Snorkeling is a popular activity for people of all ages. It’s a great way to get up close and personal with the marine life in a natural setting.
But when is the best time of day to go snorkeling?
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of snorkeling in the morning versus the afternoon.
In most areas, snorkeling in the morning is ideal because the seas are quieter and the winds are less turbulent and strong. When you have a gentle westerly wind, warm water, and a low tide, many experts feel that optimum snorkel conditions exist.
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The pros of morning snorkeling
There are several advantages to going snorkeling in the morning.
For one, the water is typically calmest then, which makes for better visibility.
Visibility is important because it allows you to see the fish and other marine life more clearly.
The water is also typically clearer in the morning because there hasn’t been as much activity in it throughout the day.
Another advantage of morning snorkeling is that the temperature of the water is usually cooler then.
This can be a relief if you’re snorkeling in a tropical climate where the midday sun can be quite fiery.
Cooler water generally makes it easier to breathe through your snorkel.
The cons of morning snorkeling
While there are some definite benefits to going snorkeling in the morning, there are a few drawbacks as well.
One disadvantage is that there are usually fewer fish out and about in the early hours.
This is because they tend to be more active later in the day when there’s more food available.
If you’re hoping to see lots of fish, you may be disappointed if you go snorkeling first thing in the morning.
Another downside to morning snorkels is that they can sometimes be crowded, especially if you’re visiting a popular spot.
Many people like to get their activities out of the way early so that they can enjoy the rest of their day without having to rush around.
This can ruin your chances of seeing much marine life if everyone’s kicking up sand and disturbing the water.
The pros of afternoon snorkeling
While morning snorkels have their drawbacks, afternoon snorkels have their own set of advantages.
One big benefit is that there are typically more fish out and about later in the day.
This is because they become more active as the water warms up and there’s more food available.
If you want to see lots of beautiful tropical fish, afternoon snorkeling may be your best bet.
The cons of afternoon snorkeling
While there are some definite advantages to snorkeling in the afternoon, there are a few drawbacks as well.
For one, the water can be quite a bit rougher later in the day as the winds pick up.
This can make it more difficult to see underwater and increase your risk of getting thrown about by waves.
Another downside to afternoon snorkeling is that the water can be quite a bit warmer than in the morning.
This can make it more difficult to breathe and increase your risk of dehydration.
Final Words
So, when is the best time of day to go snorkeling?
The answer may depend on what you’re hoping to get out of your experience.
If you want to see lots of fish, afternoon snorkeling may be your best bet.
But if you’re looking for calm water and good visibility, morning snorkeling may be the way to go.
Ultimately, the best time of day to go snorkeling is when you have the time and the conditions are right for you.