20 Different Places to Find Great Snorkeling in the US

Although many couples head to Mexico or the Caribbean for fabulous snorkeling, you may not have to go far. There are lots of places throughout the United States to have fun with goggles! Take a peek at these 20 locations for great snorkeling in the US.

FAQ About United States Snorkeling

Why go snorkeling in the United States?

Seeing fish and observing sea life in its natural habitat can be really relaxing and enjoyable. Of course, there are also beautiful coral and rock formations under the water, too.

Where is the best snorkeling in the US?

Although some of these destinations may not rival swimming with sea turtles in Mexico (there are many that do!), hopefully, this list of places for snorkeling in the USA can help you find a place close to home.

Warmer climates provide ultimate viewing. Although heading to different locations provides a glimpse into other ocean environments.

Where to snorkel in the US?

Our list contains lots of places to go have fun under the water. 20, in fact! So, if you’ve been asking, “Where can I go snorkeling in the US?” just take a peek below.

Where to Go Snorkeling in the USA

20 Places for Great Snorkeling in the US

Acadia National Park, Maine

Head off the rocky coast in Maine to see flora and fauna that you won’t see anywhere else! The tides and currents are strong — you will have to wear a wetsuit. However, Acadia National Park is still a place full of diverse underwater ecosystems.

Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin

Of course, it’s seasonal in Wisconsin, but Lake Michigan has some beautiful spots worth exploring! You can do a shipwreck snorkeling trip there that dates back to the 1800s.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Located between Montauk and Martha’s Vineyard, these blissful beaches have crystal clear water that is beautiful for snorkeling.

Cinnamon Bay, St. John

It’s pretty shallow in Cinnamon Bay. You can walk off the shore and into the reef without too much effort or even a boat.

Croix, US Virgin Islands

Croix is one of the best places to go snorkeling in the US as there is a barrier reef that circles the island.

Snorkeling in the United States

Crystal River, Florida

Get so close you can touch manatees when you snorkel with them in Crystal River, Florida.

Culebra, Puerto Rico

In Puerto Rico you’ll find coral reefs that are full of life. You also may even be able to see sea turtles or stingrays along your trip.

Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

The reefs near this national park are thousands of years old. Plus, you’ll find dozens of different coral species there.

Hatteras Island, North Carolina

The water on Hatteras Island is calm and shallow. This makes it great for new snorkelers who want to explore shipwrecks or check out the fish.

Homestead Crater, Utah

Inside the crater, you can enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience and jump into the crystal-clear mineral water. This experience is mostly centered around scuba.

Where Can You Snorkel in the US

Kankakee, Illinois

Explore the Haigh Quarry, also known as the Caribbean of the Midwest, to see an assortment of boats, farm equipment, and more below. You can also scuba dive there.

Key Largo, Florida

Take a guided snorkeling tour and explore the clear waters of Key Largo at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Key West, Florida

The reef system surrounding the national park and the wrecks make for a beautiful way to snorkel and explore the diverse sea life that calls home this national park.

Kona Coast, Hawaii

See manta rays up close with this Manta Ray Night Dive and Snorkel in Kona. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a great way to explore the Hawaii waters and get to swim with manta rays. It’s the type of adventure that’s typically thought of when looking for great snorkeling in the US.

La Jolla Cove, California

While you’ll need to pack a wetsuit, this snorkel will give you a unique up-close look at sharks, fish, and a beautiful turquoise cove.

Where Is the Best Snorkeling in the US

Ocean Beach Park, Connecticut

If you head to this park, you’ll find a nonprofit ocean adventure program that offers snorkeling tours of Ocean Beach.

Portsmouth, Virginia

In Portsmouth, you can take a three-hour snorkeling lesson. It’s a great way to explore and learn the basics of freediving.

Chicago, Illinois

Yes, this sounds like such an odd answer to the question, “Where can you snorkel in the US?” However, Shedd Aquarium was designed to simulate a reef in the Caribbean. It’s the perfect way to snorkel on land.