Bermuda : Active Pursuits : Snorkeling | Frommers.com

Bermuda : Active Pursuits : Snorkeling | Frommers.com

Bermuda is known for the gin-clear purity of its waters and for its vast array of coral reefs. If you're ready to explore, all you need is a snorkel, mask, and fins -- if you can swim, you can snorkel. A handful of companies can help you; otherwise, you can hit the water on your own.

The best places to go snorkeling are public beaches. Many hotels that are right on the beach will lend or rent you fins, masks, and snorkels, and will advise you of the best sites in your area. You almost never have to travel far.

Die-hard snorkelers, some of whom visit Bermuda every year, prefer Church Bay above all other snorkeling spots on Bermuda. It lies on the south shore, west of the Fairmont Southampton Golf Club and Gibbs Hill Lighthouse. The little cove, which seems to be waiting for a movie camera, is carved out of coral cliffs. It's well protected and filled with snug little nooks. Another advantage is that the reefs are fairly close to land. However, the seas can be rough (as is true anywhere in Bermuda), so we always advise caution.