Puerto Rico offers top-notch snorkeling even though freshwater run-offs from tropical outbursts feeding into the sea can momentarily cloud the ocean's waters. In most places, where conditions are right, visibility extends 50 feet to 75 feet (15m-23m).
Mona Island: This remote island off the west coast of Puerto Rico offers the best snorkeling possibilities. The reefs here, the most pristine in Puerto Rico, are home to a variety of rainbow-hued fish, turtles, octopuses, moray eels, rays, puffers and clownfish: the single largest concentration of reef fish life in Puerto Rico. You must bring your snorkeling equipment to the island, however, as there are no rentals available once you are here.
Caja de Muertos: The best snorkeling off the coast of Ponce is on the uninhabited coast island of Caja de Muertos ("Coffin Island"). This isla got its name from an 18th-century French writer who noted that the island's shape resembled a cadaver in a coffin. Over the years there have been fanciful legends about the island, including tales of necrophilia, star-crossed lovers and, of course, piracy. Island Adventures will take you to this remote spot for a full day's outing with plenty of snorkeling.
Fajardo's Playa Escondido & La Cordillera: On the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, the clear waters along the beachfront are the best snorkeling on mainland Puerto Rico. The best beach here for snorkeling is Playa Escondido, although the marine wildlife refuge known as La Cordillera right off the coast is even more alluring.
Vieques & Culebra: The best beach for snorkeling on Vieques is Playa Esperanza, especially that spot in front of the Tradewinds Guesthouse. This site gives you the best preview of dramatic (and living) antler coral. Nurse sharks and the occasional manatee also hang out here.
