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Best Snorkeling Destinations in the Caribbean

The Caribbean's exquisite beaches are arguably the most alluring in the world. Their bright turquoise waters and pure white sand, dazzling in the golden warmth of the sun, beckon to people everywhere to step out from behind their desks and out of the mundane routines of their lives and visit. Beaches this magical, which possess the magnitude of beauty of those in the Caribbean, promise to deliver an unparalleled experience--one that is full of joy, wonder, and relaxation. 

However, the captivating beauty of Caribbean beaches extends far beyond the water's level. The ocean is teeming with exotic treasures below the surface: colorful fish, vibrant coral, and intriguing sea creatures. There is a whole new layer of life to explore and beauty to uncover, and the easiest and cheapest way to do so is to snorkel.  

Snorkeling is accessible, simple, and "a tremendous way to experience the natural beauty of the Caribbean" (caribjournal.com). While many of the Caribbean's best dive destinations also boast great snorkeling, fantastic diving destinations are not necessarily ideal snorkeling spots (caribjournal.com). The best places to snorkel in the Caribbean are "where snorkeling is both easy to access and abundant; where you don't always have to get on a boat to enjoy it; and where the island and its resort properties make a point of emphasizing it" (caribjournal.com). 

Bonaire  

"Bonaire is an island that's all about the water, and with its meticulously well-run STINAPA marine park, it's the perfect Caribbean snorkeling destination, whether you're at a luxury resort like the lovely Harbour Village or the ultra-cool Delfins Beach Resort" (caribjournal.com). Nowhere in the Caribbean can you find a greater abundance of conducive snorkeling conditions right off the shore (caribjournal.com). In other words, you can just about park by the side of the road and quickly find a great place to explore (caribjournal.com). 

Antigua and Barbuda  

A largely undiscovered snorkeling destination, both onshore and offshore, Antigua is a bit of a well-kept secret among enthusiasts (caribjournal.com). With 365 beaches to choose from, it is easy to see how some amazing snorkeling spots may slip through the cracks, especially with many tucked away in secluded coves, overflowing with an abundance of undersea flora and fauna (caribjournal.com). According to the Caribbean Journal, the island's best snorkeling hotel is The St James's Club, one of the region's top snorkeling resorts (caribjournal.com).  

Saint Lucia  

One of the most spectacular snorkeling options in Saint Lucia is the water at the base of the Pitons right off Sugar Beach. Here is one of the most incredible snorkeling spots in all of the Caribbean. "Whether you're exploring the obsidian waters of the UNESCO World Heritage Site or snorkeling the reef at Anse Chastanet, you'll find crystal-clear water and hundreds of species of fish. Anse Chastanet also happens to be the most snorkeling-friendly resort on the island" (caribjournal.com). 

Saint John 

When snorkeling in the waters of Saint John, you have the advantage of enjoying the Virgin Islands National Park, which occupies the majority of Saint John. Since 40 percent of the park itself is underwater, you get to glide through pristine water and encounter remarkable sea life, such as green sea turtles of Maho Bay and tube sponges of Francis Bay. You can follow the self-guided Underwater Snorkeling Trail at Trunk Bay, which follows the west side of Trunk Bay Cay for about 300 feet and has underwater information about coral formations and sea life (stjohn-beachguide.com). 

Martinique 

Martinique is blessed with an array of snorkeling opportunities for both beginner and expert snorkelers. A colorful undersea world awaits with various sea creatures from lionfish to sergeant majors to flying gurnard—not to mention an abundance of sea turtles, particularly in the snorkeling-friendly waters off Anses d'Arlets (caribjournal.com). 

Saba  

Not only is Saba known as the Caribbean's "Unspoiled Queen" and has long been a haven for advanced scuba divers, but this island also boasts a spectacular marine park and a solid day-boat snorkeling operation (caribjournal.com). If you embark on the trip, you will be rewarded with outstanding visibility, nearing 100 feet around much of the island, where you will discover everything from sharks and rays to a myriad of tropical fish (caribjournal.com).  

In Summary 

Snorkeling affords people of all ages and physical capabilities the opportunity to experience the wonders, vibrance, and beauty of the Caribbean sea life hidden just beneath the water. 

Sources: 

caribjournal.com 

stjohn-beachguide.com