The waters around Gulf Shores seem to be designed for snorkeling adventures. Calm and clear, these turquoise waters host a large variety of sea life, making your journey under the sea fascinating. Poole & Associates is delighted to provide the perfect beachfront rentals for snorkeling in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Check out our guide to all the best places to snorkel in Gulf Shores, Alabama, and start planning your time under the waves!
Clear Coastal Waters and Accessible Snorkel Spots
If you have done any snorkeling over the years, chances are you already know that just because there is water, it isn’t always going to be great for snorkeling. The water needs to be clear and calm, not murky and rough. There must be accessible snorkel spots, and diverse marine life is definitely required for a successful snorkeling adventure.
When you slip on your fins, slide your mask and breathing tube over your head, you are going to find that snorkeling in Gulf Shores, Alabama, offers all of the above and more, including a massive artificial reef program that encourages sea life to build their homes in our beautiful waters. Colorful, vibrant, and so very alive, these artificial reefs will make your underwater experience memorable.
Ideal Locations for Beginners and Casual Snorkelers
The good thing about snorkeling is that you really don’t need to put time and effort into training. All you need to do is practice floating on top of the water while breathing through the tube. Oh, and you should always remember to apply and reapply sunscreen while snorkeling in Gulf Shores, Alabama, or risk looking like a half-baked lobster as the sun beats down on your back.
Whether this is your first time snorkeling or you get in the water as much as possible, you will find Gulf Shores provides many ideal locations to float and observe. We’ve discussed some of our favorite snorkeling places below.
Whiskey Wreck
The Whiskey Wreck, a 200-foot Spanish “rum runner” that sank in the 1920s during Prohibition, is one of our favorite places to snorkel in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Although it is an actual shipwreck, not intentionally placed to make an artificial reef, it has become one of the most popular artificial reefs in the area. It is located just about 150 yards from the beach at a depth of about 20 feet.
- Accessible from the Public Beach Access near Bahama Bobs Café, 601 W Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Expect to see flounder, sting ray, and the remains of the ship
- Popular with beginner divers
The Jetties at Alabama Point Beach
Our next favorite place for snorkeling in Gulf Shores, Alabama, is actually in Orange Beach, but because we also offer Gulf-front condos there, you really won’t have to travel far to get to the Jetties at Alabama Point Beach. The jetties are rock and concrete barriers built to protect Perdido Pass, and they also make the perfect reef system for all the creatures of the sea. The shallow water (approximately 9-12 feet), as well as public parking and restrooms, are just a few things that make this spot popular.
- East Jetty is accessible from Alabama Point Beach
- Expect to see crabs, octopuses, and possibly nurse sharks.
- Be on the lookout for boats; this is a popular passageway
When to Go for the Best Visibility and Conditions
Now that you have learned a bit about where to go snorkeling and the best places for snorkeling in Gulf Shores, Alabama, let’s talk a little bit about the best times to go. The months between May and September are ideal. Water temperatures will be warm, and it won’t be as windy during these months (most of the time), so the sand won’t be stirred up, limiting visibility. Our summer rentals are perfect options for traveling in these months!
Your favorite part of this adventure, unlike many others, may be realizing that you won’t have to wake at dawn to snorkel, as the best time of the day falls between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the sun is directly overhead, providing the best light. Calm, sunny days are the best days for snorkeling, and both high and low tide can offer good conditions, with high tide bringing clearer water in and low tide providing better access to shallow spots.
Plan Your Gulf Shores Snorkeling Getaway Today
Snorkeling in Gulf Shores, Alabama, is destined to be an adventure filled with color and excitement, and when you choose Poole & Associates for your snorkeling sanctuary, comfort and serenity as well. Reserve your favorite vacation rental today!
