Best Snorkeling Spots in Destin, FL
Last Updated on August 15, 2024 by Boatsetter Team
Looking for the perfect place to take your family on an underwater adventure? Destin, Florida is one of the best places in Florida for snorkeling. Swim through crystal-clear waters, dive among artificial reefs, and experience Florida’s abundant marine life up close!
Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner, Destin provides numerous spots to experience underwater wonder. In this guide, we’ve highlighted four of the best snorkeling spots in Destin Florida.
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Crab Island
Crab Island is one of Destin’s most famous snorkeling spots, known for its shallow, emerald-green waters and surrounding grass flats. The grass flats around Crab Island offer a unique backdrop for your snorkeling experience, as you can navigate underwater vegetation while keeping an eye out for marine creatures like small fish and crabs.
The calm shallow water makes this ideal for families and beginners. The best time to snorkel at Crab Island is during high tide (typically between 9am and 10am in the summer months) and in the few hours after.
Destin East Jetty
Located at the entrance of Destin Harbor, our next snorkeling spot is the Destin East Jetty. The jetty extends into the Gulf of Mexico and is home to a variety of marine life including fish like snapper, sheepshead, and redfish. You’ll also find crabs, octopuses, and various sponges and corals, all contributing to the dynamic underwater landscape!
To avoid strong currents, we recommend entering from the beach near the jetty. The best time to go is during slack high tide, when the water is calmer and visibility is ideal. Since this is a popular snorkeling spot in Destin, it may get crowded at times.
Henderson Beach State Park
If you’re looking for a more secluded experience, away from bustling tourist areas, we recommend snorkeling at Henderson Beach State Park. White-sand dunes gently slope into pristine shoreline and clear waters.
You have two reefs to choose from: the Henderson Park West Nearshore Reef and the Henderson Park East Snorkel Reef. These ecosystems are home to various fish species, sting rays, sea turtles, and the occasional dolphin. If you visit between May and October, you might even catch loggerhead and green sea turtles laying their eggs on the beach.
Tip: There is a $4.00 admission fee for this park that goes toward maintaining the on-site amenities, including a playground, campground, and boardwalk.
Norriego Point
One of the most popular, free-access snorkeling spots in Destin, Florida is Norriego Point. The jetties around Norriego Point protect the waters from strong currents coming from the Gulf. As a result, snorkelers can enjoy calm shallow waters and view a variety of marine life.
The jetties and tide pools are home to small crabs, octopuses, and jellyfish. As you swim out from the jetties, you’ll find local fish species and possibly glimpse the occasional sea turtle or curious dolphin. For the best visibility, visit during slack high tide.
Discover the best snorkeling in Destin, Florida
Diverse underwater landscapes and a variety of marine life makes Destin, FL a snorkeler’s paradise. Whether you choose the family-friendly waters of Norriego Point or the bustling ecosystem of the Destin East Jetty, Destin’s waterways promise an unforgettable underwater experience.
For the ultimate snorkeling adventure, consider renting a boat with Boatsetter. With a boat rental, you can easily access the best snorkeling spots in Destin, Florida, explore hidden gems, and enjoy the freedom of the open water.
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