Planning a vacation in Jamaica? Don’t miss exploring Jamaica’s top attractions, including the country’s array of stunning beaches and snorkeling spots. During your island getaway, you’ll want to put on some snorkeling gear and explore the country’s vibrant reefs that are teeming with colorful aquatic life. Experience an offshore snorkeling excursion or simply snorkel right from the beach at one of these best places for snorkeling in Jamaica.
Negril
Negril is not only a great honeymoon spot, but it’s the most popular area for snorkeling in Jamaica. This town on the island’s west coast is home to Seven Mile Beach, where you’ll find white sand and crystal clear water. For snorkelers, there are a number of spots in Negril where you can snorkel right from the beach. However, the Negril Coral Reef, which is two miles offshore, offers great snorkeling too if you’re willing to rent a boat or hire a tour guide.
Montego Bay
Head to Montego Bay to explore the incredible snorkeling spots around this Jamaican city. There are a couple of pristine beaches here that offer warm, shallow and calm waters, perfect for kids and beginner snorkelers. Since Montego Bay is home to Jamaica’s first marine park, Montego Bay Marine Park, efforts were made to protect the area’s coral reefs and marine life here. So you’re sure to see a wide variety of colorful fish while swimming in Montego Bay, from angelfish to stingrays.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios, part of the Ochos Rios Marine Park, will not disappoint snorkelers and divers alike. If you’re staying at one of the beach resorts here, you’re in luck because there is snorkeling right from the shore. However, there are snorkeling areas near the cruise port in Ocho Rios too, ideal for those traveling to Jamaica by cruise ship. For those interested in diving, Ocho Rios is home to Devil’s Reef, an underwater ridge that is suitable for open water divers and advanced divers too.
Bluefields Bay
Near Negril, Bluefields Bay is actually a resort area that plays host to incredible snorkeling opportunities. You do not need to worry about buying or renting gear when you stay at the luxurious Bluefields Bay Villas, as guests can take advantage of the complimentary snorkeling gear offered. If you’re new to snorkeling, consider booking an excursion with Bluefields Bay. This all-inclusive resort takes the guesswork out of your trip to Jamaica.
Runaway Bay
Escape the crowds when you visit Runaway Bay. The beach here, found on the northern coast of the island, is ideal for those wanting to snorkel right from the sandy shores. There is a wide variety of sea life that live in the water here. So snorkelers should expect to view sea urchins, coral, barracuda, stingrays, and other colorful aquatic life.
Rockhouse Hotel
Another resort perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts is the Rockhouse Hotel. Found in Negril, this picturesque resort is home to underwater caves, as the bungalows here are perched along rocky cliffs. This oceanfront resort truly offers an underwater oasis for snorkelers, as the caves and grottoes are alive with fish that you would only see in aquariums back home. Photographers looking to snap incredible images while snorkeling should consider staying here.
Doctor’s Cave Beach
Located in Montego Bay, Doctor’s Cave Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the country. Due to the number of tourists that regularly flock here, the fish are friendly and regularly swim up to snorkelers. Beginners can enjoy snorkeling right from the beach, however, there are reefs further out that are ideal for stronger swimmers or accessible through guided tours.
