Types

• There are a variety of snorkeling options for both beginner snorkelers and advanced snorkelers in South Florida. Visitors have the option of snorkeling near shore, from right off the beach, or for a more advanced snorkel, a snorkeler could do an offshore snorkel where a charter boat takes visitors further out into the ocean. Offshore snorkeling is particularly good for those interested in doing a shipwreck snorkel trip although these are typically for the advanced snorkeler.
  
  

Features

• South Florida is filled with artificial reefs which creates an abundance of ocean life. When snorkeling the waters of South Florida, a visitor can expect to see spotted leopard rays, puffer fish and angel fish. It is also not unusual for a snorkeler to be paid a visit by a sea turtle, dolphin or an eel. Nurse sharks are also not an uncommon sight in South Florida waters. Petrified black mangrove forests are still another sight for snorkelers to look for.
  
  

Geography

• From Palm Beach all the way south to the Keys, there are numerous spots for the avid snorkeler to visit. Miami's Crandon Park is popular as a place for guided kayak tours to take visitors to snorkel spots and ship wreck sites. In Key Largo, John Pennekamp State Park is a particularly popular snorkel spot. White Banks reef, inside John Pennekamp State Park is home to almost 400 types of tropical fish. Additionally, Red reef in Boca Raton is both close to shore and features hundred of different types of tropical fish.
  
  

Misconceptions

• Some people assume that Florida's waters are warm year round. However, in the winter time the water temperature can be as low as 72 degrees Fahrenheit. As an air temperature, this is considered warm, but since water draws heat away from your body faster than air, this is actually much cooler. Therefore, for those snorkeling during the winter months, consider renting a thin wetsuit top.
  
  

Warning

• Seeing a turtle or a manatee in the water can be an exhilarating experience. However, snorkelers should remember that these animals are protected by both state and federal regulation. Do not approach or touch a turtle or a manatee. Additionally, it can be easy to get so engrossed in watching the sea life that you entirely forget how far out you have swum. Make sure that you do not tire yourself out and that you have enough energy to get back.