Why Snorkel in Honduras?
Honduras is not your typical snorkeling destination. Directly off the coast of Isla de Roatán, Honduras, lies the second-largest coral reef in the world: the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. Many have stated that the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, which is famously known as the largest and most desirable reef to snorkel, is beginning to fall behind the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System in terms of beauty due to coral bleaching. I can confirm that the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System rightfully deserves a place in the spotlight, as it is one of the most incredible wonders of nature I have ever witnessed. In this article, I reviewed some of the best snorkeling spots in Honduras, which can also (clearly) be deemed some of the best in the world.
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Best Snorkeling Spots in Honduras
The best snorkeling sites in Honduras are accessible from the northern coast of Isla de Roatán. The Christopher Tours company, in particular, operates a beachfront in this area with boats traveling to and from these sites. While I am sure the following snorkeling sites may be accessed via other tour companies, I can say from personal experience that Christopher Tours made it easy for me to experience them.
Starfish Alley
Starfish Alley is famous for exactly what you’d expect: its incredible starfish viewing opportunities. However, these are not your typical starfish; they are very large and come in a variety of colors. While snorkeling at Starfish Alley, you will not have to look very far to spot them. In fact, at times, you will feel surrounded! This, along with its crystal clear water and ease for beginners, has earned Starfish Alley a place in the list of the best snorkeling spots in Honduras.
Coral Reef Barrier
Coral Reef Barrier is another must-visit snorkeling site in Honduras. If you visited Starfish Alley, you may as well visit Coral Reef Barrier, as it is just a short, swimmable distance away. Experts recommend that visitors snorkel around the barrier of the coral reef (hence the name of the snorkel site) to prevent damaging these creatures. While admiring the reef, be sure to check out all of the beautiful fish that call it home.
I encourage you to visit this snorkel site, as it is truly one of the best in Honduras, but I do have a few warnings. Firstly, there is a large moon jellyfish population surrounding the reef. Although they aren’t particularly dangerous to humans, these jellies can cause some painful stings (I can confirm!). Although the image above outlines the suggested route, it’s essential to note the second warning: there’s a drop-off at the end. The water suddenly becomes very deep, and experts do not recommend snorkeling there. When snorkeling at Coral Reef Barrier, it is important to make sure you stay on track, which is why I recommend snorkeling with a tour rather than embarking on this excursion on your own.
The SNYG Shipwreck
Of the best snorkel spots in Honduras, the SNYG Shipwreck is the most memorable. Just a 5-7 minute boat ride away from Starfish Alley and Coral Reef Barrier, this sunken ship is home to probably the most impressive coral reef you will ever see. The SNYG steamer sunk in the year 1899, so there has been ample time for this wreck to become a biodiverse beauty. If you can only snorkel one site in Honduras, make sure the SNYG Shipwreck is at the top of your list.
Swimming over the coral reef is unavoidable at this site. You should be extra cautious not to touch or disturb it in any way. Honestly, this made me a little anxious because I did not want to be responsible for the death of these creatures. However, being surrounded by the reef is one of the things that made this site such a remarkable place to snorkel.
Once again, while these snorkeling spots are accessible to anyone with a boat, I highly recommend visiting with a tour. This will ensure you are in the right place and not putting yourself into a situation that is dangerous for either you or the reefs themselves. Christopher Tours was great, but, if their packages do not appeal to you, check out the options on Viator.
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Which of these snorkeling spots are you most excited to visit in Honduras? Contact me or let me know in the comments below.
