorkeling here, as locals claim its possible to see over 40 different species of underwater animals in less than half an hour.
10. Arashi to Malmok (Aruba)
This remote Caribbean snorkeling destination is worth the time of travel, as you’re sure to see more starfish than you can shake a stick at.
11. Buccoo Reef (Tobago)
None other than Jacques Cousteau used to rave about this place, and when you’re snorkeling here, you’ll see why.
12. Rockhouse (Jamaica)
When you finally pick your head up from the water, be sure to take a look around. The terrain here is absolutely breathtaking.
13. Scotts Head (Dominica)
Located near Champagne (which is later on this list), Scotts Head is another stunning snorkeling destination that’s not to be skipped!
14. Cordillera Keys (Puerto Rico)
If sea turtles are on your list of things you’d like to see while snorkeling, then be sure to add this destination to your itinerary.
15. Dean’s Blue Hole (Bahamas)
This famous Caribbean destination is on the bucket list of many of a traveler, and it should absolutely be on yours if you enjoy snorkeling.
16. Banco Chinchorro (Mexico)
It takes some time to get out there, but the beautiful forest of coral you’ll find is well worth the effort.
17. Laughing Bird Cay (Belize)
As you’re face down surveying the aquatic life through crystal-clear water, it’s entirely possible that you might see a barracuda!
18. Champagne (Dominica)
If you’ve been dreaming of snorkeling through schools of seahorses, then your dreams can be realized here. (And you’ll see why it’s called Champagne…)
19. Desecheo Island (Puerto Rico)
You may get more than you bargained for if you visit this destination, as travelers regularly report seeing humpback whales on their way out and back.
20. Bloody Bay (Little Cayman)
Divers know this place well, as it’s one of their favorite destinations in the world, but it can easily be enjoyed by snorkelers too!
21. Klein Bonaire (Bonaire)
You’ll need to take a boat out to this uninhabited island, but once you’re there, you’ll be able to enjoy some truly exceptional snorkeling.
22. Bight Reef (Turks & Caicos)
As you’re peering through the crystal-clear waters of this snorkeling destination, it’s entirely possible you might spot a sea turtle or two!
23. Los Roques (Venezuela)
You can get here by private plane or boat, and the exclusivity means you won’t have much competition for getting around.
24. Anse Chastanet (St. Lucia)
The thing that makes this snorkeling destination a real standout is the sheer diversity of the aquatic life you can see here.
