Top Family-Friendly Snorkeling Destinations in the Caribbean

My favorite vacation activities are all about the water – or more specifically, being IN the water. That’s why cruising has always been so appealing to me; it’s a whole vacation on the sea! People often inquire whether the activities I enjoy while traveling are suitable for children, and I’m thrilled to say that snorkeling is an ideal family-friendly activity! While snorkeling (and diving) can be wonderful experiences for adults, they are equally fantastic for families traveling with kids. Among all the places I’ve explored, these Top Family-Friendly Snorkeling Destinations in the Caribbean provide everything a family could desire when planning a trip: a lively atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of tropical fish eager to greet you just below the surface!

Best Family-Friendly Snorkeling Spots in the Caribbean

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands are a picturesque oasis in the western Caribbean Sea, consisting of three islands surrounded by some of the clearest blue waters you’ll ever encounter. They attract diving and snorkeling lovers from all corners of the globe, and it’s easy to see the appeal!

Whether you're enjoying a leisurely day on the sandy shores of Seven Mile Beach with your snorkeling gear ready or embarking on a shore excursion with Dinogo to the nearby “Stingray City,” the Cayman Islands provide pristine waters that are ideal for an unforgettable underwater adventure!

A key factor to consider when planning a snorkeling trip is ensuring high visibility in the water. The waters surrounding the Cayman Islands are so crystal-clear that you don’t even need to dip your head underwater to spot the marine life! This creates a perfect environment for beginners who might feel anxious about what lies beneath the surface.

One of the most common concerns I hear about snorkeling is the fear of encountering sharks while in the water. However, the Cayman Islands are encircled by coral reefs, making it highly unlikely to come face-to-face with a shark. In many popular snorkeling locations, the water is only waist-deep for most older children and adults, creating a very relaxing snorkeling environment!

Cozumel, Mexico

Mexico boasts many well-known snorkeling spots, but Cozumel stands out by offering something not easily found elsewhere: affordable snorkeling.

While the more exotic fish tend to gather a bit farther from the port at the coral reefs, you can discover excellent snorkeling spots just a mile away, which also happen to be the most affordable excursions. You can book a shore excursion through Dinogo for an all-inclusive day in Cozumel for around $100 per person, covering transportation to and from the port, an open bar, meals, and access to snorkeling as well as non-motorized water activities like kayaking. If you’re on a budget, there’s an option to purchase a shore excursion that includes transport to a restaurant and bar with snorkeling access for about $39.99 per person, excluding the extras.

On a recent cruise aboard the Dinogo Breeze, I joined friends at a snorkeling location close to the port, where we were thrilled to find the water teeming with fish! We even spotted a starfish near the rocks, which is only the second time I’ve encountered one while snorkeling. It was quite an exciting moment.

Snorkeling Tip: If you happen upon a starfish while snorkeling, please refrain from taking it out of the water. Starfish you find on the beach are usually white and dried up because they’re no longer alive! The colorful starfish you see in the water are still living and should be left where you find them.

Want to explore somewhere a bit more remote from the mainland?

The West End of Curacao

Nestled just off the coast of Venezuela, Curacao ranks among my top cruise destinations. While there are countless activities to enjoy in Curacao, my favorite is hopping on a boat for some snorkeling!

Children will have just as much enjoyment splashing in the waves on Curacao’s beaches as they will exploring what lies beneath the water’s surface.

For older kids, a visit to Curacao’s iconic Blue Room promises an unforgettable snorkeling adventure. To access the Blue Room, you'll need to take a boat to the semi-enclosed cave, and depending on the tide, you might have to swim underwater to get in.

Once you step inside, it’s easy to understand why it’s known as the Blue Room; the sunlight dances off the white sandy bottom, bathing the cave in a stunning blue hue. It’s not unusual to spot a school of fish swimming around inside!

If the idea of an underwater cave feels a bit daunting, don’t worry! You can enjoy snorkeling at any beach along the West End of Curacao! Many visitors bring their own snorkeling equipment and simply explore the waters around the beach and rocky cliffs.

During my time in Curacao, I encountered my very first sea turtle in its natural habitat, and it happened right by the beach!

Advice for Snorkeling with Kids

When taking young children snorkeling, there are several important factors to consider, no matter how experienced you are in the water.

Children must always wear a life jacket. Most snorkeling trips require wearing a life jacket or inflatable vest, and while you might think it’s unnecessary, setting a good example and ensuring the kids' safety is crucial.

Make sure your child’s snorkeling equipment fits correctly. You might not notice at first, but snorkeling masks come in various sizes for children, just like clothing! Ensure your child is equipped with the right-sized life jacket and snorkeling mask—if the mask doesn't fit well, it may not seal properly, leading to a face full of salt water.

Remind children to LOOK, DON’T TOUCH. Unless your snorkeling guide specifically tells you to touch a fish or any marine life, ensure your kids understand the importance of keeping their hands to themselves. This rule applies to adults as well! While some sea creatures look incredibly tempting to touch, many can inflict painful reactions if handled.

Have you gone snorkeling with your family? I’d love to hear about your favorite snorkeling spots!