You almost never have to travel far for snorkeling since the entire beach length is filled with coral reefs

Forget the Bermuda Triangle. Forget the CIA. Forget UFO. And forget the dark side of the moon. Because if you won’t, you will avoid Bermuda and will hopelessly miss the magnificent world of Bermuda snorkeling.

Bermuda is known for its amazingly clear turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches and most of all for its vast array of coral reefs. Even if you’re off to just swimming on the beach and you take a peek at the bottom of the reef, the beauty of the sight will be enough to beckon you for snorkeling. If you’re ready for Bermuda snorkeling, all you need is a snorkel, mask, and fins and you’re all set to explore. If you can swim, you can snorkel. There are no tours by boats or fancy trips to secluded hidden paradise. The paradise is on the beaches. A handful of companies can help you if you’re not comfortable swimming alone; otherwise, you can always hit the water on your own.

The best places for Bermuda snorkeling are public beaches. You almost never have to travel very far since most of the entire beach length is full of life. Almost everywhere is something interesting to see. North of St. George’s Golf Club is the Tobacco Bay – your Bermuda snorkeling destination. Tobacco Bay is very shallow although it gets a bit deeper as the ocean meets the beach waters. But the under water life here is so vibrant it is imperative to bring your family with you. Don’t enjoy this underwater scenery alone.

On the southeastern shore and east of Spittal Pond Nature Reserve and Watch Hill Park, is John Smith’s Bay, another top Bermuda Snorkeling location. Another superb Bermuda snorkeling spot is West Whale Bay; it lies along the south shore at the west end of Southampton, west of the Port Royal Golf Course. This snorkeling spots are very convenient for snorkelers staying at St. George or at a hotel near the airport.

If you’re docked in Hamilton, then a worthwhile place to visit is Church Bay. It lies on south Bermuda, west of the Fairmont Southampton Golf Club and Gibbs Hill Lighthouse. The Church Bay is a protected cove, carved out of coral cliffs by elements and time. These reefs are fairly close to land so no special equipment is needed to be prepared. Since Bermuda is facing a huge part of the ocean, the waves can get rough so exercise an extra caution and everything should be fine.

Have you been to the best snorkeling spots in the whole world?

It seems the world could never run out of the best snorkeling spots. If you have seen the Molokini Crater Natural Preserve, you will still be awed at the timelessness at the Olowalu Turtle Reef. Or the priceless shipwrecks of the British Virgin Islands which are slowly eroding with time.

Have you been to the best snorkeling spots in the whole world? Check out the list I made for the best snorkeling spots in the whole world. Maybe, just maybe you missed on of them.

The Molokini Crater Natural Preserve
Maui, Hawaii

The Molokini Carter is one of the best snorkeling spot arguably. So many people visit this site that usually by midday, swarms of snorkelers, divers, and boats will crowd the waters. The crowd is warranted though. A multitude of colorful fishes and corals and sponges will great every enthusiastic swimmer. And sometimes, gigantic manta rays would visit the place.

Olowalu Turtle Reef
Maui, Hawaii

Olowalu Turtle Reef’s protected waters overflow with those gentle and graceful green sea turtles. Here you can see and be amazed at the calm and gentle ecosystem these wayward creatures have made for themselves. This snorkeling spot is a National Geographic adventure.

Deadman’s Reef
Bahamas

While Paradise Cove has the direct access towards the Deadman’s Reef, you can still access the reef by swimming or by boat. Either way, your efforts will pay off as you dive into the shallow depths that hold the colorful and vibrant life within Deadman’s Reef.

Belize Barrier Reef
Belize

The second largest reef in the world, the Belize Barrier Reef is also one of the most popular Belize snorkeling destinations. The reef’s protection from the turbulent sea creates clear and calm water that simulates an outstanding natural aquarium that you can take part of.

The Los Arcos and Tres Marietas
Banderas Bay, Mexico

Banderas Bay offers two best site snorkeling: the Los Arcos and the Tres Marietas. These two natural preserves are a part of an underwater mountain range which peaks above the ocean’s surface about 20 miles of the coast of Puerto Vallarta. Because they welcome the waters from the pacific more than the other sites, it is also natural to find whales, dolphins and mantas that frequent the site.

The British Virgin Islands
Caribbean

Because these islands group together, a mutual concession between habitat existed; so perfectly that the natural ecosystem is a perfect paradise. Caribbean is beautiful above as it is underwater. Hundred of shipwrecks and coral formation dotted its shores and seas, making homes to hundreds of diverse marine species.

Regardless of the fact that this South American country was the first in the world to constitutionally abolish its army, Costa Rica contains 5% of the world’s biodiversity. They may not have a military but what an abundance of wildlife. It has been said that their soldiers are the leaf cutter ants, pilots are the macaws and navy ships are the whales.

One of the activities that the country boasts to its tourists is snorkeling in Costa Rica. Its underwater wonders range from coastal coral reefs to offshore islands. They have varied spots that contain diverse beautiful marine life that includes huge manta rays, timid sea turtles, bright angel fish, psychedelic sea slugs, thorny puffer fish, fragile sea fans and a lot more.

With an average water temperature of 75- 82 degrees, between the middle of January and April, those who are interested to go snorkeling in Costa Rica will grasp the true meaning of tropical living. With over 25 sites for any sea getaway, most within a 10- 40 minute boat ride, you will surely want to go back to have a taste of it once again.

* Cahuita
On the temperate eastern coast, Cahuita provides one of the best sites for snorkeling in Costa Rica. With just a small boat, you can reach the giant barrier reefs of Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge and Cahuita National Park. The expected visibility is up to 150 feet while the warm waters off the Caribbean side is nearly always over 80 degees.

* Isla Del Cano
Located at the southern Pacific, Isla del Cano offers an excellent view of exotic fishes with a visibility of 60- 80 feet on most days. From the Drake Bay, you can enjoy snorkeling in Costa Rica through a small vessel. The surrounding plateaus and canyons are not as steep compared as that in the north.

* Curu
Cruising from the Montezuma beach, you will be taken to the charming coastline of Bahia Ballena. You will get to see breathtaking cliffs and ancient caves. As you are on your way to Curu, you might even spot dolphins and whales on the sides. The Banana Express is an ideal site for snorkeling in Costa Rica. It is a sunken steamer where you can watch eels, triggerfish, manta rays and many more that will interestingly play with you.

* Isla del Coco
For the ultimate feel of snorkeling in Costa Rica, the Coco Islands remains to be the top choice for serious underwater quest. It will make an eight to ten hour trip from Guanacaste to Coco whose steep rock- walls and canyons provide shelter to an awesome diversity of sea life. The currents can be heavy with a visibility of 60- 100 feet.

* Cabuya
A rare attraction can be spotted in Cabuya where there is a small cemetery a few hundred meters off the coast. When it is low tide, you will surely enjoy just walking the islands over the rocks to come across that peaceful atmosphere with views of the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve. The reef on the extreme top is such a real treat for snorkeling in Costa Rica. Without even any gears, the colorful sea creatures can be clearly seen trapped in the rocky tide pools.

With an average of 350 days of sunshine, 150- 250 feet of underwater visibility, 200- 500 yards of coral reefs and warm 80 plus degree year round sea temperature, what an incredible moment to have snorkeling in Cozumel.

A popular tourist destination, Cozumel is an island off the Caribbean Sea off the eastern coast of Yucatan Peninsula which is opposite of Playa del Carmen in Mexico. It is a flat mass of land based on porous volcanic rock. It also has a number of endemic species such as the splendid toadfish.

Great is an understatement to describe what it is to go snorkeling in Cozumel. Its limestone shore is surrounded by temperate, crystal clear waters that range from striking turquoise to deep indigo. With that there are many spots in the island that is conducive for another thrilling splash escapade.

* Chankaanab is ideal for those beginners who desire to go snorkeling in Cozumel. It is a must to head to the wonderful coral formations, stroll their one- of- a- kind botanical gardens, witness the dolphin show and visit the museum.
* Santa Rosa is best for those who are in the intermediate level. It has a spectacular wall dive which is hands down popularity winner on the island. Hundreds of meters away is a good location for snorkeling in Cozumel because it has tremendous variety of marine life. There is also San Francisco, Punta Tunich, Tormentos and Paso del Cedral which will give a reward of dense fish population and richly colored reefs that require challenging technical requirements.
* Palancar is the most famous place for snorkeling in Cozumel. It is world- class with mountainous coral formations that will catch your eyes. The marine life is nothing short of spectacular. It has four entrances to the reef system namely the Gardens, the Horseshoe, the Caves and the Deep Zone.

Here are some friendly tips when you plan snorkeling in Cozumel:
1. By cleaning the mask, first is to get it wet, spit into it and spread the salive around using your fingers. This is to avoid from any fogging.
2. See to it that your hair is tied so as not to have any strand trapped under the mask’s seal. When it happens, it will cause the mask to leak.
3. When water enters the breathing tube, sharply blow through it to expel the water.
4. If the water will get inside the mask, breathe in through the snorkel and out through your nose. At the same time, press the top of the mask against your forehead.
5. Do not go into the open seas alone. Always bring somebody with you. This is to avoid any kind of dangerous accidents like you might have cramps or problems with your gear.
6. Sandy beaches are great to have a suntan but not for snorkeling. It would be advisable if you stick to the coral and rocks to see much more of the sea life.

A practice of swimming at the surface of a body of water, snorkeling is comprised of a mask, breathing tube and fins. When the waters are cool, a wetsuit is most likely required for the body to take in the temperature. All those combined will allow an individual to explore the underwater world for an extended period of time without much effort.

With all the beautiful destinations in the world, a lot of government authorities have promoted their places as a tourist attraction coupled with activities to complement the trip. Prices have already started to go down, take for example discounted snorkeling equipments offered by Frankie Tours and Rentals.

In 2003, they have been awarded as the international winner for tourist hotel and catering industry. They also provide exciting things to do like island safari, bird watching, deep sea fishing, dolphin watching, beach barbeque, reef hiking and vehicle rentals all at a friendly and reasonable amount.

Here are some of the packages by Frankie Tours and Rentals that provide discounted snorkeling equipments. They are located at Easterfield Road, Mason Hall, Tobago with telephone number 1-868-639-4527 or visit www.frankietourstobago.com for complete details.

* Buccoo Reef Tour with optional Rum Punch and Beach Barbeque
A daily journey to the Buccoo Reef by a glass- bottom boat where the water is only one- meter in depth. It passes by the Nylon Pool where locals believe that you will be ten years younger as you swim in there. It moves along to the Coral Gardens and Reef Flat for a grand time of the underwater life. Discounted snorkeling equipments will all be provided at US$15 per person or with an option for a hotel transfer at US$25 from 10am-1:30pm. The whole day is for US$55 from 10am-5pm.

* Little Tobago Offshore Bird Sanctuary and The Rainforest
Considered as the most informative tour on the island, you will get to see one of the oldest rainforest in the world and little Tobago in just one day. With 82 species of birds and not just one spectacular waterfalls, the rainforest is home to the white- tailed sabre wings, blue black manikin and collared trogon. You can also have a taste of the atlantic flavor of Tobago as you dine in the famous Gemma’a Tree house restaurant. With a short boat ride, you will get to the nest of the frigate bird, blue- faced bobby and red- bill tropic. The manta rays and sea turtles are also at sight when you decide to take a dip. Discounted snorkeling equipments will all be provided at US$95 per person including a meal good for nine hours.

* Day trip to Englishman’s Bay or Castara
Cruise to the Caribbean coastline on a scenic route to the bays of Castara and Englisman. You can swim or just relax on a true Robinson Crusoe beach where the rainforest reaches the sea and the palm trees wave on the beach. Have an amazing moment of soaking up under the sun with a great view of the crystal waters. Discounted snorkeling equipments will all be provided at US$40 per person from 11am-6pm.

Undeniably the largest coral reef in the world, the Great Barrie Reef is situated in the Coral Sea which is off the coast of Queensland in north eastern Australia. Stretching over 2, 000 kilometers in length, it can be seen even from space.

Comprising of about 900 islands and over 3, 000 coral reefs, it has a rich biodiversity that makes it perfect for snorkeling in Great Barrier Reef. It has warm clear waters and has superb accessibility coming from the mainland. This has been a very notable tourist destination that many cities along the Queensland have offered boat trips on a daily basis. Here are some package tours on a posh vessel that you would want to avail of.

* Snorkeling in Great Barrier Reef on board Poseidon
A five- star tour to the Agincourt Reefs, water enthusiasts will surely enjoy the three outer reef sites that will be visited. The vessel holds a permit to dock in 45 locations at 16 different reefs. It is an ultra modish 24- meter high, high- speed luxury catamaran that has a top speed of 30 knots. It also has a large air- conditioned main saloon, spacious top sun deck and 8-meter rear deck with a lowering transom. It departs daily at 8:30am from Marina Mirage in Port Douglas and returns at 4:00pm,

* Snorkeling in Great Barrier Reef on board Reef Magic Cruises
Proudly locally owned and operated, it sails to the Marine World on the Outer Barrier Reef on the eastern border of Moore Reef. Moore Reef has been known for its excellent coral reefs and rich aquatic life. It has a large purposely built platform that features an underwater observatory, semi- submerside tours, undercover lunch, ample seating, freshwater showers, moon pool, upper sundeck, swimming enclosure and a lot more to be offered. It departs daily at 9:00am from Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns and returns at 5:15pm.

* Snorkeling in Great Barrier Reef on board Haba
Assuring the best in safety, comfort and service, Haba visits two amazing sites that will allow you to a much less structured day that has more time for relaxation. It highlights an air- conditioned fast catamaran, flotation devices, optical masks, buffet lunch, educational reef brief, tea sessions and local transfer among others that are provided for. It departs daily at 8:30am from Marina Mirage in Port Douglas and returns at 4:00pm.

* Snorkeling in Great Barrier Reef on board Wavepiecer
Managed by Quicksilver, Wavepiecer will bring you to the very tip of Australia’s Continental Shelf. It is an underwater kingdom that is a spectacular kaleidoscope of color and brilliance. It will take you to the Agincourt Reef where it is a magnificent ribbon reef where it promises magical happening in the island. It braves through waves that is a shining alloy vessel and extremely stable even at high speeds. It also has an underwater viewing platform where you can view the fish glide with the ship. It departs daily at 10:00am from Marina Mirage in Port Douglas and returns at 4:30pm.

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.

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.

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.

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.