Destin's top 5 best snorkeling spots

1. EAST PASS JETTIES

First stop, East Pass Jetties. Picture this: rugged rocks and emerald water teaming with life. You’ll spot all sorts here – from colorful star fish to sneaky octopuses and majestic eagle rays. Around East Pass, the inlets of water protected by the Destin Jetties create calm water that’s perfect for swimming. A snorkel and dolphin cruise to East Pass Jetties is the perfect trip for those who want to go below the surface and see nature up close.

2. DESTIN JETTIES

Next up, Destin Jetties. It’s like an underwater playground at the entrance to Destin Harbor. Think vibrant marine life swimming around submerged structures. Keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles and schools of fish – they’re everywhere. This location is very close to the Destin Harbor Boardwalk and is one of the best snorkel spots in the area!

3. HENDERSON BEACH STATE PARK

If peace and seclusion are more your thing, head to Henderson Beach State Park. Dive into the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico and explore more than 6,000 feet of natural scenic shoreline. Sugar white sands often make for clear water where dolphins, sea turtles and fish are common.

4. CRAB ISLAND

Now, don’t let the party vibes fool you – Crab Island is also a snorkeler’s paradise. One of the brightest jewels in Destin’s crown, this submerged sandbar in Choctawhatchee Bay is just five minutes by boat from Destin Harbor. Covered in just 1-4 feet of water that’s brilliant turquoise during high tide and clear emerald green the rest of the time, it’s like a four-acre swimming pool where visitors can wade, snorkel, play and relax.

5. THE THREE BARGES

Last but not least, we’ve got the Three Barges. These sunken coal barges off Norriego Point are a local favorite. Norriego Point is a sandy beach located near the end of Holiday Isle. One side of Norriego Point faces the Destin Harbor while the other side faces the east pass that leads out to the Gulf of Mexico.

At over 40’ depth, this location is considered a SCUBA dive for most recreational divers however advanced free divers (snorkel) often test their skills here since the structures rise up from the sandy bottom. The Three Barges are #1 on the Florida Shipwreck Trail.

So, there you have it – Destin’s top snorkeling spots, laid out plain and simple. From the East Pass Jetties to the serene Henderson Beach State Park or the sunken Three Barges, there’s something for everyone beneath the waves. So, grab your gear and get ready to explore – the underwater world of Destin is waiting for you.