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9 Best Beaches in Maui for Snorkeling

August 8, 2022 by Saltwater Things

Maui, the land of mesmerizing beaches in the heart of the Hawaiian Islands, and just in the center of the Pacific ocean; is a GOD-gifted island having dozens of attractions to visit.

The travelers swarming Hawaii will mostly end up visiting the island of O’ahu by going to Honolulu and Pearl Harbour and all the adjacent amenities.

And the reason is O’ahu has the most inhabitants and high-rise buildings and bigger cities and towns than the rest of the islands located on the strip of Hawaii.

But for natural attractions require adopting the dangers and risks associated. So, you should be visiting some less-known but enormously beautiful parts of the Hawaiian Islands.

So, we have something unique for the extreme sightseeing folks and families bearing lots and lots of natural attractions.

Be ready to get to know the best beaches in Maui for snorkeling; the yellow sandy, coral reef-swarmed beaches to explore the natural underwater world untouched by the worst of human inventions.

Hawaii is indeed far enough from the nearby land, which is why pollution will hardly find its way to reach there.

And thankfully, the inhabitants around care for keeping it clean and protected against all the polluted materials.

Clean water, conversed underwater life, and this is what Maui is known as its best attraction to visit!

9 Best Beaches in Maui for Snorkeling

We must say, Maui is the honeymoon destination. And a dream vacation spot! You are good to travel down there in all seasons because its weather stays warm and humid/muggy. The average weather varies between 65° to 88° year around.

So, you have plenty of time to decide a on plan when to go to Maui and no month should keep you outta the water.

Let’s find the top snorkeling spots in Maui, and rock your vacations!!

Ho’okipa Beach Park

Ho'okipa Beach Park

Ho’okipa Beach Park, located on the northern coastal side of the Island of Maui, and under Paia (or, Pā’ia) is a white sandy beach surrounded by the green lavish fields.

Visiting for the sake of picnic-only, beware of the sharp rocks all around the beachside. But when you plan to go snorkeling at this beach park, nothing would stop you! 🙂

For your kind information, almost all the beaches around Maui are white sandy ones, so there should be no concern about Ho’okipa Beach Park having the same colored sand on its beachfront.

But that is for the families visiting it for a picnic. The real fun is there inside the water only the snorkelers can get a chance to view from super close.

It really attracts the snorkelers but there is one major issue as well; the rough waves and strong currents in the peak summery months. If you know how to swim during snorkeling, you are safe and know how to put back onto the route.

Not safer for the beginners and kids, and we meant it!

Ho’okipa Beach Park Address: 179 Hana Hwy, Paia, HI 96779

Available amenities: Shaded pavilion, tables, restrooms, food store, parking lot, rinse-off stations, and much more.

Access Format: Free

Waiʻānapanapa State Park

Waiʻānapanapa State Park

At first, you will turn stunned, and is the black lava sand for real? This would give the perception of the lava had just erupted and cooled down by going into the seawater.

But the reality is, it was once covered with the ashes caused by the lava’s eruption and has not washed out but sprinkled all around the place! Do not worry, the black sand would not cause stains on you!

This look is just stunning, and after that, the beautiful green water, tidal caves, black rocks, and the greenery around is just a soothing viewing experience for sure!

The water is kinda rough, so we do not see find it for the beginners to go snorkeling due to the risks attached.

Address to Waiʻānapanapa State Park’s Location: Waianapanapa, Hana, HI 96713

Amenities in the park: cabins (to rent), car parking lot, campground, cottages, restrooms, pizza shop, restaurants, etc.

Access Type: Paid

Mākena State Park

Mākena State Park

Mākena State Park is an undeveloped beach but this is a good thing, isn’t it?

Located under the place of Wailea-Makena, the remote location makes it a superb natural snorkeling spot that you can find off Maui island.

But that remote location does not mean it is inaccessible, the paved road coming from Wailea-Makena takes you straight to this white-sandy beach part.

Coming here at any time of the day, any month of the year, and you will always find it much-crowded.

Address of Mākena State Park: 4670 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753

Available amenities around: Parking lot, beach volleyball, food trucks offering tacos and Mexican food, etc.

Access Type: Paid

Kamaole Beach Park III

Kamaole Beach Park III

Hit a grassy land and then set afoot over the yellow sandy beach with the clear and clearest water, Kamaole Beach Park III is set to provide you the same aforementioned experience.

A whole family picnic spot and explore the snorkeling along. The natural underwater habitat is real close and you do not need to swim to the depth.

Located within the limits of Kihei, you can hit the spot even at night time without much traveling (if you live close by) or if you are a visitor, your hotel location should be nearby.

And that is the reason why it lists being as the best beaches in Maui for snorkeling!

Location of Kamaole Beach Park III: S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753

Amenities found: Parking lot, tables, playground, parking lot, food stores,

Access Type: Free

Kapalua Bay Beach

Kapalua Bay Beach

The long U-styled Kapala Bay Beach is the perfect snorkeling plus picnic spot in the region. Its natural cove may provide the snorkelers the chance of spotting sea turtles and eels along the way.

And the cleanest water despite being surrounded by the good city limits of Kapalua and you would not be able to detect a pinch of pollutant elements.

Want us to rate this as the best place to snorkel in Maui for beginners, we would not hesitate to state Kapalua Bay Beach is one of them!

Address of Kapalua Bay Beach: Kapalua, HI 96761

Amenities around: Parking (free and paid), bathrooms, paddle boards, food corners, and more.

Access Type: Free

Black Rock Beach

Black Rock Beach

We can call Black Rock Beach the calmest and clearest seafront with plenty of reasons to dive for snorkeling.

And it hardly goes rough with the sea waves. Usually only calm!

Lava rocks around it, and you would super love the underwater snorkeling around this area forcing you to hit the beautiful underwater attraction.

If we can rate it as the best snorkeling in Maui for families, there is no lie in it, seriously!

Address Location of Black Rock Beach: Lahaina, HI 96761

Amenities on this beach: Spa and resort hotel, grill bar, parking, different other food stores, bathrooms, and more.

Access Type: Free

Hāna Bay Beach Park

Hāna Bay Beach Park

Peaceful and soothing, the calmness around is just mesmerizing. You know coming across the city limits and reaching there is just as pleasant as you would forget all your busy routines, life troubles, and tiredness!

It is, undoubtedly, the best and most-visited place in Hana town and is rated as one of the safest place to snorkeling in Maui!

Hāna Bay Beach Park Address: 150 Keawa Pl, Hana, HI 96713

Amenities available: Restrooms, picnic tables, BBQ grills, parking, ballpark, resort, gallery, cultural center, recreational pier, and more.

Access Type: Free

Koki Beach Park

Koki Beach Park

A Grassy area, dark sand, powerful waves, green mountainous range, and hard rocks will welcome you to Koki Beach Park.

It is an all-in-one beach park giving you immense reasons to visit it for a picnic, swimming, and of course, snorkeling around this beautiful spot!

Beautiful outside, and enormously beautiful from underwater, and that single reason makes it being one of the best places to snorkel in Maui!

Address to Koki Beach Park: 175 Haneoo Rd, Hana, HI 96713

Amenities: Chicken restaurant, car parking, souvenirs shop, restrooms, etc.

Access Type: Free

Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach

Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach

Small and dark-red sandy beach with steep hiking trails. Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach gives you a perception of an isolated beach not far from the city limits and is considered one of the best beaches in Maui for snorkeling!

The underwater structure with the green mountains around would push you to dive down the water and go for hours-long snorkeling.

Believe us, the surroundings will attract many unique marine lives for sure. And you can take the best snorkeling spots in Maui with kinda rough waves.

Location to Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach: Hana, HI 96713

Amenities: No facilities around.

Access Type: Free

Visiting O’ahu for snorkeling, do not miss on this exclusive location guide!

The Land Area of Maui, Hawaiian Islands; How Big is it?

Total land area: 727 mi²

Maximum length: 39.77 mi

Max width: 26.1 mi

What Other Attractions does Maui Have than the Beaches?

  • Haleakala Volcano
  • Lao Valley State Monument
  • The Road to Hana
  • Pineapple Farms
  • Sprawling Haleakala National Park
  • Humpback Whales (commonly sighted from November to May)

Maui Snorkeling Map

What Month is Best for Snorkeling in Maui?

November to avoid the crowd.

While you can snorkel in Maui all year round because of its tropical environment.

Which Side of Maui is Best for Snorkeling?

South shore beaches as they got the calmest water. There you will find Mākena State Park Beach the dominant and most visited beach people love to visit. This part really got some best snorkel beaches in maui!

Conclusion!

Maui is the second-largest island in the Hawaiian Islands, and that is the reason it got many outstanding snorkel beaches all around its wider territory.

The top 9 best beaches in Maui for snorkeling welcome you onboard!

Visit any time of the year, and treat yourself and the whole family to go for the most memorable vacation of their lifetime!

Filed Under: Best Places, Snorkeling Tagged With: Best Beaches in Maui for Snorkeling, Maui Snorkeling Beaches

9 Best Places to Snorkel in Florida

July 28, 2022 by Saltwater Things

Out of the many warm states throughout the U.S.A., Florida is the most famous state which attracts almost all four weathers.

And when the summer hits, it hits hard on the inhabitants of Florida.

But Florida got its edge as well to counter the summer. And hitting the beaches on hot scorching days is no less than entering heaven.

Luckily, the geographical location of Florida touches the sea from its three ends. And we are talking about the Atlantic ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other.

Both oceans are known for their warm water, especially the Gulf of Mexico.

Due to that very reason, the dozens of snorkeling beaches welcome you to explore the beautiful ocean neighboring Florida from the three ends.

And we surely have a long list of the best places to snorkel in Florida, beautiful sunny Florida to explore from underwater, and thank nature for what beauty it goes over-the-land, and in-the-land.

The Top Best Places to Snorkel in Florida!

Not a one or two but Florida got dozens of clear, excruciating, and cleanest snorkel beaches to spend your holiday time.

The warm water is the foremost indicator of why the travelers love swarming to Florida from other states, and even from international destinations during the summery months.

So, let’s start counting the best beaches to snorkel in Florida to spend quality time full of fun!

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Not just a beach but the whole park welcomes you to stay for days, enjoy the food, and go snorkeling!

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park has much more to offer, and this is the very reason holiday-goers find it the perfect spot for days-long snorkeling along with their family.

Dive here and see the cleanest, pollution-free clear water and the world of coral reefs attracting the unique marine species around.

No doubt, it is one of the best places to snorkel in the upper Florida Keys!

Phil Foster Park

Phil Foster Park

Just on the brink of Blue Heron Blvd and placed close to Jerry Thomas Memorial Bridge; this entire Phil Foster Park has the whole world around.

The easy access to the location where you can take Florida State Road A1A which swirls from the mids of the city of Riviera beach. The amenities all make it a hot snorkeling spot for travelers because they have everything in their surroundings; from hotels to shops to all.

Enjoy the clear water filled with special marine life being right on the brink of a busy city with no sign of pollution.

Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda State Park

Why there are beach parks other than the plain and simple snorkel beaches in Florida? The reason is simple; the developed state aimed to provide a great experience to the visitors/snorkelers so they do not feel abandoned and left unserviced.

Out of the state parks we mentioned, Bahia Honda State Park will stun you from its scenic location, and the clear blue water.

On the brink of West Summerland Key and, of course, over the Bahia Honda Key, this whole state park comes with outstanding services to set up an RV on the dedicated camping site or the plain camping site to set up the tents and spend the night in the lap of nature.

Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring

Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring

Not a beach, not a lake, and not a river spot; Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring is the natural pool surrounded by rock formations, into the cave providing the immense scenic underwater snorkel experience.

The place may haunt you for sure, and it takes courage to dive but when you do, it is a whole new underwater world!

Just a few miles out from Williston, this snorkel spot possesses the natural inclination to pay a visit.

Bathtub Reef Beach

Bathtub Reef Beach

Snorkel with style, and off from the metropolitan cities to ditch all kinds of pollution, Bathtub Reef Beach has the natural and ever-growing coral reef along with a variety of marine species ready to welcome you!

Just cross through the busy streets of Stuart and Sewall’s Point by taking the highway A1A or SE Ocean Blvd, and the world would change for you; from seeing the skyscrapers to the beautiful yellowish beach sand as you move close to Bathtub Reef Beach!

And then jump right into the water and snorkel to explore the natural underwater beauty of this coral-reef beach!

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Beach

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Beach

Wanting to head to a relaxed snorkel beach in Florida, we got one for you rated as the best places to snorkel in Key West; the ultimate city with high-rise buildings and all.

But this busy state got something to attract the beach-goers.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Beach is a bluewater and clear beach with all natural resources. Then if you look the opposite from the beach, the whole city is laying on the back front.

Higgs Memorial Beach Park

Higgs Memorial Beach Park

Although a little beach spot in the Key West, this entire Higgs Memorial Beach Park holds almost all the necessary amenities to assist the visitors with the best.

The sandy beach with calm water is the real attraction. Let’s move into the shore a few meters and you would still be standing in the water.

And the nearby rocks and presence of coral reefs will push you to go snorkeling and spend the best time around.

Planning to visit Oahu, Hawaii for acute snorkeling purposes; let’s not forget to visit these snorkeling places.

Calusa Beach & Loggerhead Beach

Calusa Beach & Loggerhead Beach

The snorkel-attracted Calusa Beach & Loggerhead Beach is the nicest and cleanest beach from the Bahia Honda State Park, so you have double the one from one beach site.

That reason ranks it as the best place to snorkel in the Florida Keys!

Sombrero Beach

Sombrero Beach

Enjoy the green, clean, and clear water by visiting Sombrero Beach.

The nicest beach to hit during the scorching days and snorkel underwater.

Situated on the narrow strip that goes from Key Largo to Big Pine Key and towards Key West, you can take a left turn by passing through Marathon, and that left turn would completely change the world for you.

How Long is the Coastline of Florida?

The official state department figures have shown the coastline of Florida which fronts the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the straits of Florida amounting to a total of 825 miles.

What Florida is Famous for Other than its Exotic Beaches?

Walt Disney World® Resort is a theme park situated in Orlando, FL since 1971.

Best Time of the Year to Snorkel in Florida

April until August.

To skip the crowd, April and May are the great months to visit the snorkeling destinations in Florida, especially the ones located on the strip of Florida Keys and when the water is not too hot.

Once the summer kicks in, the accommodations go double in the expense as well, and the water becomes unbearably hot.

Florida Snorkeling Map

Florida Snorkeling Map - The Best Places to Snorkel

Conclusion!

These 9 best places to snorkel in Florida are fun-visiting with the entire family.

And they all are easily accessible which is a plus point.

Not any far from the metro cities, you would never find any trouble to reach there.

So, sunny Florida welcomes you with its arms open! 🙂

Filed Under: Best Places, Snorkeling Tagged With: Florida Snorkeling Beaches, Snorkeling Florida

What is a Dry Snorkel?

July 26, 2022 by Saltwater Things

Snorkels may all look similar to view, but there are multrent types of snorkels having different features: Dry snorkels, semi-dry snorkels, and wet snorkels. They are also available in a classic design or in full-face snorkel masks.

But the question remains, what is a dry snorkel? 

The exciting thing is, when the folks get to see it for the first time, the snorkels ofc, let alone be a dry one, would rather look like an elephant’s trunk because of that long tube named ‘snorkel tube’.

Principally, dry snorkels are designed to keep away the water entering the human lungs especially when they go below the face of the ocean.

Parts of a Dry Snorkel; What Makes it Perfect?

Before we get into the details session of dry snorkel, let’s discuss the parts of dry snorkel:

Float valves: This is the identifying point of dry snorkels. The pier stopcock, also known as the “dry stopcock”, is located on top of the long tube and seals it to keep the water away from entering the tube when it is submerged.

Splash guard: Since the pier stopcock only closes when the snorkel is down to sea level. Dry snorkels also come with all necessary tools and with a plastic guard at the top of the tube to help the water to stay away from getting inside. 

Tube: The structure of the tube looks like an elephant’s long trunk and is the part where the process of air exchange takes place.

Flex tube: On numerous dry snorkels, the bottom of the tube is made up of a flexible material like silicone to give a further malleable and comfortable fit and reduce jaw tiredness.

Mask clip: Nearly all snorkels have a hook-like structure on the tube to attach the snorkel to the mask swatch. Some models have a quick-release buckle, which includes a medium to detach the mask from the snorkel fluently.

Mouthpiece: The stylish dry snorkels will hold a gentle silicone mouthpiece for essay access indeed after hours of usage.

Reservoir: Underneath the mouth, there is a tiny region namely a “reservoir”, where the water that goes into the snorkel will collect.

One-way purge valve: Located at the undersurface of the snorkel, this stopcock allows users to easily purify any water that starts to enter into a long hollow cylindrical pipe.

What is a Dry Snorkel and How Does a Dry Snorkel Work?

The pier stopcock medium on the dry snorkel is allowed to lock only when the snorkel is in the water. It locks itself so that the water cannot be able to enter the mouth of a person who goes down the surface of the water.

To form this composition, the cap of the dry snorkel holds a pier that forms bright stuff and is fixed to the hinge of a stopcock.

When the snorkel gets the water inside, it rises up to the pier and closes the stopcock at the top surface of the snorkel tube. The way of keeping it from happening is by taking action in advance of any water from getting in. Snorkelers can still respire in or into the open air through the droughty snorkel while down the surface of the water.

Once the cap of the snorkel is back above the face of the water, the pier medium will go down and change from a closed to an open position.

Are Dry Snorkels Any Dangerous?

Dry snorkel entertains indefinite beginners with enjoyable functions. It holds kinda polished and moody manners in snorkeling skills. So, we do not see snorkeling holding any dangers and disadvantages at all.

Disadvantages of Using a Dry Snorkel

Dry snorkel holds a clear advantage of itself for its newest users.

They aren’t expressing a quality for an extension where you’ll be taking a lot of time living down the surface of the water including free diving, scuba diving, and spearfishing.

The increased lightness of the dry snorkel can also drag on the mask that we put on our faces during snorkeling.

Dry snorkels also tend to be thick and larger than other kinds of snorkels.

Based on the model you select, air barter in dry snorkels may be more killing than a normal type of snorkel.

Still, you’ll have a requirement to choose a snorkel with a particular mass to grease a better air exchange. 

Suppose you’re a lower person with a smaller lung capacity. No matter which kind of snorkel you select.

It should be an outside 15 distance of something or 38 centimeters in a vast space for those with greater size of lung volume and by the outside, it is 13.8 inches or 35 centimeters for those with lower lung capacity.

Benefits of Using the Dry Snorkel

The main advantage of a dry snorkel is to reduce the particular mass of water that ends up in the breathing canal.

Using a dry snorkel is thus one of the stylish and modern ways that newcomers escape from getting down into the water while they are snorkeling. 

Indeed if you’ve been snorkeling earlier, you have to unblock water from this type of long tube and search it in a form of plain and further chilling to put a dry snorkel into action.

Yet, a dry snorkel is a useful accessory.

If you planned to stay near the water’s face and see for a tropical-circle snorkeling knowledge gained by actually doing.

What is a Semi-Dry Snorkel?

Semi-dry snorkels have almost all the same functions as a dry snorkel, including a splash guard, and purge valve.

However, they command a pier stopcock that characterizes dry snorkels and thus they stop water from entering into the long hollow duct when going down the surface of the water.

The stylish dry snorkels give an equilibrium between relief and action, making them do many more different kinds of things for all kinds of snorkels.

How is a Dry Snorkel Different from Other Kinds of Snorkel

Other than the pier stopcock, droughty-upmost of than snorkels and semi-dry snorkels holds command of the duplicate features to join to a mass of a feeling of ease from grief or trouble and ease of play, making them better for a person who is just starting out in a field of activity.

Wet snorkels, on the other hand, hold a vastly much-more minimalist method worked out in advance for achieving some objective and are stylish for educated snorkels.

Conclusion

Dry snorkeling holds a beneficial advantage for beginners in snorkeling but isn’t stylish and a good selection for newcomers who plan to dive underwater. 

Whether dry snorkel is a good selection, on which you can depend for a better experience and position of comfort with clearing water from the long hollow cylinder.

So, no more banging your head on the wall when you ever want to know what is a dry snorkel because this piece of the-detailed guide is answering all your doubts and all the possible questions about dry snorkels.

Filed Under: Snorkeling Tagged With: Dry snorkel, snorkel gear

Snorkeling Vest vs Life Jacket; 4 Clear-Cut Differences

June 28, 2022 by Saltwater Things

Wait a minute! Do not you know the difference between a snorkeling vest vs life jacket.

Okay, this comparison can literally trick the folks because they feel like the snorkeling vest and the life jacket are the same.

But the reality is, they both are tragically different than each other; all the way from look/design to the use.

Or better state, they go in using on different occasions/events. So, they are in no way identical to each other.

Worry not, we got you the major blow of information to back this claim.

Snorkeling Vest vs Life Jacket

Snorkeling vest vs life jacket, and that is the turning point where (almost) everyone takes it wrong.

Mind it, the snorkeling vests are way different than the life jacket, and vice versa.

So, you better saddle up to get a grip on what are the real differences between the two.

Nevertheless, this skims all the doubts if is a snorkel vest a life jacket because it really is not. 🙂

How are the Snorkel Vest and Life Jacket Different from Each Other?

The first common (not different) aspect of the snorkel vest and life jacket is that they both provide excellent buoyancy to you. So you do not need to be knowing how to swim when you first wear them (either of them!)

But still, there is clearly a difference that varies from situation to situation and event from the event.

Difference #1: Face Down or Outta the Water Surface

A life jacket keeps your head outta the water surface, and that would make the situation super worst if you forcibly try to submerge. The life jacket helps you to float over the water

Whereas, the snorkel vest does not let you submerge but gives you a pleasant moment to explore the underwater world by sticking your head inside the water.

Winner outta Difference #1: Snorkel Vest!

Difference #2: Comfortable Buoyancy!

If you look at the outer look of the both, life jacket and the snorkel vest, you can clearly spot a big difference — the construction part and the comfortable buoyancy looks impossible by wearing the life jacket.

The build of the life jacket which takes the extra padding in form of foam and such make it horribly bulkier where you cannot maneuver freely.

On the other hand, the snorkel vest contains no foam at all. All it requires is the inflatable air that you can comfortably do with your mouth (no additional air device needed!)

Due to that air-inflated system, you may buoyant without any restrictions. Not that you can do the full-fledged swimming but the overall floating experience is pretty comfortable than the life jacket.

Winner outta Difference #2: Snorkel Vest once again!

Difference #3: ReadyMade!

Sorry, I could not hook up a good heading to that difference, so my bad! 🙂

For the life jacket, yeah, it is pretty much ‘ReadyMade’ to wear. Wear it up, secure all the straps, and there you go.

But that is not going to be the simple case with a snorkel vest, you may wear it real quick but how about inflating it? Although you have to pour the air down the vest with your mouth still that is gonna take some time and effort to make it ready.

Make sure to inflate it to acceptable limits to avoid puncturing.

Winner outta Difference #3: Life Jacket, thank goodness!

Difference #4: Weight

We all know the life jacket contains bulky foam, pretty much the straps all around, the zipper, and everything that can make it a little overweight.

However, the material commonly used to craft the life jacket is either nylon or polyester fabrics that are lightweight.

The snorkel vest is plain and simple, made with neoprene (generally) making it considerably lightweight than the life jacket.

Winner outta Difference #4: Snorkel Vest!

Conclusion!

You better know how does a snorkeling vest differ from a life jacket. And to our surprise, the snorkeling vests are a good fit for all the snorkeling experience but it also wins over the life jacket in many aspects.

So, that completes the snorkeling vest vs life jacket defining why should you pick a snorkel vest for pure snorkeling purposes.

Do not take the advice, please to ensure you have the best time, all the time! 🙂

Filed Under: Snorkeling Tagged With: Life Jacket, Snorkel vest, Snorkel Vest vs Life Jacket

What is a Snorkel Vest?

June 27, 2022 by Saltwater Things

The first-time snorkelers may often drop the idea of getting some sort of PFDs with them.

What they do believe is that snorkeling can experiment while submerged. But for your pure safety measurements, we will always recommend and urge you to take on the safety products on your next snorkeling trip if anyone suggests otherwise.

If talking with the fellow snorkelers to get the safety objects, they will deny them outright stating it will ruin the nature of the pure snorkeling experience.

Out of the safety products, objects, and practices; we feel the snorkel vest should be your number one priority to put on when you know the swimming or not.

So, what exactly is a snorkel vest down the line?

Do not worry, we got you covered!

What is a Snorkel Vest?

Okay! That is no way close to the life jacket. It is a snorkel vest for sure, a completely-different version from the life jacket.

The purpose of the snorkeling vest is damn clear; to keep you safe from drowning when snorkeling being part of the personal floatation devices (PFDs) family.

When you have it on, the snorkeler keeps floating while submerging the face without any effort.

What Does a Snorkel Vest Do?

They (snorkel vests) do not contain any form of foam and other padding materials but take in the air providing the natural-like buoyancy to freely swim.

So, this is what a snorkel vest is commonly used for — to keep you floating and buoying by keeping all the safety protocols checked.

Should Non-Swimmer Wear a Snorkeling Vest?

Why should not he (or she) wear a snorkeling vest? After all, this is for your own good safety

The non-swimmers know nothing about swimming or staying afloat. For them, the snorkeling vest is the pure blessing and require (almost) no supervision to be around the bunch of folks nearby.

Hence, and supposing that is a snorkel vest necessary? Then our answer is crystal-clear; it is given the fact it ensures your good safety.

And we recommend to always use it (snorkel vest) whether or not you know the swimming.

How to Use a Snorkel Vest

It is damn easy to use a snorkel vest, form wearing to going underwater with it.

Whether or not the state you are going to hit the snorkeling spots, it might be enforced to wear the snorkeling vest.

Even if it is not by law, do not forget to wear it.

Part 1: How to Wear a Snorkeling Vest

  • Wear the snorkeling vest with keeping all the straps loose
  • Tighten all the straps to the degree where the vest does not stay loose or pop out
  • Inflate it with mouth-air and you are done!

Part 2: How to Go Underwater with Snorkeling Vest

Once the snorkel vest goes inflated up to the maximum extent, you may lower your body in the sea to start floating.

Alhought, you should not be taking the high-jump down the water as it may break or tear the vest. Go easy with it, please!

Types of Snorkel Vests Available in the Market

Only the two types of snorkeling vests are present/avvailable in the market.

  1. Horse Collar
  2. Snorkel Jacket

1- Horse-Collar-Styled Snorkel Vest

That is one hell of an easy snorkel vest to wear. Be it your first time, we do not see any reason to get hit with to wear it in mere seconds.

Slide your neck through that hole, tighten all the straps, inflate and you are good to go!

The only con we see with the horse-collar snorkel vest, it may come off real quick if any strap(s) comes loose. So, ensure they are properly hooked.

2- Jacket-Styled Snorkel Vest

By the look, the jacket-styled snorkel vest gives the perception of ‘perfection!’

  • Unzip the zip to wear it like a normal winter-jacket
  • Zip-up the zip again
  • Inflate the jacket with your mouth
  • Tighten all the straps
  • Go underwater and start with snorkeling

Why and Who Should Use the Snorkeling Vests?

It goes necessary to wear the snorkeling vest if you happen to not-know-swimming. And especially when you take up a snorkeling-guided tours from the companies, they make sure every participant must wear it for the sake of safety.

Let’s dig into who and why should you use/wear the snorkeling vests;

  • The state law requires you to wear it
  • Probably you are super new to snorkeling
  • Not knowing how to swim and still want to experience snorkeling
  • Wanna wear it for your own inner safety
  • Good to snorkel for hours and want not to get tired
  • Suffering from the injuries or health issues where your body needs to remain calmed but you do not want to skip snorkeling!
  • Stay worry-free in the water
  • The kids (but do not let them skim through your eyes for too long provided that they are wearing a snorkel vest)

So, these are few of the situations where you should never deny the importance of wearing a snorkel vest.

3 Best Snorkel Vest for Non-Swimmers

Rrtizan -- Best Snorkel Vest for Adults
1
Rrtizan MJRR00002
  • All-seaons
  • Lightweight build
  • Faster inflation
Check on Amazon
Seaview Palawan -- Best Inflatable Snorkel Vest
2
Seaview Palawan
  • Easy to inflate
  • Compact but comfortable
  • Balanced floatation
Check on Amazon
Rrtizan ‎MJRR00001 -- Best Snorkeling Vest
3
Rrtizan ‎MJRR00001
  • Good for hours-long buoyancy
  • Adjustable straps
  • Easy to store
Check on Amazon

Conclusion time!

Now there leaves almost-no grudes and issues left emphasizing what is a snorkel vest.

Of course, that is purely a saviour! Giving the best time on and underwater to enjoy the snorkeling spots to the fullest.

This definitely gives you the immense peace-of-mind, we bet!

It is up to you to decide which snorkeling vest you should use.

So, what we gotta wish you at the end; Happy worry-free snorkelin’! 🙂

Filed Under: Snorkeling Tagged With: best snorkel vests, Snorkel vest, what is a snorkel vest

3 Key Difference between Snorkeling and Scuba Fins

June 15, 2022 by Saltwater Things

While many would opt to dive into the water barefoot hoping they do not need any kinda support placed right on the foot.

But the fact is, the support is better, and when it is about the fins to wear, this does the fun double instead!

The entire dilemma is to lock on between the fins for two separate aspects. Of course, we have the key difference between snorkeling and scuba fins to list down here, to better educate our audience to decide which ones are a good fit for snorkeling and scuba diving.

3 Core Difference between Snorkeling and Scuba Fins

Let’s dig deep into the difference between snorkeling and scuba fins and examine who wins the race.

No doubt snorkeling is practiced in the shallow depths, and that is the core reason the snorkeling fins are pretty basic and simple in design.

However, the scuba fins can take you farther down the depth of the deep sea, so power and a stronger build are two major components you do need the most.

But those who love snorkeling may not like scuba diving. Or the divers who love scuba diving may not like snorkeling to any extent.

Let’s go straight to the core differences between scuba vs snorkel fins!

Difference #1: Average Fins Size of Snorkeling and Scuba

The fins for scuba diving are clearly larger (by a few inches) than the snorkeling fins.

Snorkel fins size between 24 to 26 inches. While the scuba diving fins’ average size lengthens up to 25 to 30 inches.

Not only do the scuba fins win in the size, but they do also provide a powerful kick at every kick to knock longer distance without much the struggle which greatly reduces the foot fatigue.

Difference #2: Design Detail and Who is More Flexible

Flexible-wise, snorkel fins top the list if that is what you are wishing to know.

The scuba fins are somewhat stiffer by default for one reason as you go deeper in the sea, the power and thrust are the two major ingredients to keep you pushing and going.

Whereas, the snorkel fins are softer, flexible, and shorter to knock the shallow water because you would only be swimming a few feet away from the water surface.

Snorkel fins come in two typical designs; open-heel and full-foot pockets where you do not need to wear the socks.

With scuba diving fins, they seem either designed with a closed or an open-foot pocket.

Pick the open foot-pocket one when you are scuba diving to keep your feet cold in the warm water when exposed. And the vice-versa when it goes with the closed-foot pocket to let warmth locked into the fins to enjoy scuba diving cold-free.

Winner: Snorkel fins due to the flexible build.

Difference #3: What Tops the Best and Quick Maneuvering

Of course, that is snorkeling fins which are best at maneuvering due to their flexible build. The scuba fins that are kinda stiffer, are hard to bend, and thus, they are bitter at quick maneuvering.

So, the winner here is the snorkel fin!

Can You Use Scuba Fins for Snorkeling?

Well, there is no hurdle in using scuba fins for snorkeling but you may face some awkward situations during the use.

As they are stiffer at build, and the snorkeling is commonly done in the shallow water, the scuba fins can come in contact with the sharp-edged rocks and cliffs. So that may tear or break the fins quite easily.

Another situation is, that you gotta go slow while snorkeling and the scuba finds are quite powerful at kicking, producing immense thrust with every kick which may distract your snorkel experience.

And the snorkeling spots seem to be usually covered with hard rocks to walk on, walking over with the scuba fins could be a daunting task because of its inflexible build.

Let’s dig deep onto the short and long snorkel fins for a detailed overview!

Jumping to the Conclusion!

We have winners here (not a winner!) because and with finding the key difference between snorkeling and scuba fins, both are winners in their respective domains.

For power and thrust, scuba fins are good for deep diving. Whereas, the snorkeling fins are flexible, and best at maneuvering while it keeps you splashing with required power In shallow water.

But if you are expecting to use the fins in otherwise situations (snorkeling fins for scuba diving or, scuba diving fins in snorkeling), that is gonna ruin the whole snorkeling experience.

So better off, use the respective fins in the recommended situations (for what they are good and made for) to avoid facing the worst experience, and start to curse the options. 🙂

Filed Under: Snorkeling Tagged With: Difference between Snorkeling and Scuba Fins

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