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Explore the best snorkeling in Puerto Rico
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Few places in the Caribbean combine rich cultural heritage with crystal-clear waters quite like Puerto Rico. From coral reefs teeming with tropical fish to serene coves just steps from historic city streets, Puerto Rico is known for offering an unforgettable glimpse beneath the surface.
With Princess Cruises®, you’ll discover the most accessible, guest-favorite snorkeling destinations in Puerto Rico. Explore top snorkel spots in Puerto Rico on Princess excursions that include expert-guided tours and experiences designed for every comfort level.
Key takeaways
- Puerto Rico serves up guest-favorite snorkeling with easy-access city beaches, offshore cays near Fajardo and vibrant reefs at spots like Culebra and Vieques
- Expect to meet sea turtles, parrotfish, angelfish and rays as you explore clear, warm waters — with plenty of options for families (as well as more adventurous snorkelers)
- Princess excursions make it simple to join guided tours, rent gear on site or combine snorkeling with sightseeing in Old San Juan and other cultural hot spots
- Pro tip: Reef-safe sunscreen, a snorkeling buddy and a watchful eye on wave conditions help keep your adventure safe and enjoyable
Why snorkeling in Puerto Rico is a must-do experience
Snorkeling in Puerto Rico is one of the best ways to explore the island’s underwater world, filled with biodiversity and natural beauty. Warm Caribbean waters surround the island, supporting colorful coral reefs, schools of angelfish and parrotfish and larger marine species like rays and sea turtles.
Snorkeling in Puerto Rico is especially appealing for how accessible it is. With cruises from San Juan, you’re just minutes away from snorkel-friendly beaches like El Escambrón, or a short transfer from catamaran-ready launch points in Fajardo.
Princess helps you reach these top spots through a wide selection of Puerto Rico excursions that highlight both land and sea. Best of all, these experiences are designed for everyone — from families looking for things to do in Puerto Rico with kids to experienced snorkelers seeking secluded reefs.
Best snorkeling destinations in Puerto Rico
Fajardo: snorkeling and catamaran adventures
1 hour from port
Fajardo is a snorkeler’s paradise known for its offshore cays and brilliant blue water. Two of the area’s most popular snorkeling spots (Icacos Island and Palomino Island) offer a secluded escape with some of the clearest waters on the island. These coral-fringed islets are only accessible by boat, making them a top choice for full-day excursions that blend sailing, swimming and sun.
San Juan: easy-access snorkeling in the city
Less than 10 minutes from port
You don’t have to venture far from your ship to enjoy snorkeling. Located just a short drive from the cruise port, El Escambrón Beach is a local favorite known for its calm waters and surprising marine diversity. This beach offers one of the easiest ways to snorkel in Puerto Rico without leaving the city — perfect for guests who want to combine water adventures with urban exploration.
Beneath the surface, you’ll find coral patches, reef fish and maybe even a turtle or two swimming along the underwater reef trail. The area is protected, making it a great spot for beginners or families with kids. Plus, snorkel gear is available for rent on site, so you can pack light and dive in.
Princess Cruises offers excursions to Old San Juan that pair perfectly with a day at El Escambrón. This gives guests a well-rounded day of history, cuisine and aquatic fun.
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Balneario Cerro Gordo: shallow reefs for family-friendly snorkeling
35 minutes from port
Located just west of San Juan, Balneario Cerro Gordo offers a laid-back beach day with surprisingly rich underwater life. This crescent-shaped beach is known for its calm, shallow waters that are ideal for beginners and families with kids. Just offshore, rocky reef areas are home to a variety of marine species, including sea turtles, cuttlefish, trumpetfish and even the occasional spotted eel.
The beach is part of a protected natural reserve, offering amenities like shaded picnic areas, restrooms and hiking trails with coastal views. It's a great option for guests looking to combine snorkeling with a relaxing beach day and a bit of light hiking in Puerto Rico.
Although Princess does not currently offer excursions to Cerro Gordo, guests can easily reach the beach via a 35-minute drive from the San Juan port. For those interested in exploring more of Puerto Rico's natural beauty, consider combining a visit to Cerro Gordo with other activities such as discovering Puerto Rico waterfalls.
Snorkeling locations in Puerto Rico for an extended stay
Vieques: hidden coves and diverse marine life
2.5 hours from port
East of the main island, Vieques offers an unspoiled Caribbean escape where snorkeling feels like a true adventure. Top snorkel spots include Mosquito Pier, known for its clear water and coral-encrusted pylons that attract a wide range of marine life, and Playa La Chiva (also known as Blue Beach), where snorkelers can explore extensive coral gardens just offshore.
Vieques is also home to a national wildlife refuge, making it a haven for green sea turtles, rays and reef fish. The island’s relaxed pace and relatively undeveloped coastline make it ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in Puerto Rico’s natural beauty beyond the well-trodden tourist path.
Palancar Reef
2.5 hours from port
On Puerto Rico’s southwest coast, La Parguera is a gem for guests who want a truly unique snorkeling experience. Here, mangrove cays and shallow channels create perfect conditions for immersive reef exploration.
During the day, you can snorkel alongside schools of fish, stingrays and soft coral gardens in protected marine areas. At night, La Parguera’s bioluminescent bay comes alive. Microscopic plankton light up the water with every movement, creating a surreal glow around swimmers and kayakers.
Culebra: pristine waters and vibrant coral reefs
3 hours from port
Home to some of the best snorkeling in Puerto Rico, Culebra is a small island northeast of the mainland, accessible via ferry from Ceiba. Its most famous beach, Flamenco Beach, is often ranked among the top in the world for its white sands and crystal-clear visibility. Just around the bend, Carlos Rosario Beach offers an even more exclusive snorkeling experience, with thriving coral reefs just a short swim from shore.
These beaches are part of a protected nature reserve, so you can expect well-preserved reef ecosystems, an abundance of tropical fish and excellent visibility on calm days. Because of their remote location, snorkeling in Culebra is typically a full-day experience.
Tips for the best snorkeling experience
With 365 beaches, Antigua is like a page-a-day calendar for sun and sand. And beyond the golden shoreline lies a whole other world beneath the waves. Antigua’s surrounding waters are home to vibrant coral reefs and an astonishing variety of marine life. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a practiced pro, there’s something here for you.
When to snorkel in Puerto Rico
Although snorkeling in Puerto Rico is possible year-round, the best time to go is typically during the spring and summer months, from April to August. During this time, the water is generally calmer and clearer, providing better visibility for spotting marine life. Warmer temperatures also make extended time in the ocean more enjoyable.
That said, Princess offers excursions throughout the year since anytime is the best time to travel to Puerto Rico. So whether you're visiting during peak season or arriving in the shoulder months, you'll still find rewarding underwater experiences, especially in sheltered areas like El Escambrón.
What to bring snorkeling
Packing the right gear makes all the difference for a smooth and comfortable snorkeling adventure. Essentials include:
- Reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the coral ecosystems
- Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins) — though many excursions include this
- Water shoes or fins for navigating rocky beach entries
- A rash guard or swim shirt for extra sun protection
- Underwater camera or waterproof phone case to capture marine life moments
- Towel and dry bag for stashing gear during boat rides
If you're cruising with Princess, most guided tours provide all necessary equipment, so you can travel light and focus on the experience.
Safety tips for snorkeling in Puerto Rico
Safety always comes first when exploring underwater. To enjoy a worry-free adventure, keep these tips in mind:
- Stay close to shore unless you’re on a guided tour
- Never touch or disturb marine life — even the most colorful coral is alive
- Snorkel with a buddy and keep an eye on wave conditions
- Wear a flotation device if you're not a strong swimmer
- Follow local regulations and your guide’s instructions
Excursions and guided snorkeling tours with Princess Cruises
Princess makes it easy to discover Puerto Rico’s rich history, stunning beaches and lush landscapes. In San Juan, guests can explore historic Old San Juan, relax at Vivo Beach Club or journey into the El Yunque National Rainforest. Soak up the sun or stroll colorful city streets, with excursions that offer the best of island life. Browse Puerto Rico excursions or explore cruises to Puerto Rico and start planning your adventure.
Beyond snorkeling — other activities to enjoy in Puerto Rico
There are plenty of things to do in Puerto Rico that go beyond the shoreline. Kayak and paddleboard through calm bays in Fajardo or La Parguera, or hike the trails in El Yunque National Forest to discover waterfalls and scenic views. Princess excursions offer ways to pair snorkeling with cultural experiences like touring Old San Juan, sampling local cuisine or exploring Puerto Rico waterfalls.
For surf enthusiasts, head to the west coast for some of the best surfing in Puerto Rico. However you choose to explore, there’s no shortage of exciting ways to experience Puerto Rico’s land, sea and culture.
Dive in with cruises to Puerto Rico
From city beaches to offshore islands, Puerto Rico offers a mix of easy-access reefs, colorful marine life and unforgettable underwater moments. With Princess, you can experience the best snorkeling in Puerto Rico — without the stress of planning. Our expert-guided tours, seamless transportation and thoughtfully curated excursions help you make the most of your time on shore. We take care of the details so you can focus on the fun.
Ready to dive into adventure? Cruise with Princess and explore the best snorkeling in Puerto Rico.