From city beaches to jaw dropping underwater worlds, these are the best places to snorkel
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Snorkelling offers the chance to plunge into another world without having to learn how to dive.
From exploring seascapes in the underwater world, to observing creatures of the deep, it's a poplar holiday pastime which offers something different than just laying on the beach.
Here are some of the best places in the world to go snorkelling - from Europe to the Caribbean and Australia.
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Red Sea, Egypt
The Red Sea in Egypt is famous for its buoyancy, making it an easy place to swim and snorkel and explore the world under the water.
Sharm El-Sheikh, which is known for its resorts, is one place to try, or you can venture to search for Dugong at Marsa Mubarak, or the Blue Hole at Dahab, a sinkhole which drops over 100m.
Azores, Portugal
The Portuguese Azores might not be in mainland Europe but they're said to be one of the best places to snorkel in the region.
The San Miguel coastline (not to be confused with the beer) is one of the spots to go.
You can even explore rocky volcanic craters and search for creatures such as octopus.
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Bonaire National Marine Park, Carribean
The Caribbean is renowned for clear waters and colourful fish, so you'll likely be dazzled if you take to the underwater world on any of the islands.
However, the Bonaire National Marine Park is one of the best if you want to get serious.
The UNESCO World Heritage listed area surrounds the Dutch island of Bonaire.
It's also a diving hotspot.
Iceland
Iceland may not be the first place you'd associate with diving.
But the European country has some unique underwater attractions.
The silfra fissure that separates the Eurasian and American plates can actually be seen under the ocean.
Silfra is the only place in the world where you can dive or snorkel directly in a crack between two tectonic plates.
Book a tour to experience the unique phenomenon.
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Ibiza, Spain
Euro party island Ibiza isn't just all clubs and bars.
As well as the beaches, stick your head under water to discover a much calmer, quieter world.
The north of the island, which is quieter all round, is one of the best spots.
Cala Xarraca and Es Pou des Lleó are two of the best areas to look up.
You can book boat tours to take you out too.
Kornati Islands, Croatia
The Game of Thrones nation, Croatia, is much more than just ancient cities.
The Kornati Islands National Parks is one of the best swimming, diving and snorkelling areas in Europe.
It's home to pristine islands and few tourists as you have to take a trip from the mainland, of have a boat, to visit.
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Galapagos Islands, Equador
A bucket list destination many dream off, the Galapagos Islands are best known for unspoiled landscapes, and wildlife.
Discover both but sticking your head under the clear waters by snorkelling here.
Elafonisi Beach, Greece
The Greek Islands are a dream holiday destination, with swimming and lazing on the beaches a popular activity.
However, head to Crete's Elafonisi beach to snorkel at the beach famous for its unique pink sand.
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Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Indonesia is not just Bali.
It's actually home to world renowned snorkelling spot Raja Ampat.
This tropical region is known as the heart of the Coral Triangle due to its marine biodiversity.
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