Snorkeling in Oahu
Snorkeling in Oahu
Fondly called as the “Gathering Place”, this is the third largest of the main Hawaiian Islands. It has small close- in offshore aquatic bodies such as Ford Island and Kaneohe Bay that has a total land area of 1, 545.34 square kilometers.
Snorkeling in Oahu is like no other place else. Its shoreline stretches to 366 kilometers which explains why it is such an active hub for all water enthusiasts. It is an aftermath of two separate shield volcanoes namely Wai’anae and Ko’olau that has broad valley or saddle that can be found between them.
There plenty of tourist attractions for snorkeling in Oahu, here are some of those beaches:
* Kawailoa Beach
It may just be seemingly scenic and naturally quiet but that is not the case underwater. It is one of the highly advised places for snorkeling in Oahu. Kawailoa Beach derived its name from the rocky yet sandy coastline. Surrounded by elegant private homes, this is also a sure winner for surfing especially in the summer where the waves are huge. You can spot large sea turtles that close in on the shore. Do not even dare to touch those because you will end receiving a fee to pay.
* Makapuu Beach
Located on the Southeastern coast, the Makapuu Beach is a top winter spot for experienced surfers. The waves are as high as 12 feet or even more than that and the currents are also very dangerous because they get stronger. However, in the summer, the waters are calm which makes it ideal for snorkeling in Oahu. You can take advantage of the life guards who will always be ready to rescue you for whatever will happen. It is also great for outdoor picnics as you get to enjoy the scenic view with the lovely setting of the plants and background of cliffs.
* Wakiki Beach
A very famous landmark in the whole island, Wakiki Beach has long stretches of sandy white shores. You will never be alone in this area because it is always packed especially when you come here when it is the peak for vacation time. It is surrounded by tall hotels and superb restaurants that make it even more a crowd- drawer. The water is actually too churned up for snorkeling in Oahu. However, you can always choose to go swimming, surfing, sailing, canoeing and kayaking. The beautiful sand was formerly a swamp so it is not anymore natural but it was hauled from the island of Molokai.
* Hanauma Bay
This is just very close to Wakiki Beach that has a marine preserve which hosts the friendliest fish on the island. It makes it even more perfect for snorkeling in Oahu because of the abundance of its fauna life. It has a gold sand beach and grassy area plus sea creatures that swim around your feet as you step in the warm water. It is truly a haven for those who come together with their families.
Snorkeling in Kauai
Snorkeling in Kauai
It may be the oldest among all of the Hawaiian islands but there is no mistaking what a happening it is for those who love fun right under the sun.
Also known as the “Garden of Isle”, it has an area of 1, 403.43 square kilometers that lies across a channel in the north of Oahu. Of volcanic origin, Kawaikini is the highest peak that can found and seconded by Mount Wai’ale’ale. It may be a hilly region but it still has lots of aquatic areas conducive for great amount of snorkeling in Kauai.
If you have been dreaming of drifting effortlessly among a school of brightly- colored fish then here are some of the best getaway places for snorkeling in Kauai that are all maintained by Suite Paradise.
* Piopu Kai Resort
Offering both condominiums and vacation homes, Poipu Kai Resort is undeniably one of the most beautiful accommodations in the island. It is bracketed by two beaches namely Brenecke on the west and Shipwreck on the east that are both prime site for snorkeling in Kauai. It can be simply accessed by a stroll through their tropical gardens.
* Kiahuna Plantation
Designed in the Hawaiian homestead style, Kiahuna Plantation boasts of its tranquil gardens on a long white sandy beach. It has thirty- five manicured acres of lagoons, tropical foliage and lily ponds. It also gives that feeling of being in a picturesque underwater scene when having snorkeling in Kauai right at this spot. You would want to stay not just for a night as their lodgings are nestled on a serene stretch of a gorgeous shoreline.
* Nihi Kai Villas
Just 350 yards away from Brennecke Beach, Nihi Kai Villas is a spacious resort that makes it a paradise for snorkeling in Kauai. If you are searching for that ultimate relaxation moment, you can simply retire in the lanai with the view of the sparkling blue sea. It overlooks the shimmering blue ocean where whales breach especially in the spring.
* Whaler’s Cove
With a fascinating oceanfront, Whaler’s Cove is perfect for those who are just raring to dip in the waters and go snorkeling in Kauai. When the sun rises, you can easily exit from your room and put on those gears. It maybe small but it is an intimate resort with thirty magnificent accommodations. Once a haven for whaling ships, its elegance and privacy has remained to be the most visited by tourists all throughout the year.
* Lawai Beach Resort
During the summer, sea turtles are often seen in the clear blue lagoon that adds more thrill for snorkeling in Kauai. Aside from what Mother Nature has to offer right in Lawai Beach Resort, they have also developed it into that carefree lifestyle as you benefit in their spacious rooms. Also, in the winter, whales frolic in the ocean offshore that makes it even a factor for a renowned attraction.
Snorkeling in Florida Keys
Snorkeling in Florida Keys
A string of about 1, 700 islands in the southeast United States, this archipelago begins at the southeastern tip of the Florida peninsula that extends to the gentle arc southwest then westward to the Key West and on to the uninhabited Dry Tortugas. The islands lie along the straits that divide the Atlantic Ocean to the east from the Mexico Gulf to the west that defines one edge of the bay. The geography itself explains why snorkeling in Florida Keys is all together some place else.
The jumping off point to this fascinating cruise will be an overview of the five main areas afterwhich, you can garb on your shorts and slip on those flip- flops as we head to the so- called “Conch Republic”.
* Big Pine Key
As a gateway to the Lower Keys, there lies an unspoiled tropical wilderness of over a hundred small mangrove islets. The Big Pine Key got its named for its extensive pine forests. It was once the homestead site of Keywesters of Bahamian decent in the 1890’s. This is absolutely Mecca for those who love snorkeling in Florida Keys. It has a wide diversity of fish that roam the shallows and the deep blue waters of the Gulf Stream. It is also excellent for nature trails as you pass through the exotic pinewoods and tropical foliage.
* Islamorada
Meaning “purple isles”, Islamorada has plenty of local color to take in. This is the self- proclaimed “sportfishing capital of the world” which explains why its extra grandiose for snorkeling in Florida Keys. Former US president George Bush fell in love with what this has to offer. Searching for the hard-to-pin-down bonefish is one of his favorite activities to do. It has a famed coral reef that extends miles into the ocean that is both feeding and breeding grounds for hundreds of aquatic species.
* Marathon
Called as the “heart of the keys”, Marathon truly lived up to its appellation. It started out as a bustling fishing village in the early 1800’s and has already developed into a metropolis sated with malls, hotels and restaurants. However, this has not lost its charms of being a great spot for snorkeling in Florida Keys. It is home to Key Vaca, Duck Key, Boot Key and Grassy Key which have an abundance of sea creatures. There are manatees, tarpoons, trouts, groupers, snappers and other kinds.
* Key Largo
On this corner is a dwelling of chain of coral reefs. Key Largo is legendary for its lore of pirates and sunken treasures which makes it very popular for snorkeling in Florida Keys. It is known for its excellent water visibility with John Pennekamp State Park as its lead diving destination. It is abode to more than 600 species of psychedelic tropical fish and 40 bright types of corals. It is protected by the Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary.
* Key West
Located just 150 miles from Miami and 90 miles from Cuba, Key West sure knows how to maintain its beauty where it is still a tourist destination for snorkeling in Florida Keys. However, if you are in for solitary vacation, you can simply retire in a hammock between two palm trees as you feel the sound of the breeze and the sunlight kissing your skin. Sunset in this place is undeniably romantic, it is more than a time of the day, it is a happening.
Snorkeling in Florida
Snorkeling in Florida
The state’s geography best explains why it is utter felicity to experience any underwater adventure. Named after a Spanish conquistador Juan Ponce de Leon, it is situated mostly on a huge peninsula between the Mexico Gulf, Atlantic Ocean and Florida Straits. Extending to the northwest into a panhandle, it is near the beautiful countries of the Caribbean, Bahamas and Cuba.
It wont take a long trip to find a good location for snorkeling in Florida because they just about anywhere. Here is list of the great sites to enjoy what the state’s waters offer.
* Crystal River
A major abode for manatees which come in herds throughout November to April, Crystal River is undeniably a sea cow heaven. These tender creatures can be heavy as 1,000 pounds and can reach an average of 10 feet long. Since manatees are already endangered species, scuba diving is not allowed because they might end being harassed and chased. This is truly wonderful for snorkeling in Florida because there are dozens of freshwater springs that boil from the underground aquifer. Due to the salty mix of Mexico Gulf waters, it creates a marine environment that is simply spectacular. The likes of tarpon, snapper and mouth bass can also be seen.
* West Palm Beach
If snorkeling in Florida to witness sea turtles is your thing, then the West Palm Beach is perfect for you. Its fast- moving corridor of water brings a special mix of terrific visibility and abundant corals that provide a breeding ground for a flourishing aquatic life. It is like an underwater zoo where you can swim along a shark and sailfish. To think that is not really common to see a dozen or more of those big cruisers drifting alongside. Not mention this is a migratory path of whales and other oceanic species.
* Dry Tortugas National Park
Seventy miles away from Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is definitely the best place for snorkeling in Florida. A myriad of colorful tropical fish and living corals thrive under the massive ramparts of Fort Jefferson that lies on a carpet of brilliant white sand. It is excellent for the first- timers because the waters are shallow. Varieties of starfish, queen conchs and much more are protected in this sanctuary. A sidetrip to your underwater getaway is heading to the Windjammer wreck. It is a 200 foot Schooner damage that is located just off Loggerhead Key where it is a dwelling for thousands of tropical fish and spiny lobster.
* Key Largo
For historical enthusiasts, Key Largo is where you should head for snorkeling in Florida. The 510 foot Spiegel Grove is a main attraction. It sank eight years ago where it is now drawing the attention of many marine creatures. There are also two great wrecks are the former Coast Guard cutter Bibb and Duane. The barracuda and oceanic jacks have made these sites their quarters. Its colorful reefs and profusion of aquatic population makes it a whole lot of reason to pack up and go to Pennekamp Park.
The Bog Snorkeling
The Bog Snorkeling
Don a wet suit and a snorkel and take a plunge into the slimy, dark bog filled with peat water, awful sludge, black scorpion and who knows what else
Despite the fact that doctors have raised concerns about health effect against this sport, bog snorkeling gained enough popularity to even warrant a world championship of its own. Bog Snorkeling takes place in a 60 yard trench filled with water. This trench is usually cut through a peat bog and filled with water; the water taking the characteristic tan color when heavily saturated with peat bog. Those who take the least time in completing the two consecutive lengths of the 60 yard bog course by snorkeling is declared winner. Wetsuits are often worn, complete with snorkels and flippers, however they are not compulsory. Bog snorkeling also does not allow conventional swimming strokes like the breast stroke.
The World Championship of Bog Snorkeling takes place annually every August on Bank Holiday at the dense Waen Rhydd peat bog near Llanwrtyd Wells in mid Wales. The first World Championship of Bog Snorkeling was first held in 1985. Competitors from different countries don a wet suit and a snorkel and plunge into the slimy, dark bog filled with peat moss, sludge, scorpions, newts, snakes and who knows what else (okay, I’m kidding with the last part). The snorkeler who completes two laps of the 60 yard channel of filth first wins the title. Phillip John of Bridgend was the champion the year 2002, 2003, and 2004 until he was defeated by Ian Hawkes on 2005. Abigail James was the female champion, and Gareth Madelin was the champion for junior bog snorkeling for the years 2003 and 2004.
Other variation of the bog sport also surfaced. Like the mountain bike bog snorkeling where competitors ride with a mountain bike through the bog. The first World Mountain Bike Bog Snorkeling Championship took place in 2000. Since then, it has been a yearly event. Bikes used for this sport are heavily modified, the wheels of which are weighted and the metal structure filled with water. There is also another variation which is the Bog Snorkeling Triathlon.
The Bog Snorkeling Triathlon was launched in July 10, 2005. The triathlon was sponsored by Young’s Bitter. The Bog Snorkeling Traithlon event consists of running on an approximately 12 mile track, then a bog snorkeling of approximately 120 yards through the world famous Bog Trench and a mountain bike ride of approximately 25 miles. The Bog Snorkeling Triathlon have both an individual and a team relay event.
When addressed about bog snorkeling’s health concerns, Gordon Green (the inventor of bog snorkeling) points out that northern bogs (especially upland bogs in Wales) are acidic enough to kill most bacteria. The dark and vicious looking water despite the floating green muck, is safe for swimming as long as there aren’t any dead sheep lying around. True enough, no serious bog snorkelers to date have gotten sick. He even claimed that some natural bogs have fishes in them, particularly trout and chub, although bog swimmers would likely jump out if they see a wicked-looking scorpions. “Oh these scorpions are just harmless”, he says well-naturedly while eyeing rather anxiously on one already clinging to one of the post: a flat, black customer who indeed looked too wicked to be harmless. “They live off bog snorkelers,” Bradburn the local builder nearby remarks straight-faced, as he drives the white wooden stake into the bottom of the bog with a sledgehammer. “This is their one meal of the year.”
*Note: These black water scorpions are really harmless. It is often a specimen in most 5th or 6th grade biology classes.
Welcome to the Best Snorkeling in the Caribbean
Welcome to the Best Snorkeling in the Caribbean
Caribbean contains some of the best spots for snorkeling in the whole world, particularly in the British Virgin Islands
When you say Caribbean, you say snorkeling. Caribbean contains some of the best spots for snorkeling in the whole world. Particularly the Virgin Islands which boasts some of the most impressive wrecks, lagoons and reefs in the entire ocean.
The British Virgin Islands was full of activity since the age of pirates and seafarers. Not only men and ships frequented the area, a whole host of sea life also found the waters of this haven accommodating. Warn and clear a throughout the year, with enough sun to feed any every aquatic vegetation to culmination, this is the perfect underwater habitat. And any perfect underwater habitat makes a perfect snorkeling spot.
The islands of St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas are among the best snorkeling in the Caribbean because of the historic shipwrecks and corals that dot along its shores.
Cane Bay
The Cane Bay wall in St. Croix is a deep underwater cliff that drops dramatically off into a foreboding depth. On a good day, you can swim out about 450 feet to see its ledge teeming with the most colorful underwater flora and fauna.
Buck Island
This island is considered an offshoot to its larger neighbor the St. Croix Island. Buck Island and the surrounding shore is considered a national monument with its waters home to a recorded 250 diverse marine species. Sponges, corals, crustaceans and a host of multicolored fishes greet every snorkeler.
Leinster Bay
Leinster Bay is very accessible since it directly leads to the northern shore of St. John. This calm and often uncrowded area is carpeted with sea life. For those with families or large group, Leinster Bay is the best snorkeling in the Caribbean.
Haulover Bay
While Leinster Bay caters snorkelers with a bustling marine ecosystem, Haulover Bay treats its guest with awesome underwater terrain, often deserted. The best part of this area is gazing at the beauty of stationary elements, as if this silent place was formed by some underwater artist. Ledges, walls, rocks, nooks and sand complement each other to form a peaceful sight.
Trunk Bay
Trunk Bay has a self guided 675 foot long snorkeling trail. With large underwater signs to identify coral species and aquatic life, Trunk Bay is the best snorkeling in the Caribbean for starter swimmers.
Coki Point Beach
Another standard snorkeling spot, Coki Point Beach is also among the best snorkeling in the Caribbean. Located on the north shore of St. Thomas, it entices snorkelers with its fantastically formed coral ledges near the Coral World’s underwater tower.
http://www.getscubadiving.com/snorkeling/Snorkeling-in-Hawaii.html Snorkeling in Hawaii
Aloha! Thus, a greeting that spells an idyllic paradise for a total vacation escapade. An ultimate destination for those who are seeking the value of escapism from the hustle and bustle in the urban jungle. It takes pride for its soothing beaches, fiery sunsets, fragrant forests and signature leis that define what Hawaii is.
The lone state in the United States that is completely surrounded by water, Hawaii is located in the southernmost tip of the country. It comprises 19 islands across a distance of 1, 500 miles. Eight of which are considered “main” which are all situated in the southeastern border of the archipelago. Here is a bird’s eyeview of some of those “main” islands that impresses a grand moment when snorkeling in Hawaii.
* Oahu
It may not be the largest island but for the past thirty years, Oahu has always been the hub on where the action is especially when snorkeling in Hawaii. Their beaches are always crowded because it just near the malls, hotels, restaurants and bars. You will surely fall in love with the comfort and convenience in watching the stunning view of the ocean. You need not go far to the find the spectacular nature that Oahu is popular for. With 64 beaches, waterfalls set in majestic volcanic parks, botanical garden and excellent marine preserve, this is definitely the place to be.
* Maui
Do not every miss visiting Lahaina and Kihei-Wailea that are both luxury resorts in Maui and most recommended for snorkeling in Hawaii. Surfing is such a popular activity to do in the island especially if it is done in Kamaole Beach Park which is known for its huge waves. Of the attractions are the humpback whales that spend winters n the Au- au channel. Every year, they swim from Alaska then migrate to the warm Pacific waters for breeding and giving birth. This location is just the finest venue for a sunset beach wedding. Even with the busy beaches there are also secluded and quieter bays that you can choose from.
* Kauai
From the striking cliffs of the Na Pali coast to the west, to the chic south shore sated with five- star hotels, Kauai has nothing but the best of both worlds. It may have developed into a busy metropolis but it has managed to maintain its distinct, natural beauty ideal for snorkeling in Hawaii. It is in Lihue that most of the excursionists start. It is here that you can trace the history of the sugar mill which is still fully operational. There is also the museum where from there you can decide to go inland where you will find concrete sidewalks and vacation rentals. To the north are abounding coast of coconut trees. There are hundreds of them that are lined up in the highway which makes it great sight as you ho kayaking.
Barbados Snorkeling
Barbados Snorkeling
Barbados is a very beautiful island, but the marine ecosystem is the most beautiful of them all. Even the shipwrecks form fascinating habitats for marine life.
Topographical explanations say that Barbados is a coral island pressed out of sea by volcanic activity in a far away time. It is mostly a flat coral island with rolling hills and many deep ridges and gullies, with an attractive spread of flora and fauna. Within the Barbados coral core there is a vast array of caves and underground lakes, which provide an excellent supply of drinking water that is amongst the purest in the world. The two landmasses that merged together over the years are what made Barbados geologically exceptional. This and other anomalies make this Caribbean Island quite phenomenal, the geological Barbados structure that you will find nowhere else.
The coral shore beaches of Barbados especially along the western borderlines and beaches of fine white sand beautifully merge along an opal sometimes turquoise sea. The coral reef fringes along the shoreline are just breathtaking, a first-rate Barbados snorkeling spot. Along the East Coast, lively surf is blown briskly by the strong and constant trade winds and the waves pound against a rocky shore. The constant breeze of the trade winds gives Barbados a mild and pleasant tropical climate.
Barbados Snorkeling
Barbados is a very beautiful island, but the marine ecosystem is the most beautiful of them all. The fringes and reefs blossom with corals, sponges and plant life. The magnificent barrier reef is located less than a mile away from shore and it is home to thousands of organisms, mostly gorgeously colorful fishes. Even non-aquatic species made these splendid beaches their homes. You can meet gulls feeding on fishes if you’re in Barbados snorkeling.
But don’t just capitalize on the reefs themselves; even the fringes of vegetation can be teeming of aquatic creatures, like the sea horse, frog fish and even slimy giant sand eels, which are harmless.
And do you know that Barbados was once a pirate haven? Most likely you will see those glorious shipwrecks that had become homes to hundreds of small fishes. There are 200 reported pirate shipwrecks dotting the beaches. So do a Barbados snorkeling and enjoy the view of the shipwrecks from a distance.
Featuring the Snuba
Yes, it reads Snuba. What is Snuba? Snuba is a unique, patented shallow water diving system, bridging the gap between snorkelling and scuba diving. It is safe, easy and does not require certification. There is no heavy diving gear – Snuba divers breathe underwater by means of a 20ft airline which is connected to a scuba tank, mounted on a raft at the surface and follows your every movement underwater. Sounds interesting enough? Yes it is interesting enough. Imagine going underwater without equipment so you are free to act and interact with the wildlife around you. Nothing comes close to this experience, nothing at all.
Snorkeling in Puerto Rico
Snorkeling in Puerto Rico
The smallest of the Greater Antilles, this southern American country has more than the beauty of its natives to boast. Surrounded by the Dominican Republic on the east and the Caribbean Sea on the north, what a haven it is for water enthusiasts especially when snorkeling in Puerto Rico.
It is a home to attractive destinations for vacation pleasures that offer virtually any type of getaway experience. An example is Playa y Mar that stretches for about 3, 850 square miles. It is a striking beach coupled with white sands that you would want to exfoliate for your feet.
Snorkeling in Puerto Rico is terrific as the average ocean temperature is 81 degrees Fahrenheit and underwater visibility is at 60 to 75 feet. The areas near Aguadilla and Isabella are equally impressive for any aquatic activities.
The shallow reefs located just meters away San Juan, Dorado, Mayquez and Homacao are also perfect for snorkeling in Puerto Rico. Wherever you head, you are most likely to find a very charming aquarium rich in both tropical flora and fauna wildlife.
Sea creatures such as sea horses that look like chess knights, colorful parrot fish, endless schools of sergeant majors and peculiar arrow crabs can be spotted as you go snorkeling in Puerto Rico. To have some help on the gears, here is a list of business operators:
* Aquatic Dive and Bike Adventures
Location: Road 110 KM10, Gate 5 Ramey Base, Aguadilla
Contact Capt. Jose Rafols at 787-890-6071 or visit their website at www.aquatica.cjb.net.
* Caribbean School of Aquatics
Location: Villa Marina, Dock D, Fajardo
Contact Capt. Greg Korwek at 787-728-6606 or visit their website at www.saildiveparty.com.
* Caribe Aquatic Adventures
Location: Park Plaza Normandie Hotel, San Juan Metro Area
Contact Karen Vega at 787-281-8858 or visit their website at www.diveguide.com.
* Culebra Divers
Location: 4 Pedro Marquez Street, Culebra Island
Contact Walter Rieder at 787- 742- 0803 or visit their website at www.celubradivers.com.
* Island Ventures
Location: La Guancha Boardwalk, Ponce
Contact Capt. Rafi Vega at 787- 842- 8546 or visit their website at www.caribe.net.
* La Casa Del Mar Dive Center
Location: Wyndham El Conquistador, 1000 El Conquistador Avenue, Fajardo
Contact Capt. Carlos Bejar at 787-860-3483 or visit their website at www.lacasadelmar.net
* La Cueva Submarina
Location: Road 466 KM 6.3, Playa Jobos, Isabela
Contact Efrain Acevedo at 787-872- 1390.
* Mona Aquatics
Location: Jose De Diego Street, next to Club Nautico Boqueron
Contact Francisco Garcia at 787-851- 2185 or visit their website at www.monaaquatics.com.
* Mondo Submarino
Location: 10 Laguna Avenue, Carolina
Contact Capt. Luis Torres at 787-791-5764 or e-mail them at mundosub@tld.net.
* Ocean Sports
Location: 77 Isla Verde Avenue, Carolina
Contact Carlos Felix at 787-268-2329 or visit their website at www.osdivers.com.
* Oceans Unlimited
Location: Road 115 KM 12.2, Rincon and Road 305, Pescaderia Rosas, Puerto Real, Cabo Rojo
Contact Lisa Maddocks at 787-823-2340 or visit their website at www.oceans-unlimited.com.
Finding the Best Snorkeling Beaches
Finding the Best Snorkeling Beaches
There are outstanding beaches that cater the needs of young bathers –and young snorkelers too!
Snorkeling is a family affair. Little kids enjoy snorkeling as much as experienced divers do. But they can’t just snorkel anywhere right? Even though Banderas Bay or the Great Barrier Reef on the coast of Belize is interesting enough, you can’t just allow them to snorkel in its waters. The alternative for these budding young snorkelers are snorkeling beaches.
One bad point for snorkeling on beaches though: beaches intended for bathers have endless stretches of sand. And sand like ‘our’ sand doesn’t support life. That’s why tropical beaches, however magnificent they are, would be thoroughly boring to snorkelers. However, there are outstanding beaches that cater the needs of young bathers –and young snorkelers too.
Check out these best snorkeling beaches I have compiled.
Paradise Cove Beach Resort
No other beaches in the Bahamas have the direct access towards the Deadman’s Reef. Paradise Cove knows and takes pride of that. That’s why Paradise Cove Beach Resort is one of the best snorkeling beaches you can find. A short distance from the beach line would the magnificent Deadman’s Reef. And what would one of the best snorkeling beaches have to offer than a coral reef teeming with aquatic life.
Two bedroom villa for $195/day or $1225/week
Fully equipped and just a step away to the beach
P.O. Box F-42771
Freeport, Grand Bahamas Island
The Bahamas
Tel: 242-349-2677
Fax: 242-349-2003
Email: pcove@batelnet.bs
Website: www.deadmansreef.com
Doctor’s Cave Beach
Considered one of the best snorkeling beaches in Jamaica is in Montego Bay. Doctor’s Cave Beach features one of the most safest yet abundant of marine life. Colorful marine rocks and corals dot the sea bottom. This beach is five miles long that is also bordered by plenty of shops, restaurants, and hotels. This means a favorite among the best snorkeling beaches, especially for kids who want excitement, food, and fun all at the same place.
Gloucester Ave, Montego Bay, Jamaica. Call 876-952-2566
Admission: Adult $3, Child (under 12) $1.50
Walter Fletcher Beach
Also situated in Montego Bay, Walter Fletcher Beach also provides the friendliest among the best snorkeling beaches. Centrally located near the city’s main attractions, the beach does get somewhat crowded. The extraordinarily calm waters and on-duty lifeguards make Walter Fletcher very popular for families with younger children, and the peaceful yet vibrant underwater life will excite every children.
Gloucester Ave, Montego Bay, Jamaica · 876-979-9447
Adult $2.30, Child (under 12) $1.15
Olowalu Turtle Reef
Olowalu Turtle Reef in Maui, Hawaii is a National Geographic and vacation rolled into one. Okay it may not belong to the best snorkeling beaches category but there are awesome beaches within the vicinity of this great natural preserve. Why? Because you also need to let the children experience the tranquil life of nature outside the normal bustling of their lives. Olowalu Turtle Reef is the best place to educate them for this. Make this family side trip. It is more worth it.
Olowalu Turtle Reef is where you and your can see and be amazed at the peaceful and gentle ecology these wayward creatures have made for themselves. So peaceful that after you experience it, it will make you do your share in protecting these gentle creatures from extinction.
Snorkeling in Destin the world’s luckiest fishing village
Snorkeling in Destin the world’s luckiest fishing village
Recognized as the world’s luckiest fishing village, Destin has developed to become a premiere resort destination. It sits along the coast in Florida Peninsula that separates from Choctawhatchtee Bay from the Mexico Gulf.
Due to its emerald blue waters and sandy white beaches, snorkeling in Destin will forever be etched in your memories. There are twelve public beach access points that are complete with the facilities that you need. They are as follows: Norriego, O’ Steen, Calhoun, June White Decker, Silver Shells, Hutchinson, Shore at Crystal, Crystal Beach Drive, Barracuda Street, Pompano Street and James Lee Park.
Its marine life is exceptional with the rarest aquatic creatures that can be spotted as you go snorkeling in Destin. There are brilliant green finger and four- foot basket sponges that flourish. Purple sea whips, reef clusters of white star and ivory tree corals also abound.
Sounds like a whole lot of exciting quest underneath? Wait until you hear of this, in its deepest waters, species such as the vibrant yellow angelfish and six- foot playful dolphins are around. Manta rays and logger turtles that are bout 350 pounds big also come. Those who are fortunate snorkeling in Destin will get to watch schools of migrating mackerel, amberjack and cigar minnows.
A submerged petrified forest called the Timber Hole is brimming with sponges, lobsters and sea squirts. You can also get to see sunken luxury liners, damaged ships, railroad box cars and even an airplane that crashed how many years ago. Doesn’t that tickle your interest?
For those who already in for snorkeling in Destin, here are some shops where you can rent gears and equipments:
* Emerald Coast Scuba offers scuba dive and snorkel with aquanut. They also have instruction classes and PADI certification. It is located at 110 Melvin Street behind Taco Bell. Their phone number is 850-837-0955 or 800-220-0955.
* Scuba Tech offers retail, rental, air, nitrox and all the other levels of instruction. You can enjoy the waters aboard their 20- passenger Sea Cobra. It is located at 301 Highway, 98 East. Their phone number is 850- 837- 2822.
* Kokomo Snorkeling Adventure has been fully operational since 1987. You can join their for two hours around the Destin Pass to witness the sights of the underwater fairyland. It is located at 500 Highway, 98 East. Their phone number is 850- 837- 9029.
* The Scuba Shop offers two daily dives trips, diving instruction, equipment rentals, repair services and a lot more. It is located at 348 SW Miracle Strip Parkway, 19 Fort Walton Beach. Their phone number is 850- 243- 1600.
Remember that snorkeling in Destin is a simpler manner to get beneath the water and interact with the marine habitat, not to mention that it is cheap.