Immerse yourself in a luxury underwater adventure and discover the best snorkeling destinations around the world. Drift amidst a dazzling rainbow of fish and above a myriad of vibrant corals in these exotic locales. From the stunning coral gardens of the Great Barrier Reef to the kaleidoscopic fish and vibrant reefs of the Maldives, each place offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

These are some of our top spots for snorkeling, where mother nature’s beauty undoubtedly shines bright beneath the waves. 

Isla Holbox, Mexico 

This island off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula is one of the best snorkeling spots right next to whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean. The sliver of an island is part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve where pink flamingos are a brilliant sight against the jade waters, and the beaches are soft coral sands. 

Best time for snorkeling: To swim along whale sharks, visit between May and September when they migrate to the area. 

The Coral Triangle is a top spot for snorkeling 

The Coral Triangle is a marine area with a vibrant blast of colorful corals covering eastern Indonesia, Solomon Islands, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste, and Malaysia. 610 islands composed of soft coral jungles in orange, red, purple, and pink make up Raja Ampat. Here you will find not only 540 species of coral but also nearly 1,700 species of fish. Corals are in shallow waters hanging just below the surface, so it is easy to access these premium snorkeling spots right off the beach. 

Best time for snorkeling: For minimal rainfall and clear water, plan to travel between April and October. Many of the marine species such as colorful fish, sea turtles, and manta rays are more active and visible during this time. 

Galapagos Islands 

This is one of the world’s top spots for snorkeling that offers fun for everyone, even if they don’t want to go underwater. Sea lions perform swirling acrobatics and turtles swim in the waters off the Galapagos Islands. Leap into the shallow waters to watch these playful creatures in their wild paradise.

Best time for snorkeling: The Galapagos is a year-round destination, with excellent visibility in the fall and winter months. 

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The world’s largest coral reef is considered to be one of the seven wonders of the natural world. Additionally, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its expanse is so large that it can be seen from space; it’s pretty amazing from a helicopter, too. The Great Barrier Reef is home to hundreds of islands, hard and soft corals, and countless fish, mollusks, starfish, turtles, dolphins, and sharks. It is therefore unquestionably one of the best snorkeling spots around the world! 

Best time for snorkeling: Similar to the Coral Triangle, visit the Great Barrier Reef between April and October for optimal weather conditions and clear water. June to August is peak travel season so for fewer crowds, plan to travel between April and May and between September and October.

The Maldives 

Step off the sand into a natural aquarium in these mainly uninhabited islands within the Indian Ocean. The shallow, clear waters of the hundreds of islands are brimming with lion fish and clown fish living amidst the hard and soft corals. You can also swim with manta rays in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. 

Best time for snorkeling: The Maldives and warm and sunny year-round, but for the best snorkeling conditions with calm water and better visibility, we recommend traveling between December and April. 

Phi Phi Islands, Thailand 

You’ll find the Phi Phi Islands in the Andaman Sea, not too far from the famous paradise of Phuket. These islands are part of a national marine park established in 1983 to protect the area’s biodiversity. The water here is a clear, green shade that shimmers like a sparkling gem surrounded by tall limestone cliffs. 

Best time for snorkeling: We recommend traveling between November and April for the best snorkeling conditions. 

Belize 

The Ambergris Caye is home to coral underneath the turquoise waters of the Caribbean coast. Get up close to nurse sharks at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Or rather, float in the tranquil seas of this beautiful paradise and see why it continually makes our top spots for snorkeling. For a truly all-encompassing snorkeling experience, consider going island hopping on a private sailing vessel to the country's many hidden cays and islands.

Best time for snorkeling: Snorkeling in Belize is a year-round activity. However, for the clearest visibility, consider traveling between April and July. For those who wish to see manatees, travel between June and September. 

Snorkeling with Ker & Downey

Ready to take the plunge in one of our top spots for snorkeling? Dive into one of best snorkeling spots around the world by contacting us to begin customizing your own journey. For daily travel inspiration, follow us on both Facebook and Instagram.