Aruba SnorkelingThe most remarkable thing about Aruba snorkeling is the incredible underwater visibility around the island which ranges from 60 feet to 100 feet. What does that mean for Aruba snorkelers? Better visibility means more things to see, and more enjoyment from your snorkeling excursion. Not to mention better underwater photos of the fish and coral!
When snorkeling in Aruba you should keep in mind that waves are sometimes choppy in certain locations, but calm, shallow snorkeling is available near Malmok Beach, Boca Catalina, and Baby Beach.
Our favorite places to snorkel in Aruba was Baby Beach and De Palm Island.
How Much Will It Cost?Renting Snorkel EquipmentRenting snorkel equipment is free at most resorts, or it can cost approximately $20 through the various water sports equipment rental shops along the beaches.
Purchasing Your Own Snorkel EquipmentPersonally I would suggest purchasing and packing up your own snorkel gear for your trip. In my opinion, there is nothing worse than having a bruise or chaffed spot under your nose from an ill fitting snorkel mask. I also don’t like thinking who used the snorkel last and whether it was it washed out properly... YUCK!
(I am also near sighted. I needed prescription lenses in order to enjoy the sites of Aruba snorkeling spots. So it was well worth it to me to buy my own mask, snorkel and fins.)
To purchase just a mask and snorkel, prices range from about $10 - $30. A set that includes mask, snorkel and fins can run you about $40 and up.
(The average price for a mask with prescription lenses is around $40 - $70. However some special custom corrective lens masks can run into the $100s.) For those of us without 20/20 vision, the good news is, there are some great deals on prescription masks at 101 Snorkel. Snorkel ToursThe beaches are open to the public, but getting to the reefs and snorkel spots can cost a little more. Basic, no-frills snorkel tours start at $20-$35 per person for a half day. Our favorites included cocktail and food, (lunch or snacks). The Aruba Palm Pleasure Snorkel Adventure half day cruise visits all the best snorkel spots in Aruba, and the food is absolutely delish!
Safety Tips for Aruba SnorkelersWear waterproof sunscreen with a high SPF. Severe sunburn can put a halt to any other activities you might have planned for your vacation, and turn any honeymoon or romantic vacation into a disaster. The intensity of the sun’s UV rays is magnified by the water. Because of the cooling effect from the water, many snorkelers don’t realize they are getting burned until it is too late.Consider wearing a dive skin or long-sleeved shirt. This can provide extra protection from the sun, and suit will also help to protect you from accidental scrapes on underwater rocks. Be aware of currents and stay watchful of your location. Getting too far off course can make returning difficult. Wear a watch. Losing track of time is easy to do underwater. Be respectful of the coral. Part of the reason Aruba snorkeling is so magnificent is the coral that has formed close to shore and the colorful fish that makes that coral their home. Coral is a living organism. Never stand or walk on reefs, especially reefs in shallow water. Instead, tread water cautiously. This is a good habit to get into, even in sandy areas, since shuffling your fins lightly helps to avoid stingrays that like to blend into the bottom.
Never wear jewelry. Caribbean fish, especially barracudas, seem to be drawn to shiny objects that look like their natural prey, small silver fish. Never reach into holes or crevices in the rocks and coral. You never know what might be in there. Moray eels especially like to make homes in these crevices. It is illegal to remove anything from any Aruba snorkeling or dive site. Always be aware of your surroundings. Aruba snorkeling is relaxing and enjoyable, but barracuda and moray eels can be aggressive if they feel threatened. Avoid jellyfish, fire coral, and other stinging creatures. Sharks around Aruba are usually passive, and spottings are rare. Be aware of the kinds of creatures you could encounter. Have fun, but, know ahead of time what you should and shouldn't do and how to avoid potential danger.
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Snorkeling is a easy and inexpensive way to enjoy your Aruba vacation. Anyone can learn to snorkel quickly. 
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