Miami · SNORKELING
Good snorkeling trips fill up weeks ahead and the great ones go first. Below: the 5 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
Spend about 3.5 hours sailing Biscayne Bay with captains such as David or JP on a motor-free Hobie catamaran. Expect sandbars, snorkeling, mangroves, wildlife, Miami views, fresh fruit, and a relaxed group of no more than 10 people.
“We had a wonderful day. It was such a pleasant experience on the small catamaran. Our 14 and 12 year old loved it too. Thank you so much!!”
Ride from Miami to Key West, explore independently, then board a catamaran for three hours of reef snorkeling, music, and drinks. Guides such as Lily, Marbelis, Tamara, and Pepe have earned praise for helpful service. Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and patience for the long bus ride.
“Waves we're choppy for snorkeling but the boat ride was perfect! The crew was very accommodating and encouraging”
Paddle mangrove channels with a guide such as Alejandra, Francis, Ashley, or Tosh, then ride by boat to Sandspur Island, also called Raccoon Island. You can snorkel in shallow water, look for wildlife, and meet the island’s raccoons. Equipment, water, fruit, and some drinks are included.
“This experience was AMAZING it was a first for us and we absolutely loved it booking was easy Jezel was the best my husband got scared and she helped him all the way through will Definitely try this again whenever I return!!!!”
Learn to paddle a kayak or SUP, follow mangrove-lined water toward Sandspur Island, then snorkel shallow Biscayne Bay with a safety vest. Guides such as Tony, Miguel, Sydney, and Celia keep beginners comfortable while you watch for raccoons, iguanas, crabs, fish, and rays.
“We enjoyed our time! We loved getting to see the wildlife (iguanas, puffer fish, raccoons, crabs), and our guide was great (Caleb, I believe!) and he kept our drinks coming! It was the perfect experience for our last day in Miami. Kelsi & Kaitlin will be back! Thank you guys. Bring bug spray & sunscreen!”
Cruise Biscayne Bay with a licensed captain, passing Millionaire’s Bunker and Miami landmarks before stopping for swimming or snorkeling near Haulover. Bring food, drinks, and your own music. Captains including Jack, Cece, Monica, and Daniel have earned strong praise, but confirm the full cost and tour length before booking.
“It stormed during our entire 2 hour ride. Not sporadic showers but pouring rain the entire time. The captain was the only person with shelter. My friends and I were forced to endure a miserable 2 hours being pelted by rain. Instead Of canceling the trip the captain essentially forced us to endure the ride. I could not cancel because they would not refund me. The captain watched us sit miserably and instead of canceling she continued just to keep the money. The company and viator refused to issue even a partial refund. I wouldn't recommend this to my enemy”
Pick a shoreline, a neighbourhood or a boat.
