To some, a case of Bud Light and a jet ski is all you need in the summer time, but we say nay, friends, NAY!
Snorkelling is peaceful, contemplative, exploratory, adventurous, and more. It is..we must say, the best way to spend time in the water.
And…snorkelling is super cheap, only requiring basic swimming skills.
It is very similar to scuba diving…. just doesn’t require a $600 course to learn the ropes.
The amazing underwater views that you get to gaze upon, are beyond amazing. Some may say it’s a form of relaxation or mental therapy.
This article is a great opportunity to share with you my views and opinions on the best snorkelling locations to discover right here in North America. Here is what we are going to cover today:
Table of Contents:
- [ps2id url=’#9′ offset=” class=”]Why is North America a good spot for snorkelling?[/ps2id]
- [ps2id url=’#1′ offset=” class=”]The Best Snorkelling Spots In North America:[/ps2id]
- [ps2id url=’#1′ offset=” class=”]Anse De Pitons, Saint Lucia[/ps2id]
- [ps2id url=’#2′ offset=” class=”]Jack’s Bay & Isaac’s Bay, Saint Croix[/ps2id]
- [ps2id url=’#3′ offset=” class=”]Great Abaco, Bahamas[/ps2id]
- [ps2id url=’#4′ offset=” class=”]Captain Cook Monument, Hawaii[/ps2id]
- [ps2id url=’#5′ offset=” class=”]Crystal River, Florida[/ps2id]
- [ps2id url=’#6′ offset=” class=”]La Jolla, California[/ps2id]
- [ps2id url=’#7′ offset=” class=”]Dade County, Florida[/ps2id]
- [ps2id url=’#8′ offset=” class=”]Laguna Beach, California[/ps2id]
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Let’s dive right in!
Why is North America a good spot for snorkelling?
North America is surrounded by three oceans which make it a unique snorkelling area. Its vast underwater space makes North America an amazing destination which is marked by a wide diversity of marine environments.
The Caribbean Sea, located southeast of the Gulf of Mexico, is definitely one of the greatest snorkelling destinations not only in North America, but also in the world.
If you go snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea, you will find yourself surrounded by nurse sharks, green turtles, barracudas, and all sorts of tropical fish.
Due its physical-chemical conditions, the Caribbean Sea also has huge areas of coral reef and seagrass pasture.
Actually, 14% of the world’s coral reefs are located in the Caribbean Sea, making it one of the greatest locations for underwater adventures.
Of course, the Caribbean Sea is not the only snorkelling destination in North America. This amazing continent has much more to offer.
Stay with us as we are about to take you to some of the greatest snorkelling destinations which are scattered all around North America.
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Let’s start with Anse de Pitons, another mesmerizing location in the Caribbean.
Anse De Pitons, Saint Lucia
The best location to snorkel in this lovely Caribbean location is Anse De Pitons, located just around the base of the Pitons.
Being at the base of these two beautiful mountains offsets a dramatic shape that brings amazement to all who look upon it.
The underwater viewing sections are beyond belief at this location.
Those who love to snorkel will probably return time and again to Saint Lucia, due to the vast array of aquatic sea life who call it home.
As well, there are lovely corals and fish to see!
Hotels and Accommodation in Anse de Pitons, Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia is famous for its luxury properties that have everything you need for a perfect holiday in the sunshine.
Amazing ocean views, private pools, and breezy laid-back verandahs are just some of the things you can find in these magnificent properties.
Some of the best and most attractive places to stay in Saint Lucia are Sugar Beach (Viceroy Hotels and Resorts), Ladera Resort, and Hotel Chocolat.
Jack’s Bay & Isaac’s Bay, Saint Croix
Saint Croix’s Jack’s Bay and Isaac’s Bay are both hard to reach, and remote snorkelling destinations, but don’t let that deter you.
They are so worth the extra mile it takes to get to them. You simply must go for it!
These beautiful locations are pristine, and part of the Marine East End Park.
Isaac’s Bay is known for its barrier reef, which is a sight you must see! I think this is how snorkelling should be.
The bays are super silent and free of uptight, bustling tourist groups, who might kill the vibe.
Hotels and Accommodation in St. Croix
Make your adventure to the St. Croix extra special and memorable by staying in one of its luxurious villas or hotels.
Most of these rentals offer beautiful pools, great ocean views, delicious food, and much more.
Some of the most amazing rentals available in St. Croix are Sand Castle on the Beach, Chenay Bay Beach Resort, and The Buccaneer Hotel.
Great Abaco, Bahamas
Love reef snorkelling? Look no further than the Bahamas.
There is a reef right off the shore line of Great Abaco. It is under the protection of the Bahamas National Trust.
But who says we can’t have a little fun? Not us, because we follow the rules, and so should YOU.
Yes, there are rules, and all snorkelers must abide by the posted rules; no standing on top of the reef, no taking items from the water, no anchoring on the reef, and no fishing.
They provide mooring buoys for those who want to snorkel from their boat, but the boats must be 25 feet or less in size in order to use them.
Talk about popular, people love this spot, not just because it’s the Bahamas, but because this location has such great snorkelling.
It’s located right off of the Marsh Harbor just about a mile southeast of the main entrance.
Appropriate foot attire is advised as the beach here is very rocky.
Hotels and Accommodation in Great Abaco, Bahamas
The Bahamas offer not only some of the best snorkelling and scuba-diving spots in the Caribbean but also some of the greatest hotels and luxury villas.
No matter which villa ore hotel you choose to stay in, you will be treated with a scene of sand and palm trees.
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Abaco Beach Resort, Lofty Fig Villas, Firefly Sunset Resort, and Treasure Cay Resort are some of the best options we can recommend.
Captain Cook Monument, Hawaii
Stop what you’re doing! One of the best places to go snorkelling is Hawaii at Captain Cook Monument.
These are the best of the best waters to snorkel in, super clear to see all the coral and fish in the sea, located on the north shore of Kealakekua Bay.
This snorkelling location can’t be reached by vehicle, so you have to get there by boat, hiking (good ole two feet of yours) or kayaking.
You can snorkel to the right and left of the obelisk. Visibility is a great benefit here, allowing you to see up to 100 feet in some locations!
Tons of fish…. parrotfish, bullet head fish and even triggerfish! Keep your wits about you, you don’t want to miss all the fish!!
Hotels and Accommodation near Cook Monument
Make your snorkelling adventure to Captain Cook Monument unique and memorable by staying in of the magnificent hotels and villas.
Here we recommend you some of the top hotels and villas in the area: Dragonfly Ranch, Ka’awa Loa Plantation, Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa.
Crystal River, Florida
Of course when many folks think of Florida, they think of the beach. It’s only natural.
But this prime snorkelling spot is far from the beach and all the Spring Breakers.
This river located in north central Florida provides the clearest inland water you have ever seen, hence the name Crystal River.
Plus, it is the only location in the country where you can swim with the West Indian manatee, which is an endangered species.
If you’re lucky enough, you may catch a quick nuzzle from one.
Hotels and Accommodation in Crystal River
Crystal River in Florida is famous not only for its great tourist attractions and amazing snorkelling spots but also for its amazing accommodation.
Here you can find some of the best apartments, hotels and villas in Florida.
Some of our top picks are the Plantation Inn & Golf Course, Hampton Inn, and Bella Oasis hotel.
La Jolla, California
Don’t forget your wetsuit! To snorkel in this amazing beach close to San Diego you sure will need it.
It’s worth it to get yourself a close – up pic of the yellowtail, garibaldi and leopard sharks.
Once you get out of the hidden cove, dry off on the most amazing scenic beach in southern CA!
Hotels and Accommodation in La Jolla, California
La Jolla has inspired artists and surrounded locals and tourists in sunshine and style for decades. This amazing place sparkles with breathtaking sights and attractions.
Everything here is immersed in a casual, relaxed luxury, including many of the accommodations.
Some of the best places to stay in La Jolla are Redwood Hollow Cottages, The Grand Colonial, and Scripps Inn.
Dade County, Florida
Not only is it the “made in Dade” tattoo city, but what county do you know that has two national parks in America?
This county is home to Biscayne and the Everglades, which is not only amazing, but part of the Florida Keys reef, so now you can snorkel over awesome shipwrecks, even spy on the occasional dolphin, and view living reefs!
Hotels and Accommodation in Dade County.
Dade County is not only know as a great tourism destination, but also as a business location for companies active in Hospitality and Tourism sector, including cruise lines.
Dade County is also a favored location for business meetings, sales events, seminars and trade shows.
If you are just in the city to go snorkelling, there’s a good chance you may want some budget accommodations, which there are plenty of in Miami, but, since we’re here, let’s look at some of the really cool swanky options just in case you’re feeling your oats and want to splurge.
Here you can also find some of the most luxurious hotels anywhere in Florida, including Mandarin Oriental, Biltmore Hotel, or JW Marriott Marquis along the coastline, Kimpton Angler’s at South Beach, or The Setai at Bayshore.
Laguna Beach, California
Ever seen the show Laguna Beach? Don’t get us started. In between mansions and surfer’s paradise (New Port Beach), who wouldn’t love this location?
Once it was home to the world’s greatest mobile home park. Now, it is perhaps the best diving site in southern CA.
Are you one of the tankless?
A simple snorkel through this massive underwater park, around Reef Point or Pelican Point, provides a great glimpse of dolphins, garibaldi and much much more.
Hotels and Accommodation in Laguna Beach
Did you know that Laguna Beach boasts the most beachfront lodging options in all of California!? This makes it a perfect spot for a beach getaway.
Some of the best places to stay in Laguna Beach are: Beachside Resort (Panama City Beach), La Quinta Inn, Holiday Inn Club Vacations Resort, Pineapple Villas, and Casa Loma, among others.
Ok, now that we’ve shared this list of the best snorkelling locations in North America with you, don’t leave just yet…because WE ARE COMING WITH YOU!!!
