World Best Places to Snorkel

Undoubtedly, snorkeling has more and more followers, and this sport is an unparalleled experience that really engages. The best of all is that you only have to know how to swim, unlike other disciplines, such as scuba diving, which requires to have special certificate in order to practice it. For this reason, and because it is a real pleasure for the senses, these are some of the best destinations where snorkeling is a must.

Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

Phi Phi Islands in Thailand deserve to be visited for many reasons, mainly if you practice snorkeling. It is one of the areas with the most coral reefs. Places to enjoy this activity in the Andaman Sea are abundant and surprising. The number of colorful fish and octopus which can be spotted is amazing. Plus, the comfort of its warm and transparent waters invites travelers to dive or simply swim.

Most nearby hotels, either on the Kravi coast or on Phuket island, have excursions to the Phi Phi Islands. Visitors will have the opportunity to take a tour around the protected islands where human life is banned, which were scenarios for the filming of "The Beach" by Leonardo Di Caprio.

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Australia has one of the most diverse and colorful sea beds in the world and, fortunately, we can witness it while snorkeling; it is not neccesary to dive deep to enjoy one of the most impressive natural attractions on Earth: the Great Barrier Reef.

This jewel of nature is home to more than a thousand different species of corals, hundreds of different fish species, giant clams, turtles and endless other surprises that can be seen in this extraordinary place, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Minorca, Spain

Spain has in the Balearic Islands ideal corners for snorkeling, such as the coast of Menorca.

There are many coves suitable for this practice, among which those in the north of the island stand out, such as Playa de Cavallería, Cala Mitjana, Cala Pregonda and Cala Sa Mesquida. Discover some of the routes and organized visits offered in this area, which include a snorkeling session in the Bledas Islands Marine Reserve. You will hallucinate.

The south also offers paradises where you can enjoy snorkeling, such as Cala Macarelleta, famous for its emerald-colored waters, and Cala Galdana, where there is a snorkeling school that operates from spring to early autumn.

Palawan and Bohol, Philippines

Palawan is located in the west of Philippines, and is one of the favorite places of the locals due to its beauty and number of existing options. El Nido town, at the north of the island, is perhaps the best starting point for snorkel lovers. Next spot can be the beautiful Corón island, one of the Calamianes Islands, which offers the beautiful Lake Kayangan to discover the richness of its waters.

Bohol island is known worldwide for its coasts and its spectacular coastline, which hold true surprises and a wealth of marine life. The Balicasag Marine Sanctuary is one of the favorite areas for snorkeling in Bohol. Boat trips to see dolphins and visit the deserted Virgin Island are available, which offers crystal clear waters ideal for snorkeling.

Maldive's Islands

In this island country in the Indian Ocean, the water is so crystal clear that sometimes it is not necessary to practice snorkeling to enjoy the great beauty of its waters. The great and exuberant marine life in its islands is a source of attraction not only for diving lovers, but also for snorkeling passionates. Atolls, coral reefs, world biosphere reserves... factors that decisively influence the configuration of an authentic snorkeling culture in the Maldives.

About 70 different species of colorful coral reefs and more than 700 species of fish coexist under the sea. But what makes the Maldives special is the presence of rare species of marine life, such as the giant Napoleon fish.

Cancun and the Riviera Maya, Mexico

Without a doubt, snorkeling is one of the most popular activities in both destinations, and the best thing about practicing it in the Mexican Caribbean is that you can enjoy an extensive (almost innumerable) variety of marine fauna, including over 50 types of native corals from this area and more than 400 fish species.

Near Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is found, one of the best places to practice this activity thanks to the Great Mayan Reef and its warm crystal clear waters. The island is surrounded by coral reefs, home to giant anemones, fire corals, black corals, queen snails, turtles, shrimp, countless multicolored fish (such as damsel fish, butterfly fish or blue angel fish), crabs and even the beautiful seahorses, among other marine species.

On the other hand, in Cancun, and heading to Isla Mujeres, it possible to enjoy a wonderful day of snorkeling in which, in addition to observing hundreds of aquatic species, discover two great attractions, such as the sighting of the whale shark and the Underwater Museum of Art.

Now, if you are an underwater life passionate or just happen to be visiting some of these places, you know where to find some of the world best places to snorkel. See you below the surface!

As seen on Viajes El Corte Inglés.