Where to snorkel in the Caribbean: our recommendations

The Caribbean is undoubtedly one of the most magical destinations on the planet, and the crystal clear waters, reefs teeming with life, and wide variety of marine species make it a veritable paradise for marine life enthusiasts. One of the most fascinating activities you can enjoy here is snorkelling.

A tropical destination with a warm year-round climate and breath-taking underwater landscapes, the Caribbean offers unique experiences for beginners and experienced divers alike.

In this article we’ll help you discover the best places to snorkel in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Mexico, three Caribbean gems that are home to veritable underwater treasure troves.

Snorkelling in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is not only famous for its idyllic beaches and all-inclusive resorts, but also for offering some of the best snorkelling experiences in the Caribbean.

The turquoise waters of the Dominican Republic are not only breath-taking at first glance, but also hide a thriving marine universe that is literally teeming with life.

Here are some of the best places to go snorkelling in this part of the Dominican Caribbean:

Isla Saona

Located just off the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic, and forming part of the Parque Nacional del Este, this island is one of the most popular local snorkelling destinations, where the shallow waters allow divers to swim among colourful tropical fish, observe starfish, and explore coral formations.

Excursions usually include stops at the natural pool, lunch and a full day at the beach.

This special snorkelling area is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs that are home to a wide variety of tropical marine life, including parrotfish, surgeonfish and turtles.

Isla Catalina

This little slice of paradise lies south of La Romana (about 2 hours from Punta Cana by car or boat) and is another must-visit spot for snorkelling enthusiasts.

The sandy seabed alternates with reef areas where divers can observe sea turtles, starfish and the infinite array of colours created by the many varieties of coral and sponge.

The island is home to several specific snorkelling spots that are ideal for divers of all ages.

One of the most talked-about spots is known as ‘Muro’, an underwater wall that is simply teeming with marine life.

Here you can see corals, sponges, parrotfish, rays and even barracudas, the clarity of the water making it one of the most impressive snorkelling spots in the Dominican Republic.

Isla Catalina is about 1 ½ hours from Princess Hotels Punta Cana.

Cabeza de Toro and Playa Bávaro

Both beaches offer quiet areas with good visibility for snorkelling.

A choice of excursions are available, many of which last several hours and offer the possibility of a boat trip with on-board entertainment combined with trips to shallow areas with coral reefs that are home to many species of colourful marine life.

The Princess Punta Cana hotels are located on Playa Bávaro itself, just a 25-minute drive from Cabeza de Toro.

Recommendation:

If you have never snorkelled before, we recommend practising first in shallow, calm waters.

Always ensure your equipment is in good condition (mask, snorkel and fins) and, for your own safety and that of the ecosystem, do not touch the corals or marine life.

And don’t forget to use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the environment!

Snorkel in Negril, Jamaica

With 15 bars across both our resorts, Princess Grand Jamaica and Princess Senses The Mangrove have already got your summer sip covered with cocktails and cool-down favourites. But on days when even a frozen drink just isn’t enough, a refreshing water activity like snorkelling might be exactly what you need.

Negril is home to some of the most diverse and colourful marine life in the Caribbean. Its calm, warm waters and excellent visibility make it the perfect destination for both beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

Whether you’re drifting above a coral garden or spotting stingrays gliding just beneath the surface, every dip into Negril’s blue waters promises discovery and delight.

Best of all? As a guest of Princess Hotels Jamaica, you’re already in the perfect place to begin your adventure.

Booby Cay Island

Just off the coast, this tiny island is surrounded by thriving coral reefs.

Its calm, shallow waters are ideal for beginners and casual snorkelers.

Expect to spot sergeant majors, blue tangs, butterflyfish, and even the occasional sea cucumber resting among the seagrass beds.

It’s a peaceful escape that also offers freshly grilled lobster for those who linger after their swim.

Located just a 20-minute drive away from Princess Hotels Jamaica.

West End Cliffs

For a more dramatic snorkelling experience, head toward the cliffs of Negril’s West End.

Here, underwater caves and rock formations provide shelter for a wide variety of marine life.

This location is best suited to confident swimmers and offers a little thrill for those who seek it.

Feeling adventurous?

Time your trip to include a stop at Rick’s Café for a famous cliff diving experience. But take our advice start small. The jump may look easy, but the thrill is very real!

40 minutes away from Princess Hotels Jamaica.

The Negril Coral Reef

A short boat ride away, this offshore reef system is a snorkeler’s paradise.

Swim among parrotfish, sea urchins, brain coral, and vibrant schools of wrasse a perfect spot for capturing those unforgettable underwater memories.

A 40-minute drive from Princess Hotels Jamaica separates you from this place.

How do I get started?

That’s where we come in.

On our central building on the first floor, our recommended Destination Management Company Tropical Tours is ready to help you plan the perfect snorkelling excursion.

Tropical Tours takes care of the rest including roundtrip transportation and a day full of ocean fun.

Prefer something even more convenient? Scuba Caribe, our on-site water sports provider, offers guided snorkelling excursions with direct pickup right from the beach at our resort. Hop aboard a catamaran, sail into adventure, and party the day away then return to the familiar sands of Princess Grand Jamaica or Princess Senses the Mangrove.

Snorkelling on the Riviera Maya, Mexico

The Riviera Maya, located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, is one of the world’s most privileged destinations for snorkelling.

The warm, crystal-clear waters boast an impressive biodiversity of marine life, coral reefs and freshwater cenotes that are unique in the world.

Here is a selection of the best places to snorkel in the Riviera Maya; a selection that offers a variety of settings, from warm cenotes to living reefs and protected beaches.

Akumal and Laguna Yal-Ku

If you are interested in swimming with turtles in protected shallow waters, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Akumal.

Important: this activity is carried out with a guide, who will inform you about the importance of respecting distance from the animals.

A short distance from Akumal you’ll also find the Yal-Ku lagoon, where the calm waters and mixture of fresh and sea water allows divers to observe a variety of tropical marine life. This activity is perfect for beginners.

Just 40 minutes from Princess Hotels Riviera Maya.

Xel-Há

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Xel-Há, and snorkel in a water-themed natural park located just 45 minutes from our Princess Riviera Maya hotels.

This area is home to coves, mangroves, caves and abundant marine life.

It is important to note that this site is ecologically sustainable.

Cozumel (Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo coral reefs)

This site can be reached by ferry from Playa del Carmen, an hour and a half from our Princess Riviera Maya hotels.

Palancar and Columbia are home to spectacular coral reefs, while ‘El Cielo’ is renowned for the starfish that inhabit the white seabed.

Divers will undoubtedly get the chance to observe a variety of marine species the likes of sea turtles, stingrays, nurse sharks and barracudas, as well as a host of other colourful species.

It is important to bear in mind that many of the reefs and cenotes in the Riviera Maya are protected, due to their delicate ecosystem. For this reason, we recommend using biodegradable sunscreen, as conventional sunscreens contain chemicals that damage corals and marine life. By using a biodegradable sunscreen you’re not only protecting your skin, but also helping to care for the natural environment you’re enjoying.

In addition, we recommend that you do not touch the corals or disturb the marine animals. The best way to enjoy this experience is to observe from a distance; that way you avoiding causing any damage.

Puerto Morelos

An ideal spot located within the Arrecifes National Park that is home to abundant marine life (angelfish, octopus) and impressive corals.

Highly recommended for snorkelling from a boat or on a short tour.

Just a half an hour away from our Princess Riviera Maya hotels.

A beginner’s guide to snorkelling in the Caribbean

The Caribbean is a natural paradise that enchants visitors with its crystal clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkelling in this area is an accessible and exciting experience that is ideal for beginners and more experienced snorkelers alike.

Here is a basic guide to snorkelling so you can enjoy the Caribbean’s underwater treasures to the fullest, and in a responsible manner:

Basic safety:

• If you’re a beginner, wear a life jacket, as this will allow you to float effortlessly and enjoy your surroundings without tiring.
• Do not snorkel alone. We recommend snorkelling in pairs or groups, or even with a guide.
• Stay calm at all times. If water gets into your mask or snorkel, calmly surface and do not panic.
• Respect the wildlife and the environment. It is important to avoid touching corals and marine animals and not to stir up sediment with your fins.
• Be aware of hand signals. We recommend learning basic gestures such as “everything OK”, “I need help” and “I’m surfacing”.

The ideal season for snorkelling is between November and May, when you’ll have calmer waters, less rain, and good visibility.

From June to August you’ll also enjoy excellent visibility, but there’s a chance of Sargassum on some beaches.

We also recommend that you bring the following items, as they will allow you to enjoy snorkelling safely:

• Mask, snorkel and fins (you can rent these at various locations)
• Life jacket or buoyancy belt
• Biodegradable sunscreen
• Light clothing and towel
• Water and snacks (if you plan to snorkel for several hours)
• Optional waterproof camera to photograph the stunning underwater landscapes

Snorkelling in the Caribbean, whether in the turquoise waters of Punta Cana, among the reefs and cenotes of the Riviera Maya or off the beaches of Jamaica, is much more than a recreational activity; it’s a journey into the heart of nature. Each dive is an opportunity to discover marine life, colours, and the serenity of the marine environment.

This experience is ideal for all ages. It doesn’t require prior experiences, and can be enjoyed safely in a manner that is respectful of the environment.

If you’re looking for memorable adventures, a moment of relaxation, or connection with nature… snorkelling offers all these, and more…

Don’t wait any longer to enjoy this beautiful experience in the Caribbean… Begin your underwater adventure now!

Categories: Caribbean, Travel Tips, Sports and Activities, Sports & Wellness, Jamaica, Punta Cana, Riviera Maya