My 3 favorite snorkeling spots around the world

🐠1. The Great Barrier Reef – Departing from Cairns, Australia

My most spectacular experience

Swimming above the world’s largest coral reef is an experience I wish for every ocean lover. From Cairns, I boarded a boat that took us several hours offshore, far from the coast, to reach protected reef areas.

Once in the water, I was instantly captivated by the abundance of marine life: schools of multicolored fish, giant clams, corals of all shapes, moray eels, sharks, and even rays gliding peacefully by my side.

The visibility was incredible, and the feeling of being immersed in such a vast and fragile ecosystem left a lasting impression on me. Every movement in the water revealed a new creature, a new underwater landscape. It’s a place that reminds us of the raw beauty of our planet… and the urgency to protect it.

🐟 2. Manta Ray Island – Fiji

To swim with the giants of the ocean

Located in the Yasawa Islands, Manta Ray Island lives up to its name. During manta ray season (May to October), sightings are almost daily. And I got to experience it! Guided by local experts, I had the privilege of swimming above these majestic creatures, some with wingspans over 4 meters. They moved with an indescribable grace, their wings slowly gliding through the turquoise water.

But even without the mantas, the underwater world around the island is stunning. I explored vibrant coral gardens, watched parrotfish chew on bits of reef, and admired a beautiful sea snake. It’s an intimate, eco-friendly spot where you truly feel like a privileged guest, just there to observe.

🐚 3. Perhentian Islands – Malaysia

A paradise accessible to ocean explorers

Off the northeast coast of Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands offer an idyllic setting for underwater exploration. From the beach, we boarded a small local boat that took us from one spot to another: a shallow coral reef here, a shark point there, and a turtle area a bit further on. What I especially loved was the variety of sites accessible in a single trip, each with its own unique underwater vibe.

We swam alongside clownfish, encountered peaceful green turtles, and even spotted some small reef sharks! The water was warm, the visibility excellent, and the guides knew exactly where to take us to maximize our chances of seeing marine life. It’s a place that feels wild, vibrant, and warmly welcoming, perfect for anyone looking to try or improve their snorkeling skills in a relaxed setting.