Darling it’s better, down where it’s wetter, take it from me. The warm, crystal-clear waters teeming with sea life and expansive coral reefs make the Bahamas one of the best snorkeling spots on the planet. If you want to get up close and personal with Bahamian sea life then we suggest you skip the aquarium and strap on a pair of flippers, some goggles, and dive in!
Coral Reefs
The coral reefs in the Bahamas are the third most extensive in the world and provide a natural habitat to millions of sea creatures. The reefs are typically shallow with many of them just a few feet from the surface making them easy to explore. One of our favorite coral reef spots is in the Exumas Cays Land and Sea Park, which is a marine protected area only accessible by seaplane or boat.
FACT: Coral reefs only make up less than 2 percent of the world’s ocean floor but are home to 25 percent of its species!
Shipwrecks
The shallow reefs of the Bahamas have slain ships since colonial times. These shipwrecks have become a part of the seascape, now covered in crustaceans, sponges, and corals. As you swim among schools of fish that now inhabit the wrecks, you can glean a piece of history. Off Norman’s Cay, you can even snorkel to see the submerged crashed plane that is thought to be from Carlos Lehder’s drug operation days.
Exotic Sea Creatures
The waters surrounding the islands are buzzing with a variety of sea creatures. You’ll find a variety of tropical fish such as blue tang, parrotfish, snappers, groupers, and flounders. You might also find giant conches, sea stars, lobsters, eels, and sea turtles during your underwater adventure. If you’re lucky, you may even be joined by a pod of curious dolphins!
