You don’t need a diving licence to experience the magic of the underwater world. In many destinations, all it takes is stepping off the sand, slipping on a mask and snorkel, and drifting into shallow waters alive with marine wonders.
From spotting brilliantly coloured cichlids in Malawi’s freshwater lakes to glimpsing rare aquatic mammals near protected reefs in Egypt, this guide rounds up the very best places on the planet for unforgettable snorkeling adventures.
# Lady Elliot Island, Australia’s Great Barrier ReefBest for coral gardens and manta rays
The southernmost coral cay of the Great Barrier Reef, Lady Elliot Island delivers some of Australia’s finest snorkeling. It’s famed for its graceful manta rays, nesting sea turtles and strong eco-credentials.
Snorkel over vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life such as barracudas, leopard sharks and giant manta rays. The shallow lagoon on the island’s eastern side is ideal for beginners and families, while the deeper western reefs appeal to more confident snorkelers.
Located within a strictly protected “Green Zone” where fishing is banned, the island benefits from exceptional conservation efforts. This protection is one reason humpback whales return here during their annual migration from June to October.
# Fernando de Noronha, BrazilBest for warm waters and exceptional visibility
Off Brazil’s northeast coast lies Fernando de Noronha, a volcanic archipelago prized for its untouched beaches and rich ecosystems. Fiercely protected, it’s a favourite among marine biologists and nature lovers.
Snorkeling here is outstanding, with visibility reaching up to 40 metres in warm, emerald waters. Expect encounters with sea turtles, rays, reef and lemon sharks, along with the world’s highest concentration of resident spinner dolphins.
Baía do Sancho—often ranked Brazil’s most beautiful beach—features a sandy seabed that protects delicate corals. Other excellent snorkeling spots include Baía dos Porcos, Sueste, Morro de Fora and Porto, where accessible shipwrecks attract abundant marine life.
# Thumbi Island, MalawiBest for colourful freshwater fish
Cape Maclear, on the shores of Lake Malawi, is one of the country’s most relaxed and scenic villages. While its golden beaches tempt you to linger, a boat trip to nearby Thumbi Island is well worth the effort.
Slip into the lake’s warm waters and snorkel around the rocky edges, where the famous cichlid fish appear almost instantly. Lake Malawi supports over 850 cichlid species, and though this isn’t a coral reef, the colours are dazzling.
Amber yellow, fuchsia pink, fiery orange, indigo and turquoise fish weave around you in hypnotic patterns—an unforgettable freshwater snorkeling experience.
# Cebu, PhilippinesBest for snorkeling with sardines
With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is a snorkeling powerhouse, and Cebu stands out for its rich marine life. From whale sharks to mysterious shipwrecks, the region offers endless underwater adventures.
On Cebu’s west coast, the town of Moalboal is famous for its near year-round sardine run. No boat or scuba gear is needed—simply wade in from Panagsama Beach and submerge yourself in calm, clear waters.
What awaits is breathtaking: immense schools of shimmering sardines moving in perfect synchrony, their silvery bodies catching the sunlight against a deep-blue backdrop. It’s peaceful, immersive and utterly mesmerising.
# Radhanagar Beach, Andaman Islands, IndiaBest for crystal-clear waters
Set along the northwest coast of jungle-draped Havelock Island, Radhanagar Beach is often counted among Asia’s most beautiful beaches. Its soft white sand, turquoise waters and dense tropical forest create a postcard-perfect scene.
While Havelock is known for excellent diving, Radhanagar also offers relaxed snorkeling straight from the shore. The clear waters reveal colourful fish and coral, with occasional sightings of turtles, sharks or manta rays.
Beyond the water, the beach invites long walks and quiet sunsets over the Andaman Sea. However, safety is essential—crocodiles are a serious threat in the region. Always heed local warnings and avoid swimming at dawn and dusk.
# Hanauma Bay, Hawaii, USABest for snorkeling on an ancient coral reef
Hanauma Bay sits inside a volcanic crater and protects a coral reef estimated to be over 7,000 years old. Framed by palm trees and white sand, it’s one of Hawaii’s most iconic snorkeling spots.
Wade into the calm, shallow waters to encounter hundreds of brightly coloured fish, corals, eels and sea turtles. Venture slightly farther out to explore rocky crevices and underwater caves filled with marine life.
As a protected marine reserve, the bay limits visitor numbers to preserve the ecosystem. It’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, requires advance reservations, an entry fee, and viewing a short educational video before snorkeling.
# Raja Ampat Islands, IndonesiaBest for marine biodiversity
Indonesia is rich in snorkeling destinations, but Raja Ampat stands in a league of its own. Its remote islands boast pristine beaches, hidden lagoons and some of the most diverse coral reefs on Earth.
Scientists regard Raja Ampat as a global marine biodiversity hotspot, believing its reefs help replenish ecosystems across the Indian and South Pacific Oceans.
With just a mask and fins, you can explore mangroves and reefs hosting over 1,000 species of reef fish, hundreds of coral varieties, multiple sea turtle species and majestic manta rays.
# Tofo Beach, MozambiqueBest for whale shark encounters
Mozambique’s Indian Ocean coastline offers warm waters, colourful reefs and excellent snorkeling, particularly around Tofo Beach in the Inhambane Province.
This area is best known for its resident population of gentle whale sharks, which can be seen throughout the year—making it one of the few places on Earth for consistent encounters.
Manta rays, dolphins and sea turtles are common, and between June and October, humpback whales pass through, adding yet another reason Tofo deserves a spot on every snorkeler’s wish list.
# Roatán Island, HondurasBest snorkeling in the Caribbean
Roatán, the largest of Honduras’ Bay Islands, is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and is widely considered one of the Caribbean’s top snorkeling destinations.
West Bay’s white-sand beach offers easy shore access to parrotfish, butterflyfish and angelfish. Further south, Mary’s Place features dramatic underwater crevices where turtles, eagle rays and groupers are often seen near the surface.
# Abu Dabbab Bay, Marsa Alam, EgyptBest for snorkeling with dugongs
Southern Egypt’s Marsa Alam region is one of the world’s rare places to encounter dugongs—shy marine mammals closely related to manatees and steeped in ancient mermaid legends.
At Abu Dabbab Bay, shallow waters, protective reefs and lush seagrass meadows create ideal conditions for a small dugong population. Snorkelers often spot these gentle “sea cows” grazing peacefully, making it a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.