Home to pristine waters, untouched reefs and mystical marine life, the Caribbean is a snorkeller’s sanctuary. But where to begin? That’s where we come in – we’ve narrowed down the best places to snorkel in the Caribbean just for you (you’re welcome). From underwater art galleries in Grenada to tracking turtles in the Cayman Islands, you’ll soon discover that there’s far more to a Caribbean holiday than sunbathing. Get ready for an adventure with our five favourite snorkelling spots…
Grenada
Kicking off our list of the best places to snorkel in the Caribbean is gorgeous Grenada. This lush island is home to Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park – the first of its kind, thanks to the handiwork of British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor. Slip into your snorkelling gear and take your pick from 75 statues submerged just five metres beneath the water’s surface. These spellbinding statues aren’t only works of art, they’re also composed of pH-neutral materials, which encourage coral growth and support marine conservation. The most popular sculptures? Vicissitudes (a circle of life-size children holding hands) and the Lost Correspondent (a seated man at a typewriter).
Turks and Caicos
Comprised of 40 low-lying islands (of which only eight are inhabited), the Turks and Caicos are synonymous with one thing: coral reefs. Home to one of the world’s largest barrier reef systems, it’s no surprise that divers and snorkellers flock here year after year. Glide past vibrant branching sponges and soft swaying corals as you explore sloping underwater walls – crystal clear visibility ensures you’ll have an excellent snorkelling experience. Free from boats and currents, what more could you want? When it comes to marine life, Smith’s Reef near Turtle Cove is the place to swim alongside queen angelfish, green turtles and even spotted eagle rays (if you’re lucky).
Dominican Republic
The northern coast of the Dominican Republic is a top spot for snorkelling with humpback whales. Hop aboard the Turks & Caicos Aggressor II in Puerto Plata and follow these migrating humpbacks to Silver Bank, just 100 miles southeast of Turks and Caicos. From mid-January to March, the warm Caribbean waters come alive for calving season, so watch out for tail slaps and whale-sized splashes. And with only a handful of permits for these exclusive boat trips available each year, you'll likely have the wonderful whales all to yourself…
Image by Bastien Lattanzio
Cayman Islands
All the clichés are true when it comes to the Cayman Islands. With crystal clear waters galore, Grand Cayman (the largest of the three islands) is one of the best places to snorkel in the Caribbean. In the glassy waters fringing its iconic Seven Mile Beach, expect to spot Southern stingrays, hawksbill turtles and butterflyfish. Or head to the aptly named Starfish Point – a secluded beach to the north of the island – to see red cushion starfish sitting pretty beneath the ocean’s surface. For less-trodden treasures, Little Cayman has you covered. Home to Bloody Bay Marine Park, you can glide past pristine coral gardens and even encounter the occasional shark (gulp) on a snorkelling adventure.
St Lucia
Last but not least on our list of the best places to snorkel in the Caribbean is St Lucia (more specifically, Anse Chastanet). This powdery beach borders the island’s western coast and provides excellent off-shore snorkelling. Beginners can explore the seagrass bed just steps away from the white-sand shores, where flying gurnard, trumpetfish and scorpionfish are sure to make an appearance. For those seeking a greater slice of adventure – swim further afield to the main reef for sightings of hawksbill turtles and razorfish. Ready to dry off? Lounge on the beach and take in the breathtaking backdrop of the towering Pitons. And relax…
Ready to dive deeper? Head over to Original Diving and let our experts craft your one-of-a-kind scuba adventure.
Written by Amy Larsen | Header image by Kateryna Hliznitsova / Unsplash
