Snorkeling Sites in Bahamas Out Islands
There are hundreds of natural sites to go snorkeling in the Out Islands.
Abacos
In the Abacos, off the east side of the Little Bahamas Bank, the primary reef structures are seldom deeper than 30 to 40 feet. There are open cavern systems and excellent shallow wrecks. Green Turtle Cay features tremendous shallow reefs as well as superb fish life, one of the earmarks of the Abacos. At Walker’s Cay, snorkelers can view up to 200 sharks at a time from the surface or dive down to interact with them. An example of resorts that offer snorkeling trips, equipment and instruction:
Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour
Abaco Club at Winding Bay
Andros
Offering shallow reefs and glimpses over the deep wall, inland blue holes and occasional dolphin encounters, Andros Island is popular for snorkeling. An example of resorts that offer snorkeling trips, equipment and instruction:
Small Hope Bay offers daily snorkeling trips guided tours off Tiamo Beach, where conch, sea cucumbers and huge cushion stars frequent the shore.
Bimini
This small island just 50 minutes from Miami features fine, shallow reefs; a great shallow wreck, the Sapona; and big animal experiences. Atlantic Spotted Dolphins can be seen along the southern Bimini chain of islands near Orange Cay. Just north of Bimini, a pod of resident Spotted Dolphins is making itself accessible on an almost daily basis.
Cat Island
Dry Heads is one of the healthiest shallow reefs on the islands of The Bahamas. Sammy T’s Beach Resort and Fernandez Bay Village both offer snorkel equipment and guides for visitors.
Eleuthera
Devil’s Backbone borders the northern edge of Eleuthera. This jagged line of shallow reef offers tons of fish, lots of other marine life and a fascinating glimpse into history. The Bahamas-Current Cut off the west side of Eleuthera is one of the most distinctive snorkel sites on this Caribbean island. It’s a relatively narrow cut that runs from the bank to the outer waters, but the current screams through the cut, creating a perfect feeding ground for marine animals. An example of resorts that offer snorkeling trips, equipment and instruction:
The Cove at Eleuthera’s rocky cove area is ideal for snorkeling; gear and instruction is included for guests. Romora Bay (Harbour Island)
Exuma
The Exumas have some of the thickest concentrations of shallow reefs in The Bahamas, as well as shallow blue holes. The Exuma Land and Sea Park offers snorkeling within this nature preserve. An example of resorts that offer snorkeling trips, equipment and instruction: Hotel Higgins’ Silver Palms Beach has shimmering sands where the reefs beckon snorkelers to explore the low water along the shore, which is perfect for beginning snorkelers. Equipment is available to guests. Staniel Cay Yacht Club has natural hidden beaches on the cays where visitors can snorkel the amazing Thunderball, a hollowed-out island where thousands of colorful fish will eat from your hand. Exuma Palms
Long Island
Shallow reefs on Long Island, Bahamas, are right off shore, but there are plenty of boat-accessible sites, too. Stella Maris Resort offers snorkeling trips for guests. Stella Maris Resort has daily snorkeling trips. On-site experts teach snorkeling along Deal’s Beach. Cape Santa Maria Beach Reserve is popular for snorkeling and swimming.
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New U.S. Passport Regulations
As of January 23, 2007 all U.S. citizens are required to carry valid U.S. passports when traveling to and from The Bahamas.