Puerto Rico offers top-notch snorkeling even though freshwater run-offs from tropical outbursts feeding into the sea can momentarily cloud the ocean's waters. In most places, where conditions are right, visibility extends 50 feet to 75 feet (15m-23m).
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Mona Island: is an island of the archipelago of Puerto Rico located in the Mona Passage, a strait between the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. Mona has an area of 40 kmē and is located 80 km away from the main island of Puerto Rico. It is uninhabited and has been designated an ecological preserve by the island's government.This remote island off the west coast of Puerto Rico offers the best snorkeling possibilities. The reefs here, the most pristine in Puerto Rico, are home to a variety of rainbow-hued fish, turtles, octopuses, moray eels, rays, puffers and clown fish: the single largest concentration of reef fish life in Puerto Rico. You must bring your snorkeling equipment to the island, because there are no rentals available on the island.
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Caja de Muertos: The best snorkeling off the coast of Ponce is on the uninhabited island of Caja de Muertos ("Coffin Island"). This isle got its name from an 18th-century French writer who noted that the island's shape resembled a cadaver in a coffin. Over the years there have been fanciful legends about the island, including tales of necrophilia, star-crossed lovers and, of course, piracy. Island Adventures will take you to this remote spot for a full day's outing with plenty of snorkeling.
Fajardo's Playa Escondido & La Cordillera: Situated on the eastern coast of Puerto Rico is Fajardo. Its clear waters along the beachfront are suited for the best snorkeling on mainland Puerto Rico. And the best beach in Fajardo for snorkeling is Playa Escondido. Although some will argue that the marine wildlife refuge known as La Cordillera, which is right off the coast, is even more alluring.
Vieques & Culebra: The best beach for snorkeling on Vieques is Playa Esperanza, especially that spot in front of the Trade Winds Guesthouse. This site gives you the best preview of dramatic (and living) antler coral. Nurse sharks and the occasional manatee also hang out here. The islet of Culebra is known many aquatic pleasures, including snorkeling.
