Snorkeling Guides - OpenWaterHQ

Full Face Snorkel Mask Vs. Traditional – Which is Better?

In the last few years, full face snorkel masks have had a meteoric rise in popularity because of their convenience ...

What is a Dry Snorkel?

Who likes to choke on water from time to time while snorkeling? Rhetorical question aside, if you’re finally fed up ...

Water Sports While Pregnant – Are They Safe to Do?

Expecting mothers have twice the responsibility to take care of their health for the sake of their baby's well-being. For ...

What is the Minimum Age for Snorkeling?

If you’ve ever wanted to take your entire family on a vacation to a tropical destination where you can enjoy ...

Best Snorkel Mask for Small and Narrow Faces

If a mask doesn’t seal tightly against your face, you can expect to have water leaks that limit how long ...

Snorkeling in Hawaii – Is It Safe or Dangerous?

When you hear people talking about the amazing time they had snorkeling in Hawaii, Mexico, Belize, or any other tropical ...

Best Snorkeling Sun Protection Against UV Rays

Imagine the gentle warmth of the sun as it envelops your skin in its embrace. Just thinking about it probably ...

How to Use Your Mask, Snorkel, and Fins

If you've never snorkeled before, here are some quick tips on how to use a mask, snorkel, and fins. Snorkeling ...

How to Clean and Maintain Your Snorkeling Gear

Just like any equipment that you plan to use for a long time, especially ones that are constantly exposed to ...

Do You Need to Know How to Swim to Snorkel?

Have you ever wanted to try snorkeling while on vacation but didn’t because you think your swimming ability isn’t good ...

Snorkeling is a great way for curious adventurers to get a glimpse into what the underwater creatures and ecosystem is like. It requires minimal training and gear, unlike scuba diving. Furthermore, in tropical climates, snorkeling is a very popular activity. Selecting snorkeling gear is easy, and people who rarely snorkel can simply rent equipment at hotels or local scuba stores.

The basic gear you need to snorkel are the mask, snorkel, and fins. Depending on how cold the water and wind is, you may also want to wear a wetsuit to keep warm. The most important piece is a properly-fitting mask. Without it, water will keep rush in and obscure your vision. Next, the snorkel allows you to breath while looking down towards the water.

Lastly, the fins should be flexible and lightweight. They protect the feet from sea animals and sharp coral, and can help you swim better. Even though snorkeling is relatively safe, it is recommended you snorkel with at least one other person just in case.