With warm, calm, and crystalline waters, every season is a great time to explore Palm Beach’s underwater world with a mask. And with such a diverse range of snorkel spots around the county, finding a dive spot is as easy as putting on a mask and hopping in the water!
Here we offer a few Gulfstream Boat Club’s favorite, easy-access snorkel spots near our Palm Beach Gardens Club, what to look for, and tips on how to make the best of your trip for snorkelers of all ages!
Coral Cove Park
Just 1/2-mile north of the Jupiter Inlet is an easy-to-reach extensive natural limestone rock formation right at the beach. The nooks and crannies in the rock formations attract a variety of fish and sea creatures. Chances are you’ll spot snook, tarpon, sea turtles, resident reef fish, shark and rays. Set the anchor far enough out to be sure you’re not damaging the natural limestone, and you can enjoy hours of beautiful underwater scenery.
Cato’s Bridge
When you are in search of snorkeling locations near Jupiter, Cato’s Bridge is a location that you should not miss! Located along the west side of the Intracoastal Waterway and south of the Jupiter Inlet Bridge, this “swimming hole” stays crystal clear all day. As it is in the middle of the Jupiter waterway, be sure to stay mindful of boats traveling under the bridge and always dive with a buddy and a dive flag. Keep your eyes out for some local residents like the Florida Manatee, Grouper, Snook and starfish down below!
Peanut Island / Phill Foster Park
Located below the Blue Heron Bridge in the Lake Worth Lagoon, the marked underwater trail gets a steady flow of crystal clear water from the Atlantic Ocean. The current, along with the bridge pilings, rocks and artificial reefs, delivers the variety of sea life. The best time to snorkel at Phil Foster is within 2 hours before and up to the slack tide. You will need a red and white divers flag.
John D MacArthur
There is plenty to see at MacArthur’s rock reef, with marine life of various degrees flocking to the outcropping dependent on time of year, tide cycle, and time of day. On a clear dive, you can expect to see small snook and the usual reef residents like sergeant majors, yellow chub, or a multitude of snappers school throughout, especially under ledges. The rock reef created at MacArthur is an interesting change of pace from the deeper coral reefs and artificial reefs that dot the South Florida coast.
Want to Explore Further South?
Delray Wreck (SS Inchulva)
Located about 150 yards offshore from Atlantic Dunes Park, this old steamship wreck offers a fascinating snorkeling experience with plenty of marine life.
Gulfstream Park
Just a short ride from Delray Marina, this park has a rocky reef close to shore that attracts a variety of fish and other marine creatures. It’s a great spot for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
Lauderdale By the Sea
Just a short boat ride away from Lighthouse Point Marina, the vibrant coral reefs and teeming marine life make for an unforgettable adventure. Depending on the season, tide cycle, and time of day, you might encounter a variety of species, from schools of colorful parrotfish and sergeant majors to the occasional barracuda or stingray gliding gracefully by. The shallow reef is perfect for all skill levels, offering a unique and fascinating change of pace from deeper dives.
Other Helpful Tips to Keep in Mind
Safety should always be your most important priority. Always dive with a buddy, and always be aware of each others location.
Stay aware of changing currents and channels with fast moving water.
Check the tides before departing and snorkel closest to high tide for the best clarity.
The sun will reflect on the water surface and exaggerate the effect of sunburn. Make sure you take a rash guard and reef friendly sunscreen, and reapply often.
Never interfere with the marine life, this includes starfish, seashells, grass beds, rock structures, fish, crabs and more.
Never touch anything, even if it seems to be a harmless rock it could possibly a living creature or a toxic piece of coral.
Corals are fragile animals. Be careful not to touch, kick or stand on the corals you see in the water because this may damage or even kill them.
Ready to do more underwater? Lobster Season is a great time to use your Membership!
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