No tank needed
BVI Snorkeling Reefs Without the Tank
BVI snorkeling is as good as many places' diving. Warm, clear, sheltered water brings the reef within a few feet of the surface, and some of the islands' most famous spots are best seen with just a mask and fins.
The best BVI snorkeling spots
The Baths, Virgin Gorda
Giant granite boulders tumble into the sea at the south-west end of Virgin Gorda, forming grottoes, pools and channels. The Baths is a national park and the BVI's best-known landmark. Snorkel among the boulders and along the shore toward Devil's Bay. North swells can close the beach and its moorings, so check conditions before you go.
The Caves, Norman Island
Sea caves at Treasure Point, full of glassy sweepers and silversides, with a lively reef in front. Bring an underwater light to see into the caves. Go early to beat the day boats.
The Indians, Norman Island
Four pinnacles rising from the sea, their tops covered in coral and surrounded by fish. Snorkelers see the shallow parts while divers explore below, so it is ideal for mixed groups. Read more on Norman Island diving.
The RMS Rhone stern, Salt Island
On calm, clear days, parts of the Rhone's stern are visible from the surface. The wreck is far better on scuba, but it is a memorable snorkel for non-divers. See our RMS Rhone wreck dive guide for the story.
Loblolly Bay, Anegada
On Anegada's north shore, coral heads lie close to the beach and the water is very clear in calm weather. It is one of the most peaceful snorkels in the BVI. See Anegada diving for more on the island.
Monkey Point, Guana Island
A rocky point off Guana Island, north-east of Tortola, with boulders, coral and big schools of fish. A popular lunch stop for yachts.
Smuggler's Cove, Tortola
A quiet beach at Tortola's west end with reef close to shore, reachable by road, which makes it a good choice if you are not on a boat.
Snorkel smart
Tips for BVI snorkelers
Protect the reef
Never stand on coral or touch marine life. Use a mineral sunscreen and cover up with a rash guard to use less of it.
Watch the conditions
Swell and current change quickly. Check with locals, swim into the current first and stay close to your group.
Be seen
Boats and dinghies pass close to snorkel spots. Wear a bright top or use a snorkel buoy, especially away from a beach.
From snorkel to scuba
If snorkeling leaves you wanting more, a try dive is the next step: a shallow, guided dive with an instructor. Read about learning to dive in the BVI to see your options.
Snorkeling on a charter
Many of these spots have National Parks Trust moorings for yachts and dinghies. See BVI yacht charter diving for mooring permits and rules, and our list of BVI dive sites for more places to explore.
BVI snorkeling FAQ
Where is the best snorkeling in the BVI?
The Baths on Virgin Gorda and the Caves and the Indians at Norman Island are the best known. Loblolly Bay on Anegada is a quieter favourite.
Can you snorkel from the beach in the BVI?
Yes, at places such as Smuggler's Cove on Tortola and Loblolly Bay on Anegada. Many other spots are easiest to reach by boat.
Is the water calm for snorkeling?
Most sites on the southern, sheltered sides of the islands are calm. North swells in winter can make north-facing spots and the Baths rough.
Gear and snorkeling with kids
Most boats and many villas lend snorkel gear, but a mask that fits your face is the single biggest improvement you can make. To test one, hold it to your face without the strap and breathe in gently through your nose: a good fit stays put. Fins make you faster and safer in a current, and a rash guard protects against sunburn on your back, the most common snorkeling injury in the tropics.
Children usually love the BVI's calm, shallow bays. Start them from a beach, such as Smuggler's Cove, before trying a boat stop, and use a flotation vest or noodle for young or nervous swimmers. Keep sessions short, since even warm water can chill small bodies after a while.
Whatever your age, snorkel with a buddy, agree on a signal to head back, and keep an eye on the boat or beach so you do not drift away.
What you will see
Even in a few feet of water, BVI reefs are full of life. Expect sergeant majors, blue tang, parrotfish, yellowtail snapper and trumpetfish around the coral, with needlefish and silversides near the surface. Over sand and seagrass you may spot southern stingrays, conch and, with luck, a green turtle grazing. Around rocky points, look for spotted eagle rays passing in the blue and barracuda hanging motionless in the shade of a boat. Snorkeling at the Caves, bring a small light to see the glassy sweepers and the colours on the cave walls.
Ready to go deeper?
See how to take your first breaths underwater in the BVI.