If you love the water and are fascinated by sea life and the world under the ocean's surface, snorkeling can be a fun and relatively inexpensive hobby. Unlike scuba diving, which requires training, as well as costly equipment --- either to buy or rent --- snorkeling can be done by just about anyone anywhere there is water. And you don't always have to be far offshore to enjoy the discovery that comes with exploring reefs and other marine habitats.
Equipment
Basic snorkeling equipment includes fins, a mask that covers your eyes and nose and a snorkel. If you're snorkeling in northern waters, you may need a wetsuit. In more tropical climates or even just warm-weather areas with lakes, bays or oceans to explore, a simple swimsuit will suffice. If you plan to snorkel beyond where you can swim from the shore, then you'll also need a boat or some way to reach your watery destination. If you're on vacation in an area that has snorkeling tours, local companies will provide transportation and all the equipment you need if you don't have any of your own.
Tips for Mask and Snorkel
Make sure your mask fits snugly but not too tight. The pressure of the water will also help keep your mask secure on your face. The strap of the mask should be around the widest part of your head and your snorkel should rest in front of your ear. Getting used to breathing in and out through a snorkel can take some practice, as can swimming with fins. A swimming pool can be an easy place to practice both. Remember that if you go below the surface of the water, your snorkel will fill up with water, so you'll have to keep your mouth closed. Once you surface you can either blow the water out of your snorkel or simply take the snorkel out when your head is above water.
Tips for Fins
If you never have used fins or flippers before, you'll be surprised how just a little foot movement can propel you a good distance under water. Your fins should fit snugly but not too tightly, because that can cause your feet and toes to cramp. You don't want them too big, however, because they'll fall off under water and sink. And when you are out of the water and walking with fins, be sure to lift your feet a little higher than you normally would to keep from tripping on them.
Where to Snorkel
What makes snorkeling interesting is swimming among unusual plant and rock formations and encountering fish and other sea life that you can't really see from above the surface. That means sandy shorelines, such as those along Florida's Gulf of Mexico coast, might not provide a lot of fascinating scenery. But coral reefs and even lakes can be entertaining, as long as the water is clear. Ask your friends who snorkel and any dive shops in your area about good snorkeling destinations.
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