Your Island Guide To The Best Snorkelling In St Vincent & the Grenadines

Embark on an adventure in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), where excitement awaits at every turn. Imagine rediscovering your favourite activities, like the sheer joy of snorkelling. Picture crystal-clear aquamarine waters, teeming with vibrant sea life, offering an unparalleled underwater experience.

So, what sets this destination apart for snorkelling enthusiasts? It combines pristine coral reefs, tranquil bays, diverse islands, and many dive sites catering to all skill levels. Whether you're a snorkelling newbie or a seasoned pro, we've got you covered with the lowdown on the top spots and the perfect time to explore these sunny shores. Dive in and let the adventure begin.

Good to know: Get ready for a tropical treat in Saint Vincent — home to some of the Caribbean's most stunning reefs. Your holiday will get even better with heaps of snorkelling adventures and a splash of watersports fun. Dive into the beauty of the sea and let the good times roll.

The best snorkel spots in Saint Vincent

The Bat Cave at Buccament Bay

Buccament Bay Beach isn't just about the sun and sand — a hidden gem awaits the adventurous souls. Take a stroll to the left, and you'll discover the mystical Bat Cave. If bats give you the creeps, maybe give this one a pass because hundreds of bats call this cave home. But, for snorkelling daredevils, it's a 250-year-old, 300 ft sandstone tunnel beckoning you to dive in. You can trek there from Byahaut Park or catch a boat from Buccament Bay's leeward side — that's your call.

Picture this: snorkelling through a tunnel with bats doing acrobatics overhead. The water's shallow, perfect for snorkellers of all levels. Don't forget the little reef at the tunnel's end — a mini underwater paradise. So, fins on, adventurers! Buccament Bay's Bat Cave awaits, where even the marine life is as curious about you as you are about them. Dive in for an unforgettable Caribbean escape.

Wallilabou Bay

Ahoy there, adventure seekers! Have you ever wondered what being a Pirate of the Caribbean feels like? Well, you'll want to check out Wallilabou Bay in Saint Vincent. No, we're not talking about the real deal, but some of the movie magic of Pirates of the Caribbean was made right here.

Grab your snorkelling gear and head to the rocky and reef seabeds, stretching from the beach to the famous "Pirates Arch." It's like an underwater blockbuster featuring damselfish, trumpetfish, horse-eye jack, butterflyfish, and more. Dive in, and you might also spot moray eels, bluehead wrasse, boxfish, and blue tang — the real stars of the show.

Wallilabou Bay, on Saint Vincent's western coast, is a snorkeller's dream, whether you brave the 1,476ft (450m) swim to the arch or enjoy the vibrant marine life closer to the beach. Ready for a splash of movie magic beneath the waves?

The best snorkel spots in the Grenadines

Tobago Cays

In the southern Grenadines lies a dreamy cluster of five uninhabited islands — Baradal, Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Petit Tabac, and Jamesby — called the Tobago Cays. These islets are all embraced by the 1,400-acre Tobago Cays Marine Park. Now, what makes this a snorkeller's haven? Apart from the abundance of coral reefs, it's a protected zone, meaning you're in for a show of unique sea life.

There are no airports in the Tobago Cays, so it's all about boat vibes. But trust us, that boat trip takes your snorkelling game up a notch. The waters? Calm and crystal clear, setting the stage for a grand show of sea life. We're talking coral galore, sea turtles, stingrays, eagle rays, barracuda, and a vibrant cast of reef fish. Nurse sharks might even make a cameo.

The best part? Tour options are in abundance. Day trips, guided tours, catamaran cruises — take your pick to explore all the Grenadines, including the Tobago Cays. It’s ideal for beach lovers who want a snorkelling adventure beyond the ordinary. And here's a tip: if the Tobago Cays are on your radar, don't skip the 2.5-mile Horseshoe Reef. It's a snorkelling fiesta wrapped around these charming islets. So, grab your gear and get ready for a dive into paradise.

Bequia

Bequia is a charming haven that packs a punch! It’s a petite seven-square-mile island, and some say a hidden gem of the Grenadines, that’s located just 10 miles away from Saint Vincent. It's a magnet for both yacht enthusiasts and avid divers. Plus, it has some of the finest beaches, which makes for picture-perfect, spectacular shots.

Now, if you're up for underwater wonders, Devil's Table is your go-to snorkelling haven. This shallow reef is a hot spot for snorkellers and scuba divers, and rumour has it: it's a breeding ground for a marine party! You’ll find spiny lobsters, hawksbill turtles, seahorses, yellowtail snapper, octopus, parrotfish, and eagle rays — all making a splash.

And that's not all — Bequia's got more snorkelling secrets up its sleeve. Head to Princess Margaret Beach, a serene spot at the southern end of Port Elizabeth. It's not just picturesque; it's a haven for tranquil snorkelling. Don't forget about Lower Bay — the laid-back sibling nearby, ideal for shoreline snorkelling. The reef on the western end? It's an underwater spectacle waiting to be explored.

And since you'll already be in Bequia, why not venture to Spring Bay and Industry Bay where more fantastic snorkelling experiences await? So, gear up, dive in, and let Bequia's underwater wonders enchant you.

Mayreau Gardens

Mayreau is the tiniest inhabited island in the Grenadines. Now, don't go looking for an airport because there isn't one. Who needs wings when you've got the sea? The only way to hop onto this slice of paradise is by boat, making it a bit of an exclusive aquatic adventure.

Despite its size, Mayreau has a star attraction — Salt Whistle Bay. Imagine a beautiful beach that feels like it's been plucked from your dreams, surrounded by lush greenery and crystal-clear waters. Ready for the kicker? Snorkelling here is like diving into a living postcard, making your SVG holiday one for the books.

While you're soaking in the island vibes, swing by Mayreau Gardens. It's not your typical garden with flowers and bees; it's an underwater wonderland. Brace yourself for coral gardens that could give Eden a run for its money, flamingo tongue snails strutting their colours, sponges doing their thing, and a VIP guest list featuring stingrays, barracudas, sea turtles, sharks, and an entire school of vibrant fish. Plus, the northeastern coast boasts reefs practically begging to be explored by boat.

Canouan

In Canouan, reality seamlessly melts into dreamy white-sand beaches. Nestled in the southern Grenadines, this island is your ticket to top-notch snorkelling. With calm waters gently lapping at the shore, this area is a snorkeller's haven thanks to the protective barrier reef on the Atlantic side.

Just a breezy 280 miles (40km) south of St Vincent, Canouan may be petite (3.5 miles long and a quarter-mile wide), but does it pack a punch in the beauty department? Grand Bay Beach and South Glossy Bay Beach take centre stage, and guess what? They're not just pretty faces but prime spots for shore snorkelling fun. As you float along these coasts, get ready to be greeted by a vibrant cast of reef fish, intricate coral formations (hello, brain coral!), and many other undersea wonders.

Carriacou Island

Carriacou, commonly called "Isle of Reefs", is located in the heart of the Grenadines. With pristine waters and thriving marine life, this area invites you to dive into the magic of over 200 tropical fish species, each adding a splash of colour to this underwater haven.

Embarking on a snorkelling escapade off Carriacou's shores unveils a world of coral beauty, featuring intricate brain coral and majestic elkhorn coral. The sponge-covered boulders add that extra touch of enchantment to your aquatic adventure.

For an unforgettable snorkelling spot, Sandy Island steals the show. Accessible by a water taxi from Saint Vincent or yacht, this tiny atoll is a nature reserve adorned with white sandy beaches and swaying palm trees. The water, shallow for quite a stretch, is inviting to beginners and has reefs lying just 5 to 20 feet below the surface.

Good to know: If you plan to spend the day on Sandy Island, you’ll need to bring along food and drinks (including plenty of water), as no shops or restaurants are nearby.

Best time to snorkel in Saint Vincent

In Saint Vincent, the snorkelling vibes are top-notch all year round. While the underwater wonders await at any time, there's a sweet spot that snorkel enthusiasts can't resist — peak season from December to April. Imagine perfect weather, abundant tour options, and a seamless setup for your snorkelling escapade. Plus, this season aligns with the dry period (January to May), ensuring less rain to interrupt your aquatic adventures. So, if you fancy less rainfall and more snorkelling bliss, peak season is your golden ticket.

If you're all about that tropical climate, Saint Vincent has you covered. The consistent trade winds keep things cool, and temperatures hover around a pleasant 27 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

What should I bring when snorkelling in Saint Vincent?

Worried about missing out on the underwater wonders in Saint Vincent? Fret not — we've got your snorkel checklist ready. Pack your bags with the essentials: mask, snorkel, fins, fin socks (or booties for that extra flair), snorkel vest, sun cream, swimsuit, board shorts, rash guard, and a trusty waterproof bag for all your dry essentials.

If you find you’ve left something behind (or you just want to pack a little lighter), Sandals Resorts has your back with snorkelling equipment available at the dive shop at no additional cost.

Good to know: Sandals Saint Vincent is nestled right on a fabulous beach, placing a snorkelling paradise at your doorstep. The currents off the coast of St Vincent and the Grenadines can be choppy, so we highly recommend packing a snorkel vest for extra safety if you’re headed into open water.

Make waves of memories while snorkelling in St Vincent & the Grenadines

As though the beauty above the surface isn’t enough, the underwater world in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines promises a remarkable adventure. Starting with mainland Saint Vincent and meandering through the islands, off its coasts, you can explore beautiful reefs, get up close to enthralling marine life, and access many snorkel sites, each with something unique to offer. When you’re done exploring, you can retreat to the comfort of your luxury all inclusive resort.

Speaking of luxury, staying at the new Sandals Saint Vincent will make it possible for you to enjoy a perfect getaway of relaxation and adventure. From this resort, you can explore some of the best attractions in SVG and go on the most amazing snorkelling trips. Located beachside with all the perks and inclusions you would expect for an exotic couple’s getaway (or family break), this could be the indulgent escape you’ve always envisioned.