Snorkeling in Miami

Miami is famous for its long beaches and warm waters, perfectly positioned along the Florida Reef Tract – a unique 370 kilometer reef and ecosystem. A snorkeling tour in Miami is the perfect way to explore the aquatic treasures of the world’s third-largest barrier reef just off Greater Miami and Miami Beach.

Along with snorkeling, there are a variety of other water activities that can add to the enjoyment of your chosen tour.

Read on for all you need to know about snorkeling, one of the most engaging outdoor activities in Miami.

What are the most popular snorkeling tours in Miami?

Some snorkeling tours launch from Miami, but many include a trip to Key West before heading out into the ocean to snorkel at one of the beautiful coral reefs the area is known for. Small group and private tours are available and combo tours include activities like paddleboarding, kayaking or jet skiing.

Key West day trip and snorkeling from Miami

This full-day tour takes you on a trip to Key West, the southern-most city in the United States. After collection from your Miami hotel, travel by bus along the coastal Overseas Highway.

Once in Key West, sail out for a 2-hour snorkeling trip in the warm Key West waters before enjoying 3 hours exploring the city at your leisure. You return to Miami beach in the evening.

Small group snorkeling and SUP adventure on People’s Island

Meet your group and head to your boat for a ride to People’s Island in North Miami. With a maximum of three people per group, you have the chance to view the magnificent Miami skyline from your boat. Once at People’s Island you can snorkel or paddleboard, exploring the crystal waters around the abandoned dock.

You may see dolphins or manatees on this tour and can do your bit for the environment by collecting any garbage found in the water.

Key West tour and dolphin watch snorkel

The tropical waters off the Florida coastline are home to many dolphins. On this full day tour, you are driven from Miami to Key West, passing Key Largo as you travel along the Overseas Highway 1.

Your tour begins with a boat tour to areas frequented by dolphins before heading to the coral reefs for snorkeling. You also have 3 hours at your leisure in Key West to relax on the beach, shop or enjoy a meal before heading back to your Miami hotel.

VIP Private yacht charter in Miami

You will be spoiled aboard this private charter for up to 12 people. Sail in Biscayne Bay to the northern tip of the Florida Keys, getting to the Ragged Key Islands and drop anchor at a unique island and sandbank. Here you can snorkel and swim in the unique environment formed by both artificial and natural structures.

If you feel like a change of scenery you can hop back onboard your private boat for a short cruise to Island Bayside for more snorkeling before heading back to Miami. You can customize your trip in consultation with your captain.

Private 2-hour Miami snorkeling and dolphin watching tour

Up to 6 people can enjoy a private and customizable boat tour, viewing the homes of celebrities from the water and visiting the beaches, islands and sandbars in the Miami area. On your private tour, you may see some dolphins as you head to the reef to snorkel, swim or sunbathe on deck.

How much should you expect to pay for snorkeling tours in Miami?

Expect to pay US$185 per person for a full day Key West day trip and snorkeling tour.

A small group snorkeling and SUP adventure on People’s Island costs US$200 per person for a maximum of 3 guests.

A full day Key West tour and dolphin watch snorkel from Miami costs US$190 for both adults and children.

VIP Private yacht charter with snorkeling in Miami costs US$1,900 for a group of up to 12 people.

A private 2-hour Miami snorkeling and dolphin watching tour costs US$400 for a group of up to 6 people. You can also join a similar 3-hour small group tour at a cost of US$90 per person.

What is included with a snorkeling trip in Miami?

You can expect the following things to be included in your Snorkeling tour in Miami:

• Roundtrip transport from a central meeting point or your Miami hotel.
• Snorkeling equipment.
• Most tours include water and soft drinks. (Some tours offer unlimited beverages).
• Life jackets and safety equipment.
• Use of paddleboards, kayaks, and jet ski’s where applicable.
• Some tours include a professional guide.
• Snacks or lunch may be included.

Where do snorkeling tours in Miami start?

Snorkeling tours generally start with a collection from your Miami Hotel. Alternatively, you can make your own way to the meeting point, often along Biscayne Boulevard, Yacht Club Drive or Tahiti Beach.

How long will the snorkeling excursion last?

Many snorkeling tours from Miami include a journey to the Florida Keys area and typically last around 15 hours. Tours in the vicinity of Miami itself are typically around 3-hours long. Combo tours can take place over multiple days.

When is the best time for snorkeling in Miami?

Weather and sea conditions can affect your snorkeling experience. Summer conditions are consistently good for snorkeling, but you can participate in the activity year-round.

In most locations, snorkeling in the morning is considered best because the water is calmer and there is less wind. The sun is also less severe at this time.

Are there any combos available with snorkeling tours in Miami?

Yes, there are combo tours including snorkeling available in Miami.

The Miami airboat, speedboat and snorkel combo tour

This small group tour includes an airboat tour in the Everglades National Park, a speed boat tour along the Miami shoreline and then head to Key West for snorkeling.

A combo tour like this will cost from US$200 per person. This combo tour requires a minimum of 2 days to participate in all three activities, but the days can be confirmed with the tour operator and do not need to be consecutive.

Florida Keys eco, paddle and snorkel tour from Miami

During this full-day tour accompanied by a marine biologist or naturalist guide you experience three unique ecosystems as you kayak or paddleboard on the sea-grass flats and mangrove swamps before taking a boat trip to snorkel in the Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary. The tour starts from US$330 per person.

Is it safe to snorkel in Miami?

Snorkeling tours in Miami are generally considered safe, but are not recommended for people with back problems or a heart condition. Tours are also not suitable for pregnant women.

If you are concerned about a pre-existing medical condition, discuss it with the tour operator. Remember that Coral is a live animal and is extremely delicate – not only that, it can also be dangerous, so while it is safe to look at, you should not touch.

Are children allowed on snorkeling expeditions in Miami?

Some snorkeling tours in Miami do accept children. A tour may have a minimum age limit – usually around 5-years old and parents or responsible guardians will have to complete an indemnity or waiver if the child participates in the activity.

Parents need to remain responsible for their children at all times. Check with the tour operator if you want to take your children on a snorkeling tour.

Do you need a license to snorkel in Miami?

If your tour includes the use of a personal water craft (PWC) like a jet ski, you may need to be issued with a temporary permit. The minimum age for use of a PWC is 14 years.

What happens in case of bad weather?

In the event of bad weather your tour operator may cancel your tour. In this case they will offer you a full refund or help you to book your tour on another day.

If you choose to cancel even if a tour is going ahead, the operator’s booking terms and conditions and cancellation policy will apply.

What are the other types of water activities can you do in Miami?

• Boat tours in Miami
• Airboat rides in Miami
• Fishing charters in Miami
• Jet Ski Rentals in Miami
• Kayaking in Miami

Travel tips

• Remember to pack sunscreen and a hat.
• Pack swimwear and a towel.
• Bring nausea tablets if you are prone to motion sickness.
• A waterproof housing for your camera is perfect for capturing marine life on your tour.
• Place your valuables in a waterproof bag for protection.