Snorkeling is a popular water activity here in Mahahual Costa Maya which allows you to explore the underwater world and to observe marine life up close. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, this Snorkeling 101 guide will help you get started on your next underwater adventure!

Equipment

To start snorkeling, you will need a snorkel mask, snorkel, fins, and a UPF swim shirt for sun protection.

When choosing a snorkel mask, make sure it fits well and doesn't leak. You can test the mask by putting it on and taking a deep breath through your nose to see if it creates suction and seals tightly to your face. If it does, it should fit quite well!

The snorkel should be comfortable to breathe through. Many snorkels today include a valve system which prevents some water re-entry. There are many masks and snorkels on the market, so choosing what style and size is up to you.

Full-face snorkeling masks are exploding in popularity. However, there are a few important things to consider:

There have been deaths and near-death experiences while using these masks, which has been attributed to CO2 buildup. Since you inhale and exhale in the same space, CO2 buildup is quite common in full-face masks. This is incredibly dangerous as it can cause a snorkeler to black out. This is the last thing we want to happen while snorkeling in the ocean!
Full-face snorkel masks are only useful while staying on the water surface. Since your nose is covered, you’re unable to equalize pressure while descending. So, if you plan on diving down a bit (more than 1 or 2 meters) on your snorkel tour, a full-face mask is not recommended.

TIP: There is a lot of discussion about how to prepare a new snorkel or dive mask. What works best in our experience is carefully heating ONLY the inside of the lenses with a lighter, and applying a bit of green dish soap and rinsing right before each use. We have found that some of the more expensive anti-fog sprays and gels just don’t work as promised.

Fins should be the right size for your feet to provide enough support for kicking. Fins with straps in the back can allow room for water shoes or socks, but closed-back fins can be chosen for your exact size.

Snorkeling fins are often shorter than dive fins or apnea fins as we often come close to marine life. Shorter fins on snorkeling experiences provide more comfort for snorkelers and help prevent damage to coral or injuries to other marine life. This is something we absolutely want to avoid at La Leyenda ECO-TOURS.

A UPF swim shirt not only provides protection from the sun, but can also protect your skin from any life jacket scratching. This also removes the need for sunscreens, as many have been shown to damage coral species. If using sunscreen, always try to use some that is reef safe.

Location

The best locations for snorkeling have calm and clear water with a visible reef and a lot of fish. This is what makes Mahahual, as well as many other locations in the Costa Maya, such great snorkeling destinations.

At La Leyenda ECO-TOURS, we provide an expert guide to take you to the best areas for a fulfilling, memorable snorkeling experience. Before entering the water, make sure you're familiar with the local weather and water conditions, as well as any hazards, such as strong currents or sharp coral.

Preparation

Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. A waterproof camera or action cams like DJI Osmo and GoPro are great tools for capturing your underwater experience. We always bring cameras to take beautiful photos of guests and marine life as a courtesy on our snorkeling tours.

Also, make sure you have a plan for storing your valuables, such as a waterproof bag or locker, depending on your location. On our snorkel tours, we can store your items right on the boat!

Snorkeling Techniques

To start snorkeling, put on your mask and fins, and enter the water slowly. Hold onto the snorkel and take a few breaths to get used to it. Once you feel comfortable, float on the surface and use your fins to move around. Breathe normally through the snorkel, and look down into the water to enjoy the scenery. If you need to clear the snorkel, simply blow out gently through your mouth.

We also want to avoid exhaling through the nose as this can lead to premature mask fogging.

The most important point is to feel relaxed and comfortable.

TIP: Some people may experience anxiety when using a mask and snorkel for the first time. It’s normal, but understanding your equipment, using equipment that fits properly, and taking your time to relax goes a long way. Using a life jacket at first, even for excellent swimmers, is a great idea. Trust us.

Marine Life Observation

Snorkeling is a great way to observe marine life up close. To get the most out of your snorkeling experience, take your time and move slowly. Observe the animals from a safe distance, and of course don’t touch them.

We have so many animal and coral species to see here in Mahahual Costa Maya, home to a section of the Great Mesoamerican Reef. We can see angelfish, porcupinefish, spotted eagle rays, yellow stingrays, parrotfish and even sea turtles, to name a few. We love checking out different hard and soft corals, too, such as staghorn and elkhorn corals. There is also our favorite, the brain coral.

Safety

Always snorkel with a buddy or a tour guide, and stay within a designated area. If you get tired, take a moment to relax. If you’re wearing a life jacket, simply float on the surface. If you're feeling uncomfortable or experience any difficulties, signal for help by waving your arms or calling out. If you're feeling overwhelmed, remove your snorkel and take deep breaths. Be sure to stay together with your group.

TIP: If you feel anxiety (check out our article on Snorkeling Anxiety) and begin to panic, tell your guide and they will safely bring you back to the boat. When on a snorkeling tour, every guide will have a life ring in the water. Relax and grab onto the life ring. NEVER grab onto anyone. You could end up pushing them under the water. Trust your life jacket and take deep breaths. You are incredibly buoyant in saltwater.

Respect the Environment

Snorkeling can have a positive impact on the marine environment, but it's important to follow responsible snorkeling practices. Do not touch or disturb the coral and marine life, and always dispose of trash properly.

Also, when we see trash in the ocean, we should collect it when possible. It's also a good idea to research local guidelines and regulations and to learn more about the ecosystem you're exploring.

Snorkeling is always a much more rewarding experience when we understand more about what we are seeing.

Advanced Techniques

Once you've mastered the basics of snorkeling, you can start exploring more advanced techniques, such as diving down to the reef in deeper waters. Marine life can be surprisingly different with small changes in depth. You can also consider taking a snorkeling course to improve your skills and to explore new and challenging locations and conditions.

Snorkeling is an amazing activity that blends swimming with marine life interaction and exploration. Join us for a snorkeling tour on your next visit to Mahahual in the Costa Maya! Feel free to leave a comment or to send us an email with any questions.

Farrell J, Natoli MJ, Brown GJ, Yook A, Lance RM. Testing of full face snorkel masks to examine recreational snorkeler deaths. Undersea Hyperb Med. 2022 First Quarter;49(1):29-42. PMID: 35226974.

Snorkeling 101 in the Costa Maya