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One of the highlights of a family vacation to a hot sunny location with turquoise waters, such as the archipelago in the northeastern Indian Ocean, is swimming with marine life close to the shoreline.
This help guide provides information about which beach is best for snorkeling in Andamans and what kind of fishes you can see swimming around the coral reefs.
Many of the dive sites at Andaman and Nicobar Islands are shallow and safe enough for snorkelers to enjoy.
In fact, this archipelago has some of the top diving destinations around the world that attract backpackers, holidaymakers, and families too.
So, what's the major attraction?
Well, you can expect to have superb underwater visibility. For example, water cleanliness means you can see fish up to forty metres (130 feet) away in some months.
The peak season for scuba diving and learning how to snorkel begins at the end of October and runs all the way through to the end of May.
Andaman's tropical climate means the sea temperature stays warm for most of the year. In fact, you can expect to experience 28° Celsius (around 82° Fahrenheit) as an average.
Now, all you need to know is the answer to the question of 'where are the best places to go snorkeling in Andaman and Nicobar islands'?
The information in this list of top sites to snorkel should help you choose the ideal destination. Please note, we list them alphabetically and not in order of preference.
Many of the best diving spots at Havelock Island are near the famous beach destinations in Andaman. So, you can also participate in various water activities, especially snorkeling from the soft sandy bays.
One of the most pristine of all Havelock beaches is the one called 'Elephant Beach'. This is a great place for taking underwater pictures and videos while you float at the surface (e.g. using a flotation vest).
Here's the thing:
You may need to take a boat trip from the mainland and cross the seas to get here. But, this is where you will find the most active and diverse marine life species, such as turtles and moray eels.
Another noteworthy place for snorkeling in the Andaman and Nicobars is Henry Lawrence Island. In fact, this area provides swimmers and snorkelers with a good opportunity to catch sightings of:
You will need to travel about twelve (12) kilometres from Havelock to get here. But, the nature and raw wildlife is what makes this region a journey worth taking.
Many online reviews suggest that Kalipur is the best place for snorkeling in Andaman. Even so, you would need to travel to the northern regions.
Why go there?
This is an area where vibrant coral reefs are plentiful. Plus, the biodiversity of marine animals is one that appeals to almost everyone who goes snorkeling in the Andaman Islands.
The marine life biodiversity, and the colourful reef gardens, are the main reasons that we chose to add Neil Island diving locations to our list of best areas for snorkeling in south Andaman.
Pro Tip: You can take short boat trips from Port Blair to reach the white sandy beaches and pristine coral reefs of Neil Island (around thirty six kilometres to the northeast).
Anyone staying in Port Blair during an Andaman vacation should consider making the extra journey to North Bay Island. This is where you should see:
As a result, don't be surprised to see a plethora of tourists snorkeling around the vast corals in the shallow waters around the island - especially during the peak season.
There is no better location for snorkeling in Andaman and Nicobar Islands if you want to experience clean beaches and azure waters, and the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park ranks among the best.
Apart from the other water-based activities in the area, people who enjoy snorkel swimming get ideal opportunities to explore the coral reef gardens at Red Skin Island.
Travel around two hours by boat from Havelock Island and you will reach this enchanting snorkeling site. The only downside is having to dive deeper (e.g. learn how to free dive) to get close to the corals below.
Nonetheless, the amazing views of ocean life, flora and fauna that you can see in this popular spot for snorkelers, makes it all worthwhile.
Note: The short video [5:13 seconds] contains more footage about the marine life found at the favourite snorkeling sites of Andaman Islands.