Snorkeling

Snorkeling is a nice leisurely activity that won't break the bank. You can find snorkel masks pretty much anywhere in South Florida, from specific water sports stores to Wal-Mart.

It is best to go snorkeling on a sunny day when the water is likely to be clearest. Breathing out of the snorkeling tube can take a little getting used to, but it is not difficult and you will quickly catch on. While snorkeling you will likely encounter many varieties of colorful fish, sometimes sea turtles, eels, manta rays, and other marine creatures. Make sure not to try to touch anything that you're not sure of, some animals may bite or sting.

Some great South Florida snorkeling spots include:

• Coral Cove Park, Jupiter / 19450 State Road 707 (Beach Road) Tequesta, Florida (561) 966- 6600

• Biscayne National Park, Homestead/ 9700 SW 328 Street, Homestead, FL 33033-5634
  Headquarters: (305-230-1144)

• Red Reef, Boca Raton/ 1400 N. State Road A1A, Boca Raton, FL (561) 393-7852

• John Pennekamp State Park, Key Largo/ MM 102.5 Overseas Highway, Key Largo
  Park Offices: (305)-451-6300

• Commercial Boulevard and A1A, Lauderdale by the Sea

• Peanut Island, Riviera Beach/ (Ferry service is available from Phil Foster Park for $5 roundtrip from either Palm Beach Water Taxi (561) 683-TAXI or The Seafare, (561) 339-2504.)
  Just north of the Lake Worth/Palm Beach Inlet, south of the Blue Heron Bridge.
  Camping Reservations: (561)-845-4445

• Bathtub Reef, Stuart/ 1585 S.E. MacArthur Blvd., Stuart
  Park Offices: (561) 221-1418

• Indian Key, Offshore from Lower Matecumbe Key/ (Located on the ocean side of U.S. 1 at M.M. 78.5. It is accessible only by private boat or charter boats available at nearby marinas. For tour boats, charters or kayak rentals, try nearby Robbie's Marina. )
  Park Office: (305)-664-2540