According to the National Geological Survey, about 71% of the planet is covered by water. When I speak with clients about their travel plans and wish list, I often receive requests for swimmable beaches, clear water, great snorkeling or diving, and fun watersports. Water is an important part of many vacation plans.
Fortunately, many of the world’s most spectacular beaches and snorkel/dive sites are in the United States and Caribbean, making them easily accessible to a variety of travelers. During your next cruise or resort vacation, let’s plan an excursion to a cool swimming spot or memorable snorkeling site.
THE BATHS – TORTOLA, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
Along the southwestern tip of Virgin Gorda lies The Baths, a stretch of beach famous for its enormous granite boulders and secluded rock pools. Visitors must navigate challenging trails and steps with rope handrails to reach Devil’s Bay Beach, but the reward on arrival is unmatched.
GRAND CAYMAN, CAYMAN ISLANDS
Snorkeling sites abound in the Cayman Islands, but if evening snorkeling captures your imagination, book a tour to float around in Grand Cayman’s Bioluminescent Bay. Disruptions in the water cause plankton to emit light which creates colorful sparkles beneath the surface, an effect experienced in a few places around the world. Shallow and calm waters, a setting sun, and the promise of viewing a bit of science magic make this snorkeling experience a must-do.
ISLA HOLBOX, MEXICO
Casually swimming alongside the massive but harmless whale sharks of the Caribbean is a travel bucket list item for many tourists who visit Mexico. By following a few simple rules under the watchful eye of a guide, snorkelers can admire these fascinating creatures remarkably close-up.
IK-KIL – YUCATAN PENINSULA, MEXICO
The cool, underground waters in the cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula provide the perfect escape from the country’s hot tropical sun. Ik-Kil, the most visited cenote in the region, is stunning in its beauty. Lush vegetation, draping vines, and clear turquoise waters beckon swimmers and photographers alike.
HANAUMA BAY – OAHU, HAWAII
Pristine Hanauma Bay was declared a nature preserve in 1967 to protect the marine life in the region, and ongoing efforts have helped this beautiful bay maintain its delicate ecosystem. Visitors are limited and must make reservations, but incredible snorkeling (you must use reef-safe sunscreen and abide by other park rules!) make this state park a must-see when in Oahu.
COZUMEL, MEXICO
The waters off the island of Cozumel are so clear you can see up to 250 feet, and this clarity provides a breathtaking view of the underwater kingdom. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef surrounds the island, offering snorkelers and divers an array of marine life at a variety of snorkeling spots. Palancar Reef is the most popular because of its high visibility, deep waters, and many fish, but beginner snorkelers might prefer a shallower destination.
If you can’t take the heat, go on vacation! I am ready to help you plan the coolest one imaginable, so contact me today!