Top Spots for Snorkeling and Diving
Underwater Wonders: Top Spots for Snorkeling and Diving
Exploring the underwater wonders of our planet offers unparalleled experiences for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. From vibrant coral reefs to diverse marine life, the following destinations are renowned for their exceptional underwater beauty. Each location is paired with a boutique hotel available on Trip.com to enhance your stay.
1. Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, Raja Ampat boasts the highest marine biodiversity on earth. Snorkelers and divers can explore pristine coral gardens teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and manta rays.
Stay: Papua Paradise Eco Resort
Nestled on the uninhabited island of Birie, this resort offers overwater bungalows with direct access to the reef. Guests can enjoy guided snorkeling and diving excursions to nearby sites.
2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
As the world’s largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef offers unparalleled snorkeling and diving opportunities. Discover a vast array of marine life, including clownfish, reef sharks, and vibrant corals.
Stay: Lizard Island Resort
Situated on a private island within the reef, this luxury resort provides direct access to premier snorkeling spots. Guests can explore the reef right from the beach or join guided tours.
View Lizard Island Resort on Trip.com
3. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands are famed for their unique wildlife encounters. Snorkelers can swim alongside sea lions, marine iguanas, and penguins, while divers may encounter hammerhead sharks and manta rays.
Stay: Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel
This eco-friendly hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring the Galápagos’ pristine waters. It offers guided snorkeling excursions and comfortable accommodations with ocean views.
View Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel on Trip.com
4. Maldives
Known for its crystal-clear waters and overwater bungalows, the Maldives is a dream destination for snorkeling and diving. The warm Indian Ocean is home to vibrant coral reefs, whale sharks, and manta rays.
Stay: Soneva Fushi Resort
This luxury eco-resort offers unparalleled snorkeling and diving experiences, with access to nearby reefs and marine conservation programs.
View Soneva Fushi Resort on Trip.com
5. Red Sea, Egypt
The Red Sea is a diver’s paradise, offering stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. Popular sites include the Blue Hole in Dahab and the Ras Mohammed National Park.
Stay: Steigenberger Alcazar
A beachfront resort in Sharm El Sheikh, this hotel provides easy access to some of the best dive sites in the Red Sea.
View Steigenberger Alcazar on Trip.com
6. Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
As the second-largest barrier reef in the world, the Belize Barrier Reef is a haven for marine enthusiasts. Snorkelers and divers can explore the famous Blue Hole and Hol Chan Marine Reserve.
Stay: Victoria House Resort & Spa
A luxurious beachfront retreat, this resort offers easy access to the reef, guided snorkeling tours, and a relaxing spa.
View Victoria House Resort & Spa on Trip.com
7. Sipadan, Malaysia
Sipadan is one of the top dive destinations in the world, known for its rich marine biodiversity, steep coral walls, and large pelagic species such as barracudas and sea turtles.
Stay: Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort
A water village-style resort offering spectacular overwater bungalows and direct access to some of the world’s best diving spots.
View Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort on Trip.com
8. Komodo National Park, Indonesia
Home to the famous Komodo dragons, this UNESCO-listed park also offers incredible underwater biodiversity, including manta rays, reef sharks, and colorful corals.
Stay: Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa
This boutique resort offers beachfront villas and curated snorkeling and diving tours in the stunning waters of Komodo.
View Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa on Trip.com
9. Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel is famous for its drift diving, colorful coral formations, and abundant marine life. The Palancar Reef and Santa Rosa Wall are top snorkeling and diving spots.
Stay: The Westin Cozumel
A modern luxury resort with easy access to the island’s top snorkeling and diving locations.
View The Westin Cozumel on Trip.com
10. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon and coral gardens are ideal for snorkeling and diving. Swim among sharks, rays, and vibrant reef fish in one of the most breathtaking settings on Earth.
Stay: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
An overwater bungalow paradise offering world-class snorkeling and diving experiences.