So, you want to give snorkelling a go, you’ve read our guide to the best snorkel kit for beginners, and you’ve got your mask, snorkel and fins ready and waiting. What’s next?
Now comes the fun part: deciding where to go to test out your new gear. One of the biggest advantages of snorkelling is just how accessible it is. Unlike other watersports (diving being a great example), you don’t necessarily need a boat or extensive training. Many of the best snorkelling sites can be reached directly from the shore with just the essentials, although there are obviously some incredible offshore experiences to be had for those looking to take things further.
As the region we’re lucky enough to call home, we’re particularly big fans of snorkelling in South West England. From sheltered coves to crystal-clear bays, this corner of the country offers some truly fantastic opportunities to explore life beneath the surface. Better still, it proves that you don’t need to jump on a plane to experience memorable snorkelling.
Here are seven of the best snorkelling locations in this part of the world to add to your list.
1. Wembury, South Devon
If you ask local snorkellers around Plymouth for the best places to go snorkelling, Wembury is likely to be one of the first places they mention. Pretty much on our doorstep and part of a Marine Conservation Area, Wembury is known for its rich biodiversity and excellent access from the shore.
Visibility is typically really good here and the beach’s rocky reefs and seaweed-covered ledges provide habitats for an incredible variety of marine life. The sheltered nature of the bay makes it suitable if you’re new to snorkelling, while it’s also a fantastic location for rockpooling, making it an ideal spot if you’re looking to combine snorkelling with a day at the beach.
2. Bovisand Bay, South Devon
Also just a short drive from Plymouth, Bovisand Bay offers another excellent snorkelling option in the South West. The bay is sheltered from prevailing winds and features several rocky outcrops, making it a very comfortable location for beginners to explore.
The rocky edges of the bay attract plenty of marine life, including spider crabs, small shoals of fish and colourful seaweed gardens swaying peacefully beneath the surface.
3. Porthkerris and Drawna Rocks, Cornwall
Located on Cornwall’s south coast, Porthkerris is well known amongst divers but equally rewarding for snorkellers. The area around Drawna Rocks offers particularly sheltered conditions perfect for snorkelling and fascinating underwater terrain to match.
Here, you’ll find thick forests of kelp, while wrasse and dogfish can often be spotted amongst the rocks. Easy shore access makes this an excellent destination for anyone wanting to experience the rich marine life of Cornwall’s southern coastline.
4. Bossiney Haven, North Cornwall
If it’s the northern coastline you’re more interested in exploring, Bossiney Haven is one of the best snorkelling locations in the South West. Hidden beneath towering cliffs near Tintagel, Bossiney Haven feels like one of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets. At low tide, a beautiful sandy beach emerges, while the rocky reefs on either side of the cove create excellent snorkelling opportunities.
The kelp-covered reef on the western side of the beach is particularly popular, providing shelter for crabs and a variety of other marine life. The dramatic scenery above the water is every bit as impressive as what’s happening below it, too, with the famous Elephant Rock formation looming over the cove.
5. The Isles of Scilly
If you’re looking for a snorkelling experience that feels more akin to heading abroad, the Isles of Scilly should be firmly on your radar. Located 28 miles off the Cornish coast, the Scillies are the closest thing Britain has to tropical snorkelling, with crystal-clear water and white sand beaches.
There are countless snorkelling locations across the islands, and you can expect to see seagrass meadows, spider crabs, and sometimes even seals when they opt to make curious appearances alongside snorkellers.
6. Kynance Cove, Cornwall
For another snorkelling location that looks like it's been lifted straight out of a guidebook, visit Kynance Cove on the Lizard Peninsula. Famous for its turquoise water and dramatic rock formations, this stunning stretch of coastline is one of Cornwall’s most photographed locations and wouldn’t look out of place in the Mediterranean.
Fortunately for snorkellers, it’s just as impressive below the surface. Caves and submerged gullies create plenty of areas to explore, while the clear water provides excellent visibility. Just arrive early if possible, as the area is understandably popular during the height of summer.
7. Lundy Island, North Devon
For those willing to venture a little further offshore, Lundy Island offers some of the South West’s most spectacular marine environments.
Designated as England’s first Marine Conservation Zone, the waters surrounding the island are teeming with life. Expect colourful anemones, sea fans, and large schools of fish amongst dramatic rock formations.
Many of Lundy’s best snorkelling locations are accessed by boat, but the effort is more than rewarded by the quality of the experience.
Get More Inspiration
One of the things we love most about snorkelling is that there’s always somewhere new to discover, particularly here in the South West. If you’re looking for further recommendations or snorkelling equipment advice, please get in touch with the Aquanauts team, who will be happy to help.
There are some other great resources out there, too. We’re particularly big fans of the new book, Snorkelling Britain, by Emma and Gordon Taylor. This stunning, image-filled book showcases 100 marine adventures from around the British coastline, with locations suitable for everyone from complete beginners to experienced snorkellers. If you’re searching for inspiration for your next trip, it’s a great place to start.