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Top 5 Snorkeling Locations in the Caribbean Islands

Sarah Nadler | December 9, 2022



Discover some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean.

The waters of the Caribbean Sea are known worldwide to be some of the clearest and most beautiful in the world. The aquamarine, crystal-clear water is perfect for one of the best and most-loved water activities–snorkeling. With countless snorkeling destinations filled with thousands of types of fish, coral reefs, and a whole underwater world, the Caribbean islands are the perfect place to visit during a yachting trip for snorkeling and endless water fun. Below, we scoped out the top five snorkeling sites in the Caribbean islands and the best boats to get you there!


1. Trunk Bay: St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

Trunk Bay: St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

Not only is Trunk Bay the most famous beach in St. John, it is also one of the most photographed beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands. A part of the Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Bay is one of the most beautiful places on earth both over- and underwater. Besides the almost 700-foot-long white-sand beach, this tropical destination also features an other-worldly underwater snorkeling trail of the same length that is fully self-guided, complete with signage for the marine life down there. Without needing to venture too far from the shore, you can spot some of the most colorful fish and sea life in the Caribbean. The ease of access is great for beginners and kids alike!


2. Stingray City: Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Stingray City: Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Stingray City Sandbar is a place like no other–the shallow, warm water attracts stingrays for a once-in-a-lifetime interaction with the majestic animal. The sandbar is flanked by some of the most amazing barrier reefs in the Caribbean, home to not only the stingrays that give it its name, but hundreds of species of fish. Worried about getting stung? According to the destination website: “the southern stingrays that inhabit the area are exceedingly friendly [making] Stingray City the most popular activity on the island. These massive sea creatures are so accustomed to human interaction that they allow people to feed, play with, pet, and photograph them. It’s a Caribbean adventure unlike any other!” With water that is no deeper than four feet, it is the perfect place to snorkel, swim, and sight-see.


3. Bonaire National Marine Park: Bonaire

Bonaire National Marine Park: Bonaire

The Bonaire National Marine Park’s claim to fame is that it is one of the world’s oldest marine reserves. With strict conservation efforts, the island has been able to maintain “healthy marine ecosystems teeming with sea life, including 350 fish species and 60 different coral species.” It is no wonder that it is known as one of the best islands in the Caribbean for snorkeling. Most notable is the ease of access to the best snorkeling locations–many of the best spots can literally be walked into from the shore. You may not be able to walk on water, but this gets you pretty close!


4. Tugboat Ship Wreck: Curaçao

Tugboat Ship Wreck: Curaçao

Rich with marine life, Curaçao is famed for its turquoise beaches and unmatched diving sites. With endless coral reefs, this Dutch Caribbean island is a hot spot (literally) for snorkelers and divers…and really just visitors overall. Among the many snorkeling locations, the number-one spot is the Tugboat Ship Wreck–a must-see. Located on the southwestern coast of Curaçao, in Caracas Bay, the wreck is surrounded by coral reefs, sponges, and a variety of reef fish. But the real sight to see is the shipwreck itself; it’s surreal to see a ship lying on the floor of the ocean. Makes you feel like a real pirate of the Caribbean!


5. St. Martin Nature Reserve: Saint Martin

St. Martin Nature Reserve: Saint Martin

Part of the Leeward Islands, Saint Martin is technically made up of two territories: the French Saint-Martin and Dutch Sint Maarten. When it comes to snorkeling, the French part of the island reigns supreme. The St. Martin Nature Reserve is by far one of the top snorkeling locations, with special focus on Tintamarre Island. With tons of fish species and extremely calm waters, Saint Martin is just the right mix of sun, swim, and snorkel.


The best way to get to some of the best snorkeling locations in the Caribbean is through the style and comfort of a high-performance yacht or yacht charter. Contact a Denison yacht broker or charter specialist to help you find the best boat to take you there.