Top Snorkeling Destinations in the U.S

• The top snorkeling destinations in the U.S. include:
  • Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
  • La Jolla, California
  • Crystal River Preserve State Park, Florida
  • Block Island, Rhode Island
  • John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Florida

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From colorful marine life to intricate reefs, our nation’s oceans hold countless treasures. But we can never encounter this aquatic wonderland unless we grab our masks and fins and jump in. However, diving into the sea might seem a bit intimidating—especially if you have scuba diving in mind. Yet, fear not—you don’t have to swim to the depths to explore these vibrant ecosystems. Snorkeling is an excellent alternative to scuba diving. You can stay within six feet of the water’s surface, all while taking in the stunning views below. So, if you’re ready to explore the nation’s magnificent oceans, check out these top snorkeling destinations!

Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Since less than one percent of Dry Tortugas National Park is dry ground, snorkeling is the best way to explore this national treasure. Situated seventy miles from Key West, this national park showcases some of the most vivid coral reefs in the country. Stretching from the Dry Tortugas in the Gulf of Mexico to Miami in the Atlantic Ocean, this massive reef is a snorkeler’s dream come true. The water here is only 5–15 feet deep, creating the ideal snorkeling experience for beginners and young children. While in the water, snorkelers can encounter vibrant tropical fish, queen conchs, starfish, and the South Coaling Dock Ruins—an intriguing collection of metal pilings from old coaling docks.

• Unique Features: The National Park also contains Fort Jefferson—one of the nation’s largest 19th-century forts.
• Amenities: Complimentary fins, marks, and snorkels are provided.
• Accommodations: Visit Dry Tortugas for camping options and reservations.

La Jolla, California

Some claim that La Jolla Ecological Reserve and Underwater Park is one of the top ten snorkeling destinations in the world. Located in San Diego, the park spans 6,000 acres and features seven sea caves and many colorful sea animals. The water here tends to be warmer and attracts many octopuses, urchins, dolphins, sea turtles, leopard sharks, sea stars, shovel-nose guitarfish, seals, and sea lions. Many of these incredible creatures congregate around the park’s underwater caves. When the tide is right, visitors can even swim through the largest of the La Jolla caves—Clam Cave. Additionally, the park features the area’s only underwater canyons—which reach depths of 600 feet.

• Unique Features: La Jolla also contains a secret underwater graveyard—not filled with actual tombs but dotted with markers dedicated to fallen spear fishermen.
• Amenities: The park offers guided tours with professionals and a combined kayak/snorkeling tour.
• Accommodations: La Jolla Indian Campground is a great option for tent and RV camping.

Crystal River Preserve State Park, Florida

Situated near Orlando and Tampa, Florida’s Crystal River is the only place in North America where you can legally swim with manatees. These 1,000-pound creatures may seem intimidating, but up close, they are gentle giants. Manatees are the closest existing relative to elephants, and they are fascinated by humans. Like all our favorite pets, they enjoy back scratches, naps, and plenty of attention. In the winter, around 800 manatees migrate to Crystal River when the temperatures drop in the Gulf of Mexico. So, if you want to swim with these intriguing creatures, make sure to book a tour in advance.

• Unique Features: Crystal River is known as “The Manatee Capital of the World” and is the only place you can swim with manatees in North America.
• Amenities: Guided snorkeling and kayak tours are available.

Accommodations: The Retreat at Crystal Manatee is near the snorkeling location.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Although New England is not usually synonymous with snorkeling, Block Island can’t be put into a box—it’s one of the best places to snorkel in the United States. The island’s south end features Surf Beach, a premier snorkeling destination. The water here undoubtedly reaches colder temperatures compared to its Southern counterparts. Nonetheless, the warm Gulf Stream often rushes into the region, bringing juvenile tropical fish to the shore. Along with swimming beside these colorful fish, visitors can also see crabs and starfish and hunt for shells and sand dollars.

• Unique Features: Block Island is one of the only Northern snorkeling destinations to feature tropical fish.
• Amenities: The beach is only three minutes from the ferry landing, so it is close to shops and bathrooms. You can rent snorkeling equipment from The Surf Hotel.
• Accommodations: The Surf Hotel is right on the beach and features a full bar and beachfront dining.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Florida

As the country’s first undersea park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park features 70 square miles of colorful reefs. Located in Key Largo, the state park has earned the title of “The Diving Capital of the World.” These mild, clear waters provide stunning views of the vibrant coral reefs and sea animals. Sponges, shrimps, crabs, lobsters, sea cucumbers, urchins, anemones, and over 260 colorful fish species dwell in these waters and are a wonder to behold. Additionally, a 4,000-pound statue called “Christ of the Deep” attracts visitors from all over the world. Situated about 25 feet under the sea’s surface, the statue features a robed Christ with arms outstretched toward heaven. The Italian sculptor Guido Galletti crafted the figure, and other copies reside in Italy and Grenada.

• Unique Features: The nine-foot-tall Christ statue in the state park attracts visitors from all over the world.
• Amenities: The visitor center has a saltwater aquarium, concessions, a shop, and complimentary 24-hour WIFI.
• Accommodations: Check out this list of hotels.

If you want to get into snorkeling, there’s no better place to start than these five breathtaking locations—all right here in the United States!